Life Supreme — Page 41
44. LIFE SUPREME 6. RANCOUR 'Leave not in our hearts any rancour against those who believe. " (59:11). The value of pure gold is negligible compared with the value of a pure heart. As the latter is harder to acquire than the former, consequently more persons possess gold than purity of heart. . There are many persons who are far advanced in spiritual development and worthy of emulation; but even they are not immune from satan's influence other than an exceptional few. It is true that they are men and women of high dedication and they have travelled far along the Right Path; but still they fall far short of perfection. . Rancour is a negative state of mind in which one holds inimical feelings of one kind or another towards another person or persons. . Blessed is that person whose heart is free from all taint of rancour. It is a spiritual poison which enervates soul magnetism. Every spiritual wayfarer realises the adverse effect it has on both spiritual and physical health. The Promised Messiah has said: 'We should always overlook the faults of our friends, no matter how serious they may be. '. 'Avoid malice and deal with human beings in sympathy with love. '. The Promised Messiah possessed a heart devoid of the slightest trace of rancour. It prevents serenity and all thirsty souls seek its antidote. It stems from certain hellish moods and emotions which include the following:. Resentment. . Pride. . Selfishness. Revenge. . Dislike. . Anger. . Contempt. . Jealousy. . Suspicion. . One must strive to overcome these obstacles of spiritual progress because they are all sources of rancour. Life is a constant battle against oneself. A famous preacher once said: 'I have had more trouble with myself than with any other man. ' (Beecher). The struggle calls for constant prayers and vigilance. Progress may be slow; but slow and steady wins the race. The victory is priceless.