Pledge for A Mission- Part 1
Delving into the inspiring significance of the powerful Chinmaya Mission Pledge:
The first point to note is that the entire pledge is in the present tense — “WE STAND, We serve, We believe.” — to highlight the necessity of present action: Start now! This moment! And not, for example, “We shall overcome some day!” stand — not sit or lie down. Standing symbolizes activity and determination.
Overcoming lethargy (physical, emotional, and intellectual) is the very first step on the ladder to success.
AS ONE FAMILY: Not as a crowd or a mass of people. A family is one cohesive unit where each member is willing to sacrifice for the other without any conflict of interest.
BOUND TO EACH OTHER: We are bound together by the mind and intellect. All minds are connected to one another, and are also joined to the Total Mind (Ishvara).
WITH LOVE AND RESPECT: Love manifesting as friendship, truthfulness, and non-violence; respect alone has the ability to bind.
WE — not “I.” Strength is in unity and togetherness. Spirituality is in sharing all that we have, that is, knowledge