Q: Why swamis have beard and long hair?
Sri Sri Ravi Shankar: We do 100%, either we take everything off or keep everything. But it is no sign to get beard or long hair to get enlightened. Anyone can get enlightened, anyone can meditate. Outer appearance is immaterial. This is just a uniform.
Q: How do I handle criticism?
Sri Sri Ravi Shankar: When someone criticises you, they are taking a risk. Who wants to take the risk of making enemies! When they are doing that, you appreciate them. Stand up to criticism. Also have the courage to criticise for their improvement. But if someone is criticising you out of jealousy, you smile, it is their problem.
Q: Should the student take the whole responsibility for not scoring good marks?
Sri Sri Ravi Shankar: It is better if he takes full responsibility. You could blame the teacher, the environment, the parents and everything else and finally you blame yourself. It's better to take responsibility than go on a blame game.
Q: How to make someone dear to you understand that something is useful for them and they must go for it?
Sri Sri Ravi Shankar: Keep pursuing gently and have patience, they will all understand. First you should have the conviction that this is good for them, and they will get it. How to get a thought or a desire manifested is very simple. First intention and keep attention on it and then manifestation will follow.
Q: How to overcome self pity?
Sri Sri Ravi Shankar: The moment you recognize, you stop it. That is it. If you are asking for someone else, then they only can come out of it. Only meditation can help. Do advance course.
Q: These practices bring so much inner comfort. If I do a lot of practice, will it make me more happy?
Sri Sri Ravi Shankar: Don’t do too much of practice. Move ahead gradually. Do only as much as needed. Do that much to which your body gets accustomed to.
Death will shut your eyes; even if you leave your eyes open, you will see nothing. So while you are here, close your eyes and experience your eternal existence
~ Sri Sri Ravi Shankar