Sharanagati, Year Third
1. Sentimentalism and Compassion (from lecture of B.K.Tirtha Maharaj, 27.02.2007, Sofia) “O descendent of Bharata, he who dwells in the body can never be slain. Therefore you need not grieve for any living being.” 1 This verse actually gives the definition of sentimentalism. Because one definition of being sentimental is when you try to give more compassion to a living entity than God. Although this is a very difficult definition, if you try to give more compassion to an entity than God, then this is sentimental. How to understand this? This definition is very much connected with karma. Karma means action and reaction, you get what you deserve. You sow the wind – you reap the tempest. Whatever we do, there will be some reaction. This is one element of this question. So, fate is written on the foreheads of people. Whatever happiness, success, suffering and failure is awaiting you in this lifetime, it is given in the beginning. So, do not revolt against your fate. Actually fate is not a punishment, but fate is a chance to fulfill our progress. Therefore we should be thankful for getting all the different opportunities in our lifetime. Of course, during our spiritual progress, we must learn what is compassion. But remember the definition: sentimental means you try to be over-compassionate – compassionate over the path, over karma, over the fate of people. Of course, it does not mean “do not give help” if help is needed. But there are certain things that we cannot change. We should identify our limits.
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