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BEING A FRIEND OF ALL IS A LOFTY IDEAL Y
Dt. 19-11-1982
Explaining the Bhavanas according to Jain scriptural literature, Acharya Vikramsuriji in a discourse at 351, Mint Street, exhorted the people not to create ill-will among fellow-beings on grounds of caste, creed, colour, status or intellectual attainments. To one wedded to Maitry Bhava, all living beings are equally lovable.
Noble thoughts which generate good manners are known as 'Bhavanas'. There are many of them, but four are considered very essential to lead a sublime life. They are : friendship (Maitry): love and adoration of others' virtues (Pramod) : compassion (Karunya) and indifference towards those who act against good advice and display disrespect to religions and ethics (Madhyastha).
A popular Sanskrit verse describes a true friend as one who rushes to the help of another in need and does not give him up when he is in difficulties. One who fails to hail every living being as his friend cannot be termed a true Jain. If one thinks over the noble sentiments behind the Maitry Bhavana, one is bound to develop and adopt lofty ideals in life and be of help to all.
Among these four, the Maitry Bhavana or friendly attitude towards every living being takes the primary position. This is based on the concept that not a single living being in the cosmos is our enemy and that even plants, trees, insects and animals are our friends.
Making a Mistake is not so grave crime than not accepting it.
As we will refrain from giving the least inconvenience to any of our intimate associate, we should conduct ourselves in such a way as to cause the least trouble to all other living beings. Similarly, as we will always like to be loved by others and allowed to lead a quiet life, we should also never disturb the peace of others and should respect their rights.
To make millions laugh is an art but to keep self smiling always is an achievement.
