As living beings, we know we have life in us, but we cannot claim any right over it. The fact that we are living enables functions like seeing, hearing, feeling, touching etc, and possibilities become endless. But we did not buy this life. We did not create it and cannot take credit for it. So it can be said that life is a gift, and a precious one, too. Having received life as a gift, what are we doing with it So it is imperative that we understand the purpose of life and learn how to live joyously and harmoniously. It is a life-long process and every experience is a lesson. We must all remember that our time here in this world is limited, so we have to choose how to make use of this time in a better way. Most people live without thinking. It is a fact that we cannot escape the realities of life. Unable to think properly, most people do not know how to face tough situations. Some get depressed or commit suicide. One person asked God what surprised Him the most. God replied, “That people live as though they are never going to die, and die as though they had never lived!” It has been seen that some people are always worried and afraid. Even during happy times, they are worried that sorrow may befall them. Such people are pessimistic and cannot enjoy life. They are only optimistic about the thinking that things will not go in their favour. Others believe that bhog (enjoyment) comes first and yog (discipline and spirituality) comes afterwards. They believe that one can remember God after retirement, when there will be nothing else to do. They do not realise that bhog is followed by rog (disease), which results in viyog (sadness). A rare few are truly wise and understand the purpose of their life. They know that life is finite and any moment can be the last moment. They know that they should live life happily and productively so that it is a blessing for all. One may ask, “Why should I remember that I have to die ” Well, it is like deadlines in business contracts. One has to remember the deadline to stay focused. Then the priorities become clear and one does not get distracted by meaningless activities. Only an outline can be given here to indicate the right way of living. Each of us needs to think deeply about it. We have to know that our lifespan is limited, so we must have the clarity of mind to gain the infinite. Only then life will be meaningful and have a purpose.
Swami Tejomayananda, head of Chinmaya Mission Worldwide, is an orator, poet, singer, composer and storyteller.
