From IIM Ahmedabad To Happiness

Author(s): Vijay K Jain
Publisher: Vikalp Printers

Page 10

PREFACE
unfortunately, the theory itself and its interpretations fell short of comprehending what man can be, and, more importantly, the method of achieving it, if it can be achieved at all by all.
We may say at once, without fear of contradiction, that man's only want is happiness, and that he seeks happiness first and foremost and above all other things, however vague and hazy be his idea of it. This understanding will make things absolutely clear and would make a very elaborate investigation or preparing a learned thesis on the subject of selfactualization entirely redundant.
Those who have achieved success in worldly affairs have been able to search for happiness in many objects and places. In each new object and place they found a sense of enjoyment for a while but soon they were back to square one. As soon as the novelty is over and the force of contrast dulled, it no longer remains charming, and one has to search for something fresh. The fact of the matter is that happiness comes not from without; it depends on ourselves, as will be shown in greater detail in the pages of the book. For the moment it is sufficient to note that we ourselves are responsible for our happiness and really no outside help or device is needed to get it, and that worldly success is not the same as happiness.
As regard what man can be, the highest aspiration of man can only be to attain Divinity for his soul which gives rise to unalloyed bliss and happiness, and freedom from pain and suffering. The realization of this supreme status is possible with one's own exertion, never by favour or grace of another. The reason for this is that Divinity is the essential nature of the soul, which, in the condition of impurity, or imperfection, is not manifested by it owing to the bondage of different kinds of karmas. These karmas are forces of different sorts which arise from the union of soul with matter, and which can only be destroyed by self-exertion. So long as a soul does not have faith in its own true nature, it cannot exert itself to realize its natural perfection and joy. And therefore an understanding of the forces which cripple the natural powers of the soul is essential. True knowledge, accompanied by right conduct, that is, exertion in the right direction for the destruction of the karmic bonds is the sure way which leads to the attainment of the goal of supreme bliss. The concepts of right faith, knowledge and conduct are discussed in some detail in chapters seven, eight, and ten, respectively, of the book.
Many illuminated works and teachings of great thinkers and sages of the
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