Parents are often victims of a society created by us. A veil of ignorance over­shadows their wisdom. Therefore, it's important to take a fresh look at our life. The singular purpose of human existence is to realize God within us. Everything else is a means to achieve this goal.

Parents put pressure on their children because they want them to succeed in life. In other words, they don't want you to be a burden to them but nurture their egos so they may think that their child is smarter than or superior to another's. This is, of course, unfair. This herd mentality is harbored by many parents.

You don't have to impress people. You should do your best and enjoy yourself. But be sure you really tried your best. Don't let others judge you because you can't please everyone. The first thing you do is to satisfy yourself. You should be happy with what you are doing. People are social and they form wrong customs, standards and beliefs, and you become the victim of it. Don't do things to impress people. Do things to impress yourself, your conscious and God. Live according to the Gita. You will be very happy.

You must also strive to balance your life and fulfill your commitments. Cut down excessive television or useless reading. A life is not balanced without practicing principles of true spirituality; so, spend some time studying and understand Gitaji. During a real-life crisis, this will be the only help when everything else fails.

-- Swami Radhanandaji