The
Tenth Chapter
SHUN
the gossip of men as much as possible, for discussion of worldly
affairs, even though sincere,
is a great distraction inasmuch as we are quickly ensnared
and captivated by vanity.
Many
a time I wish that I had held my peace and had not associated
with men. Why, indeed,
do we converse and gossip among ourselves when we so seldom
part without a troubled conscience?
We do so because we seek comfort from one another?s conversation
and wish to ease the mind
wearied by diverse thoughts. Hence, we talk and think quite
fondly of things we like very much or
of things we dislike intensely. But, sad to say, we often
talk vainly and to no purpose; for this
external pleasure effectively bars inward and divine consolation.
Therefore
we must watch and pray lest time pass idly.
When
the right and opportune moment comes for speaking, say something
that will edify.
Bad
habits and indifference to spiritual progress do much to remove
the guard from the tongue.
Devout
conversation on spiritual matters, on the contrary, is a great
aid to spiritual progress,
especially when persons of the same mind and spirit associate
together in God.
Prabuddha
Bharata>>>
Vedanta
Kesari>>>
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