A person’s actions reveal their thinking. Powerful and benevolent thoughts produce like actions. If our thoughts are confused or selfish, our actions will be the same, and the results will be ineffectual or cause sorrow.
No matter how much we claim that we are strong, if our actions are weak and indecisive, no one will believe us. Merely understanding something intellectually, without having an experience of it, is like sitting at home and imagining that we are very clever. However, if our knowledge and intelligence are not applied in the correct way at the right time, who will regard us as clever? It is our actions that prove our worth.
Most people try to hide their weaknesses from others. Some speak of their shortcomings but are unaware of the roots, or the seeds they have germinated from—they only have a superficial awareness of it. The result is that they rid themselves of the external forms of the weakness, and for a while feel as though they have become completely free of it. However, since the seed is still there, the weakness crops up again after some time.
Something similar happens with physical ailments, which are often not cured permanently because doctors do not know the root of the illness. The illness gets suppressed, but is not fully cured.
Spiritual weaknesses can be eradicated only by destroying the seed. Sometimes people know where a weakness stems from, but they are casual about it and say, “Yes, it will be removed one day. It cannot be finished in one go, it takes time!” Instead of being strong and determined in this regard, they resort to clever arguments. Knowledge is a power, but they do not use it as such and just theorise.
The first requirement for self-improvement is not to hide or gloss over one’s defects. Being casual about them or trying to rationalise them is also not a good idea. To bring about the change we want to see, we need to use our knowledge, discernment and other powers in a practical way.
When that change is visible in our actions, we are able to inspire others. Even though It is true that actions are gross and thoughts are subtle, it is easier for most people to recognise the value of virtues and spiritual powers when they are demonstrated in action. Serving others by creating an elevated atmosphere with our positive thoughts and pure feelings is a great act of charity, but it is important to give expression to our vision and principles through our actions.
B.K. Sheilu is a Rajyoga teacher at the Brahma Kumaris headquarters in Mount Abu, Rajasthan.