A book is not simply a
collection of papers, it is a good friend, which can teach us, mould us and
capable of lightning the spark inside us towards destiny. One such book that
left a huge impact on me is “The story of my experiments with truth”-The
autobiography of Gandhiji (Satya
sothanai in tamil, I have read the tamil version).
I read it on the way
towards my native Madurai and in return too without wasting any time. The very
thought of reading about the leader whom I admire the most kept me centered
towards the book. I have never read any book this way, not even for my public
examinations. The book really made a life changing impact on me.
Initially I thought the
book is all about his political accomplishments, but when I started turning pages I discovered that it is completely about
his personal life and about the experiments he conducted within himself.
Most of us know Gandhiji
only as a freedom fighter, but this book showcased his various faces. Out of
which I am sharing a few drops from the ocean, Gandhi.
- Self control: “One who controls himself can control the whole world”. A perfect example to this saying is Gandhiji. There were numerous instances where his self control was portrayed. Either it is keeping to the promise he made to his mother before leaving to London or his self imposed diet restrictions, I witnessed how good he was in controlling his senses.
- Self Belief: “Believe in yourself, the world will believe you”. Gandhi showcased himself as a living example for this saying. The self belief he had in non violence brought him victory in South Africa and that made every Indian to stand behind him against the whites. Gandhiji believed sand therapy is the best treatment for plague. He opted to continue with sand therapy for his son who was heavily infected with plague. His self belief not only saved his son’s life but also saved the lives of many soldiers during the South African war.
- Admitting our fault: “No individual is 100% perfect”, Gandhi was no exception. He himself pointed out numerous flaws he made in his life. The openness to share his blameworthy behavior to the world which is praising him as Mahatma made him stand tall in my mind. He is a real hero.
- Patience: Patience is a key to turn any situation in our way. I learnt it from the patience he showed in South Africa where he was racially discriminated.
Apart from these
characteristics, I admired the way he practiced brahmacharya, the respect he
renders to everyone, his selfless attitude, his devotion to God and a lot
more....
The book made me realize
the value of all these attributes. It pushed me to follow his traits.
There are many books which
we read to pass time or to have fun. “The story of my experiments with truth”
is certainly not of that kind. I would term the time I spent on reading the
book as Invaluable. I had a feeling of fulfillment when I was on the last page
of his Autobiography. That’s what made this book as my all time favorite.
Do read this book when you get a chance. Be
ready to feel the difference inside you while reading :)
Jai Hind
