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Thinking about the good aspects of close friends and family When we are angry, we tend to dwell on weaknesses of others and do not see the problem in perspective. Performing this exercise helps in practicing Ahimsa and gives rise to harmonious relationships. "It is very useful in meetings; one should never attend a meeting with an angry mood," a participant commented.
3. General comments about the experiment
Most participants felt that it was a very useful principle in everyday life. However, they found it was a difficult principle, which needed gradual effort. They commented:
"Controlling my anger made me feel happy and generally trying not to hurt others also made me feel better. I enjoyed the whole week."
"It helps to reflect on one's actions."
"Being on good terms with people around me and not arguing or finding faults was very enjoyable. I found that by my being non-aggressive and cordial, people reacted very positively to me."
"I felt unusually relaxed during the experiment.”
Many found that at work Ahimsa conflicted with assertiveness; for example if your boss asks you to do something you do not want to, then you should not say no. It was decided that Ahimsa does not mean that one should not disagree with others. Assertiveness need not conflict with Ahimsa.
It was felt that it might be useful to focus the experiment even more in future (e.g. deal only with anger).
AHIMSA: THE SCIENCE OF PEACE ✪ 170 For Private & Personal Use Only
Jain Education International
www.jainelibrary.org
