Our mind can at times be our greatest enemy. It can
completely deceive us by either playing the devil’s advocate or by spinning a
web of rationalization. We have to tread extremely carefully and ensure that we
can find our way through the darkness of our own mind. These are some of the common modes of self-deception
that many of us fall prey to.
‘Tis more important
to be kind than correct: Nothing, in my opinion, is more important than
kindness. How often have we heard people tell us proudly that they “speak their
mind”? In the minds of these people being brutally frank ranks higher than
sensitivity and sensibility. You can expect these people to promptly tell
somebody that they are “too fat” or “they are going to fail”. These people think
that being forthright and honest is most important. But these people lack
sensitivity to the feelings of others.
To me honesty comes second only to tact. We must ensure that we couch
our words with sensitivity. We must take into account the pain the other person
may feel when we convey something. We need compassion and kindness. It does not
make sense to just get something off your chest when that something can hurt
others. So, be kind and be correct.
‘Tis more important
to be right that stupid: This is
another trap many of us fall into. A brief encounter with religion or
philosophy can often leave one confused on the right course of action. We may end
up interpreting philosophy completely wrong.
It is true that Jesus said “If someone slaps you on the left cheek, show
thy right cheek”. This does not mean that we quietly suffer all insults and
indignities that come our way. I am certain that Lord Christ intended a
non-retaliatory response to those who are capable of self-reflection. If we
accept everything a sadist throws our way we will always be on the receiving
end.
Alternatively the call of Lord Krishna for war against the
Kauravas does not in any way justify the use of violence. Such a means can only
be resorted after all other means have been exhausted. Similarly we often find
people adopting a philosophical attitude towards their suffering and assume
that they simply deserve it. We really need to be practical and work towards
the solution.
In most cases we must ensure that we employ our reason in
every situation and act according the merit of the occasion. Better to be
right, than stupid!
We have to be wary of the workings of the mind and avoid the
common pitfalls that occur.
