This archive report was first published on 30 June 2019.
Published on June 30, 2019, by Sunny Bindra, author of 'The Bigger Deal', a new book now on sale at www.sunwords.com.
Life is full of seasons, and each stage has its purpose. However, many people get stuck in one stage, refusing to let go and move on to the next.
According to ancient Hindu philosophy, there are four stages of life: Studying, Worldly, Withdrawal, and Renunciation. The Studying stage is the early part of life, dedicated to discovery and learning. This stage ends after the first quarter-century or so of our lives.
Next comes the Worldly stage, where we settle down, create families, build our careers, and acquire material wealth. However, after the half-century mark, it's time to transition to the Withdrawal stage. This is the time to focus less on worldly matters and move our attention to wisdom, spirituality, philosophy, and service.
Unfortunately, many people get stuck in the Worldly stage, unable to let go of their attachment to worldly rewards. They become frustrated and resentful, trying to relive their 'golden' years instead of transitioning to the next stage.
As Albert Brooks pointed out, cognitive and professional decline is real. We will not be as sharp as we once were, and we will not be able to keep up with the inevitable changes in the world. It's essential to manage transitions and peaceful passages between the essential stages of our time on earth.
The wise life is one of managed transitions and peaceful passages between the essential stages of our time on earth. By understanding and embracing these stages, we can live a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
