Thought for the Day

1.Education sans wisdom, wisdom bereft of discrimination, action without discretion, erudition lacking sagacity, power not justified by credentials, statements not based on truth, music wanting in melody, adoration not sustained by devotion, a person devoid of common sense and character, a student not endowed with humility, and a discourse that fails to inspire: these serve no useful purpose. Knowledge without personal experience is futile. You should gain wisdom through experience. Knowledge is sanctified only when it is translated into actions which promote the good of humanity.

2.It is very important to remember that the full power inherent in your words can be utilised through speaking softly and sweetly. For those anxious to visualise God in all, such gentleness of speech will be of immense help. Through words of affection and regard, and by the practice of softness of expression, not only will your minds be calm and light, you will also grant great joy to others! And when you carry out meditation and other spiritual practices in such a happy atmosphere, concentration will come easily.

3.If you blame and find fault with others in a conversation, you will be criticised in turn. You will then become disturbed by this situation, which will disrupt your spiritual progress; in addition, the atmosphere will become stressful. Therefore if you really wish to find joy through your spiritual practices, the first step is to keep your conversations calm and to think positively. Sweet and soft conversation will help you immeasurably. You must cultivate such character, for character outlasts the body. Virtues are your strength and glory. Character is power. So train your mind and use it to hold fast to the goal of achieving oneness with God.

4.Discrimination enables us to distinguish right from wrong, choose the correct path and judge the importance of various aspects of a given situation. The very same atomic energy which can cause colossal destruction can be constructively used to produce electricity. An educated person should discriminate in such matters and pursue the right course of action. Research and development should not lead to violence and destruction. Anyone endowed with wisdom and discernment will be honoured and admired, even though he may not have wealth or position. A person may be an eminent educationist, prominent scientist, or a multimillionaire, but if he is devoid of insight and discrimination, he can never blossom spiritually; he cannot even distinguish between dharma (righteousness) and adharma (unrighteousness). Therefore, every one of you must acquire wisdom and discrimination without resting on the laurels of intellectual knowledge. You must develop and use these qualities to uplift the country and the world at large.

Bagavan Sri Sri Sri Sathya Sai Baba