The Ingredients of Success: Insights from Ancient Wisdom and Modern Perspective
George Warm Greetings fellow member of Family Human. I hope this finds you and yours in peace and good health. As we explore the concept of success, let's dive into the depth of what it truly means through the wisdom of ancient sages and the experiences of modern achievers.
Discovering Success Through Wisdom
To quote Thomas Edison, 'Success is ten percent inspiration and ninety percent perspiration.' This succinct statement highlights the importance of hard work and perseverance in achieving success. However, the path to success is not just about effort; it is also profoundly influenced by the wisdom and beliefs that guide us.
Robert the Bruce left us with a timeless message: 'Try when all seem to have abandoned you.' This quote resonates with the idea that true success is more than just achieving a goal; it is about resilience and the willingness to try again and again. Abdul-Baha, a renowned teacher, guided us with the thought that 'As you have Faith so shall your powers and blessings be. This is the balance.' This emphasizes the power of faith and belief in shaping our lives and our achievements.
Understanding the Ultimate Reality: Brahman
The realization of who one truly is and the experience of the deepest Reality, often referred to as Brahman, are essential to achieving the ultimate state of success. Brahman is the source, support, and true nature of all transient phenomena, including human life, the earth, nature, and the universe. It is the infinite, immortal, eternal, and homogeneous essence that underlies all existence.
To truly experience Brahman, one must cultivate a deep aspiration for it and learn how to utilize the soul to approach and merge with it. This is achieved through association with sages, saints, or God-Men, and their teachings. Cleanse the subconscious of its dross of sensuality, egotism, and materialism by overlaying the sole aspiration to experience Brahman. Techniques such as self-enquiry, as taught by Ramana Maharshi, can draw the soul to the Self/Atman/Brahman and allow one to experience the nature of Brahman through a life of abidance.
Success as a Journey: A Modern Perspective
Success is not merely a destination but a journey that helps develop the skills and resources necessary to thrive. It is about personal growth and the continuous process of becoming a better version of oneself. Many people in the developed world measure success by money, fame, and power. While these can be byproducts of success, they are not the whole picture.
A great example of this is Charles Dowding, a gardener who has been championing the 'no dig' method of growing vegetables for 40 years. His dedication and persistence have led to a significant shift in agricultural practices, with the potential to end hunger globally if adopted worldwide. His journey is a testament to the fact that success is not just about individual achievements but also about the impact one can have on others and the world.
Charles Dowding's programs are not just about teaching, but they also showcase his humility and the joy he finds in the simple things. His turn of phrase, 'the beauty he sees in the plants and the immense joy the simple things bring to him,' reflects the true spirit of success.
When you are considering success for yourself, ask yourself: Are you including others in your concept of success? Are you using the term 'rich' to mean having a lot of money? Would you rather be rich in spirit, have rich experiences, or a rich love that is returned to you? Your answers to these questions will shape your outcome and the path you choose.
Success is a deeply personal journey, and it is about more than just achieving a goal. It is about growth, learning, resilience, and the pursuit of meaning and happiness. Best wishes in your journey to success.
Best Wishes, HB