Tags - bitterness

Man in his journey on the earth encounters many challenges. One of the most important aspects that he faces in the world is comparison with others. He compares himself with another human being. As the society grew in civilization, man’s wants have also increased. His capabilities to produce and innovate also grew. Craving for material goods and comforts have also increased by leaps and bounds and shot up without any limits. The standard of living has increased and this is varied in each society and in each country. Ease of travel, communications and television has entirely transformed the life on earth. Comparison in a man’s life never ceases. At every stage, there is always some one above or below in all walks of life. Comparison could be in educational achievements, wealth, and materialistic possessions, status in office and society and even spiritual achievements (1). Comparison gives rise to unhappiness and leads to jealousy. Jealousy leads to hatred and even bitterness on failures and inability to match or exceed the contender. The religions have identified vices such as anger, jealousy, passion (lust), arrogance and miserliness that torment mankind. All religions preach love and compassion towards others, fellow beings and even animals and birds and other living beings (Buddhism and Jainism). Love and compassion can not be exhibited if a person is a victim of jealousy and hatred (as an outcome of jealousy). Thus jealousy becomes paramount trait in human beings. How one should overcome it? Is it possible? Or, one has to suffer? Christian teachings and Holy revered Bible is a store of knowledge on love and compassion. These aspects have been given very great importance in these religious scriptures. Entire life of Lord Jesus is a saga of love and compassion and sacrifice. Other examples are Lord Buddha and Guru Nanak. They practiced what they preached. These great prophets never spoke any offensive word towards others in their lives and thus can be truly associated as apostles of peace. It however does not mean that others are no way less.

continue reading "Jealousy Causes Man's Downfall"

Bitterness is usually out of frustration resulting from the inability to achieve something that has been aimed- for by a person. A man aims and puts effort and struggles to achieve the desired result or aim and all times may not be successful. At times, he may be over expecting. He may not be on true path or desired path that could lead to the goal that is aimed for. Some times, the efforts put- in may not be adequate and lacking in spirit and steadfastness. The attempts could be half hearted. Expectations from your side could be too high about others with respect to sympathy, co operation and dedication. It may be about the boss, colleagues and sub ordinates and even outside elements that also play some role in achieving ones goals. Failures to achieve the goals in such varied circumstances disappoints a person to great extent no doubt and most of the times for our short comings and failures, we try to blame others and outside agencies. This is not about any person in particular and is a general statement. Repeated failures could result in frustration and bitterness and hatred too. This also leads to self alienation from the main stream or even society and accepted normal conduct in the society (1).

continue reading "Avoiding Bitterness: A Religious View"