As per the dictionary standards an Ambivert is a person possessing qualities of extrovert and introvert but the best way to describe him would be, “a person who loves seeking attention and at the same time he doesn’t want to be a subject of everybody’s eye balls”😉
Hey! don’t mistake them having a split personality; they got the best of both worlds..
Well, there has been a lot said about the dual nature of Ambiverts, their character sketch, signs to identify an Ambivert etc etc blah blah black sheep…. but what are the special thoughts which cook inside the mind of an Ambivert?
In many situations, an Ambivert experiences an emotional rollercoaster in his mind’s amusement park. Filled with excitement and anxiety, a mind of an Ambivert is a live laboratory of different emotions reacting together to form a new behaviour pattern. An Ambivert is an innocent devil; appearing to be calm and poised but from the bottom of his heart, he could be the one who can tickle your funny bone with a different angle of humour. Although it does get expressed among the close friends, but in public or large gatherings, an Ambivert could be the epitome of subtle sophistication with firecrackers bursting in his mind.
However it is difficult to imagine a world without them. Ambiverts express themselves through their artistic knacks; a best way to know about an ambivert is to explore his/her artistic persona.
At times the dilemmas existing in an Ambivert’s mind may give a tough competition to the existing ethical dilemmas in a person’s life. 😉 An Ambivert sitting in a coffee shop although enjoys the alone time but his heart tickles him to approach the pretty girl reading book on the next table; However the guy is stuck in the tornado between his heart and his mind..
With his friends’ groups an Ambivert plays the gallery whereas he is the quietest of the lot when it comes to interacting in a group of strangers or lesser known people. An Ambivert being high on intuition and observation may chose to observe the people and then interact but once an Ambivert opens his mind to you, then there is no going back. The company of an Ambivert is the best enjoyed as he carries the persona of an introvert and the heart of an extrovert.
In previous part of this series, we understood chapter-1 of the Gita where a helpless Arjun sat down unarmed and refused to fight against the Kauravas. On the other hand, Arjun’s best friend and guide, Shri Krishna patiently listened to his anguishes. The second chapter, Samkhya Yoga starts with Sanjay describing Arjun’s state of mind as agitated, sorrowful and overwhelmed with pity and eyes filled with tears.
Imagine a situation where you experience a similar state of mind and express your worries to your best friend. In such a state how will your best friend respond? He might either console you or will ask you to face the situation or escape to avoid further embarrassment. Considering Arjun’s situation, what Shri Krishna must have done?
Shri Krishna bluntly asks, “Oh! Arjun, how has this infatuation overtaken you at this odd hour? This behaviour of yours (at battlefield) is not acceptable and shall cause disgrace.” Shri Krishna tells him not to be a coward and stand up abandoning the faint-heartedness. Interestingly in this verse, Shri Krishna refers Arjun as “परंतप”, meaning the one who slays the enemies. However, despite the reality check, Arjun still stubborn, again refuses to fight, stating the same reasons said previously.
Thereafter, a confused Arjun says, “he himself doesn’t know whether is it proper to fight or not.” Although he accepts that he is overcome with despondence and is puzzled about his duty. He therefore, requests Shri Krishna to guide him as he is a disciple and has taken refuge under Shri Krishna. Although, Arjun again rationalises his stand and refuses to fight the war and becomes silent.
Source: Internet
Dr. S. Radhakrishnan, the former President of India interpreting this situation in his commentary of Gita stated that Arjun realized his weakness and ignorance; thus, asked for his Dharma of action i.e. what he has to do in this difficulty?
Shri Krishna who patiently listens to Arjun, smiles upon his rationalization and provides him with a different perspective to understand the situation, to liberate Arjun from his dilemma. He thereafter asks Arjun not to grieve upon the unworthy as wise men do not grieve for the dead or for the living. Just like a therapist, Shri Krishna explains Arjun that one should learn to endurethe physical sensations causing cold, heat, pleasure or pain as they are of recurring nature.
Thereafter Shri Krishna explains Arjun the essence of Hindu metaphysical thought i.e. the impermanence of the body and the eternity of ãtma (soul). Shri Krishna says, “The soul is never born nor does it ever die and nor does it ever gets slain even when the body gets destroyed.”
Thereafter Shri Krishna explains, “just like a person sheds out worn clothes and wears new, similarly the soul leaves the old body and enters a new one; weapons cannot cut it nor the fire can burn it nor the water can wet it nor wind can dry it as the soul is everlasting and all-pervading,” saying this Shri Krishna told Arjun, “since death is inevitable for the one who has taken birth, he should not grieve for the unavoidable.”
Furthermore, providing a reality check, Shri Krishna tells Arjun that as a warrior in it is his duty to fight for the right in the battlefield, and not renunciation. Shri Krishna tells Arjun that he shall invite contempt and disrepute if at this stage he refuses to fight, which shall be more distressing for him in long run. Therefore, Shri Krishna asks Arjun to be ready and treat victory and defeat alike.
In Chapter 2 of the Gita, Arjun faces an ethical dilemma wherein he was aware that if he fights his kinsmen i.e. the Kauravas, they shall die and if he doesn’t, he and his family would suffer in long run. Moreover as his best friend, Shri Krishna doesn’t give in to Arjun’s rationalisation, asks him to face the reality; at the same time encourages him and thereafter, asks Arjun to take a stand for himself for a greater good.
Similarly in our lives we are often confronted with ethical dilemma and certain difficult situations where it is hard to understand what is good or bad. Imagine a lawyer is approached by his close friend who says that a false case of sexual harassment has been filed against the latter. Although the lawyer promises to represent him in the court but later he realises that his close friend might be actually guilty for the crime. What should the lawyer do now? Should he fight or recuse himself.
In another situation, two people of different ideologies and thoughts have equal affection for each other. Initially the differences between the two seemed attractive. However, after a while things didn’t work out and they broke off before marriage. In that moment it is natural to feel dejected and concerned. However, thinking with a changed perspective i.e. what happened was in a greater good and if quarrels occurred at a later stage of their marriage which ultimately resulting in a divorce then it would have been more difficult, might make it easier to deal with the situation.
Therefore, the essence of this chapter lies in understanding the fact one shall obviously face difficult situations in life; however, if one tries to respond to it with a different perspective, it becomes easier to deal with such circumstances. Although, it is easier said than done. However, one can always strive to learn and improve one’s response. As Shri Krishna tells Arjun that even if he fails and dies, his name shall be immortal, similarly even if we fail despite trying hard, we can always learn from it.
It is also fascinating to learn how chapter-2 touches upon the eternal question of existence. Indeed, there is a lot of pondering in Hindu scriptures upon the issues regarding life and death. As a matter of fact, ‘who are we?’ has intrigued everyone since time immemorial. Such issues which were discussed in the scriptures thousands of years ago, still seem relevant considering the curiosity revolving around the matters of human existence.
Moreover, after providing a different perspective and encouraging him to take a stand and fight, Shri Krishna tells Arjun that he shall now explain him a concept through which he will be free of the shackles of Karma. What is that concept and does it really free an aspirant from the bondage of Karma ? let’s see in the Part-III of the series.
Yash Sampat
P.S. : I thank my friend Parth for suggesting the title ‘Divine Conversation’ and I thank my friend Anchit and other friends for discussing relevant examples to the topic.
Sanatan Dharma, one of the oldest existing faiths has since time immemorial dug into the depth of nitty-gritty of human life. Through their spiritual wisdom, Hindu scriptures have strived to discuss the roots of issues arising in human life and provide a solution to them through questions and answers.
Whether Tretayuga, Dwaparyuga or the age of Kali, the issues surrounding humanity are still the same. The search for eternal happiness continues even after the invention of luxuries, artificial intelligence and what not. Despite having access to better opportunities, advanced technology and physical connections, why is human still unhappy? Why does he find himself alone amidst the crowd of thousands? Why does he feel lost in his thoughts even while he is sitting in the company of his friends?
Alas! This is just the tip of an iceberg, the root of such issues is bigger than what it seems. Moreover, in order to find the root cause of such issues and striving to solve it, I prefer going back to the foundation of Sanatan Dharma i.e. the scriptures. Vested with an insight of spirituality and devotion, Hindu scriptures provide solutions to such issues by exploring the intricacies of even the grey areas of humanity. The Bhagvad Gita is one of such scriptures, which in itself is a voluminous digest of such solutions that can be applied in all walks of the life.
As we try to understand human nature through Gita, let’s start from Adhyay 1, Arjun Vishadyoga (The Depression of Arjun). The warriors from Pandavas and Kauravas side are finally ready for the Dharma Yuddha (the war of righteousness) in Kurukshetra. In a parallel scenario at Hastinapur, Dhritrashtra sitting in his palace asks Sanjay about the whereabouts of the acts of his sons and the sons of Pandu gathered in the holy land of Kurukshetra. Thereafter Sanjay who had been blessed with a divine vision by Sage Vyasa starts narrating the events.
Arjun, the central character of Mahabharata, a finest archer and a peerless warrior; also known as Savyasachi as he possessed an innate ability to shoot the arrows with both of his hands with the same accuracy, was ready to fight as he raised his bow as the clash of weapons began. Further, Arjun asks Shri Krishna to take his chariot in the battlefield amidst both the armies.
As Shri Krishna placed his chariot between the armies, Arjun observes the warriors from both the sides and sees his uncles, gurus, cousins, well-wishers, grand and great-grand uncles. Arjun, who was possessed with a right combination of physical and mental strength, upon seeing his relatives hewas overcome with deep compassion and spoke in sorrow. He thereafter says, “having seen my own people my limbs sink down, my mouth dries up, my body trembles and my hair stands on the end.” (Verse 29)
Arjun, who had a charismatic personality, and had an excellent prowess in warfare. The one who defeated large armies singlehandedly is now stating that his bow (Gandiva) slips from his hand and his skin burns and he’s unable to remain as he is and his mind seems to ramble. (Verse 30) Arjun justifying his stand to not fight the war states that killing his own relatives won’t make the Pandavas happy and shall result in great evil. Moreover with such destruction, the entire race and traditions shall disappear. Arjun even says that it will be better if the sons of Dhritrashtra kill him in battle while he is unarmed and unresting. (Verses 32-46)
Source: Internet
Saying this Arjun sat down on the seat, kept his bow and arrow down and his mind was agitated in grief. Moreover, upon seeing such a state of Arjun, the scholars interpret that his grief was not due to any bad deeds but was a result of his compassion. Though compassion is a good virtue, at that moment on thebattlefield, it was Arjun’s duty as a Kshatriya to fight for what is right.
Comparing the essence of Arjun’s condition in chapter 1 of the Bhagvad Gita and our contemporary life, at times we face such situations where we suffer due to our virtues. In circumstances where good virtues are applied at wrong places, does more harm than good. Let’s take a situation where a person ‘X’ is in an abusive relationship with ‘Y’ who claims to be an emotionally unavailable person and cites trauma as a justification of the abusive behaviour. X tries to fix the problems and provides emotional support to Y. On the other hand, Y is totally inconsiderate of X’s feelings and backs out whenever X requires support. X keeps on forgiving Y every time after being mistreated. Here X is showing compassion for Y’s trauma and is forgiving but X is the one who is suffering because of such a situation.
Other examples being, helping an ungrateful person despite knowing that we are being taken advantage of or even helping someone with a selfish motive is a bad virtue in the disguise of good virtue. Such scenarios arising out of good virtues, do more harm to our state of mind and ultimately lead to grief. In such a circumstance, we also step into the shoes of Arjun. So now, as Arjun sits in grief and remorse; thus, ends chapter 1 of the Gita, the Depression of Arjun.
Arjun is still clueless and confused just as we all get in our lives. How does Shri Krishna react to it? Does he agree to Arjun’s argument or guides him to perceive the situation from a different perspective, is explained in Chapter 2, Sankhya Yog.
My visit to Mussoorie last weekend for my parents’ 28th wedding anniversary filled the quiver of my memories with some enthralling experiences. One of such experiences was finding the solace of me time while strolling on the Mall Road.
After drenching in rains while descending from the Gunhill top to the Mall Road for roughly 30 mins., I went to my accommodation for some leisure time. As I could see the sun setting from the skies and illumination of the streets of Doon which was visible from the balcony, I thought to explore the city in its gloaming charm.
I walked away from my accommodation to advance towards the mall road. While descending from the elevation to the road, Mussoorie seemed charming with a positive vibe. Shadows of the railing casted on the road, rustling of leaves, pleasant winds, remnants of the setting sun, contrast of the skies colours, and lighting on the mall road…It seemed, the twilight mode was on the rocks.
Mesmerised by such charm, I started walking on the road which was going towards the picture palace. In order to absorb myself completely in the surroundings, I thought to add a dramatic touch by plugging up my headphones and starting my iPod playlist. The continued silence of my surroundings were complimented by the unplugged version of Radioactive, by Imagine Dragons. Walking on the road in silence, I was mental grooving to the lyrics.
I’m waking up, I feel it in my bones Enough to make my systems blow Welcome to the new age, to the new age Welcome to the new age, to the new age Whoa, oh, oh, oh, oh, whoa, oh, oh, oh, I’m radioactive, radioactive Whoa, oh, oh, oh, oh, whoa, oh, oh, oh, I’m radioactive, radioactive
As I reached opposite the Cambridge Book Store, I remembered my recent memories of meeting Ruskin Bond along with my best friends Avinash Jain and Parth Patel. By the time, the track changed and the male version of the song Iktara from Wake Up Sid echoed in my ears as, “Je naina, karoon band band, Beh jaaye, boond boond, Tadpaye re, kyun sunaye geet malhar de, Ve malang, tera iktara, iktara, Ve malang, tera iktara.”
As I walked forward, the Kulri Road was full of tourists from different parts of the country. The hustle bustle of the hill station was evident from the loud voices of tourists, street hawkers, the entertainers and balloon walas etc. It seemed as if I was visiting a busy market of Delhi. However, my music mode continued where I sought to find peace among the chaos. Meanwhile my attention was grabbed by a Cow enjoying leisure time between the touristy crowd. A little more forward, I spotted the showroom of United Colours of Benetton and a shop of Banares Sarees which stood upon a colonial architecture building. Such a contrast!! Finally, I spotted Cafe De Tavern, where I grabbed a cold coffee, sat in silence absorbing ambience and rustic charm of the cafe. In silence, my thoughts gathered themselves to write a poem regarding my experience while getting down from Gunhill Top while drenched in heavy rains.
The whole experience which started as an inanimate quest ultimately got materialised into a memory and a poem of experiences in the end.
Rakhdoosh!
रखड़ूष 