The Three C’s of Life: Choices, Chances, and Changes
1 Have you ever heard the saying “The three C’s of life: Choices,
Chances, and Changes”? It’s like a secret recipe for making your life
better. Think about it. Every day, we make choices, like what to eat for
breakfast or which route to take to work. Sometimes, we get the chance to
try something new or different, like joining a class or applying for a new
job. And with every choice and chance, things in our life change, sometimes
a little, sometimes a lot. This idea teaches us that we have the power to
shape our own lives. Choices refer to the decisions we face daily, from
minor selections to life-altering determinations. Each choice sets us on a
path that shapes our experiences, relationships, and personal growth.
Chances represent the opportunities and risks that come our way, often
requiring a leap of faith to embrace new experiences. Changes are the
consequences of our choices and chances, the transformations that occur in
our lives, both planned and unexpected. Together, these three C’s form a
cycle of continuous evolution, reminding us that we are architects of our
destiny to a great extent.
2 Choices are the bedrock of our lives. Every day, we are faced with
numerous decisions that, cumulatively, dictate the course of our lives.
These range from mundane selections, like what to eat for breakfast, to
profound life decisions regarding career paths, relationships, and personal
goals. The significance of making conscious choices cannot be overstated,
as each decision carries the potential to lead us *towards fulfillment or
away from it. *Making informed and reflective choices involves
understanding the potential impact of our decisions, considering both
short-term gratification and long-term well-being. It’s about aligning our
choices with our values, goals, and the kind of life we wish to lead. By
doing so, we assert control over our lives, steering ourselves in the
direction of our choosing rather than being at the mercy of circumstances.
क्रियागुणवत् समवायिकारणमिति द्रव्यलक्षणम् ॥ १.१.१५ ॥visheshika
sutram
kriyāguṇavat samavāyikāraṇamiti dravyalakṣaṇam || 1.1.15 ||
kṛyā-guṇa-vat—possessing Action and Attribute; samavāyi-kāraṇam—combinative
cause; iti—such; dravyalakṣaṇam—mark of substance.
Here the Sādhya,(choices) i.e., that which has to be proved, does not
suffer from the fault of being unknown, for difference from Attribute,
etc., is proved by perception in the water-pot, etc. Nor is here the fault
of proving that which has been already proved, for although the difference
of the water-pot as such from others has been proved, yet such difference
remains to be proved in respect of it considered as a Substance. Some say
that in the case of the difference of that which defines the pakṣa (i. e.,
the object in which the existence of the Sādhya is sought to be proved,
e.g., the mountain when the existence of fire is sought to be proved in
it), there can be no proving of that which has already been proved, as, for
instance, in “Word and Mind are eternal.” But this is not so, for that
which has to be proved being proved in anything whatever determined by that
which determines the characteristic of being a pakṣa, the pakṣa suffers in
its essential, and hence that which has to be proved in such cases, must be
proved as such, i.e., independntly.
3 Chances: The Opportunities We Seize: Chances are the crossroads of
opportunity and risk, presenting themselves in various forms throughout our
lives. They could be as straightforward as deciding to speak at a public
event, thus overcoming a fear of public speaking, or as complex as moving
to a new city for a fresh start. Taking chances requires courage and a
willingness to step out of our comfort zones. It’s about embracing the
unknown with the hope of growth, learning, and new experiences. The act of
taking chances is deeply intertwined with trust—trust in oneself to handle
the outcomes and trust in the process of life. By seizing chances, we open
ourselves up to new possibilities that were previously inconceivable. These
opportunities often lead to significant personal development and can alter
our life’s trajectory in ways we never imagined. However, it’s essential to
approach chances with discernment, weighing the potential benefits against
the risks involved.
Daivayoga (दैवयोग).—[masculine] fatality, chance, *tas* by chance.
उत । देवाः । अवहितम् । देवाः । उत् । नयथ । पुनरिति । उत । आगः । चक्रुषम् ।
देवः । देवाः । जीवयथ । पुनरिति ॥ 10 137 1 R V
uta | devāḥ | ava-hitam | devāḥ | ut | nayatha | punariti | uta | āgaḥ |
cakruṣam | devaḥ | devāḥ | jīvayatha | punariti
“O gods, raise again the man, O gods, who has sunk; O gods, give life again
to the man, O gods, who”
4 Changes: The Outcome of Our Actions Changes, the third C, are the
natural consequence of the choices we make and the chances we take. Change
is inevitable and constant, yet it is often met with resistance due to the
uncertainty and discomfort it can bring. Embracing change, however, is
crucial for personal growth and adaptability. It involves letting go of old
patterns, beliefs, or relationships that no longer serve us and welcoming
new experiences that foster our development. Adapting to change requires
resilience and an open mind. Viewing change as an opportunity rather than a
setback can transform challenges into stepping stones for progress. It’s
about finding the silver lining and learning lessons from every situation.
Proactively initiating changes in our lives, instead of merely reacting to
external circumstances, empowers us to live more authentically and align
our external world with our internal values.
Parivarta (परिवर्त).—[masculine] turning round, moving to and fro,
roaming, revolving, revolution (of a planet), lapse (of time); change,
barter; abode, spot, place.
Reinforcing the ability to focus, and being more one-pointed in our
attention
Choosing the type and amount of stimuli to which the nervous system is
subjected. Changing the inputs can change the raw material that is
processed.
Embracing simplicity, a bit more so the mind is less likely to want
Becoming less rigid in everyday likes and dislikes. Even things like
shifting our schedule or allowing someone else to order our food can make
us more pliable.
Focusing on intent, and holding lightly to praise or disparagements that
accompany outcomes
Becoming less I-focused by engaging in more selfless service. Offering
service, without any expectation of personal benefit, loosens the hold of
the ego.
Opening to change is about letting go—of ego, expectation, fear. Change is
inevitable, and will continue to arrive on our doorstep. By establishing a
deeper level of consciousness, we can navigate it a bit more gracefully.
sankalpa-prabhavan kamans tyaktva sarvan asheshatah
manasaivendriya-gramam viniyamya samantatah
shanaih shanair uparamed buddhya dhriti-grihitaya
atma-sanstham manah kritva na kinchid api chintayet
BG 6.24-25: Completely renouncing all desires arising from thoughts of the
world, one should restrain the senses from all sides with the mind. Slowly
and steadily, with conviction in the intellect, the mind will become fixed
in God alone, and will think of nothing else.
5 The cycle of choices, chances, and changes is a continuous journey of
self-discovery and personal evolution. Each element influences the other,
creating a dynamic process that shapes our lives and our selves. By
understanding and actively engaging with these three C’s, we can navigate
life with purpose and create a path that reflects our deepest desires and
aspirations. The relationship between choices, chances, and changes is
cyclical and deeply interconnected. Each choice we make opens up a set of
chances – opportunities and risks alike. When we decide to take these
chances, we set in motion the wheels of change, transforming our lives in
small or significant ways. This cycle underscores the proactive role we
play in shaping our destinies. By making deliberate choices, embracing the
chances those choices present, and adapting to the ensuing changes, we
become active participants in our life story rather than passive observers.
6 To navigate the cycle of choices, chances, and changes effectively, it
starts with making conscious choices. This involves self-reflection and a
deep understanding of one’s values, goals, and desires. It’s about being
intentional with the decisions we make, ensuring they align with our
broader life vision. Overcoming indecision and the fear of making the
“wrong” choice can be challenging. However, recognizing that each choice is
a stepping stone rather than a final destination can alleviate some of this
pressure. Tools for making conscious choices include setting clear goals,
seeking advice from trusted sources, and considering the long-term
implications of your decisions. Remember, even the act of not choosing is a
choice in itself, often leading to stagnation. “There is a tide in the
affairs of men. Which, taken at the flood, leads on to fortune” (Act-IV,
Scene-III). (SHAKESPEARE JULIUS CEASER)
7 While taking chances can be daunting, calculated risks are an
essential component of growth and change. Evaluating chances involves
assessing the potential benefits and risks, listening to both intuition and
logic. It’s about asking, “What’s the best that can happen?” and “What’s
the worst-case scenario?” This mindset shift can help you view chances as
opportunities for growth rather than threats. Encouraging a mindset that
embraces opportunities requires a blend of optimism and realism. It’s
important to prepare for possible outcomes while remaining hopeful about
the potential for positive change. Strategies for taking calculated
chances include
doing thorough research, planning for contingencies, and building a support
network to lean on during uncertain times.
8 Change, though often feared, is the vehicle for personal evolution
and life transformation. Embracing change involves recognizing its
inevitability and viewing it as an opportunity for growth. It requires
flexibility, resilience, and the courage to step into the unknown.
Initiating change in our lives can be empowering, allowing us to align our
external circumstances with our internal states. This might involve
changing careers, ending toxic relationships, or adopting healthier
lifestyle choices. Strategies for embracing and initiating change include
setting realistic goals, developing a positive mindset, and seeking support
when needed.
9 The three C’s of life – choices, chances, and changes – offer a
framework for understanding how we can actively shape our lives. By making
conscious choices, taking calculated chances, and embracing the changes
that come our way, we can navigate life’s complexities with purpose and
agency. Remember, the quality of our lives is largely determined by how we
engage with these three critical elements. Let’s choose wisely, seize
opportunities, and welcome the transformation that follows, for it’s within
this cycle that we find growth, fulfillment, and the essence of living.
हतो वा प्राप्स्यसि स्वर्गं जित्वा वा भोक्ष्यसे महीम्।
तस्मादुत्तिष्ठ कौन्तेय युद्धाय कृतनिश्चयः॥ २-३७ 2 37 B G
Die, and you will win heaven; conquer, and you will enjoy sovereignty of
the earth;
therefore, stand up Arjuna, determined to fight.
K RAJARAM IRS 108244 11824
On Sat, 10 Aug 2024 at 17:43, Jambunathan Iyer <[email protected]>
wrote:
> Don’t compare your life, family, spouse, circumstances and possessions
> with others. You cannot peep into their realities. Appearances are often
> deceptive. Take pride in what you have. You cannot have everything in life
> as per your choice. Learn to make Best of what you have, striving for More
> and Better.
> N Jambunathan Rengarajapuram-Kodambakkam-Chennai-Mob:9176159004
>
> *" What you get by achieving your goals is not as important as what you
> become by achieving your goals. If you want to live a happy life, tie it to
> a goal, not to people or things "*
>
>
--
You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups
"Thatha_Patty" group.
To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email
to [email protected].
To view this discussion on the web visit
https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/thatha_patty/CAL5XZoo2M7j87%3DNmY6FpexAtxzetysnfs6jwpfdofJy1vRmbMQ%40mail.gmail.com.
