It is proved repeatedly that we need to move with people who guide us to lead a life of happiness. There are people who are friendly with us, who can join hands to pursue the path of peace, harmony and self development. Such a company is known in sanskrit as SAT SANGH. We feel happy in our association with them. There are apt examples for good and bad association. Association with knowledgeable and wise people is like an iron piece exhibiting the acquired quality of magnetism after being kept near the magnet for some time; like the touchstone, Parasmani, magical stone, converting even iron pieces into gold. The association with bad persons is like a rotten fruit causing all other good fruits in the basket to rot and spoil.
You may know the famous english proverb ''Show me your friend, I will tell who you are,''
Therefore a man is known by the company he keeps. Two friends who keep company for long, become like each other in their attitude and approach.
You will be interested to know that while interacting with persons, animals, plants etc., an exchange of Prana, the spirit, breathe, takes place and influence us. That is why we should always keep good company, explained as Sathsangh above.
Ramayana teaches us that the good queen with a large heart and love for all, Kaikeyi, because of her association and company with Manthara, the wicked house maid, turned bad. Ramayana events thereafter occurred because of this single act on the part of Kaikeyi in company with Manthara.
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The science of Life, known as Ayurvedha speaks of rishis, the sages, who lived without any change in them for ages, youthfully, when they came down to earth and settled in the plains, suddenly turned old and wrinkled, showing signs of aging. The reason for this is explained as their interaction with neighbours in the plains. So environment also changes a person's attitude.
Again in Ramayana, there is the story of Ahalya, who was cursed to be a stone, was transformed to a woman, the Rishi's wife, by the mere touch of Rama's feet. Arjuna was benefited by Gita taught by Krishna in the battle field.
Sath sangh, the company of truthful and good persons is recommended strongly because the company of bad and false characters destroys the body and soul.
It is important to note that sathsang does not necessarily mean association with persons, it also means association with spiritual books and teachings, such as vedhic chanting, parayanam, and nama sankeerthan etc., Such company offers a positive effect and provides unknown subtle energy in our body and peace in the heart and mind. Books are good friends.
Our actions prove in which company we are with whom we interact and are associated with. Our tendencies will exhibit it.
Finally may I request the parents who read this to please spend more time with the children and ensure that they have a good company right from the start and lead an exemplary life. Children are moulded by parents only.
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