This is the final part of “A Code to Live By” where we examine some of the qualities which can help me to achieve peacefulness and happiness.
Some of those qualities recommended by the ancient sages are:
- Self-control (includes control of the appetites, passions, mind),
- Freedom from Possessiveness & Theft (includes covetousness) (being satisfied with just as much as one needs for his maintenance),
- Simplicity – it is advised that one should be so straightforward that without diplomacy you can disclose the real truth even to an enemy. Also means living frugally – “need over greed”
- Modesty
- Engaging in a life of spiritual pursuit
- To be Charitable
- Bravery/Heroism
- Control of anger
The Vedas provide an amazing perspective on peace and happiness which is the opposite of what the materialistic or hedonistic lifestyle promotes.
“A person who is not disturbed by the incessant flow of desires — that enter like rivers into the ocean, which is ever being filled but is always still — can alone achieve peace, and not the man who strives to satisfy such desires.” Bhagavad-gita 2:70
“A person who has given up all desires for sense gratification, who lives free from desires, who has given up all sense of proprietorship and is devoid of false ego — he alone can attain real peace.” Bhagavad-gita 2:71
“One who is not connected with the Supreme can have neither transcendental intelligence nor a steady mind, without which there is no possibility of peace. And how can there be any happiness without peace?” Bhagavad-gita 2:66
