Gita perspective on organ donation
The Bhagavad-Gita perspective on organ donation The Bhagavad-Gita and the Vedic texts, in general, do not provide a specific directive about organ donation. However, they [...]
The dual defenses against self-destructive impulses
Whenever we struggle with conditionings that impel us toward actions we know we shouldn't do, two defense mechanisms can protect us: conscience and intelligence. Conscience [...]
Overcoming self-consciousness with a focus on higher purpose
Whenever we become excessively self-conscious, we tend to worry too much about how others see us, what they think about us, and what they might [...]
Understanding the role of limitations
Understanding the role of limitations We all face limitations in life. These include natural limits, such as the finiteness of our lifespan and capacities, as [...]
Balancing authenticity and service: Navigating inner-outer differences
Balancing authenticity and service: Navigating inner-outer differences We all have weaknesses that sometimes lead to lapses in self-discipline and spirituality. For those in visible leadership [...]
Inability vs. unwillingness: Facing challenges and understanding ourselves
Inability vs. unwillingness: Facing challenges and understanding ourselves Whenever we face difficult situations—whether a work deadline or a family emergency requiring us to stretch beyond [...]
Understanding destiny: Makers but not masters
Destiny is often a generic term used to refer to factors beyond our control, especially when such factors shape or determine the outcomes in our [...]
Overcoming distractions by aligning with our spiritual essence
Overcoming distractions by aligning with our spiritual essence Life is inevitably characterized by distractions. The very word "distraction" implies that there is a purpose from [...]
Understanding ourselves: The utility of categorization the necessity of self-observation
Understanding ourselves: The utility of categorization the necessity of self-observation We all occasionally act in ways that surprise us, either positively or negatively. At times, [...]
Planning: how to be firm yet flexible
Planning: how to be firm yet flexible Whenever we make plans, it’s essential to approach them in a balanced way. Plans can be compared to [...]
Why aligning aspiration with determination is vital
We all have various aspirations, and we often try to increase our determination to pursue our aspirations. However, when our aspiration is misguided, determination alone [...]
Our inner war against temptation is far bigger than we think
Whenever we strive for self-improvement, particularly in resisting self-sabotaging indulgences, we may perceive this battle as a personal affair with minimal consequences. This mindset can [...]
When living in the present is taken to an extreme
Let the present moment be the focus of our attention, not the substance of our aspiration Distraction often pulls us away from the present moment, [...]
Two things that we should never underestimate
Never underestimate two things: God's power to make things better and our power to make things worse. During our life, we may sometimes find ourselves [...]
Four ways to make the New Year’s positivity LAST
Wish you a very happy New Year! Normally, at such times, we make resolutions, and that’s very important. At the same time, today, I’d like [...]
How to ensure that the right answer has the right effect
How to ensure that the right answer has the right effect Just because we know the right answers doesn't mean we know the right time [...]
How to help others use their freedom wisely
How to help others use their freedom wisely When we guide someone, such as a trainee or a child, it's essential to respect their need [...]
By stating that everyone has problems are we conveying empathy or apathy?
By stating that everyone has problems are we conveying empathy or apathy? Everyone has problems. This statement can be an expression of empathy, but it [...]
How not to deal with a person whom we consider a necessary evil
How not to deal with a person whom we consider a necessary evil Calling someone we dislike but need a "necessary evil" is often an [...]
Whether a message is short is not as important as whether it is sufficient
The length of a talk is not as crucial as its completeness. A short talk can be insufficient, a long talk can be sufficient, and [...]
A Christmas Reflection: The Many Faces of a Religious Celebration
1. Individual Perspective I have witnessed the celebration of Christmas in multiple settings—at my convent school, during my speaking tours in North America's Bible Belt, [...]