What is Straightforwardness?
When what we believe, what we feel, what we speak and what we do is the same, it is called straightforwardness.
Why should I be straightforward?
- A straightforward person has nothing to hide.
- When we are straightforward, people feel comfortable with us.
- A straightforward person is fearless.
- When we are straightforward, it is easier for people to help us.
- For example, if I am scared of the dark, but I keep pretending like I am not, I will always remain scared. But if I accept what I feel and express it clearly, then my parents and teachers will help me overcome my fear and make me fearless for life.
What is not straightforwardness?
- Hurting others is not straightforwardness
- Saying things that will harm others is not straightforwardness
- For example, I may be very angry with my brother, but if I tell him that "I hate you", it will hurt him badly. Although it may be true that at that moment I feel that way, but it is not required to say so.
- To behave in a certain way and do something completely different, is not straightforwardness.
- For example, showing that I am a very good student and sincerely studying for exam, but secretly playing games on the cell phone, is not straightforwardness.
Straightforwardness in Speech:
- Say what is on your mind clearly
- Don't expect others to understand without telling
- Saying things in a way that the truth is hidden, is not straightforwardness
- Our speech must have these 3 qualities: Satyam (Truth), Priyam (Lovingness), Hitam (Welfare). When we speak the truth for the welfare of the other person in a loving way, that is straightforwardness.
Did you know....???
The name "Arjuna" is derived from the word "Aarjavam". Hence, Arjuna's most important quality was straight-forwardness. When he felt weak and confused, he expressed it to Krishna in a very straight-forward way. There was never any hypocrisy or crookedness in Arjuna's behavior or speech! To practice Aarjavam, is to be a hero like Arjuna!
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