|
In deciding upon a profession, you must now take a new look at the professions
and
reconsider what professional activity really implies. It constitutes your
service and your
contribution to the welfare and progress of the entire society in which
you are living.
Professional life is self-giving, is giving of oneself
for the service of and benefit and
happiness of all beings. Its income bringing aspect is secondary and not
primary. This must be clearly understood. It must be subordinated to the
basic ideals of self-giving and service. Otherwise man is not a man. He
is but a beast in human form, a wolf in sheep's clothing.
As long as you have a body, you have to work hard for
your livelihood. You have to
struggle hard to provide yourself with the necessities of physical existence-food,
clothing, shelter, medical aid. But your efforts to earn your livelihood
should not be immoral, unethical or unrighteous. Right conduct should
be the basis of your professional or business activities. Ply a trade,
do a business, be a farmer, be a doctor, it will not come in the way of
your attaining supreme success in life provided you ever adhere to right
conduct.
Similarly, your social life should not become mere frivolity,
dissipation, extravagant
entertainment and a waste of time, energy and money in meaningless status
keeping. Social life has to be constructive, creative, ennobled by fellow-feeling,
compassion and the spirit of sharing. It must be gainful in terms of increased
happiness, welfare and benefit to all beings amidst whom Providence has
placed you.
Be helpful to your brothers and sisters. Desire to serve
your own neighbour. Desire to
serve the society, nation, all creatures, even plants and insects. Desire
to be serviceful to all. And do not forget that great being who gives
us life itself-our Mother Earth. Without pure water and clear air, thick
forests and fertile pastures, life on Earth cannot continue in a healthy
manner. Already so many species have become extinct due to greed and selfishness.
This will be our fate also unless great effort is put forth to turn the
tides. Let your time be spent in these worthwhile pursuits.
|
