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THE WAY OF LIFE
carry it out. Those who undertake the vow out of respect for someone or on account of someone's pressure, cannot, for the most part, carry out the vow. Therefore, if you want others to undertake a vow, first, make them realize its greatness and inspire in them, the lofty desire of undertaking the vow. Do not hurry the process of inspiring in others such a desire. Inspire in them the self-confidence that they can carry out the vow. Inspire in them a strong self-confidence.
PETHAD SHAH'S WIFE ALSO UNDERTAKES THE VOW ALONG WITH HIM
It is to be known that the impact of the lofty thoughts of Pethad Shah fell on his wife also. His wife said to him, “My Lord, your idea is very noble. I too wish to undertake the vow of celibacy. You try to fulfil your sacred wish.” You imagine how greatly Pethad Shah should have been delighted on hearing his wife's words. How happy he should have felt! His wife, of course, was immensely happy. Her husband's happiness was her happiness. The husband and wife, both, decided to undertake the vow of celibacy. They began to think of how they could carry out the vow naturally. They began to take advice, from the enlightened people, and guidance regarding how they should carry out their vow; and how they should carry on the activities of their life. It is not an ordinary thing to undertake the vow of celibacy at the young age of 32 years.
When we read the life-history of Pethad Shah, we realize that his life was fully permeated with Dharma. Every activity of his life was coloured by Dharma. How proper and noble was his behaviour with the King, with the subjects, with the members of his family and with all ! Can you lead such a life? If all the families of the Jain society live thus, their life would be a lofty and inspiring example for the whole country.
The families of other societies do not get such a clear and simple example and guidance; you have got it. Will you understand its greatness and decide to change your way of life? Will you take a decision ?
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