Gandhi. There is perhaps no name in history that embodies the teachings of non-violent, civil resistance better than Mahatma Gandhi. Though Gandhi was meek and fragile in stature, his presence was anything but. Through enormous respect and love for Mankind, this humble and peace-loving man led an entire nation to independence.
“Power is of two kinds. One is obtained by the fear of punishment and the other by acts of love. Power based on love is a thousand times more effective and permanent then the one derived from fear of punishment.” — Mahatma Gandhi
Gandhi was also known for his love of teaching and educating people on peace, harmony, love and respect.
5 Life Changing Lessons to Learn From Mahatma Gandhi
#1: Change Yourself First
“Be the change you want to see in the world.” — Mahatma Gandhi
The concept of changing yourself to reflect what you want to see around you is simple in theory, but requires hard work, patience and determination to attain. Gandhi taught this important principle in his words, but epitomized them in his actions. Even when facing imprisonment, hunger and possible death, Gandhi remained steadfast, loving, and peaceful.
Can we summon the strength of character to live the change we wish to see?
One person CAN make a difference. It always starts with one person.
#2: Strength Through Peace
“There are many causes that I am prepared to die for but no cause that I am prepared to kill for.” — Mahatma Gandhi
Gandhi was a revolutionary, a hero, and the leader of a nation. He led his people to independence and self-rule through his extraordinary strength.
And… he did it without hurting anyone.
Such a concept today seems unfathomable and unattainable. Gandhi’s achievements show otherwise. He showed that self-sacrifice and courage – not death and destruction – can produce change.
We have the capability to change the world through peaceful activism, demonstrating love, and living unselfishly. Let us do so.
#3: Violence is Unnecessary
“An eye for an eye will only make the whole world blind.” — Mahatma Gandhi
The only thing that Gandhi hated in his life was violence. There are more quotes and teachings about violence from Mahatma Gandhi than any other topic.
Somewhere in the world, there is a conflict going on. Innocent lives are being lost, along with the lives of those fighting. Gandhi taught that our cultural, religious and political differences are no excuse to hurt, much less kill, anyone.
“There are many causes that I am prepared to die for but no cause that I am prepared to kill for.” — Mahatma Gandhi
#4: Pursue the truth
“Even if you are a minority of one, the truth is the truth.” — Mahatma Gandhi
Needless to say, Gandhi was a big proponent of truthfulness. He warned people against blindly accepting information without careful examination.
Propaganda doesn’t make something true. Repeating of information doesn’t make something true. The attainment of truth happens through careful examination, a critical eye, and an open mind.
Examine things for yourself. Our world will be a much better place when this becomes more common.
#5: Watch your thoughts
“A man is but the product of his thoughts. What he thinks, he becomes.” — Mahatma Gandhi
Gandhi was a man of incredible self-discipline and strength of will. The only way he was able to achieve what he did, despite sometimes horrendous treatment, was through conscious, productive, positive thinking.
Read the above quote over again.
Indeed, we are a product of our thoughts. Imagine a world of positive thinking and self-restraint.
Gandhi did and so do we. Gaining control of your thoughts and primarily thinking positive can transform your whole life. The more people who do, the better the world we live in will be. 🙂
“We must become the change we want to see in the world.” — Mahatma Gandhi
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