When Buddha was on his death bed he noticed his young disciple Anan was weeping. ‘Why are you weeping, Anan?’ he asked. “Because the light of the world is about to be extinguished and we will be in darkness.”

The Buddha summoned up all his remaining energy and spoke what were to be his final words on earth:

‘Anan, Anan, be a light unto yourself.’ – story from the Buddhist Scripture

From being in a state of constant learning, which we addressed in our last newsletter, this month we lead our focus to the LIGHT & DARKNESS OR YIN & YANG of life. In Chinese philosophy, this concept is used to describe how apparently opposite or contrary forces are actually complementary, interconnected and interdependent. This clear relationship between opposite factors has been established since time immemorial.

The universe, and everything in it, is both constant and cyclical. One force dominates and then is replaced by the opposing force. This activity continues constantly and repeats itself over time.

Thus as the Buddha says, we have both light and darkness merged within us. It is our choice, which to choose in order to lead our life !!

Examples illustrating the philosophy of Yin Yang include:

• Life and death
• Heaven and earth
• Night and day
• Dark and light
• Health and sickness

The Hindu festival Dussehra/Diwali, which we all celebrate with great fervour is also the celebration of these opposite forces of good and evil.

You can apply the principles of Yin/Yang to everyday life too. For example, if you are constantly on the go, have a fast-paced career, participate in competitive sports, have a tendency to want everything yesterday and love to push yourself, all Yang qualities, to achieve internal balance and well-being, you need to include Yin energy eg meditation, yoga, hobbies etc in your life.

So balance your lives, accept situations and stay calm.

Wishing you all Compliments of the Season