Be moderate

There is a saying in Tamil which goes “In excess, even nectar becomes poison”. For most of us, moderation comes naturally. Whether it is in eating, sleeping or anything else, the body has a limit beyond which it compels us to stop. A kind of fatigue sets in and we stop doing it. Yes, even when if we sleep in excess, our body starts aching and longing to be up & about.

However, sometimes the body does not know when to stop or the body fails to recognize excess – e.g. while consuming alcohol or watching TV. This is when we need to have a mental resolve to control and prevent excess (I am not advocating consumption of alcohol but only using it as an example).

Gautama Buddha has often spoken about the need for moderation in our day to day lives. He says that anything done in extreme is not correct and is best avoided. He has spoken of a middle path where people find the right balance. He has advocated using this approach to reach the ultimate goal in life.

In my view, there are other reasons also for applying moderation in our lives. In this approach, we tend to consume and waste less and leave something for others too. We tend to have healthier and happier lives due to a moderate lifestyle. We are seen as balanced people and not seen as extremists. People find it easier to relate to us.

I would not recommend moderation is in our love for God or in our devotion to Him. In the time we spend praying to or adoring God, we should have no limits. In our work towards serving others by seeing God in them, we should have no limits. Everywhere else, moderation is the way to be.

"To insure good health: eat lightly, breath deeply, live moderately, cultivate cheerfulness, and maintain an interest in life" - William Londen