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FREEDOM FROM REACTION (2)
We have bccn cxploring the nature of non-violence; also of freedom from reaction. Shall a weak man be able to achieve this freedom? The feebler a person, the more readily does he react. Such a person cannot achieve freedom from reaction.
The habit of reaction has been continuing for generations together, since the beginning of time. It has entered our bloodstream, become second nature. It is not easy to change it; rather an uphill task. You are not actually responsible for the way you react; it is a bequest from your parents-a hereditary influence.
The mother of a very smart child complained that her son was very naughty and that he flared up casily. I asked her if she herself was given to anger. She said she did have her angry fits. I said, "Then, how do you expect your child to be free from anger? In fact he has got it from you. It is a hereditary influence. The child gets it either from his mother or father." Even the physician inquires if a particular disease is hereditary. Genealogy is important. Before granting initiation, we here too arc intcrcsted in knowing what kind of family tradition our novices bring with them—what virtues and what defects! The match-makers also want to know the family background of the prospective bride and bridegroom. The reactionary mentality is not a sovereign trait of your own; it is a bequest from your parents. To change this hereditary influence, this inveterate habit, is not easy. One necds a very powerful inspiration to accomplish it. No tall building can be erected without a strong foundation. To be free from reaction also requires a strong base.
We have discussed ccrtain inspirations in this context--theoretical helps in the form of doctrines, verbal aids such as maxims. Experimental aids we need not dwell upon at length, since you are alrcady practising these. An occasion for anger arises, and you immediately take to deep breathing. You need not strain your mind too much. Just start observing your breath, and the situation is bound to change. The other person is boiling with rage but you concentrate all your attention on the nostrils and start observing the incoming and outgoing breath-while you are so engaged, the other man's anger is entirely wasted on you. It would have been fruitful if it had succeeded in exciting an answering anger in you. One man flares up, but if his opponent does not rcact, the man feels somewhat depleted. Many people want to make a person mad, but is that person does not oblige and keeps tranquil, their ire boomerangs and fills them with irritation. The practice of deep breathing and meditation on the psychic centres are powerful aids. In the face of anger, concentrate your attention on Darshan Kendra (the Centre of Intuition) or on Vishudhi Kendra (the Centre of Purity), and no reaction would develop. As soon as anger arises, control your brcath. Hold it for a minute or so, and all anger would evaporate. By
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