One of the big issues, rather an embarrassment, in the UK which generates a lot of publicity and charity during Christmas is homelessness. For a so-called first-world country, the problems of housing are acute and getting worse. More than 320,000 households (whole families) were facing homelessness this year alone in Britain. Home gives shelter and comfort, and for children, it’s a very important stable place to grow within.
Those who have a home can also be very insecure due to very expensive rents, poor quality of housing, and the general increase in the cost of living which makes everything very expensive, including the heating bills in winter. We are truly in a dire state, but as to politics and business, all we get is lip service about this problem, and deliberate lies and obfuscation. Labour is planning to build 1.5 million new homes, without thinking about affordability – if the homeless are also disabled, ill or unemployed, how are they going to afford rent or a mortgage?
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As we come together with our families to celebrate and recharge our spirits at this festive time, let us remember that it is very easy to look up at the rich and the successful, and aspire to be like them. However, it is always better to recall our good luck, family values, community and well-being, which money often can never buy. Looking down is what shapes us and builds resilience. In Dharmic science, we see the body as the home for the soul, and always try to keep our spirits ignited and not get too immersed in worldly life.
We deliberately inculcate an inner homelessness (body-detachment), so that we can recharge our souls, and keep our mind healthy and calm. Our souls connect to our deep roots and heritage, and are in tune with the rhythms of Dharma, if we care to tap into the signal. Sadly, all the outer colours, advertising and lights may distract us from our inner voice, but it is up to us to stay focused and balanced.
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Charity is a spirit that shows we care for others less fortunate than ourselves and are willing to share our resources with them in some way, whether through volunteering, or through gifts and donations. Even simple acts like sharing home-made food with a neighbour can be very touching and uplifting. In that small parcel of food, there is a deeper message, that I acknowledge your humanity, and am willing to share something near and dear to me, made with love and compassion. For those of us who receive such gifts, we know how long the memory lingers, and how precious it is to be remembered and acknowledged in this loving way.
Try to use this festive time to reflect on your last year, and instead of making new year resolutions, think of what you have learnt and what you have gained, and how you can repeat those small gestures of love and kindness. In particular, think of what is permanent and timeless, and the limitations of external comforts and material gifts. How can you extend this wisdom and develop a deeper sense of contentment and peace? What more can you live without, and how can you find your permanent inner home?
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Let this spirit ripple out into the wider family, and may you set a good example for future generations. Don’t feel shy of caring and sharing for those who are lonely or homeless.
Professor Atul K. Shah [@atulkshah; YouTube/Atul K. Shah] teaches and writes about Indian wisdom on business, culture and community at various UK universities and is a renowned international author, speaker and broadcaster.