Respect and Disrespect: The Two Faces of Ego

By reflecting on and controlling respect and disrespect, we will progress much faster in our devotional practice. These are two enemies due to which we commit transgressions.

Respect - When someone praises us, even though we deny it outwardly, we feel happy from within. The reason for this is pride - we have tried to ensure no one speaks ill of us throughout our lives. We always make efforts to appear good in front of others instead of truly becoming good.

Disrespect - We feel bad when insulted because of our desire for respect. When someone insults us, we become angry - a fire rages within us. Anger destroys the intellect.

The reasons for these are: 1. We are under the influence of Maya, and hence, we are ignorant and identify with the body. 2. We are hungry for spiritual happiness and are willing to do anything to attain it.

Respect and disrespect will continue to happen in the world. Think in solitude - Which shortcoming do I not have (lust, anger, greed, etc.)? By doing this, you will become humble and will not feel as bad. We will have to win over the feelings of praise and humiliation.

When we step on the grass, it bends down. When we throw stones at a tree, it gives us fruits in return. We must become humbler than a blade of grass and more tolerant than a tree.

So far, we have considered the mind to be our friend. Now, our Guru has made us understand that it is, in fact, our true enemy - we will not listen to it anymore. It will take effort to act against the mind, but one can do it with practice.

Some books by Jagadguru Shri Kripalu Ji Maharaj that will help overcome these hurdles in devotion:

Sadhak Savdhani- English

The Sacred Rules- English