For want of a nail the shoe was lost.
For want of a shoe the horse was lost.
For the want of a horse the rider was lost.
For the want of a rider the battle was lost.
For the want of a battle the kingdom was lost.
And all for the want of a horseshoe nail. – Anonymous

“For the want of a nail,” is an ancient proverb. The meaning is that something of great importance may depend on an apparently trivial detail. What do we consider important and what do we consider trivial?

Let us examine what we consider important. Material possessions, acquisitions, and hedonistic pleasures.

What is it we consider trivial? For many of us our spiritual health is neglected. We are not concerned about our feelings and emotions. Atmabhava is absent in our lives. Atmabhava means love for our fellow creatures. When we look at others, do we see ourselves in them? Do we observe Sanyam? Sanyam means self-control. Do we exercise self-control in our daily lives? Do we have control over our senses?

Dear ones, let us pay attention to what is considered by many of us as trivial.

A few days ago it was Makar Sankranti and it is of great significance and prayers are offered to the Sun God, Surya. The story behind its celebration is that a demon called Sankar Asur created chaos on earth. To destroy the demon, Goddess Sankranti descended from the heavens and defeated the demon. It symbolizes the end of winter and the onset of longer days. It also reflects the spirit of the agriculture and farming. Kites are flown, bonfires are lit and we feast. Jaggery and sesame sweets are eaten in the north and in the south, Pongal is made from the freshly harvested produce. One can donate grains and items related to the nine celestial bodies. It is called Tuladaan, which means donating grains equal to an individual’s weight. It has to be given to a truly needy person.

Let us follow what Swami Sivananda preached, love, serve and give.

Aim Hrim Klim