10 principles for Peace of Mind

1. Do Not Interfere In Others' Business Unless Asked.

Most of us create our own problems by interfering too often in others' affairs. We do so because somehow we have convinced ourselves that our way is the best way, our logic is the perfect logic and those who do not conform to our thinking must be criticized and steered to the right direction, our direction. This thinking denies the existence of individuality and consequently the existence of God.. God has created each one of us in a unique way. No two human beings can think or act in exactly the same way. All men or women act the way they do because God within them prompts them that way. Mind your own business and you will keep your peace.

2. Forgive And Forget:

This is the most powerful aid to peace of mind. We often develop ill feelings inside our heart for the person who insults us or harms us. We nurture grievances. This in turn results in loss of sleep, development of stomach ulcers, and high blood pressure. This insult or injury was done once, but nourishing of grievance goes on forever by constantly remembering it. Get over this bad habit. Life is too short to waste in such trifles. Forgive,20Forget, and march on. Love flourishes in giving and forgiving.

3. Do Not Crave For Recognition:

This world is full of selfish people. They seldom praise anybody without selfish motives. They may praise you today because you are in power, but no sooner than you are powerless, they will forget your achievement and will start finding faults in you. Why do you wish to kill yours lf in striving for their recognition? Their recognition is not worth the aggravation. Do your duties ethically and sincerely.

4. Do Not Be Jealous:

We all have experienced how jealousy can disturb our peace of mind. You know that you work harder than your colleagues in the office, but sometimes they get promotions; you do not. You started a business several years ago, but you are not as successful as your neighbor whose business is only one year old. There are several examples like these in everyday life. Should you be jealous? No. Remember everybody's life is shaped by his/her destiny, which has now become his/her reality. If you are destined to be rich, nothing in the world can stop you. If you are not so destined, no one can help you either. Nothing will be gained by blaming others for your misfortune. Jealousy will not get you anywhere; it will only take away your peace of mind.

5. Change Yourself According To The Environment:

If you try to change the environment single-handedly, the chances are you will fail. Instead, change yourself to suit your environment. As you do this, even the environment, which has been unfriendly to you, will mysteriously change and seem congenial and harmonious.

6. Endure What Cannot Be Cured:

This is the best way to turn a disadvantage into an advantage. Every day we face numerous inconveniences, ailments, irritations, and accidents that are beyond our control... If we cannot control them or change them, we must learn to put up with these things. We must learn to endure them cheerfully. Believe in yourself and you will gain in terms of patience, inner strength and will power.

7. Do Not Bite Off More Than You Can Chew:

This maxim needs to be remembered constantly. We often tend to take more responsibilities than we are capable of carrying out. This is done to satisfy our ego. Know your limitations. . Why take on additional loads that may create more worries? You cannot gain peace of mind by expanding your external activities. Reduce your material engagements and spend time in prayer, introspection and meditation. This will reduce those thoughts in your mind that make you restless. Uncluttered mind will produce greater peace of mind.

8. Meditate Regularly:

Meditation calms the mind and gets rid of disturbing thoughts. This is the highest state of peace of mind. Try and experience it yourself. If you meditate earnestly for half an hour everyday, your mind will tend to become peaceful during the remaining twenty-three and half-hours. Your mind will not be easily disturbed as it was before. You would benefit by gradually increasing the period of daily meditation. You may think that this will interfere with your daily work. On the contrary, this will increase your efficiency and you will be able to produce better results in less time.


9. Never Leave The Mind Vacant:

An empty mind is the devil's workshop. All evil actions start in the vacant mind. Keep your mind occupied in something positive, something worthwhile . Actively follow a hobby. Do something that holds your interest. You must decide what you value more: money or peace of mind. Your hobby, like social work or religious work, may not always earn you more money, but you will have a sense of fulfillment and achievement. Even when you are resting physically, occupy yourself in healthy reading or mental chanting of God's name.

10. Do Not Procrastinate And Never Regret:

Do not waste time in protracted wondering " Should I or shouldn't I?" Days, weeks, months, and years may be wasted in that futile mental debating. You can never plan enough because you can never anticipate all future happenings. Value your time and do the things that need to be done. It does not matter if you fail the first time. You can learn from your mistakes and succeed the next time.. Sitting back and worrying will lead to nothing. Learn from your mistakes, but do not brood over the past. DO NOT REGRET. Whatever happened was destined to happen only that way. Why cry over spilt milk?

Think Positive

Source: Nidokidos

Monkey and the Dolphin

One day long ago, some sailors set out to sea in their sailing ship. One of them brought his pet monkey along for the long journey.

When they were far out at sea, a terrible storm overturned their ship. Everyone fell into the sea, and the monkey was sure that he would drown. Suddenly a dolphin appeared and picked him up.

They soon reached the island and the monkey came down from the dolphin's back. The dolphin asked the monkey, "Do you know this place?"

The monkey replied, "Yes, I do. In fact, the king of the island is my best friend. Do you know that I am actually a prince?"

Knowing that no one lived on the island, the dolphin said, "Well, well, so you are a prince! Now you can be a king!"

The monkey asked, "How can I be a king?"

As the dolphin started swimming away, he answered, "That is easy.. As you are the only creature on this island, you will naturally be the king!"



MORAL: Those who lie and Boast may end up in trouble.

Travel etiquette

While some local customs and laws might at times seem absurd to the foreign traveller, understanding other cultures in terms of what is acceptable behaviour and what might be illegal or taboo is of great importance when travelling.

According to Expedia.co.in operated by Expedia, Inc., knowing the local rules and customs of a travel destination will not only help you stay out of trouble when travelling, and avoid potential embarrassment or offence, but it can also open doors to unique and rewarding travel experiences.

With destinations across the Far East, Middle East, Europe, Middle East and Africa becoming more popular with Indian travellers -- and with customs and laws in these countries often being considerably different from those in India -- being aware of local practices and mores is increasingly important.

Arthur Hoffman, Managing Director, Expedia Asia Pacific, says: "While Indian travellers are generally respectful of the cultures and laws of the countries they travel to, be mindful that what may be polite and normal in one culture may shock and offend another. Therefore, it is important to be knowledgeable and savvy about the local laws and cultural practices of the location one is travelling to."

Hoffman also advises that, when travelling abroad, Indians should also be aware that local laws and penalties, including ones that appear severe by Indian standards, do apply to foreigners. For instance, in some countries, penalties for drug offences and homosexual acts may incur lengthy prison sentences, corporal punishment or even carry the death penalty. He pointed out that it was important to bear in mind that Sharia (Islamic) law is still heavily enforced in some Islamic countries, while taking photographs of local people, particularly women and children, is also illegal in some countries.

"Remember the proverb: 'Forewarned is fore-armed'. Travellers should take time to research the destinations they are travelling to, consult traveller review sites such as TripAdvisor for helpful tips on how to behave, and be particularly mindful of advice relating to local customs. At the very least, it will prevent you from causing offence to the locals and bringing embarrassment on yourself; at the most, it could save you from a very unpleasant brush with the law," Hoffman concluded.


Avoiding offence

Here some of the more intriguing local customs to be mindful of:

In many Muslim countries, in particular those in the Arabian Gulf, public displays of affection, including holding hands, cuddling and kissing can be punishable by law. Women, including foreign visitors, are also required to dress modestly, including covering their head with a scarf. It is also considered rude showing the soles of your shoes or feet to others, and is advisable to accept something with your right hand. Be particularly observant of the local practice regarding drinking and eating during the holy month of Ramadan.

In Bali, touching someone on the head is taboo, as it is regarded by locals as the abode of the soul and is therefore sacred.

In Singapore, failure to flush a public toilet after use may result in very hefty fines of up to US$150. This also applies to littering, smoking or spitting in the street.

In Egypt, expect to be offered coffee or tea whenever you meet someone, as this demonstrates hospitality. Even if you do not take a sip, always accept the beverage, as declining the offer is viewed as rejecting the person.

In Fiji, entry into many traditional villages will require the permission of the village chief. Should permission be granted, you will be welcomed in a small traditional ceremony, which usually involves speaking with the Chief.

In Iran, the 'thumbs up' gesture is considered an offensive insult.

In Italy, travellers should be aware that no shorts or sleeveless dresses or shirts are allowed when visiting significant holy places, like the Vatican's Sistine Chapel.

In Indonesia, it is illegal to carry the pungent smelling Durian fruit on any public transport or in hotels.

Source: http://getahead.rediff.com/report/2009/jun/24/travel-etiquette.htm

Chanakya's Quotes

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"A person should not be too honest.
Straight trees are cut first and Honest people are victimised first."
Chanakya quotes (Indian politician, strategist and writer, 350 BC 75 BC)
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"Even if a snake is not poisonous, it should pretend to be venomous."
Chanakya quotes (Indian politician, strategist and writer, 350 BC-275 BC)
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"The biggest guru-mantra is: Never share your secrets with anybody. ! It will destroy you."
Chanakya quotes (Indian politician, strategist and writer, 350 BC-275 BC)
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"There is some self-interest behind every friendship.
There is no Friendship without self-interests.
This is a bitter truth."
Chanakya quotes (Indian politician, strategist and writer, 350 BC-275 BC)
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"Before you start some work, always ask yourself three questions - Why am I doing it, What the results might be and Will I be successful. Only when you think deeply and find satisfactory answers to these questions, go ahead."
Chanakya quotes (Indian politician, strategist and writer, 350 BC-275 BC)
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"As soon as the fear approaches near, attack and destroy it."
Chanakya quotes (Indian politician, strategist and writer, 350 BC-275 BC)
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"Once you start a working on something, don't be afraid of failure and don't abandon it. People who work sincerely are the happiest."
Chanakya quotes (Indian politician, strategist and writer, 350 BC-275BC)
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"The fragrance of flowers spreads only in the direction of the wind.
But the goodness of a person spreads in all direction."
Chanakya quotes (Indian politician, strategist and writer, 350 BC-275BC)
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"A man is great by deeds, not by birth."
Chanakya quotes (Indian politician, strategist and writer, 350 BC-275BC)
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"Treat your kid like a darling for the first five years.
For the next five years, scold them..
By the time they turn sixteen, treat them like a friend.
Your grown up children are your best friends."
Chanakya quotes (Indian politician, strategist and writer, 350 BC-275BC)
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"Books are as useful to a stupid person as a mirror is useful to a blind person."
Chanakya quotes (Indian politician, strategist and writer, 350 BC-275BC)
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"Education is the best friend.
An educated person is respected everywhere.
Education beats the beauty and the youth.."
Chanakya quotes (Indian politician, strategist and writer, 350 BC-275BC)
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Celebrate Your Uniqueness. Be original

A plum once said, just because a banana lover came by, I converted myself into a banana. Unfortunately, his taste changed after a few months and so I became an orange. When he said I was bitter I became an apple, but he went in search of grapes. Yielding to the opinions of so many people, I have changed so many times that I no more know who I am. How I wish I had remained a plum and waited for a plum lover.

Just because a group of people do not accept us as we are, there is no necessity for us to strip our self of our originality. We need to think good of our self, for the world takes us at our own estimate. Never stoop down in order to gain recognition. Never let go of our true self to win a relationship. In the long run, we will regret that we traded our greatest glory - our uniqueness, for momentary validation. Even Gandhi was not accepted by many people. The group that does not accept us as we are is not our world.

There is a world for each one of us, where we shall reign as king/ queen by just being our self. Find that world... in fact, that world will find us. What water can do, gasoline cannot and what copper can, gold cannot. The fragility of the ant enables it to move and the rigidity of the tree enables it to stay rooted. Everything and everybody has been designed with a proportion of uniqueness to serve a purpose that we can fulfil only by being our unique self. We as we alone can serve our purpose and I as I alone can serve my purpose. I
am here to be me... just me.

There was a time in this world when a Gandhi was required and he was sent. There was a time in this world when a J.R.D. Tata was required and he was sent. There came a time when I was required on this planet and hence I was sent. Let us be the best we can be. Let us not miss our self and let the world not miss us.

In the history of the universe, there has been nobody like me and to the infinite of time to come; there will be no one like me. Existence should have loved me so much that it broke the mould after making me, so that another of my kind will never get repeated.

We are original. We are rare. We are unique. We are a wonder.

We are a masterpiece... Let us celebrate our Uniqueness…

Sent by: Maghizhan

20 Ways to Get Mentally Tough

1. When you face a setback, think of it as a defining moment that will lead to
a future accomplishment.

2. When you encounter adversity, remember, the best don't just face
adversity; they embrace it, knowing it's not a dead end but a detour to something greater and better.

3. When you face negative people, know that the key to life is to stay positive in the face of negativity, not in the absence of it. After all, everyone will have to overcome negativity to define themselves and create their success.

4. When you face the nay-sayer's, remember the people who believed in you and spoke positive words to you.

5. When you face critics, remember to tune them out and focus only on being the best you can be.

6. When you wake up in the morning, take a morning walk of gratitude and prayer. It will create a fertile mind ready for success.

7. When you fear, trust. Let your faith be greater than your doubt.

8. When you fail, find the lesson in it, and then recall a time when you have succeeded.

9. When you head into battle, visualize success.

10. When you are thinking about the past or worrying about the future, instead focus your energy on the present moment. The now is where your power is the greatest.

11. When you want to complain, instead identify a solution.

12. When your own self-doubt crowds your mind, weed it and replace it with positive thoughts and positive self-talk.

13. When you feel distracted, focus on your breathing, observe your
surroundings, clear your mind, and get into The Zone. The Zone is not a random event. It can be created.

14. When you feel all is impossible, know that with God all things are
possible.

15. When you feel alone, think of all the people who have helped you along
the way and who love and support you now.

16. When you feel lost, pray for guidance.

17. When you are tired and drained, remember to never, never, never give
up. Finish Strong in everything you do.

18. When you feel like you can't do it, know that you can do all things
through Him who gives you strength.

19. When you feel like your situation is beyond your control, pray and
surrender. Focus on what you can control and let go of what you can't.

20. When you're in a high-pressure situation and the game is on the line, and
everyone is watching you, remember to smile, have fun, and enjoy it. Life is
short; you only live once. You have nothing to lose. Seize the moment.

Sent by: Prem

THE MASTER'S LESSON ON GRATITUDE

According to legend, a young man while roaming the desert came across a spring of delicious crystal-clear water. The water was so sweet he filled his leather canteen so he could bring some back to a tribal elder who had been his teacher.

After a four-day journey he presented the water to the old man who took a deep drink, smiled warmly and thanked his student lavishly for the sweet water. The young man returned to his village with a happy heart.


Later, the teacher let another student taste the water. He spat it out, saying it was awful. It apparently had become stale because of the old leather container.

The student challenged his teacher: "Master, the water was foul. Why did you pretend to like it?"

The teacher replied, "You only tasted the water. I tasted the gift. The water was simply the container for an act of loving-kindness and nothing could be sweeter."!!!

SPIRITUAL COMMENTARY

We may understand this lesson best when we receive innocent gifts of love from young children. Whether it's a crushed paper painting or a clay figure, the natural and proper response is appreciation and expressed thankfulness because we love the idea within the gift.

Gratitude doesn't always come naturally. Unfortunately, most children and many adults value only the thing given rather than the feeling embodied in it. We should remind ourselves and teach our children about the beauty and purity of feelings and expressions of gratitude. After all, gifts from the heart are really gifts of the heart!! Also, when we express our gratitude,we must never forget that the highest of appreciation is not to utter mere words, but to live by them.

The essence of all beautiful art, all great art is gratitude! Gratitude is the sign of noble souls and the memory of it is stored in the heart and not the mind!

The next time you receive any gifts from anyone, no matter however small it may be, remember the love behind and don't judge the gift with its appearance! Have a deep sense of gratitude for whatever you receive in life in whatever form it may be!

Sent by: Prem

Living One Day At A Time

Our lives are made up of a million moments, spent in a million different ways. Some are spent searching for love, peace, and harmony. Others are spent surviving day by day.

But there is no greater moment than when we find that life, with all it's joys and sorrows, is meant to be lived one day at a time. It's in this knowledge that we discover the most wonderful truth of all.

Whether we live in a forty-room mansion, surrounded by servants and wealth, or find it a struggle to manage the rent month to month, we have it within our power to be fully satisfied and live a life with true meaning.

One day at a time - we have the abilty, through cherishing each moment and rejoicing in each dream. We can experience each day a new and with this fresh start we have what it takes to make all our dreams come true.

Each day is new, and living one day at a time enables us to truly enjoy life and live it to the fullest.

Sent by: Prem