The Arrow and the Anchor

Ego is a cage and Ego's death is the key to the cage! To unlock the cage of Ego, death of Ego is the key! Once we release the burden of Ego and become auspicious, in such a state, the Devas themselves seek our company, eager to walk beside us, to guide and protect us! Let’s listen to this beautiful incident from the Mahābhārata to understand auspiciousness. As Arjuna was travelling across the country, he saw a bridge between Rāmeśvara and Śrīlaṅka. Yogic texts mention about Siddhis, through which certain powerful people build bridges and wells by shooting arrows into the ground. Arjuna, who had accumulated such powers by Tapasyā, wondered if it was fair for Śrī-Rāma to seek the help of monkeys and burden them to build the bridge. Arjuna thought Lord Rāma went through so much trouble with all those monkeys. He could have built a stronger bridge in minutes with my magic arrows!" Further, expressed all that was in his mind to a scholar who was nearby reciting the verse of Rāmāyaṇa. A small monkey in a tree replied that a bridge made by releasing arrows into the ground would collapse. Arjuna, feeling challenged, decided to make a bet - If the monkey destroyed the bridge, he would end his life; if not, the monkey would have to stay with him obediently forever. Thus, he shot arrows to construct a bridge, and the monkey jumped on the bridge, easily destroying it. Ashamed, Arjuna prepared to jump into a fire, but a small boy stopped him. He explained that every bet needs a judge. Without a judge, a bet is invalid. So, the boy acted as a mediator and asked them to try again. Arjuna rebuilt the bridge by releasing arrows; this time, it held firm when the monkey jumped on it. At that moment, the monkey, none other than the Pūjya Bhagavān Āñjanēya, fell at the boy’s feet, shouting in devotion – Jayatu Śrī-Rāma! Simultaneously, Arjuna praised the boy by shouting – Jayatu Śrī-Kṛṣṇa! Śrī-Kṛṣṇa then reminded them not to be arrogant in conversations with others, regardless of who they are, and assured them that he would support people of merit and help them fulfil their life purpose. This is the essence of transformation. On the path of transformation, we become worthy, and even the Highest Powers want to help us be our best selves. They will support and protect us as we strive to serve humanity to the best of our ability! With the support of the Highest Powers, are we any less than being auspicious? Let us now meditate upon the privilege of being auspicious and celebrate the path of transformation and its appealing rewards! It is also worth mentioning that during this incident, Pūjya Bhagavān Āñjanēya, under the guidance of Śrī-Kṛṣṇa, decided to be on the flag of their chariot!