麻豆社

Good morning. On Monday, the light aircraft carrying Cardiff City鈥檚 new signing, Emiliano Sala, was found in deep water north of Guernsey. So far, one body has been seen inside the plane but it is not yet known if this is Sala or the pilot, David Ibbotson. So, their families and friends continue to be tormented by grief and uncertainty.

The outpouring of sentiment from the Cardiff City fans has been exceptional 鈥� even though they never got to see Sala play for them. Football clubs are emotional clans and a new player immediately becomes one of the family. The club described Sala as a good-natured humble young man and stated: 鈥淲e were looking forward to providing Emiliano with the next step in his life and career.鈥� And, it is the tragedy of the loss of a young life, one with great talent and with so much more to give that has stirred such sadness.

Not being able to fulfil the potential is something we might all think about at some time or other; and it is a common theme in Hindu texts. They encourage us to appreciate our natural abilities and the special opportunities that come our way.

This idea is encapsulated within the concept of svadharma 鈥� what is my personal dharma, my unique role in life? Dharma is often translated as duty or responsibility, but unlike many moral duties, dharma is not imposed on us by religion or society. Rather, one鈥檚 specific dharma arises from personal self-reflection. It is always transitive and positive: it involves caring for and promoting the interests of others.

Identifying my own svadharma starts with two questions. The first is: what are my particular talents, skills and attributes. The Hindu idea is that we all have something that we naturally do well. It does not have to be momentous or world-changing. Perhaps, we are just a good ear for others; maybe we have a way of making someone feel better about themselves. This leads to the second question: who should I serve with these talents? Who do I care about? Who would benefit most from my gifts?

Emiliano Sala had a short time only to express the footballing talents that delighted his fans. And, according to those who knew and loved him, he also demonstrated kindness, generosity and loyalty. I cannot say how long or short my life may be. But, as the Bhagavad-gita suggests: the fulfilment of our life鈥檚 purpose is in the loving intent and effort we express along the way. So, for me, a life of dharma involves trying to use whatever abilities I鈥檝e been given a best I can to brighten others鈥� lives. Sounds simple; and one day I hope to get it right.

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