I was just enjoying my Wednesday afternoon trying to relax from my personally stressful morning where I ended up completely stressing out my dear husband over school and flying to Vegas for Richard's mission farewell in November. (AA.com has an amazing fare right now of $99 each way- we have to book it today. Just a little stressed to keep it cheap.) I saw a link off of MSN to an article that gave you "23 Phrases to Help You and Your Spouse Fight Right". There was a link in the article to another article on "Things Not to Say"... and then from there I saw another link about Katie Holms and Victoria Beckham, and how she finally understands them. It started out as an interesting article and it has some valid points and some good arguments in the views of the world and society and I was feeling good because I was learning a new word. But it was interesting to me how the writer linked an ancient Hindu term to the rich and famous of today.... Here is what she said....
"I’ve never understood it – what’s the big deal? Exactly what do people feel that they’re gaining from these glancing interactions? Why are they so excited to see John Travolta?
Answer: darshan.
Darshan is a Sanskrit Hindu term meaning “sight” or “auspicious viewing.” Darshan is the beneficial glow that comes from being in the presence of a great spiritual leader (or holy place or object). Merely looking at such a person – and even better, receiving his or her glance – bestows a blessing.
I was particularly interested to learn that with darshan, eye contact with the revered person conveys particular grace. It absolutely seems true that a mere eye-lock can bring about some kind of transfer of power.
If you’re a saint or guru, you aren’t depleted by the act of making eye contact. But this transfer may explain why powerful or famous people sometimes insist that others not make eye contact with them – a demand that always struck me as particularly bizarre and puzzling. People seeking darshan drain them of their energy.
Just a few months ago, Page Six (a renowned New York City gossip column) reported that “Victoria Beckham styled Katie Holmes for an upcoming Harper’s Bazaar cover, and during the 300-plus person shoot in Los Angeles, the production team was told not to look either of them in the eye."
When I read that item, I wondered, “What’s that about?” Now I know. Darshan. It feels good to have that figured out." -Gretchen Rubin
I totally understand and can appreciate the Hindu beliefs and cultural practices... but what struck me is the way she compared it to Katie and Victoria. My personal beliefs do not concur with hers. I do not believe that it is "Darshan" that makes Katie and Victoria demand that no one looks them in the eyes while they are in public- I believe that it is their own pride that gives them that desire. Think about it... when two people look each other in their eyes it shows that there is a communication level there and that they are potentially on the same playing level even if it is for a brief moment. For someone who is to be "esteemed socially" for her to look into an average Joes eyes it means that she is willing for that moment to allow herself to be lowered to their level. It shows a kind of weakness in their pride and their personal social beliefs about themselves. It could potentially be what makes them another average person- but yet they enjoy that esteem that is given to them by their fellow socialites, the media, and themselves. They like the feeling of the power and the rush of it. They like their PRIDE.
My next thought was of the church and it's leaders and of our Savior. Our Savior taught that we should "be like a child", and "come unto him". He loved little children and he still loves us now that we are adults. These same traits are seen in our current church Apostles and those who have passed. They love everyone! At conference they do not talk above us they talk to us. They shake our hands, tell us how much they love us and care about us. They give us guidance and teach us. They are humble and willing to listen to everyone. They are willing to listen to our Savior and follow him so that we may be able to follow their examples of Love, Charity, Peace, Service, Faith, Integrity, and Humility. I am thankful for them and our Savior. I feel that "Darshan" comes when in the presents of them and our other local leaders. And now that I think about it "Darshan" can come through us as members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, when we stand as a witness, listen and obey his commandments, keep the covenants that are made at baptism and in the temple, honor our priesthood leaders, our parents, love our siblings, love our enemies and those who have crossed us, and be honest in all our dealings. It comes through the spirit of Jesus Christ- the Holy Ghost that is given to everyone upon baptism and confirmation- who dwells with us when we are worthy of his gift. It comes through happiness and the service of our Lord. I have never felt bad after doing a good deed or giving of my time and talents. I know that it is through us that those who are stranded and struggling with life can find their way and feel of the "Darshan" as described by the Hindu's of old. A great spiritual being can be us to, we've all known "spiritual giants." To those who are lost in darkness we may seem like a spiritual giant/being, it is through the process of taking the discussions and coming to know Christ as our Savior and Redeemer the "Darshan" becomes greater and greater, until we all become like Christ.
I love you all!
-Rachel
