Benevolence, Frugality and Humility

The friction between our spirit and physical body (soul) gives rise to internal conflicts and contradictions within us all. Since the dawn of life, our soul has clung to impermanence, using it as an excuse—or even a justification—to indulge in the material comforts of living, often at the expense of spiritual virtues: benevolence (慈), frugality (俭), and humility (让). In recent decades, these virtues have rapidly lost their value in a world where materialism is mistaken for the solution, rather than the root cause, of worldly problems. Throughout history, we have built empires and monuments hoping future generations would remember us. In each lifetime, we strive to outshine others by accumulating wealth, status, and power, often succumbing to greed. Over multiple lifetimes, these tendencies become ingrained in our spiritual being, manifested in the world we see today. Reflect on this: can you imagine the chaos if our physical bodies were immortal? The futility of seeking immortality through materialism becomes painfully clear when we inevitably face mortality, often without consent or preparation. It is foolhardy to continue down this path, where countless generations have already failed. Do we not see?

Our untamed mind is like an ocean—vast, powerful, and capable of destruction. Over time, countless lives have been wrecked by this untamed mind. Through Karmic readings, Lord Nalakuvara has revealed the lives of dignitaries—once wealthy or powerful people—who have been reborn into obscurity, misery, and suffering. Looking back, if we had not been so obsessed with status—financial or otherwise—might we have used our gifts more wisely to seek the Truth? Yet, we persist in our old ways, often failing to appreciate, or choosing to ignore, the blessings and opportunities in this life. Instead, we continue to feed our insatiable desires for more. Why must we wait until we hit rock bottom to seek answers? Are we not curious about life and death?

According to Lord Nalakuvara, we tend to do one of two things: (1) make excuses for not doing what we should be doing or (2) find reasons to justify continuing on our current path. Between these excuses and justifications, we revel in a false sense of security and contentment, only to realise years later that we've chosen a treadmill with no destination. By then, we are spiritually exhausted and fear the thought of stopping, having grown attached to the treadmill—until death calls us. But do we awaken even in death? Often, we return for more. In this modern age, we must learn to count our blessings, be mindful, and cherish the opportunities to seek the Truth and contemplate our place in this mortal world.

Through Karmic readings, we have witnessed the lives of many—intertwined and distressed—across multiple lifetimes, playing out in their present lives in new social and cultural contexts, all for the simplest of lessons: to relearn benevolence, frugality, and humility—the hallmarks of spiritual attainment and a step closer to the Creator. But do we realise? Do we find peace and resolution within ourselves against those who have wronged or defiled us? Have we learned to reconcile the affairs of the heart, to let go of the attachments of the body and soul?

Many teachers have espoused that awakening is possible only if we choose the right path, armed with proper knowledge and guided by wisdom. Yet, apathy is widespread, and many go to extremes in pursuing enlightenment. The message, however, has always been clear: the path to enlightenment lies in the middle way. Through everyday practices—at home, in society, among family, friends, and colleagues—we encounter the most opportunities and precious moments to attain enlightenment if only we are seeking it. As the day closes, reflect on your becoming for a while, for tomorrow will pass too quickly, often before we are even aware of it.