We live in a certain set of conditions and circumstances and are used to a certain way of life. We have our own strengths and comforts. When we see others suffer for want of the strengths we have, we want them also to have those strengths and comforts and be rid of their pain. We generally advise others to do things that we practice. We do not think or take into account to see if our words fall on understanding or appreciative ears. It is not possible to expect others to appreciate our stand or our advice as they do not live in the same mental conditioning like us.
We should not give advice unless it is sought. We should not disperse advice freely. Most people will not understand the wisdom of our words and will scorn us. The good sense in our words will fall on deaf ears. It is said we should not speak even in the presence of those who do not understand as it is difficult to predict their response. As they do not understand or do not care for our words, they are capable of lashing at us verbally and even hitting us physically. Those who are hardened to pain and bitterness will rarely understand that it is possible to come out of such things and lead a better life. The story of the birds and the monkeys teaches us this truth:
On the banks of a river was a huge tree. This tree housed a variety of animals and birds. A particular family of birds had built their nests on the branches of the tree and were living a comfortable life. The luxurious foliage of the tree protected the nest and the birds from scorching sun, winds, rain and storms. The birds lived happily in the widespread branches of the tree.
One day, dark clouds gathered in the skies. There was thunder and lightning and it rained very heavily. The birds were safe and dry in their nest under the thick foliage. Some of the monkeys who were playing nearby the tree got drenched in the rain and ran to the tree for shelter. The birds saw the monkeys were wet and shivering. They felt sorry for them. One of the birds said: O monkeys, if you had built homes like us, you would be sheltered and not be shivering in the rain like this. We have only beaks and yet we manage to build nests which shelter us. You are given two hands and two legs. You can surely do a better job than us. So why don’t you make yourselves some comfortable shelters which would protect you from the weather?
The monkeys were very annoyed at the advice being given to them. One of them swore to teach the birds a lesson they would never forget. He said: These birds have buit comfortable homes and live well protected from rain and sun. So they like to give others lectures and criticize others. They are not afraid of the rain or cold winds. Let the rains stop and we will teach them a good lesson on how to build homes.
As soon as the rains stopped, the monkeys climbed up the tree. They ripped open the nests of the birds and broke their eggs. They also threw down the young ones from the nests. The birds were unable to stop the destruction of their homes and families. They flew around here and there in misery. They were full of regret. They realised that their well meaning words were misunderstood by the monkeys and that the monkeys resented the advice given to them. They understood that advice should not be given when it is not asked for. Advice should always be given to those who seek it sincerely.
A fool thinks that he needs no advice and the wise man listens to and learns from all. Those who walk the path of God should remember that everyone gets the help they seek and it is better not to interfere where one is not wanted or respected. It is better to stick to our spiritual practices, SitaRam Japa and meditation and set an example of right living and thinking by which we inspire others to improve themselves.
