True Service
The sign of attachment is psychological dependence. Outwardly we may be serving; inwardly we are helplessly dependent upon the work! While appearing to be giving, we actually are there to receive. We have many expectations from people. If not materially, we seek emotionally and are hurt if people do not show love, care or recognition to us. We are in the grip of an old habit of looking for praise, anticipating appreciation and approval. Criticism throws us off balance. Even the other person’s raised voice offends us. We need to watch our mind’s weaknesses in movement. In an intense perception of the erroneous way, we deal a blow to the habit. We are then born to a new way of seeing. The healthy outlook admits no hurt.
The best in us comes out when we forget our identity and are absorbed in the act of service. Action takes place without the actor finding a place in our thinking. Self-importance is a bunch of thoughts that are busy in self-evaluation. Do I have to be conscious that I am doing a good act while my hands make a gift to a beggar? I see the man suffering and help flows spontaneously. Of course I check on what I can afford. I may also look into issues like whether there will be misuse of my gift. These considerations are different from fancying how generous I am or how I am better than before.
True service has a unique fragrance that is not the product of a plan, however clever.
“The best worker does her job free of attachment, without self-importance. She keeps going with enthusiasm and remains unmoved in success and failure.” Geeta 18:26
Swami Chidananda
Monday, July 14, 2003