Honesty is a highly prized and desired quality and, in many cases, in short supply. Such is the sign of the times that today honesty is not seen as the norm, but as a unique attribute. An honest individual is considered an exceptional rarity.
It is probably true to say that each of us, in varying degrees, is dishonest and a social and spiritual lawbreaker. The righteous among us may bridle at this statement. Yet, there seems to be a malaise, both social and ethical, of dishonesty that permeates most, if not all, of our fellow beings. There are many who find it difficult, if not impossible, to exhibit truthfulness, from the almost daily minor exaggerations to outright untruths, careless attitude to responsibilities, and the general mistreatment of our planet. There is a nearly universal non-compliance with society’s rules and laws.
Honesty is not just about what we do and say; it originates from an inner attitude of spiritual self-respect where our own inner personal truth originates. Our personal truth then becomes the guideline for our life’s journey. Our personal truth aligned with spirituality is reflected in our words and actions.
Spiritual alignment with truth has a massive impact on how we connect with our world. It helps and supports in many ways:
l Enabling us to live and express what we feel and believe.
l Freeing us from false and artificial behaviour.
l Giving us the courage to express our views without fear of alienation.
l Shielding us against intolerance and a climate of negativity.
l Providing strength to speak against what we believe to be wrong.
l Guiding us to a fair and consistent attitude.
l Encouraging the humility to admit our mistakes and recognize the qualities of others.
l Guiding us to be equal in praise and gentle in correction.
Those who employ these abilities in life are recognised and trusted. They are the ones who act with integrity and who others appreciate and value. Those who demonstrate these abilities are able to enhance the quality of relationships and often free others from the traps that spring from malaise, and strengthen their resolve to act with more moral principle.
These abilities are acquired and made possible through the strength experienced by having a regular meditation practice. Daily practice of meditation, of accessing the silence within and connecting to the Supreme Source of truth, gives us the courage and determination to be and express our own truth.
Jim Ryan has a background in education. He is an author and a Brahma Kumaris Rajyoga teacher, based at the Global Retreat Centre, Oxford, UK.
