The Problem of Pairs of Opposites
If there are hot days, then there are cold days.
If there are pleasant days, then there are unpleasant days.
If some days we are happy, then some days we are sad.
If some days, we are successful, then some days we face failures.
If some days we receive honor, then some days we feel insulted.
If some days we are healthy, then some days we get sick.
If we like something, then we dislike something else.
If there are rich people, then there are poor people.
If there are good people, then there are bad people.
If there are good administrators, then there are bad administrators.
If we are happy with life, then we face the fear of death.
This life is such that we cannot avoid the pairs of opposites. If we accept one, then we have to accept the other. We cannot have one without the other.
Our spiritual teachers show us the way out of this life filled with pairs of opposites. They say that the problem of pairs of opposites is in our minds.
I separate myself from my true identity, Atman, which is Pure Consciousness or Sat-Chit-Ananda (Existence-Knowledge-Bliss Absolute), and consider myself a person who consists of body and mind. Then, I create my likes and dislikes according to the constitution of my mind, which is made by my ignorance and past impressions. This starts the whole drama, which is filled with pairs of opposites.
To go back to my true identity, I have to do three spiritual practices. (i) I have to listen to the teachings of the scriptures from the Holy People, which describe the nature of the Atman and ways to realize it. (ii) I have to reflect on these teachings to understand them properly, and (iii) I have to meditate on Atman until I realize that my true identity is Atman.
Thus, I can go beyond my little imaginary self, which consists of my body and mind, and go beyond the pairs of opposites. In that state, I realize all these opposites are in my mind. When the mind enjoys happiness, I will be very well aware that the same mind will make me suffer. I will not complain to God about my sorrows.
It is strange that we complain to God about our suffering, but not for giving us happiness. We complain about insults but not about the honor we have received. We complain about death, but not about giving us life. This is because of our fundamental ignorance about our true nature, Atman.
People say it is hard to realize Atman. Then, we have to live in this world of opposites, sometimes happy and sometimes sad. It is usually for a bit of time happy, and more time sad. The choice is ours.
mahendrajani 
Good morning and Namaste 🙏🏻 Uncle
Thank you very much for sharing this inspiring message. This is like a morning spiritual vitamins. I feel, just like taking other medicinal vitamins it is also very Important to begin a day with spiritual vitamins. And as you emphasized to practice SMN (Shravana – Manana – Nidhidhyasana).
thank you for sharing
Mihir
Thank you, Mihirbhai for taking these spiritual medicines. Initially, spiritual practices are like medicines, but after some time it should be enjoyable like a delicious meal. Yes, you captured it right – SMN. With best wishes.
I love your reflections on Life, philosophy, and spirituality. However, if I may suggest, I would be interested in reading a more autobiographical-style blog about your childhood and initial exposure to the Ramakrishna Mission. And perhaps also some societal reflections on life growing up vs now.
Thank you for your kind words and writing me what you are looking for. Yes, usually journal brings out personal autobiographical write up. I don’t know how many will be interested in that. Thanks for showing your interest in that kind of blog. I will think about it and when I get an inspiration I will write about it. Personally, you can contact me on my email at mahendra.jani@gmail.com and I can briefly provide you some information. Thank you again.
Thank you, Uncle. Your journal helps me with manan and nididhyasan. Medha
Thank you, Medhaben. I am glad it helped you.