From Experience

here. These events strengthened my belief that if we hold love and openness for others instead of hatred and narrowness—if our behaviour is marked by gentleness instead of harshness, and our words carry sweetness instead of bitterness—then the whole world can be filled with peace and harmony.” “This incident happened in 1982. I was traveling by train from Delhi to Bangalore with my wife, daughter, and young son. The coach we were in was small and had about fifteen other passengers, all Hindus from India. Most of them were young students returning to Bangalore after their holidays. Because of our simple and open nature, the young men soon became friendly with us. Seeing my beard and my family’s regular prayers, they assumed we belonged to a religious household. So, along with casual talk about the world, the weather, and regional politics, the conversation eventually turned to religion. One Hindu youth in particular led much of the discussion. It was clear from his words that he was intelligent and had a wide knowledge of his faith. After many questions and answers, he asked me something that changed the entire atmosphere of the coach. It suddenly felt as though we were not from different communities, but from one family, with no division or distance between us.