________________
cannot leave them even when we want to. In times of stress or frustration these vices raise their head and finally destroy us. Many people say that we drink to drown our sorrows, but this is a fallacy. In reality, when we drink we invite sorrows closer to us. Drink and drugs become an addiction and bind us powerfully in their grip. We find that gradually without even realising it we become stuck in their grip, and then it becomes very difficult to break free.
It is my advice to keep away from such habits.
Simplicity is the best virtue:
One of the ten attributes of dharma is simplicity. Simplicity means a clear connection to one's own inner self. Simplicity implies change... a conversion from the complex to the simple. Often one makes an outer show of being simple while still harbouring anger, shrewdness and a worldly outlook on the inside. But remember that an exhibition is just that ... show put on for someone's benefit. Where there is an exhibition of falsehood there can be no truth at the core. Simplicity should come from within. It is a quality that is inherent in one, it cannot be assumed at will. A cloak of simplicity, at the level of consciousness, can be a further layer keeping the seeker from penetrating within. When a seeker puts on a cloak of simplicity or humility, then his behaviour might become humanitarian and virtuous but not spiritual. Political correctness is an outer virtue.... It is a change of the outer self. It does not count towards sadhana.Simplicity and a clear heart are an inner change. If there is no simplicity within then just pretending to be simple is being deceitful.
Anger is a curse:
An angry person will never be successful at arriving at the truth. Where there is anger, there is a lack of clarity, courteousness and humility. Anger is the result of an eruption of bitterness, and this leads to destruction.
109
amrender muni ji maharaj
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org