LUCK

 

BY V. D MERCHAND

    

This word should be effaced from the memory of Indians. At least the minds of the rising generation should be free from its taint.

    It is a short word with unlimited power. It is the cause of the present dead apathy of India. It is the anaesthetic which has paralysed the nation. Under its overpowering influence, India is sleeping Kumbhakarna's sleep. It is at the root of the slothful sluggishness pervading all grades of society.

    Why is there no perseverance in an Indian? Why has he no confidence? Why has he no originality? Because, at the first disappointment, at the first failure, he hurriedly hides in the snug corner of luck. He argues: "Oh! it is not in my luck. It is no use my bothering any further." He is easily and incurably disheartened, and blind faith in destiny stupefies him and kills his efforts.

    The juvenile reader is sure to argue that as a Hindu, as a true and staunch believer in the doctrine of karma, he cannot help believing in luck.

    But he has only to think a step further, and it will be as clear as day to him that he has misunderstood and misapplied the good doctrine.

    Any one who firmly believe that his present condition is the result of past actions would do nothing but work and incessantly work with dogged perseverance to improve his future. He would be never wanting in self-confidence, for he knows with certainty that he can mould his future to his liking. He feels that every word spoken, every thought, every action performed, is a seed sown which must ripen some day. His motto would therefore be "Unceasing Activity", and with unlimited confidence at his command, he would enjoy the present with equanimity of mind, always hopeful of the bright future before him.

    What does the Bhagavad Gita teach? Shri Krishna, in almost every chapter, commands Arjuna to rise and fight.

(" The Central Hindu College Magazine.")