Life – What is its purpose?

Just give it a thought before you read any further. What do you think is the purpose of your life?

I had attended a yoga program a few months back and I had the chance and privilege to meet a Swamiji there.

I had posed him this very question- what is the purpose of our life? On hearing my question, the Swamiji had a long, childlike laugh. I was perplexed. I was wondering whether there was something so hilarious about my question. As I sat there pondering over, the Swamiji’s laughter came to a gradual halt. He took off his glasses, wiped his eyes- which seemingly appeared moist after a hearty laugh and answered to my question. The answer seemed very short yet very precise, very simple yet very powerful. His answer was this: ‘The purpose of life IS TO BE HAPPY’. This struck me with a strange feeling. Can the purpose of life be so simple? I probed him further. I asked if the purpose of life is to be happy, won’t this be considered selfish? If I just think about my happiness, what about my family, relatives and society? Don’t we have a purpose to serve them as well?

The Swamiji’s answer came as a cool wind on a hot summer afternoon. His words were- If you can manage to be happy, the rest will take care of itself.

His words need no explanation or elaboration. It’s very simple and straightforward. Perhaps the years of blissful state of calm mind and unwavering devotion towards god, the Swami has attained supreme philosophical and spiritual knowledge. It was calmness all around him and mind seemed absolutely unperturbed. I sat there wishing if also could, at some stage in my life, attain that tranquility and peace of mind which the Swamiji possessed.
But, the message was loud and clear and received gracefully. Throw away the trivial issues and look forward to lead a healthy and happy life. Don’t count you troubles, count your blessings!

Thank you, Swamiji. Your words have made a difference in my life! They have made me, without a hint of doubt - HAPPY!

-Sandeep Mahagaonkar