Suppression vs. Sublimation – Part III

‘The story of Rishyashringa is not to say that discipline is useless but that mere discipline without understanding will not help in the long run. While Vibhandaka Rishi tried to keep his son away from all temptations, he did not let him understand the reason for it. As a result, Rishyashringa could not resist them when he got exposed to it! On the other hand, once Rishyashringa understood the meaninglessness of those indulgences, he gave them up on his own and returned to the life of a tapasvi!’, explained VR.‘So, to get out of any habit, we must understand why we want to do so. But even when I do understand it, I still feel hopelessly attracted to it’, lamented Maanav.‘That is where we can look at Rishyashringa’s life once again. He managed to give up the royal pleasures because he was inspired to live the life of an ascetic and found great satisfaction in doing so. Not doing something is only half the determination. The will to do what we need to, is what completes it’, elaborated VR.‘Hmm, so for me that would mean, instead of just focusing on getting out of binge-watching, I should also focus on how I want to spend my time. Make a list of things that will be a better use of my time and also things that I will enjoy! This is really interesting, VR. It opens up a whole new way of thinking for me. So, what did Rishyashringa Rishi do as a sage?’ ’One of his major accomplishments was to help Raja Dasharatha perform the Putra Kameshti Yagna that helped in the birth of Sri Ram, Lakshman, Bharat and Shatrughna!’.‘Wow! So in a way, he was instrumental in making Bhagwan’s avatar happen’, said Maanav excitedly.‘Most certainly! He also performed penance in different parts of Bharat. One of the most famous holy places, Sringeri in Karnataka, has been named after him. Adi Shankaracharya established the Sharada Peetham there as well as one of the four mutts. Thus, Rishyashringa’s contributions have been inspiring many people even in today’s day and age!’‘This is remarkable VR! I feel so charged up to not just overcome my temptation but make my life more meaningful! All thanks to Ramayana and you, VR!’‘Happy to be of use, Maanav. Until we meet again, thank you for using Ramayana Reboot!’