The Bhagavad Gita shows us at every stage in life how we should be taking decisions in every life situation, not by giving a specific direction, but by demonstrating through dialogue, the effects of a particular decision and action. “Karma Yoga” is about knowing “dharma” and using free will appropriately in any circumstance, with a clear understanding of the law of causes and effects.
I need to convey my sense of gratitude, as an overwhelmed learner, to Ms. Neema Majumdar, whose lectures on YouTube channels have given me such amazing insights through her simple explanations, which make even complex shlokas look so simple and applicable in our daily lives. Here I am referring to a video series of 10 lectures on the “Essence of Bhagavad Gita” conducted by her in Germany. Those interested may view it here:
Now, the main takeaway for me and which I feel will be very helpful for youth and parents is the aspect of ‘free will’ and choices to be made in life with a better understanding of the laws of the universe, or “karma” or “cause and effect”.
The reason we all exist as individuals and have our own unique personalities is the effect of various causes of our past and present life situations that we have faced and taken certain actions. The misunderstanding that most people live with is that they look for a linear and short-term relationship when it comes to actions and their effects or consequences. The whole universe and all objects are connected in an amazing network, and every action or thought that we take changes some variable in this vast interconnection. The cause of anything that happens to us in space and time in this lifetime is directly attributable to this dynamic effect of this interconnected world.
Our free will is always available in this dynamic world, and we can choose to take any action or decision. However, if we have an insight into the ‘interconnectedness” and how our actions will impact the universe, starting with our near and dear ones, and then society, then the nation, then the environment, etc., will it not change our thought process about our decisions? Many times, we take decisions and actions purely based on what we think directly affects us as individuals. Not realizing that, these actions are causing a dynamic in the environment, which will at some point in time, not necessarily immediately, but eventually become an effect in our own lives.
The Bhagavad Gita is a psychological treatise that forces a reader to think as if he or she is Arjuna and is in dialogue with Krishna in that particular situation or age, as there are amazing analogies in each situation. For example, when it comes to dealing with relationships, there is a subtle situation demonstrated in the beginning, where the blind king Dhritarashtra mentions “pandavas” and their army as “the others” to Sanjaya as compared to “Arjuna” on the battlefield, who is perplexed and confused as he tells “Krishna” about “my own people” on the opposite side. The thoughts and views of Arjuna, who is thinking appropriately, against Dhritarashtra, who is thinking selfishly, are subtly demonstrated. Accordingly, there are causes and effects being created that affect them in the course of the battle according to their respective thoughts, words, and actions. “Dharma” and “Adharma” are accordingly defined, and the victory is always shown to be on the appropriate side of “dharma.”
As a parent or a youth taking decisions for the future, one needs to be very sensitive to the thoughts and effects of one’s decision on people, society, and the environment while also serving their own purpose of gaining recognition and value in the world. The purpose of work therefore becomes a critical factor in decision-making, and it is much more than just making ends meet. Because of the interconnected nature of this world, the moment we start thinking of impacting someone and also society and the environment positively through the work that we are undertaking, the outcome or effect will eventually be positive only. There are bound to be challenges and obstacles in the beginning, and the outcome may get delayed, but belief and motivation to achieve the impact will ensure that the purpose and outcome both get fulfilled.