________________
STRAIGHT-FORWARDNESS
self. However, a person subjects himself to ignorance and greed, and follows the path of deceitful conduct. He tells himself, "Who can read my mind? I shall see to it that nobody knows my mind and shall achieve what I desire by deceptive talk and treacherous behavior."
Such a person, creates so complex and so wide a network of deceptive worldly affairs around him, that he cannot manage to come out of it. He therefore has to undergo various miseries.
IMPORTANCE OF STRAIGHTFORWARDNESS
Straightforwardness is a virtue which must be developed by all aspirants (Sadhakas). Even medium-grade spirituality (Sadhana) does not dawn without straightforwardness. Therefore, great sages have recommended Sadhakas to achieve straightforwardness. He who is not straightforward does not even gain entry onto the path of salvation, how can he then be fit for taking up religious vows? Under the circumstances, acquisition of the virtue of straightforwardness is indispensable for every aspirant because of its multifarious utility in his life.
The method of development of this virtue of straightforwardness is more or less on the same lines as has been described in the chapters on Forgiveness and Contentment. This will make the acquisition of the virtue of straightforwardness easy, by conquering its opposite, which is deceit. Deceit may be likened to anail in the foot. Once it pierces the skin, the person concerned loses his peace of mind and remains restless.
Nobody ever trusts a deceitful person; even his family members view him constantly with suspicion. Whatever promises he may give, a constant fear persists among people of the possibility of a breach of trust. Such a person fails to win any regard either in society or in the path of righteousness.
The life of a straightforward person does become free from worry, natural, fearless, pious, and therefore righteous. Immense peace can be experienced with the development of straightforwardness in this life, and therefore, all Sadhakas should continuously strive to develop it with great zeal.
GLORY OF STRAIGHTFORWARDNESS
1. Unfortunate indeed is he who has not calmed down his
135
SARALATA
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
