It’s vision that matters
Why are some nations termed “developed”, while others “underdeveloped?” Why is there a difference? Is it because the underdeveloped nations lack talented people or natural resources? No. It is because of the lack of management or the under-utilisation of resources that gives rise to this discrepancy.
The success or development of a nation depends on the management of all its resources. A prerequisite for the above is a clear vision of its leaders. They must know what is to be achieved. After 60 years of Independence, we are still not clear about which direction to follow in many areas. The vision of a nation must include the welfare of all, but unfortunately it is quite the opposite that happens.
Once the vision is clearly established, we need to consider how to mobilise or create resources towards fulfilling that vision. A plan of action needs to be formulated with a complete understanding of available resources. The plan must harness and utilise all available resources and proper systems of administration should be installed to ensure efficient functioning.
But our problem is that we tend to think for only ourselves. We rarely think of giving to others. When we prosper, we begin to relax and then become lax. When something comes easily, we do not give it much respect, taking it for granted. We think that a leader will surface out of thin air and sort out all the problems that plague our country. Nobody wants to make an effort to do anything about it. People want to know what the government can do for them. Why not start thinking “What can I do for the government? What can I do for the country?” Things will begin to change if individuals start thinking on these lines.
These days patriotism has taken a back seat. How do we celebrate Republic Day, Independence Day or for that matter any other national event? Speeches are made, some garlanding takes place and the event is over. Is this all we can think of doing to commemorate this day for which so many have fought and even sacrificed their lives? Should we not spend some time thinking about how we gained Independence and the sacrifices made by our freedom fighters? We need to dwell on and learn from the lives of great men. They have made a difference and so can we. If we can think about these aspects and find a national purpose, the means will follow.
Swami Tejomayananda, head of Chinmaya Mission Worldwide, is an orator, poet, singer, composer and storyteller. To find out more about Chinmaya Mission and Swamiji, visit www.chinmayamission.com.© Central Chinmaya Mission Trust.
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