Monday Motivation for Success from Siva (MMFS-32): If it doesn't challenge you, it doesn't change you!

Hi,

Is there someone challenging you at your home and making you feel uncomfortable? Or do you find the work targets at your office challenging and unreasonable? Whether we like it or not, it is these challenges that bring the best out of us. They may appear a bit embarrassing and nagging, and at times irritating and quite annoying too. But they are actually an opportunity in disguise. How is it so? Let us take these 2 examples from The Mahabharata and evaluate them.

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If it doesn't challenge you, it doesn't change you.

The Pandavas, having lost the game of dice with the Kauravas, went to live in the forest for thirteen years. During the course of their life in the forests, they faced innumerable challenges. They took every challenge in their stride, faced them boldly, learnt their lessons, and became stronger and better. 

Arjuna wanted to acquire new weapons from devas and went to Himalayas to practise austerities and do penance to obtain the grace of Siva. In order to test Arjuna, Siva challenged him in the disguise of a hunter. Arjuna accepted the challenge and engaged himself in a battle with the hunter. Arjuna gave his best and fought tooth and nail, but he was overcome and defeated. Then he could realise that the hunter was none other than Siva, an fell at his feet seeking forgiveness. Siva blessed him will all the weapons including the all powerful 'Pasupata.'

Around the same time, the other Pandavas and Draupadi were living in the forest of Narayanasrama in the Himalayas. One day, Draupadi came across a beautiful flower with a sweet smell. She liked it so much that she wanted to have more of them. She immediately requested Bhima to bring more of them. Bhima went into the forest in search of the plant having such flowers. On his way, he saw a monkey blocking his path. Bhima shouted at it to frighten the animal to leave the place and give him the way. But the monkey told Bhima that he was unable to move as he was very old, but challenged him that he could make his way, if he moved his tail away from the path. Bhima thought he could do it effortlessly, but despite all of his efforts and using all of this strength, he could not move the tail of the monkey. 

Bhima soon understood that the animal was no ordinary creature and realised his mistake. He then showed utmost respect and asked for forgiveness. He felt very much blessed to learn that the monkey was none other than the great Hanuman, who later gently took him into his hands and embraced him. With that divine embrace, Bhima became much stronger and powerful.  

Both Bhima and Arjuna faced the challenges that were beyond their capability. But, they gave their best. The put in their best efforts. In the end they not only realised themselves but also gained extra powers.

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The challenges may appear to be painful and troubling, and sometimes belittling too. Avoiding them is in no way a solution. Rather, facing them bravely will help bring the best out of us in the first place. If we overcome the challenge successfully by accomplishing the desired task, it is well and good. Even if we fail to deliver, we would have the satisfaction of giving our best. And that would save us from the pain of regret at least. If someone is challenging you at home or in the office, think positively and take it as an opportunity for you. The next time, if someone or something is challenging you, be grateful, in stead of feeling bitter. It is better for you. Indeed!

To your SUCCESS,

With love and regards,

Siva