Do your deeds, hanker not for the results

Based on observation, inference, analysis and synthesis, the intelligent seeker would land on specific “truths”, as applied to him for effective application for realising effectively his objectives and vision. He would also realise that all his efforts would be aborted if he does not release himself from hankering for or being obsessed with the ultimate result.

Through this release, rewards flow automatically because time and effort expended in hankering for the results go now into work, whereby such work would naturally be more effective. This is the spirit of the stanza in Bhagavad Gita (II, 47) on working without motive and also sage Patanjali’s Sutra on obtaining benefits by performing asana with enduring comfort.

Undue strain in one’s anxiety to perform well could be counterproductive. This relaxed approach is needed with regard to other aspects of life as well. It is also common knowledge that even in relationships, the more one hankers for or expects — be it gratitude or affection — the less he gets. The less he longs for these as dire needs, the more he gets.

This is akin to Bertrand Russell’s pointing out about people who do not look for reciprocation, getting it abundantly. Herein also lies the application of the concept, “When you forget, others remember.” The crux lies in transition from hankering to let go, from rigidity to easiness and from self-centredness to caring and broad-mindedness. Watching from sidelines, waiting for the “time” to arrive, allowing things to “hasten slowly” — these could make all the difference!

At first sight possibly ordinary, but in actual fact,very powerful.

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