If we could take a moment to be aware of the gifts that are given—the bountiful food, a safe and peaceful place to be, the freedom to follow our tradition, and so many other aspects of freedom—we could also take a moment to be aware of those who do not possess the gifts we have in our lives. That thought might also prompt us to remember not to take what we have for granted.
We are so often preoccupied with our own challenges and hardships that we fail to notice how slight our challenges really are when compared to the very great needs of many people throughout the world who are struggling just to survive. Thinking in this way relieves us of our own anxiety about ourself and also arouses a natural spirit of solidarity and generosity. Strangely enough those who are most preoccupied in administering to the happiness of others are the happiest. One might think that trying to make oneself happy is the key to happiness, but that thinking is backward.
One can pray and wish for those who do not have what we have, and one might also see sources of meaning and blessing in their life which we do not possess. Share the good that one has with others, hold another in one’s prayers, and see how each of us has different blessings. Celebrate that prolific abundance.
And there is also a thought of how this rule bears a connection to the Message. There are many souls who are drifting, who are seeking but are unable to find. When we realize how blessed we have been in our inner life, how much has been shown to us on our path, we see how many are still thirsty for what we have drunk. Then we feel called to see our path as not merely our own but as companionship to many fellow travelers and to recognize that we may perhaps help them along.
This is an awakening which Murshid speaks of, when a mureed no longer merely pursues his or her own perfection, but discovers instead the path of serving the Message by sharing it with others.
My conscientious self, when you possess something, think of the one who does not possess it.
