As we stand on the threshold of a new year and prepare to march ahead into 2014, it may be quite instructive to step back a little and reflect on the year gone by and ask, What were my joys and disappointments? Where did I fail? Where were the successes? How far have I succeeded in coming closer to my true nature? As we inhale the breath of a new resolve, renewed vitality and purpose, we should direct our thoughts towards finding new ways to ensure that the year ahead is one where we are fully responsible for our lives.
One of the directives outlined in our scriptures is to travel on the vehicle of ‘Dharma Rath” – the chariot of righteousness that propels us firmly on the journey. As we traverse the smooth as well as the rough terrain, the qualities on which the chariot is constructed keep us steady and take us to our destination of spirituality. In Lanka Kaand of Shri Raamcharitramaanas of Shri Tulsidasji, Shri Raam outlines the steps in constructing this ‘dharma rath’. They are as follows:
Wheels of the chariot – qualities of valour and fortitude
- Flag – truthfulness
- Ensign – virtuous conduct
- Horses – strength, discriminative power, self control, benevolence
- Reins of the horses – forgiveness, compassion, even-mindedness
- Charioteer – worship of the Divine
- Shield – dispassion
- Sword – contentment
- Axe – charity
- Lance – reason
- Bow – wisdom
- Quiver – pure and steady mind
- Arrows – quietude, restraint, religious observances
- Armour – homage to Guru and Brahmins.
Imbibing of these qualities ensure that we enhance our journey. No room is there for blame or regret. We become a ready vessel for higher consciousness. We feel ready to embrace change as the only condition that is constant. We feel empowered as we find the courage to ally ourselves with the breezes that attempt to slow our progress. With Divine support, we take sole responsibility for our actions and we ensure victory over the limited human personality as did Shri Raam over Raavan. May each of us construct this chariot and steer it to oneness with the Supreme.
