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CONDUCT
One of the most destructive forces in our lives is jealousy. However, cultivating the quality of admiration of others can destroy jealousy. As jealousy subsides, negative impulses are turned into positive ones, and in due time, we will be at peace. Praising the virtues of others with joy and respect eliminates one's ego.
C04 Bhävanäs (Reflections)
Pramod Bhavana can be practiced by showing tremendous respect to all Sädhus / Sädhvis, Shrävaks / Shrävikäs and benevolent people.
3 Karuna Bhävanä (Contemplation of Compassion)
The feeling of sympathy and kindness produced in our heart upon witnessing the suffering of other living beings is Karuna (compassion). Compassion for those who are less fortunate fosters a charitable heart. Since we have accepted everyone as a friend, we cannot just stand aside and let them suffer. We should help those who are in distress and those who are weak, sick, and helpless. When we help someone who is poor, sick, or in need of something, we show our compassion by material means. On the other hand, when we help those who are ignorant, have wrong beliefs, and are suffering due to their passions by showing them the true spiritual path, we show spiritual compassion.
One can practice Karunä Bhävanä in several different ways. Helping senior citizens, tutoring other students in school and carefully removing an insect from the house into an open area are some ways to practice Karunä Bhävanä.
4 Mädhyastha Bhavana (Contemplation of Neutrality)
To have indifference or to stay neutral in any situation is practicing Mädhyastha Bhävanä.
In Mädhyastha Bhävanä, one should stay neutral and uninvolved with those who, even after realizing and knowing what is right and wrong, continue to practice bad habits. We can try our best to help, support, or advise them, but some people, out of arrogance, stubbornness, or ignorance, may refuse to take the right path. This may bring disgust and aversion in our mind. Instead of developing hatred or anger towards them, getting disappointed, or getting more involved, we should realize that we have done all that we could and that ultimately changing their ways is up to them. Even though we desire the well-being of such people, we should not let our mind be disturbed by what they are doing. We should simply hope and wish well for them to embrace the right path. By contemplating this Bhävanä, we will not have undue attachment or detachment to a given situation or a person.
04 Summary
In summary, we can avoid the influx of bad karmas and live peacefully by developing friendships with all living beings, admiring their success, holding their hands when they are in distress, and leaving them alone at the times when they do not heed to right guidance. Until it becomes the natural way of life to observe these Bhävanäs, we should contemplate on them as many times as possible.
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Compendium of Jainism - 2015
