June 24th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
उदीरितोऽर्थः पशुनापि गृह्यते
हयाश्च नागाश्च वहन्ति देशिताः ।
अनुक्तमप्यूहति पण्डितो जनः
परेङ्गितज्ञानफला हि बुद्धयः ॥
- हितोपदेश, सुहृद्भेद

Transliteration:
udīrito'rthaḥ paśunāpi gṛhyate
hayāśca nāgāśca vahanti deśitāḥ ।
anuktamapyūhati paṇḍito janaḥ
pareṅgitajñānaphalā hi buddhayaḥ ॥
- hitopadeśa, suhṛdbheda

Meaning of the subhAShita:

That which is expressed explicitly is grasped by even animals, (just as) horses and elephants execute on orders.  The intelligent perceive even that which is unsaid.  Certainly, the consequence of intelligence is an understanding of the intent of others.

Commentary:

'Stay', 'fetch', 'run', 'dance', 'jump'—even animals respond to such instructions.  A horse can run when whipped.  An elephant can lug the load as per orders from the mahout. Dogs can sit or fetch as per instructions. Animals, especially the domesticated ones, promptly do what they are told.  Doing what is asked of them is not difficult for animals.  They do not have to use much intelligence or make challenging decisions that require special skills.

Shouldn't the intelligence of man set him apart?!  The intelligence of man allows him to understand and perceive even untold words.  The ability to perceive is greater than the knowledge received. 

Empathy is the art of imagining oneself in other people's shoes, understanding their feelings and perspectives, and using that understanding to guide one's own actions! One must take the initiative to show empathy. 

The author of the verse says the consequence of proper intelligence is—the ability to perceive the untold stories! Show empathy, take charge, take initiative. Taking initiative means doing the right thing without being told! 

pada vigrahaH:
उदीरितः अर्थः पशुना अपि गृह्यते
udīritaḥ arthaḥ paśunā api gṛhyate

हयाः च नागाः च वहन्ति देशिताः ।
hayāḥ ca nāgāḥ ca vahanti deśitāḥ ।

अनुक्तम् अपि ऊहति पण्डितः जनः
anuktam api ūhati paṇḍitaḥ janaḥ

पर-इङ्गित-ज्ञान-फलाः हि बुद्धयः ॥
para-iṅgita-jñāna-phalāḥ hi buddhayaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
udIrito.rthaH pashunaapi gRuhyate
hayaashcha naagaashcha vahanti deshitaaH ।
anuktamapyUhati paNDito janaH
pare~ngitaj~naanaphalaa hi buddhayaH ॥
- hitopadesha, suhRudbheda

udIritaH arthaH pashunaa api gRuhyate

hayaaH cha naagaaH cha vahanti deshitaaH ।

anuktam api Uhati paNDitaH janaH

para-i~ngita-j~naana-phalaaH hi buddhayaH ॥

June 17th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
तृणानि भूमिरुदकं वाक्चतुर्थी च सूनृता ।
एतान्यपि सतां गेहे नोच्छिद्यन्ते कदाचन ॥
-महाभारत, उद्योग

Transliteration:
tṛṇāni bhūmirudakaṃ vākcaturthī ca sūnṛtā ।
etānyapi satāṃ gehe nocchidyante kadācana ॥
-mahābhārata, udyoga

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Grass, land, water, and the fourth being pleasant and honest speech—these are never severed from the home of a righteous person.

Commentary:

A righteous person may not be rich or famous. He may not possess silk cushions embroidered with golden threads, nor may he have silver plates and golden spoons to eat from. He may not offer an elaborate seven-course meal. But there is never a scarcity of grass. In ancient times, guests were offered seats made of grass, symbolizing that virtuous people always welcome others and offer a seat to their guests.

Next comes land, which represents the physical space one offers to others. Whether modest or grand, land signifies the ability to provide a place of comfort for guests. 

Following that, we have water, an essential element for survival. Whether rich or poor, animal or human, bird or beast—no one can survive without water. Water is what makes Earth the only thriving habitat in the solar system. An honorable person always offers water to quench a guest's thirst.

All these basic elements are provided generously to us by the Lord.

The fourth is—pleasant and gentle speech—a quality cultivated through a good disposition and a generous heart. It doesn’t require special privileges or possessions. All it takes is a pure, kind, and gracious demeanor, along with an open heart. 

This reminds of a poem by Saint Basavaṇṇa, which can be loosely translated as :

"If you greet someone with a 'How do you do? Do come in!' will you turn ugly?

If you say, 'Please sit down,' will your floor cave in?

If you greet instantly, without waiting for the other to speak, will your head or belly burst?

Even if you have nothing else to offer, can you not offer basic hospitality?!"

Saint Basavaṇṇa emphasizes that offering these simple gestures is a sign of virtue, and they are appreciated by the Lord.

The author of this verse teaches that these four elements—grass, land, water, and honest speech—are always present in the home of a virtuous person, regardless of the wealth he owns. Every person can offer these basic elements, meaning we all have the potential to be virtuous. So, what holds us back? Why is there so much animosity and so many wars throughout history? The solution seems simple: embracing these four inexpensive traits can lead us to happiness and peaceful co-existence. Let’s work toward implementing them and see where it takes us.  After all, they cost nothing!

Be nice! Speak kindly!

pada vigrahaH:
तृणानि भूमिः उदकं वाक् चतुर्थी च सूनृता ।
tṛṇāni bhūmiḥ udakaṃ vāk caturthī ca sūnṛtā ।

एतानि अपि सतां गेहे न उच्छिद्यन्ते कदाचन ॥
etāni api satāṃ gehe na ucchidyante kadācana ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
tRuNaani bhUmirudakaM vaakchaturthI cha sUnRutaa ।
etaanyapi sataaM gehe nochChidyante kadaachana ॥
- mahaabhaarata, udyoga

tRuNaani bhUmiH udakaM vaak chaturthI cha sUnRutaa ।

etaani api sataaM gehe na uchChidyante kadaachana ॥

November 26th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
सुजनो न याति वैरं परहितबुद्धिर्विनाशकालेऽपि ।
छेदेऽपि चन्दनतरुः सुरभयति मुखं कुठारस्य ॥
- सुभाषितसुधानिधि

Transliteration:
sujano na yāti vairaṃ parahitabuddhirvināśakāle'pi ।
chede'pi candanataruḥ surabhayati mukhaṃ kuṭhārasya ॥
- subhāṣitasudhānidhi

Meaning of the subhAShita:

An affable person (who is) always engrossed in the benefaction of others shall not resort to hostility, even in times of (his own) downfall.  Upon chopping, the sandal tree only smears its fragrance onto the blade of the axe.

Commentary:

When an axe strikes down a sandalwood tree, the tree does not retaliate with hostility or defend itself with a shield. Instead, it stands firm, allowing itself to be felled, and even bestows its sweet fragrance upon the blade that cuts it. Such is the grace of a truly benevolent person—they remain composed and compassionate even in the face of adversity and harm.

A person of such character never truly falls, regardless of appearance. What may seem like a downfall by worldly standards is, in reality, a testament to their greatness. On the scales of benevolence and grace, they remain towering figures. Their honor and reputation remain untarnished, for true eminence lies not in material success but in steadfast virtue.

The truest measure of amicability is constancy in the face of adversity. Doesn't this prove that a person’s affability is rooted in what they give "of" themselves rather than what they seek "for" themselves? Give generously, with pure intentions and a kind heart—this will be your enduring legacy and shield through life’s trials.

pada vigrahaH:
सुजनः न याति वैरं पर-हित-बुद्धिः विनाश-काले अपि ।
sujanaḥ na yāti vairaṃ para-hita-buddhiḥ vināśa-kāle api ।

छेदे अपि चन्दन-तरुः सुरभयति मुखं कुठारस्य ॥
chede api candana-taruḥ surabhayati mukhaṃ kuṭhārasya ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
sujano na yaati vairaM parahitabuddhirvinaashakaale.pi ।
Chede.pi chandanataruH surabhayati mukhaM kuThaarasya ॥
- subhaaShitasudhaanidhi

sujanaH na yaati vairaM para-hita-nirataH vinaasha-kaale api ।

Chede api chandana-taruH surabhayati mukhaM kuThaarasya ॥

August 31st

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
अयुक्तं स्वामिनो युक्तं युक्तं नीचस्य दूषणम् ।
अमृतं राहवे मृत्युः विषं शङ्करभूषणम् ॥
- चाणक्य नीति

Transliteration:
ayuktaṃ svāmino yuktaṃ yuktaṃ nīcasya dūṣaṇam ।
amṛtaṃ rāhave mṛtyuḥ viṣaṃ śaṅkarabhūṣaṇam ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

(Even) that which is unsuitable is suitable for a master, (but even) that which is approved is a misfit for the inferior. The divine nectar brought death to Rāhu, whereas poison became an adornment to Lord Shiva.

Commentary:

'One size fits all', isn't always the rule! Something grossly out of line may fit quite right for a master. Whereas even that which is deemed perfectly perfect might bring disgrace to the inferior!

The example given by the poet is that of Rāhu and Shiva. Being a demon, Rāhu, stealthily sat amidst the devas(demi-gods) and consumed the divine nectar (which bestows immortality). Seeing that he was cheating, Lord Vishnu beheaded him. But since he had already consumed a portion of the nectar, he lived, except with his head separated from his body! Hence, even the divine nectar proved disastrous for Rāhu! 

On the other hand, Lord Shiva consumed the poison that came out in the process of churning the milky ocean (in pursuit of obtaining the divine nectar), to save the world from its ill effects. Goddess Pārvatī, His wife, stopped it in his neck, making him Nīlakaṇṭha (the blue-necked one). Even poison became an adornment for the Lord!

The action itself does not make the difference, but the intentions and worthiness of the person performing it do. Many times, that which is right and appropriate for one person cannot be acceptable for another.  A scientist can experiment with new chemicals in the lab, whereas a student who is learning acids from bases better refrain from mixing liquids in the lab as per his whims!

A master can formulate anything with ease. Mastery comes with a good heart and good intentions. When your heart is pure and filled with good intentions, you don’t have to prove it to anyone. Your actions will do that.

pada vigrahaH:
अयुक्तं स्वामिनः युक्तं युक्तं नीचस्य दूषणम् ।
ayuktaṃ svāminaḥ yuktaṃ yuktaṃ nīcasya dūṣaṇam ।

अमृतं राहवे मृत्युः विषं शङ्कर-भूषणम् ॥
amṛtaṃ rāhave mṛtyuḥ viṣaṃ śaṅkara-bhūṣaṇam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
ayuktaM svaamino yuktaM yuktaM nIchasya dUShaNam ।
amRutaM raahave mRutyurviShaM sha~nkarabhUShaNam ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

ayuktaM svaaminaH yuktaM yuktaM nIchasya dUShaNam ।

amRutaM raahave mRutyuH viShaM sha~nkara-bhUShaNam ॥

July 10th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
पात्रापात्रविवेकोऽस्ति धेनुपन्नगयोरिव ।
तृणात्सञ्जायते क्षीरं क्षीरात्सञ्जायते विषम् ॥
- सुभाषितरत्नभाण्डागार

Transliteration:
pātrāpātraviveko'sti dhenupannagayoriva ।
tṛṇātsañjāyate kṣīraṃ kṣīrātsañjāyate viṣam ॥
- subhāṣitaratnabhāṇḍāgāra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Discrimination between the deserving and undeserving is the same way between a cow and a snake. From grass, milk is produced (in a cow); from milk, poison is generated (in a snake).

Commentary:

Whether it is an act of giving or offering aid, it is said that the person receiving must be a deserving candidate. 

How does one differentiate between the deserving and the undeserving? Very simple. The difference between the two is just like the difference between a cow and a snake. A cow eats dry grass and gives back milk in return; whereas a snake feeds on milk and produces poison! 

The same goes for people. The deserving, when offered even the slightest assistance, make maximum use of it and give back more than they received to society. That keeps the goodness in the world alive. But those who take all that is given to them and apply it to harm those around them were obviously undeserving, to begin with.

It is better to deserve yet not receive rather than to receive without deserving.  Be deserving!

pada vigrahaH:
पात्र-अपात्र-विवेकः अस्ति धेनु-पन्नगयोः इव ।
pātra-apātra-vivekaḥ asti dhenu-pannagayoḥ iva ।

तृणात् सञ्जायते क्षीरं क्षीरात् सञ्जायते विषम् ॥
tṛṇāt sañjāyate kṣīraṃ kṣīrāt sañjāyate viṣam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
paatraapaatraviveko.sti dhenupannagayoriva ।
tRuNaatsa~njaayate kShIraM kShIraatsa~njaayate viSham ॥
- subhaaShitaratnabhaaNDaagaara

paatra-apaatra-vivekaH asti dhenu-pannagayoH iva ।

tRuNaat sa~njaayate kShIraM kShIraat sa~njaayate viSham ॥

June 26th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
अक्रोधेन जयेत् क्रोधम् असाधुं  साधुना जयेत् ।
जयेत् कदर्यं दानेन जयेत् सत्येन चानृतम् ॥
- महाभारत, उद्योगपर्व


Transliteration:
akrodhena jayet krodham asādhuṃ sādhunā jayet ।
jayet kadaryaṃ dānena jayet satyena cānṛtam ॥
- mahābhārata, udyogaparva

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Anger is won over with calmness (without anger); the immoral are won with morale; a miser is won by giving; lies are won over with truth.

Commentary:

An eye for an eye, tooth for a tooth, limb for a limb, life for a life—there is no solace in spite!

If one expresses anger all the time while an onlooker continuously keeps his calm, then how long can an angry man keep his temper? He would feel like he is kicking his arms and legs against the air—no matter how much he tries, he can't hurt the air. Eventually, he will learn to keep his calm because he has no choice. Anger is won over with calmness.

When immoral laws are exercised, they are won over with morality. No matter how many devious plans are made, good triumphs over evil in the end.

A miser is won over with generosity. If a miser is given and given endlessly without reservations, he is bound to become influenced at some point, understanding the importance of giving. Possessions are meant to be put to use for other's welfare, not to be clung onto. That is what is taught by giving.

Winning over lies is as simple as telling the truth! Honesty keeps the mind and soul peaceful. Lies will not stand a chance in front of the truth. Also, it is so much easier to be honest than not. When telling the truth one doesn't have to keep track of all their lies, nor carry the fear of being caught! More importantly, truthfulness is the only path when one's quest is: the ultimate truth. Speaking the truth becomes a win-win situation for everyone.

Keep your calm, morality, generosity, and honesty. Make life simple and peaceful.

pada vigrahaH:

अक्रोधेन जयेत् क्रोधम् असाधुं साधुना जयेत् ।
akrodhena jayet krodham asādhuṃ sādhunā jayet ।

जयेत् कदर्यं दानेन जयेत् सत्येन च अनृतम् ॥
jayet kadaryaṃ dānena jayet satyena ca anṛtam ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
akrodhena jayet krodham asaadhuM saadhunaa jayet ।
jayet kadaryaM daanena jayet satyena chaanRutam ॥
- mahaabhaarata, udyogaparva

akrodhena jayet krodham asaadhuM saadhunaa jayet ।

jayet kadaryaM daanena jayet satyena cha anRutam ॥

June 24th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
दर्शनध्यानसंस्पर्शैः मत्सी कूर्मी च पक्षिणी ।
शिशुं पालयते नित्यं तथा सज्जनसङ्गतिः ॥
- चाणक्य नीति

Transliteration:
darśanadhyānasaṃsparśaiḥ matsī kūrmī ca pakṣiṇī ।
śiśuṃ pālayate nityaṃ tathā sajjanasaṅgatiḥ ॥
- cāṇakya nīti

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Just like the fish, by watching over; turtle, through contemplation; birds, by incubation—take care of their young, (people) should protect their children by keeping them in good company, at all times.

Commentary:

Most animals are known to give birth to their offspring and after a short period of nurture, they leave them to fend for themselves. But during those nurturing stages, they take the utmost care, almost as if there is nothing else in the world they would rather do!

• Fish keep a constant watch over their eggs till they hatch.
• Turtles lay their eggs and are done with childcare. But, even then, they carefully contemplate their predators' actions and select the safest spot for the eggs. They dig a hole in a spot that best suits their young to grow and hatch.
• Birds incubate their eggs.  They protect them from harsh climatic conditions and predators as well. They even feed and nurture them until their wings are strong enough to fly by themselves. 

If not, the young shall lose the battle of life before it even begins! However, all these—animals, birds, and fish alike, let go of their young! A human is the only being who shelters, nurtures, and pampers his offspring for the longest duration! 

Is a parent's job done if he builds a home and feeds his children?! This would only protect children from harsh climates and starvation. Shouldn't that be sufficient for the well-being of the child?! The maturity at which humans work requires more than mere physical protection and food for nourishment! They also need intellectual and spiritual growth. 

How is that done? How does one provide nourishment for the mind and the intellect?  By always keeping them in good company! This not only aids positive growth of the mind but also protects them from going on a negative path. It is a win-win situation. Good company is the only insurance that assures to keep one's offspring safe and sound in either harsh or friendly environments at all times.  This equips the children to learn to deal with life on their own once they are out of the nest, so to speak.

Hence, at all costs, parents should strive to keep their children in good company, beginning with themselves!  They have to be the good company to their own children. The best protective shield they can provide their children is—teaching them to seek and enjoy the company of noble people!

No road is long with good company because good company is the shortest and easiest route in the journey of life. Find your shortcuts (good company) and aid your children in finding theirs.

pada vigrahaH:
दर्शन-ध्यान-संस्पर्शैः मत्सी कूर्मी च पक्षिणी ।
darśana-dhyāna-saṃsparśaiḥ matsī kūrmī ca pakṣiṇī ।

शिशुं पालयते नित्यं तथा सज्जन-सङ्गतिः ॥
śiśuṃ pālayate nityaṃ tathā sajjana-saṅgatiḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
darshanadhyaanasaMsparshaiH matsI kUrmI cha pakShiNI ।
shishuM paalayate nityaM tathaa sajjanasa~ngatiH ॥
- chaaNakya nIti

darshana-dhyaana-saMsparshaiH matsI kUrmI cha pakShiNI ।

shishuM paalayate nityaM tathaa sajjana-sa~ngatiH ॥

June 5th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
न माता शपते पुत्रं न दोषं लभते मही ।
न हिंसां कुरुते साधुः न देवः सृष्टिनाशकः ॥
-सुभाषितरत्नभाण्डागार


Transliteration:
na mātā śapate putraṃ na doṣaṃ labhate mahī ।
na hiṃsāṃ kurute sādhuḥ na devaḥ sṛṣṭināśakaḥ ॥
-subhāṣitaratnabhāṇḍāgāra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

A mother will never curse her child, no blemish will taint the earth, the noble do not harm others, God will not destroy His creation.

Commentary:

A mother does everything in her power and even beyond to make her children better than she ever was. She will work beyond her means, investing both her heart and effort. After all that, could she ever have the heart to curse her child? The best well-wisher a child could ever have is his mother!

Mother Earth is considered the most forgiving. No matter how much man exploits her, she has tolerance. In recent times, we hear slogans everywhere—save the earth! Truth is, in a few centuries from now, the earth will still be here. It is the human species that needs saving from making itself extinct by abusing the resources! No amount of extortion will blemish the earth.

Those who are truly noble from the bottom of their hearts will never inflict harm on others. They are ever-compassionate and work tirelessly towards the betterment of those around them. How can such people involve themselves in hurting others?!

Likewise, God never destroys his own creation! All the natural calamities, apocalypses, etc., might look like destruction but in reality, it is dissolution. He does everything with a higher good in mind. There is always something better to come one way or another. He will take care of everyone here and hereafter! Our ignorance about this fact doesn't mean that God is destroying His own creation. Just as a mother won't hurt her child, God, the creator of the whole universe, won't put a dent in his creation with destructive intent. Everything dissolves and when the right time comes, everything resolves too! 

Faith is trusting God even when you don't understand His plan. He is there to protect the smallest insect, to the largest of creatures. Keep the faith! 

pada vigrahaH:
न माता शपते पुत्रं न दोषं लभते मही ।
na mātā śapate putraṃ na doṣaṃ labhate mahī ।

न हिंसां कुरुते साधुः न देवः सृष्टि-नाशकः ॥
na hiṃsāṃ kurute sādhuḥ na devaḥ sṛṣṭi-nāśakaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
na maataa shapate putraM na doShaM labhate mahI ।
na hiMsaaM kurute saadhuH na devaH sRuShTinaashakaH ॥
-subhaaShitaratnabhaaNDaagaara

na maataa shapate putraM na doShaM labhate mahI ।

na hiMsaaM kurute saadhuH na devaH sRuShTi-naashakaH ॥

June 1st

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
अनुकुरुतः खलसुजनौ अग्रिमपाश्चात्यभागयोः सूच्याः ।
विदधाति रन्ध्रमेकः गुणवानन्यस्तु पिदधाति रन्ध्रम् ॥
- सुभाषितरत्नभाण्डागार


Transliteration:
anukurutaḥ khalasujanau agrimapāścātyabhāgayoḥ sūcyāḥ ।
vidadhāti randhramekaḥ guṇavānanyastu pidadhāti randhram ॥
- subhāṣitaratnabhāṇḍāgāra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

As if taking after the example of a needle's front and aft ends, the evildoer and good person (conduct themselves). (The evil) one makes a hole while the other noble one shuts it close.

Commentary:

When a needle is used to sow, the front end of it makes a hole in the material so that it can get through. But as the needle passes through, the aft end—which has a hole in itself to accommodate the thread—closes the hole in the material behind it!

Similar is the conduct of an evildoer versus a good person. An evildoer would not hesitate to put a hole in something to achieve his purpose. He could spoil someone's belongings, someone's trust, or worse, the resolve of another person. So long as his ends are met, he is unperturbed!

On the contrary, a good-hearted individual would take the hardships onto himself and put someone else's misery to rest, silently. He doesn't blow a trumpet about his deeds.  Instead, he contributes his best, quietly.

Isn't the difference between the two, exactly the same as the difference between the front and aft ends of a needle?!

It is better to be good than evil!

pada vigrahaH:

अनुकुरुतः खल-सुजनौ अग्रिम-पाश्चात्य-भागयोः सूच्याः ।
anukurutaḥ khala-sujanau agrima-pāścātya-bhāgayoḥ sūcyāḥ ।

विदधाति रन्ध्रम् एकः गुणवान् अन्यः तु पिदधाति रन्ध्रम् ॥
vidadhāti randhram ekaḥ guṇavān anyaḥ tu pidadhāti randhram ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
anukurutaH khalasujanau agrimapaashchaatyabhaagayoH sUchyaaH ।
vidadhaati randhramekaH guNavaananyastu pidadhaati randram ॥
- subhaaShitaratnabhaaNDaagaara

anukurutaH khala-sujanau agrima-paashchaatya-bhaagayoH sUchyaaH ।

vidadhaati randhram ekaH guNavaan anyaH tu pidadhaati randram ॥

May 11th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
गर्वाय परपीडायै दुर्जनस्य धनं बलम् ।
सुजनस्य तु दानाय रक्षणाय च ते सदा ॥

Transliteration:
garvāya parapīḍāyai durjanasya dhanaṃ balam ।
sujanasya tu dānāya rakṣaṇāya ca te sadā ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

The wealth and power of an evildoer are for vanity and afflicting others. In a good person, they are always (used) for—giving, and protecting.

Commentary:

Sins are not committed by—wealth or power. The person in charge of those possessions does. His attitude, priorities, and how he puts them to use is what changes the course.

Wealth in the hands of an evildoer becomes a tool to boost his pride and arrogance. Authority and power given to such a person are misused to inflict harm on people around him. He will be so consumed by his own selfish and evil motives that he can't see beyond himself.

The same exact wealth, in the hands of a noble and pious individual, would be put to use for giving others, for the betterment of society. A high position given to him would be used for the protection and prosperity of others.

The sad truth is that most evil is done by people who can't make up their minds whether to be good or evil. The function of wisdom is to discriminate between good and evil. Surely, humans have an inherent disposition to extract good out of even evil. Let's make sure that this inborn tendency gets enough room to grow and enhance the quality of living for everyone.  

True wealth is not of the pocket but of the heart and the mind.  Similarly, power is not of the muscle/position, it too, is of the mind and the heart.  

pada vigrahaH:
गर्वाय पर-पीडायै दुर्जनस्य धनं बलम् ।
garvāya para-pīḍāyai durjanasya dhanaṃ balam ।

सुजनस्य तु दानाय रक्षणाय च ते सदा ॥
sujanasya tu dānāya rakṣaṇāya ca te sadā ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
garvaaya parapIDaayai durjanasya dhanaM balam ।
sujanasya tu daanaaya rakShaNaaya cha te sadaa ॥

garvaaya para-pIDaayai durjanasya dhanaM balam ।

sujanasya tu daanaaya rakShaNaaya cha te sadaa ॥

March 1st

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
प्रत्यहं प्रत्यवेक्षेत नरश्चरितमात्मनः ।
किं नु मे पशुभिस्तुल्यं किं नु सत्पुरुषैरिति ॥
- सुभाषितरत्नभाण्डागार


Transliteration:
pratyahaṃ pratyavekṣeta naraścaritamātmanaḥ ।
kiṃ nu me paśubhistulyaṃ kiṃ nu satpuruṣairiti ॥
- subhāṣitaratnabhāṇḍāgāra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

A person should examine his own deeds this way every day—are mine comparable to animals or to that of the noble?!

Commentary:

God made humans as well as all other creatures. He made each creature in a certain way so they would behave like they were supposed to. So, made humans so they would behave like humans! Does a lion abandon its traits as a lion and act like a rabbit?! Does a flower forget to give fragrance and start pricking passersby like a thorn?! They are that way because they are naturally born to be that way. 

God gave humans a huge advantage over all life forms. He gave them the faculties of thought, wisdom, and speech. He did not bestow these precious gifts on us for nothing. There was a set of expectations that accompanied these faculties. The power of thought should be put to constructive use for the benefit of others and the betterment of oneself. Wisdom should be used to make wise choices and decisions that maintain peace and make the world a better place to live in. Speech should be used to make someone happy and cheerful rather than to demean and insult them. As humans, we need to follow 'dharma' (righteousness). This is what sets us apart from the rest of the creatures. 

Sometimes, humans use these faculties for deeds that make them stoop lower than we can imagine. That is unacceptable! Falling off the wagon of discipline, too, is a part of human tendency. Then, it becomes our prime duty to examine and self-reflect, daily—"Was I a good human being today or did I stoop down and behave like an animal?!" This constant self-inquiry helps one to see his follies and shortcomings on a daily basis. And the recognition of one's wrongdoings is the first step towards correcting it! Knowing oneself is the beginning of all wisdom. 

Hence, this awareness and analysis of one's deeds every single day is essential to becoming a better person.  Remember to introspect! Introspection leads to insights and insights tell us what needs to change. 

pada vigrahaH:
प्रति-अहं प्रति-अवेक्षेत नरः चरितम् आत्मनः ।
prati-ahaṃ prati-avekṣeta naraḥ caritam ātmanaḥ ।

किं नु मे पशुभिः तुल्यं किं नु सत्पुरुषैः इति ॥
kiṃ nu me paśubhiḥ tulyaṃ kiṃ nu satpuruṣaiḥ iti ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
pratyahaM pratyavekSheta narashcharitamaatmanaH ।
kiM nu me pashubhistulyaM kiM nu satpuruShairiti ॥
- subhaaShitaratnabhaaNDaagaara

prati-ahaM prati-avekSheta naraH charitam aatmanaH ।

kiM nu me pashubhiH tulyaM kiM nu satpuruShaiH iti ॥

January 27th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
सत्सङ्गश्च विवेकश्च निर्मलं नयनद्वयम् ।
यस्य नास्ति नरः सोऽन्धः कथं न स्यादमार्गगः ॥
- गरुडपुराण


Transliteration:
satsaṅgaśca vivekaśca nirmalaṃ nayanadvayam ।
yasya nāsti naraḥ so'ndhaḥ kathaṃ na syādamārgagaḥ ॥
- garuḍapurāṇa

Meaning of the subhAShita:

One who doesn't have two pure eyes (namely)—the company of the wise and (intellectual) prudence—is blind. How can he not tread on the wrong paths?!

Commentary:

No one is born intelligent. Our knowledge base grows as we grow. The kind of stimulus and exposure that surrounds us, greatly influences who we become. The measure of intelligence truly is the ability to change. 

Being around the virtuous makes one want to be virtuous, too. The company of the wise and knowledgeable comes only by God's grace. If we make the best of it, their company will make us wise and prudent, as well. One with wisdom rarely treads on the wrong paths.

Hence the poet opines that wisdom and the company of the wise should act as two eyes, giving a person clarity of vision. One with a clear vision stays on his path. A person who can't see is termed as—blind. Therefore, anyone who doesn't possess these two essential eyes is deemed blind.  It is no wonder he can't see straight!

It is not what you look at that matters, it is what you see! Keep good company and wisdom for your clarity of vision.  

pada vigrahaH:

सत्सङ्गः च विवेकः च निर्मलं नयन-द्वयम् ।
satsaṅgaḥ ca vivekaḥ ca nirmalaṃ nayana-dvayam ।

यस्य न अस्ति नरः सः अन्धः कथं न स्यात् अमार्गगः ॥
yasya na asti naraḥ saḥ andhaḥ kathaṃ na syāt amārgagaḥ ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
satsa~ngashcha vivekashcha nirmalaM nayanadwayam ।
yasya naasti naraH so.ndhaH kathaM na syaadamaargagaH ॥
- garuDapuraaNa

satsa~ngaH cha vivekaH cha nirmalaM nayana-dwayam ।

yasya na asti naraH saH andhaH kathaM na syaat amaargagaH ॥

January 23rd

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
प्रथमवयसि पीतं तोयमल्पं स्मरन्तः
शिरसि निहितभारा नारिकेला नराणाम् ।
ददति जलमनल्पास्वादमाजीवितान्तं
न हि कृतमुपकारं साधवो विस्मरन्ति ॥
- सुभाषितरत्नभाण्डागार


Transliteration:
prathamavayasi pītaṃ toyamalpaṃ smarantaḥ
śirasi nihitabhārā nārikelā narāṇām ।
dadati jalamanalpāsvādamājīvitāntaṃ
na hi kṛtamupakāraṃ sādhavo vismaranti ॥
- subhāṣitaratnabhāṇḍāgāra

Meaning of the subhAShita:

In memory of the little water consumed as a seedling, a coconut tree, bearing weight on its head throughout its life, abundantly gives sweet water to humans. The noble will never forget any assistance given to them.

Commentary:

In life, the beneficiary soon forgets the benefit he received from a benefactor! But noble people never forget the help they receive from another, no matter how negligible. They will remember and be forever grateful to their benefactor, just like a coconut tree. 

Coconut trees don't need much water once they root themselves firmly in place. They survive pretty well in lands with scant irrigation or rainwater. But they need a lot of tending as seedlings while they are growing. Once they mature they will bear sweet coconut water in their shells. The coconut tree obviously doesn't get to enjoy the refreshingly sweet, tender coconut water itself! Instead, it continuously and graciously offers its cool waters to us, as if in gratitude for the tending.

In fact, an interesting word in Sanskrit for this context is—कृतज्ञ (kṛtajña). This is derived as कृतं जानामि इति कृतज्ञः (kṛtaṃ jānāmi iti kṛtajñaḥ). Literally, it means 'I know what you did for me', 'I acknowledge what you did for me'. Saying a 'thank you' and moving on just doesn't suffice! There is no forgetting the favor for any reason.  The noble are grateful (कृतज्ञ, kṛtajña) to their benefactors forever. 

The more we practice the art of gratitude, the more we will have to be grateful for. Therefore, instead of taking things for granted, it is better to receive them with gratitude! 

pada vigrahaH:

प्रथम वयसि पीतं तोयम् अल्पं स्मरन्तः
prathama vayasi pītaṃ toyam alpaṃ smarantaḥ

शिरसि निहित-भारा नारिकेला नराणाम् ।
śirasi nihita-bhārā nārikelā narāṇām ।

ददति जलम् अनल्पास्वादम् आजीवित-अन्तं
dadati jalam analpāsvādam ājīvita-antaṃ

न हि कृतम् उपकारं साधवः विस्मरन्ति ॥
na hi kṛtam upakāraṃ sādhavaḥ vismaranti ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
prathamavayasi pItaM toyamalpaM smarantaH
shirasi nihitabhaaraa naarikelaa naraaNaam ।
dadati jalamanalpaaswaadamaajIvitaantaM
na hi kRutamupakaaraM saadhavo vismaranti ॥
- subhaaShitaratnabhaaNDaagaara

prathama vayasi pItaM toyam alpaM smarantaH

shirasi nihita-bhaaraa naarikelaa naraaNaam ।

dadati jalam analpaaswaadam aajIvita-antaM

na hi kRutam upakaaraM saadhavaH vismaranti ॥

January 2nd

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
सद्भिरेव सहासीत सद्भिः कुर्वीत सङ्गतिम् ।
सद्भिर्विवादं मैत्रिं च नासद्भिः किञ्चिदाचरेत् ॥

Transliteration:
sadbhireva sahāsīta sadbhiḥ kurvīta saṅgatim ।
sadbhirvivādaṃ maitriṃ ca nāsadbhiḥ kiñcidācaret ॥

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Be with good people, associate (yourself) with good people, even have a dispute or friendship with good people,  but do not have anything to do with the evil ones.

Commentary:

The advice here is to associate only with good people in all sorts of actions. The company kept and associations should be with good people. Friendships are to be made with good individuals. All these are understandable.

But then, the advice is that even disputes should be had only with good people. And quite rightly so! A dispute with a good-hearted person has a purpose. The purpose is—conflict resolution. As they say, "An argument is to find 'who' is right, whereas a discussion is to find out 'what' is right!"  A dispute with the noble becomes a discussion, not an argument. No ego is involved whatsoever. Hence, the dispute results in both parties coming out smarter and happier than before because they are only interested in finding out what is right.

It is better to surround yourself only with people who will uplift you. Hence, the advice here is—do not indulge in anything with the evil-hearted. Any activity is better when done with good people (sajjana) only.   

pada vigrahaH:

सद्भिः एव सह आसीत सद्भिः कुर्वीत सङ्गतिम् ।
sadbhiḥ eva saha āsīta sadbhiḥ kurvīta saṅgatim ।

सद्भिः विवादं मैत्रिं च न असद्भिः किञ्चित् आचरेत् ॥
sadbhiḥ vivādaṃ maitriṃ ca na asadbhiḥ kiñcit ācaret ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
sadbhireva sahaasIta sadbhiH kurvIta sa~ngatim ।
sadbhirvivaadaM maitriM cha naasadbhiH ki~nchidaacharet ॥

sadbhiH eva saha aasIta sadbhiH kurvIta sa~ngatim ।

sadbhiH vivaadaM maitriM cha na asadbhiH ki~nchit aacharet ॥

December 7th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
आरम्भगुर्वी क्षयिणी क्रमेण
लघ्वी पुरा वृद्धिमती च पश्चात् ।
दिनस्य पूर्वार्धपरार्धभिन्ना
छायेव मैत्री खलसज्जनानाम् ॥
- नीतिशतक

Transliteration:
ārambhagurvī kṣayiṇī krameṇa
laghvī purā vṛddhimatī ca paścāt ।
dinasya pūrvārdhaparārdhabhinnā
chāyeva maitrī khalasajjanānām ॥
- nītiśataka

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Long to begin with, but diminishes later; (then again), it is small to start off but increases gradually - just the way a shadow differs in the first half of the day from the second half (of the day), so does the friendship of a wicked person vs. a good person.

Commentary:

Early in the morning, the shadow cast by the sun is longer than the object itself.  As the day progresses the Sun is directly over the head.  The shadow is hardly evident, lying right at the foot of the object. During the second half of the day - it starts off small, at the bottom of the object.  It grows gradually, and by the end of the day, it is bigger than the object itself!

Such is the difference between the friendships of a rogue and a noble person. With a rogue, it starts off on a very high note, only to diminish and disappear over time. However, with the noble, although it starts on a low key, it grows bigger and stronger by the end.

Time is the true testing ground of friendship!  Make lasting friendships.  Be an indelible friend. 

pada vigrahaH:
आरम्भ गुर्वी क्षयिणी क्रमेण
ārambha gurvī kṣayiṇī krameṇa

लघ्वी पुरा वृद्धिमती च पश्चात् ।
laghvī purā vṛddhimatī ca paścāt ।

दिनस्य पूर्व-अर्ध-पर-अर्ध-भिन्ना
vyagrāḥdinasya pūrva-ardha-para-ardha-bhinnā

छाया इव मैत्री खल-सज्जनानाम् ॥
chāyā iva maitrī khala-sajjanānām ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
aarambhagurvI kShayiNI krameNa
laghvI puraa vRuddhimatI cha pashchaat ।
dinasya pUrvaardhaparaardhabhinnaa
Chaayeva maitrI khalasajjanaanaam ॥
- neetishataka

aarambha-gurvI kShayiNI krameNa

laghvI puraa vRuddhimatI cha pashchaat ।

dinasya pUrva-ardha-para-ardha-bhinnaa

Chaayaa iva maitrI khala-sajjanaanaam ॥

November 8th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
गुणवज्जनसंसर्गात् याति नीचोऽपि गौरवम् ।
पुष्पमालाप्रसङ्गेण सूत्रं शिरसि धार्यते ॥
- सुभाषितसुधानिधि


Transliteration:
guṇavajjanasaṃsargāt yāti nīco'pi gauravam ।
puṣpamālāprasaṅgeṇa sūtraṃ śirasi dhāryate ॥
- subhāṣitasudhānidhi

Meaning of the subhAShita:

Due to the company of good people, even an insignificant person will attain respectability. Under the pretext of the flowers, the thread (too) gets worn on the head.

Commentary:

Flowers get tied into a garland using a string. This thread, in the form of a garland, will be offered to the Lord. It attains the highest respect of being at His feet or better yet, close to His heart. People would even wear it on their heads! Usually, nobody would wear just a string of thread on their hair as an adornment. But it is the company of the flowers that brings honor to the thread.

Similarly, being in the company of the meritorious will bring respect and dignity to the insignificant as well.

No road is long when the company is good.  Keep good company!

pada vigrahaH:

गुणवत् जन-संसर्गात् याति नीचः अपि गौरवम् ।

guṇavat jana-saṃsargāt yāti nīcaḥ api gauravam ।

पुष्प-माला-प्रसङ्गेण सूत्रं शिरसि धार्यते ॥
puṣpa-mālā-prasaṅgeṇa sūtraṃ śirasi dhāryate ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
guNavajjanasaMsargaat yaati nIcho.pi gauravam ।
puShpamaalaaprasa~ngeNa sUtraM shirasi dhaaryate ॥
- subhaaShitasudhaanidhi

guNavat jana-saMsargaat yaati nIchaH api gauravam ।

puShpa-maalaa-prasa~ngeNa sUtraM shirasi dhaaryate ॥

October 17th

Sanskrit Pearl of the day:
छायामन्यस्य कुर्वन्ति तिष्ठन्ति स्वयमातपे ।
फलन्त्यपि परार्थाय वृक्षाः सत्पुरुषा इव ॥
- विक्रमचरित

Transliteration:
chāyāmanyasya kurvanti tiṣṭhanti svayamātape ।
phalantyapi parārthāya vṛkṣāḥ satpuruṣā iva ॥
- vikramacarita

Meaning of the subhAShita:

(They) give shade to others (but) stand in the sun themselves; (and) bear fruit for the benefit of others; trees are like the noble people.

Commentary:

Save the trees!

Trees truly are noble. They are serving for the benefit of others in every way. They take the brunt and give the best to the rest. The shade of a tree is enjoyed only by others. A tree can never enjoy its own shade. Only if the tree stands in the Sun shall the rest of the world get its shade! The tree doesn't eat its own fruit either. It is enjoyed by the people, birds, and animals around it.

Similarly, noble people take the heat and make sure others are comfortable. They rejoice in doing good for others. This sets them apart from the rest.

True nobility is in giving happiness to others.

pada vigrahaH:
छायाम् अन्यस्य कुर्वन्ति तिष्ठन्ति स्वयम् आतपे ।
chāyām anyasya kurvanti tiṣṭhanti svayam ātape ।

फलन्ति अपि पर-अर्थाय वृक्षाः सत्पुरुषाः इव ॥
phalanti api para-arthāya vṛkṣāḥ satpuruṣāḥ iva ॥

Alternate Transliteration:
Chaayaamanyasya kurvanti tiShThanti swayamaatape ।
phalantyapi paraarthaaya vRukShaaH satpuruShaa iva ॥
- vikramacharita

Chaayaam anyasya kurvanti tiShThanti swayam aatape ।

phalanti api para-arthaaya vRukShaaH satpuruShaaH iva ॥