Reacting to Present Moments: The Influence of Our Past
Reacting to Present Moments: The Influence of Our Past
Do we react to present moments because of our past? The answer is partly yes. Our current state is shaped by past actions, whether from previous lives or from the moments of our current life. However, we always have a choice in how we respond to any given situation, a concept known as Purusharth. This article explores the intricate relationship between our past and present reactions, and how we can gain control over our responses.
How Past Actions Shape Our Present
It is important to recognize that our current situation is not solely determined by the present moment but is also heavily influenced by our past actions. This includes actions from previous lives as well as the cumulative decisions and experiences from the current life. The saying, 'We are where we are,' implies that our present circumstances are a sum of our past deeds and thoughts.
The Role of Mental Faculty in Our Reactions
Despite the influence of the past, humans are endowed with the ability to think and analyze any given situation. This faculty, often referred to as our intellectual capacity, allows us to evaluate our responses. The way we react is based on a combination of our past experiences, our current mindset, and our inherent virtues and vices.
For instance, consider a scenario where two friends are walking in a forest. A crow nearby drops an unwanted object on their heads. One friend dismisses the incident, while the other reacts strongly, throwing stones at the bird in a fit of anger. The difference in their reactions highlights the role of past conditioning and current state in our responses.
Inner Call and Choices: Our inner call, or the guidance we feel when faced with a decision, is deeply influenced by our past. It is a reflection of the sum of our actions and the lessons learned over time. This inner call guides us in choosing our actions, but it is not set in stone. We have the choice to meditate, practice yoga, and become more conscious of our thoughts and actions.
Understanding the Impact of Childhood and Environment
Another significant factor in our reactions to the present moment is the memories and habits formed during our childhood. The atmosphere of our childhood home, the teachers we had, and even our handwriting can be influenced by the environment and experiences of our formative years. These subconscious influences shape our behavior and responses.
However, it is crucial to recognize that despite these influences, we always retain a choice. We can choose to meditate, practice mindfulness, and become more aware of our actions. By doing so, we can decide which aspects of the past to carry forward and which to discard.
Personal Responsibility and the Choice to React
While the present is indeed influenced by the past, it is important to understand that we do not have to react to it in the same way. By accepting the present, we are not necessarily embracing our past. The act of acceptance can be a new beginning, a fresh start, a moment of reflection, or a decision to move forward.
In conclusion, while our past actions and experiences play a significant role in our present reactions, we always retain the capability to choose how we respond. By being mindful and conscious, we can navigate our decisions with greater awareness and control, leading to a more fulfilling and purposeful life.