When the students at the school in India (where I was Principal) wanted me to switch on the AC, they would pull this card – We are followers of AC Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada. It’s bonafide! Clever boys. But the essential point is correct. When you have a solid spiritual practice you have to tools to stay cool no matter what life throws at you.
Here are 5 ways to beat the burning heat of living life:
1. Pull back inside – When you feel some pressure building, remind yourself of who you are, and it’s not the body or the mind. Just like we go inside when it’s too hot, pull back to the self that is not of this world. Be an observer and let the moment pass.
2. Water the seed of devotion – Water brings growth, strength, and the ability to survive the heat. Watering the seed of devotion means to regularly hear about Krishna and chant His names. So many of our health problems come from lack of water. The same is true of spiritual problems. Don’t forget to hear and chant.
3. Assume good intentions – We often spend mental energy making assumptions about others’ intentions. What a waste of time. Even if something is bothersome or hurtful, assume good intentions and respond to the problem from that platform. Then the heat of our rising anger, indignation, or anxiety will be quickly cooled.
4. Kamala dala jala – My favorite metaphor. Our life is tottering like a drop of water on a lotus petal. We all will die sometime; it could be at any moment. Don’t sweat the small stuff as that keeps you completely tied to the heat of the day. Remember that drop of water on the lotus petal. Pull your mind and heart to Krishna, and be at peace.
5. See Krishna’s hand in everything – When we are feeling hot and bothered, overworked or underpaid, or vulnerable, sad or alone, try to connect with Krishna and take shelter. He is as cooling as millions of moons. He is like the beautiful rainbow in the cloudy sky – a reminder that Krishna’s always there, no matter what. You just have to look for Him.
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