by Swami Radhanandaji

Whenever we wish to correct the faults of others, let's make sure that those faults do not lie within us first. Otherwise, we would only cause harm.

A moment of false pride will create a monument of irritation. Know for sure that, no matter how sincere, honest and diligent our motives may be, they will fail invariably without God's help.

First of all, let us pray from our heart that the Lord may enlighten those whose faults we wish to correct. If our prayer is coupled with selfless love and if it rises from the depth of our heart, it will undoubtedly fulfill our desire to do good to others. It is the work of the One who has created this universe and not an individual creature like us.

Often, we do not want to pray for those whom we hate or despise. But, if we wish to adopt true spirituality, we must learn to pray even for those we dislike. Most of us are spiritually weakened by our own pride and malice. It is essential to put our own house in order first -- that is, we should first critique ourselves and take refuge in God. So, instead of despising others, let us learn to pray with humility and patience for everyone to enjoy His grace. Our heart should be ruled by love and not by meanness, selfishness or short sight. May He teach us to pray for the evil-disposed as well as for the well-disposed.

We should never retaliate anger with anger or pride with pride. Instead, we should feel sorry towards those who are incensed, proud, and unhappy for it will bring their downfall. It is their spiritual death. We should lovingly pray to the Lord to bless them with His grace and uplift them  (10:10-11).

Anger or hatred can be overcome only with pure unconditional love. Therefore, first let us feel love in our hearts for those whom we wish to help. As long as there is even a shred of hatred, anger, jealousy or pride in our mind, the possibility to help someone does not exist.

This world is like a mirror that reflects our image. If we ever feel a need to correct others, may be there is a message for ourselves. When we experience good or evil externally, an equal amount of good or evil lies within us internally. The point is that we must seize every opportunity to improve ourselves even before we contemplate to correct others. Our real enemies and weaknesses are from within, like lust, greed, pride, vanity, jealousy and a host of such vices which constantly lurch in our heart.

"Oh Lord! I am aware of your command, will and desire that these directions apply to me first and this awareness is your greatest gift to me. I can never thank you enough .... not even through offering everything I possess because nothing was, is or will be mine in a world that is totally your manifestation."