Aliveness and Harmony

To me, this is akin to saying that one should not abandon one's responsibilities and run away to the Himalayas (read "a remote place") to meditate and go deeper within oneself. One has to learn to achieve that inner stillness and centering that one does through meditation, even while plunging oneself into the peaks and troughs of a tumultuous  life. This journey through the inner and outer may be cyclical for some time (which could be many lifetimes!), and we would probably have achieved a balance between the two, when we are able to keep our inner serenity while being full participants in the happenings of the external world. When I am not in harmony with my surroundings, my circumstances, it indicates to me that I have a lot of work to do on myself before I can get to that state of inner stillness.

 I found this supposedly uplifting piece disturbing and insensitive because of its use of exclusionary male pronouns.  When I was in a college women's studies class many years ago I had eyes opened to sexist language.  I would like to suggest an experiment to you Mr. Alexandar and your male (and even female) readers.  Go back to the beginning of the piece, close your eyes and have someone read it to you with all female pronouns and then tell me how included you feel.  I hope you will be more sensitive and inclusive in future writings.  Thank you.  

 Gender equality most desirable , yes.  :))

Radhika's reflective writing deeply resonates with me. The beauty of such writings is like walking to the mountain taking   different paths realizing that there is no absolute way for everybody. I learn and grow by remaining open to the diversity and feeling grounded at the same time, like a tree rooted with its branches open to receive gifts coming from various sources. Thanks to all for expressing their reflections and contributions.

Jagdish P Dave