The burden of hatred
Once a teacher asked each of his disciples to bring a bagful of potatoes with him while coming to attend his lecture. He also said that each one should write the name of the person whom he hated on each potato so that the number of potatoes would denote the number of persons he hated . Next day all his disciples brought their bag of potatoes with them. Some had six, some eight, some ten and some had twelve or fifteen. The teacher said that they should carry the bag of potatoes with them wherever they go , even when they sleep or eat or play. They were ordered to keep the bag with them for seven days.The students did not understand anything but that was the order of the teacher. After three or four days, the boys got disgusted with the rotten smell of the vegetables.
When seven days were over, they went to the teacher. The teacher said, " this test I gave you all to teach a lesson. When in seven days you felt the burden of potatoes and could not tolerate the foul smell, think how much load you must be carrying in your mind of the persons whom you hate. The feeling of hatred fills your mind with filth like these potatoes . So take away the negative and bad feeling of hatred. Even if you are not able to love anyone , at least don't hate him. By giving up hatred, your mind will be pure and light. You will have peace and joy."
Hatred is a negative sentiment arising out of extreme dislikes. Diversity is the nature of the world. Each one is unique. In the eyes of the creator, all are equal. In reality, Nature provides everything to all. Man does not own anything. Class differences, inferiority, superiority, all these are man' s own creation reflecting his ignorance and selfishness. So being appreciative and grateful for what you have and not feeling inferiority or superiority will not only make you happier but also provide
a gateway to more love, kindness and spiritual exploration.
Love is the real nature of all living beings. Hatred is the unnatural condition of the mind. Love is the power to forgive, to heal and to create joy and assists us to build ideal families, communities, countries and the world, honoring each other's differences and similarities.
