Supporting Family in Crisis: Balancing Love, Responsibility, and Spiritual Growth
Imagine that your husband has approached you for financial assistance to support his brother's son who is hospitalized. This situation brings to light crucial questions about our responsibilities, values, and the role of love and prayer in such difficult moments.
Humanity and Love
Out of all the dharmas (duties or obligations) that humanity has, the primary one should be love and support for each other. Since the person in need is your husband's brother's son, the obligation to help deepens. The quote, "Out of all dharma humanity tops all, That too he is your husband, brother's son," emphasizes the importance of supporting our loved ones, especially in times of need.
While material things such as money, property, jobs, titles, power, and beauty may appear to be long-lasting, they are temporary and can be taken away in an instant. This mindset encourages us to value our relationships and possessions less materially and more spiritually.
Proper Use of Money for Good Causes
A wise approach to money is not to hoard it, but to allocate a portion of it for the well-being of others. Accumulating money solely for personal use is like stagnant water that does not cleanse the heart or facilitate spiritual progress. Therefore, it is essential to use our resources for good causes, including supporting family members in need.
Helping others is not only about alleviating their suffering; it also provides an opportunity for spiritual growth and achieving a greater sense of purpose. When we serve others with humility and love, we contribute positively to society and our own lives.
Immediate Family and Extended Family
Indian society is structured around both immediate and extended families. The immediate family consists of the husband, wife, children, parents, and siblings. The extended family includes uncles, aunts, and their immediate families, as well as spouse's brothers and sisters and their families.
We have a responsibility to support the extended family, especially during times of crisis. This is why Indian weddings and other celebrations often involve numerous relatives participating. Similarly, when an untoward incident occurs in a family member's home, we rally to offer support.
Practical Examples
For instance, a few months ago, my Uncle, my late father's brother, and his immediate family were tested positive for COVID-19. My Uncle was hospitalized, and the rest of the family stayed isolated to avoid contracting the disease. My brother visited him in the hospital, ensuring my Uncle received the necessary care while maintaining isolation precautions. The money spent on purchasing medicines and covering hospital bills was later reimbursed.
In another instance, my wife's brother passed away, and my wife's sisters and their husbands performed the rituals. Despite the financial cost, we did not mind as the deceased was a close relative.
These experiences illustrate how we can make a positive impact by supporting our extended families during challenging times.
In conclusion, helping family members in need, whether it is your husband, a relative, or someone else, is a noble act that fosters unity, strengthens connections, and promotes spiritual growth. By balancing our responsibilities with love, we can create a more compassionate and caring society.