“The world has enough for everyone’s needs but not enough for everyone’s greed”
This famous Ghandi quote is one aspect of Aparigraha the fifth Yama of yogic philosophy. Aparigraha is translated from Sanskrit to greediness or non-hoarding and I feel it is a good reminder for us all in times like these. Aparigraha teaches us that when we operate from a place of abundance rather than scarcity, we will always have all that we need.
Aparigraha means not taking more than we need, practicing non-acceptance (including gifts), and non-accumulation. When we practice this together with decluttering, it can help in developing an attitude of detachment or non-dependence, trust, and self-reliance. This morning I decluttered my pantry to make it easier for me to see exactly what I had in there and I was reassured that if required we would be able to survive quite well for over 2 weeks without going to the shops. I refuse to contribute to this mass buying panic (although my husband did get a bit edgy when there was no chicken in the shops and for the first time since I met him did a grocery shop of his own accord!) I believe listening to the agriculture minister on Thursday advising that Australia makes more food then we could ever possibly need, should have put everyone's minds at rest. Fortunately we truly are an abundant nation, and I am proud to be a citizen of the land of plenty.
Aparigraha is not only about non-accumulation of possessions but also non-accumulation of emotional baggage, resentments, anger and the like. Also, non-attachment to our jobs, money, ego and social status. When we have this non-attachment and believe that we are operating in an abundant community, abundance will be attracted to us.
I encourage you to be the person who shows your community that we are abundant in all the things that really matter, kindness, love, compassion and aiding others in need. The best way we can do that right now is follow the advice of the government, wash your hands, practise social distancing and utilise the greeting of namaste with warm eye contact. Most of all look out for each other and remember we are all a vital part of the great community of humanity, be compassionate, generous and do your bit to help us all get through this. It is my sincere hope that we, as a community will come out the other side of this challenge with a greater connection to each other and sense of resilience.

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