________________
90 / Lord Mahavira
9.
Ahimsa
Hold on the torches of courage and faith, only with the help of these the path of Ahimsa can be discovered. All, who are the travellers of Ahimsa, must have vision free from scepticism. Realism alone is not capable of providing welfare and beauty. Realism can provide welfare and public well being where it is co-ordinated with idealism. Truth rests in the confluence of reality and ideals. Only this kind of truth can take the form of the beneficial and the beautiful. At first rule yourself, thereafter discipline others. Never begin the journey from other's house. It should begin from your own house. Lord Mahavira says-"One should conquer his own soul. The person who conquers his own soul, becomes happy in this world and in the world beyond. Religion is such a lamp which spreads light, but without smoke. Smoke, in reality is the symbol of confusion and light is that of guidance. . Religion is a pillar of light.
•