LESSON 22 – Help Others As Much As You Can:
Srimad Bhagavad Gita emphasizes the importance of selfless action and the joy that comes from dedicating one’s actions to a higher purpose. Our mentor has dedicated their lives in the service of others. They teach us to have the attitude of service. Engaging in acts of kindness, and generosity brings a sense of inner peace and fulfillment. This stems from the knowledge that we are living in alignment with our spiritual values and contributing to the greater good. By practicing these virtues, we align ourselves with the universal harmony and oneness.
LESSON 23 – Don’t Focus Too Much On Your Plans.
Our mentor says that the willingness to change is a catalyst for personal evolution and growth. It is an acknowledgment that life’s transformative journey requires us to shed old patterns, surrender to God and consider unknown territories as opportunities to learn.
Louise Hays says, “If you want to move to a new level in your life, you must break through your comfort zone and practice doing things that are not comfortable.”
This quote teaches us that the gateway to self-discovery and empowerment is to embrace the unknown.
Embracing change demands courage and an open heart. It encourages us to challenge self-imposed limitations, dismantle barriers, and welcome change. Through change, we learn to adapt, to let go of, and to welcome new perspectives that broaden our horizons. With each step forward, we refine our resilience and discover the depths of our own strength.
The willingness to change enriches our lives with diverse experiences and wisdom. In the willingness to change, we find the key to unlocking our fullest potential and realizing the profound beauty of our own spiritual journey.
LESSON 24 – Nothing Is Permanent.
Change is an unwavering constant in the life, a profound truth that resonates throughout our existence. As Bhagwan says in Srimad Bhagavad Gita, ‘The only constant is change’. This eternal wisdom encapsulates the inevitability of change. Just as the seasons shift, our lives unfold in a symphony of change.
A spiritual master’s teaching of the concept of gratitude becomes a guiding light. Gratitude anchors us in the present moment, inviting us to recognize the blessings embedded within every twist and turn. It is a reminder that even amidst change, we are gifted with invaluable experiences and lessons. Just as caterpillar embraces change to become a butterfly, our own transformations lead to the potential for growth and beauty.
Gratitude allows us to transcend resistance to change and find solace in the arms of acceptance. An attitude of gratitude reminds us that each moment, whether joyous or challenging, contributes to our lives. By embracing change and nurturing gratitude, we embark on a journey of self-discovery.
LESSON 25 – People Change – Don’t Hold Grudges:
Our mentor teaches us a valuable lesson in these very simple words. Imagine each of us as a book, with chapters of growth and change. Just as we evolve, so do others. When we hold onto grudges, we trap ourselves in a past chapter, missing the chance for a better future.
Think of a bud becoming a beautiful flower. Similarly, people can transform, leaving behind mistakes or hurtful actions. Letting go of the grudges allow us to free ourselves from heavy negativity. By letting go, we make room for compassion and new possibilities.
It’s like Swami Vivekananda said, ‘The more good we do, the purer our hearts become, and we find God within.’
Forgiveness releases our hearts from bitterness, allowing us to connect with others in a more understanding way. This act of kindness also offers them a chance to grow and change positively.
Not holding grudges is like opening a window to fresh air. It’s a choice that leads us to our own betterment and the chance for a more harmonious world where growth and change are embraced with open hearts.
LESSON 26 – Family Is Not Always The Only Bond:
Family is special, but bonds aren’t limited to blood. Friends, mentors, or even people with shared passions can be family too. Sportspeople often find strong bonds with their coaches, teammates, and mentors. Like stars forming constellations, diverse bonds create rich support and love. Family isn’t only who you’re born with; it’s also who you choose to walk beside. These connections teach us that love knows no boundaries and that the world is a big, welcoming family waiting to embrace us.
LESSON 27 – Don’t Hesitate When You Take Action:
Imagine you’re jumping into a pool; the longer you wait, the colder it might feel. Similarly, when we hesitate, doubts and worries can cloud our minds. Like Swami Vivekananda said, “Arise, awake, and stop not until the goal is reached”.
While it’s natural to feel nervous in the beginning, but the people who are able to achieve great results are the ones that keep going through the initial phase of uncertainty. Hesitation can be like an invisible wall, keeping us from opportunities. Whether it’s speaking up, trying something new, or helping someone, a decisive action often leads to great experiences. Think of a runner at the start line; they don’t think twice once the race begins.
By not hesitating, we open doors to learning and growth. Sometimes, we stumble, but that’s how we learn to walk and run. It’s all about being brave and taking that first step. Just like riding a bike, the more we practice, the better we become.
LESSON 28 – Always Keep Trying:
Success is not immediate, as Wayne Dyer reminds us. Indian athletes like Viswanathan Anand’s perseverance in chess demonstrates the importance of determination and continuous effort. Imagine a little plant; it doesn’t give up reaching for the sun, even if it faces storms. Similarly, when we keep trying, we show our determination and courage.
Our mentor says that even when things seem tough, just take the next step, just one step. Every attempt is a step closer to victory.
Swami Vivekananda said, “Take risks in your life; if you win, you may lead, if you lose, you may guide.”
So, when challenges come knocking, face them with the spirit of adventure.
LESSON 29 – Flexibility With Your Goal Is Key:
Our mentor shares that like a nylon sock can fit in any foot, a flexible person is able to deal with any situation. Practicing flexibility with your goals is like being a clever navigator on a journey. Being flexible means adjusting our plans while keeping our destination in sight.
A storm can break big and strong trees but not small pieces of grass. The reason for that is that grass bows down to the ground when hits with a tough storm. Similarly, when we’re flexible, we adapt to challenges without losing our strength.
Swami Vivekananda said, ‘All the powers in the universe are already ours.’ Flexibility lets us tap into these powers to find new ways forward.
Being rigid is like trying to fit a big puzzle piece into a small space. Flexibility, on the other hand, is like rearranging the pieces to create a beautiful picture. Life is full of surprises, but with flexibility, we can turn surprises into opportunities. Remember, a river reaches the ocean by winding through valleys and plains. Similarly, by being flexible, we can reach our goals through a path full of twists and turns. So, dream big, but be open to the journey, and you’ll find that flexibility helps you reach your goals in ways you might have never imagined.
LESSON 30 – For Every Action, There Is A Reaction:
The law of cause and effect is evident in every aspect of life. It’s like planting seeds of kindness that grow into a beautiful garden. Imagine if everyone watered the plants; the garden would flourish with joy. Similarly, when we treat others kindly, we create a world full of smiles and warmth.
Swami Vivekananda said, “They alone live who live for others.”
Imagine you’re a painter; the colors you use on the canvas come back to you in a masterpiece. Likewise, the kindness we give bounces back to us in wonderful ways.
When we treat others how we want to be treated, we create a chain reaction of goodness. It’s like passing a torch that lights up the world. Whether it’s sharing, listening, or offering a helping hand, our actions create a ripple effect of positivity.
LESSON 31 – Live Your Life To The Fullest:
Like the song says, “Har pal yahaa jee bhar jiyon, Jo hai samaan kal ho na ho”. Our mentor teaches us to live a life of purpose by being in the present moment and do the acts of service. Think of a kite soaring high in the sky; it doesn’t hold back; it dances with the wind. Similarly, when we live fully, we embrace opportunities and chase our dreams.
Being curious and trying new things is like unwrapping surprise gifts every day. When we live fully, we dive into life’s ocean with enthusiasm. It’s like being a fearless swimmer, exploring every corner. Whether it’s learning, laughing, or lending a helping hand, every experience adds to the story of our lives.
LESSON 32 – Don’t Take Things For Granted.
Stopping to smell the flowers on a sunny day. Imagine if we ignored the flowers; we’d miss their sweet fragrance. Similarly, life is full of wonderful things, and appreciating them brings us joy and gratitude. When we don’t take things for granted, we see the beauty in everyday life. Our mentor shifts our focus from blame and complains to the small blessings in our lives and we live a life full of gratitude.
CONCLUSION
These life lessons resonate strongly with young people, offering guidance for personal growth, resilience, and happiness. Incorporating this wisdom into our lives leads to success, contentment, and a purposeful journey. Embracing these valuable life lessons will empower young people to navigate life’s challenges with grace and make a positive impact on themselves and the world around them.
Through the teachings of our mentor, and a spiritual outlook, we can navigate life’s challenges with grace, compassion, and resilience. Embrace these life lessons as guiding principles and let them illuminate the path towards a purposeful and fulfilling existence.