A LETTER FROM G.D. BIRLA TO HIS SON
Dear Basant, I advise you to read this letter when you become an adult and are older. I am writing from my experience. To be born as a human being in this world is a rare opportunity – this is true. One who abuses one’s body, having obtained the human form, is only an animal. You have received a lot of wealth and good resources. If these are used to serve others, then, of course, such resources will become useful. If not, they will become a devil’s weapon. Pay heed to this principle:
1 ) Never use wealth for luxury and cheap pleasure. Ravana had indulged in luxury and promiscuity; King Janaka had rendered service. Wealth is never eternal; therefore, so long as it lasts, use it for serving others. Use the least possible amount for yourself, the rest you should spend to alleviate the sorrows of suffering ones.
2 ) Wealth is power. Intoxicated by such power, one may act unjustly towards another – you must be careful about this.
3 ) Do leave this advice for your children; if they lead a life of comfort and luxury, then they would be committing sin and destroying our business activities. You must not bequeath wealth to such spoilt brats. Before it can reach them, distribute it to poor. You have to realise that you are the trustee of such wealth, and we brothers have generated this wealth in the hope that you will put it to good uses.
4) Remember always that you hold wealth on behalf of the common citizens. You cannot use it for your selfish ends.
5 ) Never forget God. He gives right understanding.
6 ) Keep your senses under control, otherwise, they will drown you.
7 ) Physical exercise must be done regularly.
8 ) Control your consumption of food. Those who eat to please the palate die early and cannot work enough.