Art of Tolerance Both Tolerance and intolerance are inherent in all three forms of yoga (action), physical, mental, and vocal. Tolerance mends broken relationships, fosters affections, and cultivates respect, while intolerance does the opposite. Tolerance is a human virtue essential for creating and sustaining a harmonious society. It is also necessary for one's well being and for maintaining a happy stress free life. "To live and let live " is both a social and a personal obligation. A tolerant person possesses the prerequisite of a balanced life. Anyone who cannot put up with internal and external situations with equanimity not only disturbs his own peace but also the peace around him. One who lacks the aptitude to listen, understand, make allowances and respect others' ideas and opinions will always cause strife.The root cause of disputes, struggles, and unrest in life is intolerance.
Physical Tolerance:
Physical strength and stamina varies from person to person. Some People can easily walk five miles to ten miles everyday, whereas others cannot cover even short distances. While all humans share basic physiology, each one of us exhibits somewhat different physical traits.They reflect the life style they have adopted. The rampant physical intolerance evident all around us can mostly be attributed to our modern soft lifestyle.
Mental Tolerance:
Forbearance not only imparts serenity and well being to the practitioner but is also conducive to harmony and peace for others who come in contact with him. Tolerance mends broken relationships, fosters affection, and generates respect.
Verbal Resistance:
Speech, the principle means of communication, has been the cornerstone of human development and civilization. It can bring about unity and stability as well as conflict and chaos. A controlled tongue, which usually means refraining from reacting, can save you from the troubles arising from hasty, thoughtless, or misguided words. Conscious silence, i.e, abstinence from inappropriate speech, is one way to keep the peace. Undoubtedly, there is truth in the saying "If speech is silver, silence is gold." Views of Acharya Mahashraman from "LIFE, Twelve Golden Principles for Holistic Living" |
