People the world over have tried to crack the code to long lasting and harmonious relationships. Yet, if we know where to look, harmonious relationships are not far from our reach.
As social beings living in this world, we continually seek harmonious relationships with those around us — our family, our loved ones, friends, co-workers and neighbours. No matter what the relationship, at the heart of all relationship challenges lies our inability to (1) handle anger, (2) control our ego and (3) stay calm in the face of a trying situation.
Most problems arise when people disagree with each other or have differing viewpoints about a matter. They may each feel they are right and the other party is wrong, and will each try to make their case. When the other party does not come around or give in, anger surfaces. If we are unable to stay calm at this point, we end up saying or doing something hurtful to the other. This escalates and leads to retaliation. Soon, what began as a minor disagreement evolves into a fight over time, a long-term feud. The relationship then suffers.
There is another ending to this story; one in which we maintain harmony within the relationship, and it all begins with the simple technique of meditation. It can help short-circuit the cycle of anger and retaliation and instead instil in us peace and harmony.
Personal transformation through meditation: Meditation on the inner light and sound of God is a process whereby we take our attention away from the outer world and focus it within ourselves. As we do so, we begin to experience God’s love that is within us. Bathed in this divine love, we gradually awaken to the reality that we are not the body, but at the core, are soul — a part of God. It is this part of God that enlivens the physical body. We also begin to see all living things, whether human, animal, or plant, as a part of God, with God’s light shining in all.
Embracing our oneness with all of God’s creation, we undergo a profound transformation. As a result, we begin to develop love for all. This builds a bridge between people as we realise our commonality. Our hearts open, we develop tolerance and patience towards those around us. We become compassionate and understanding, and we seek to help those in need. We are inspired to utilise our talents for the good of humanity, and in whatever sphere we are working, we become a source of help and comfort to those around us.
When we remain on an even keel, we are able to find solutions, and are open to adjusting and compromising to ensure a peaceful resolution.
No longer seeking to rule over or control others, our ego is kept in check, as we don’t see ourselves as different from our fellow beings. As we meditate, we experience states of calm, peace and joy. This feeling of tranquility remains with us long after our meditations, and radiates from us to all in our orbit. We are able to stay calm in the face of challenging situations or differences of opinion, not allowing situations to escalate into anger. When we remain on an even keel, we are able to find solutions, and are open to adjusting and compromising to ensure a peaceful resolution.
