Dear Jayamohan,
Much of the life advice in your videos emphasizes that we should find meaning in our lives through personal activities. I, too, experienced a profound sense of boredom after my retirement. Initially, I engaged in my old trade union work, but when I noticed my prestige diminishing, I decided to step back. I spent the next three years at home, which were incredibly difficult for me. My physical health suffered, and my mental health deteriorated further. My relationships became strained as well.
Eventually, I began to frequent Vaishnava temples, much like my father did. This led me to write and print small notes about the temples and distribute them to those interested in Vaishnavism. This new endeavor brought fulfillment and meaning to my life. For the past ten years, I have been involved in various activities related to Vaishnavism, rarely spending a day at home.
A friend of mine is also active after retirement, much like I am. He is currently involved in the real estate business, but he is not happy. He is often nervous and angry, struggling to manage the demands of the business at his age. He feels that the younger generation will try to deceive him, which makes him constantly cautious and anxious.
All of his children have secured good jobs, so he no longer needs to worry about money. When I asked him what he was doing, he replied, “I have to do something; I cannot stay at home.” I responded, “Business is not the only option. There are many pursuits that do not yield monetary profit, and no one can deceive us by offering anything in return. Can we focus on work for our soul?”
Unfortunately, he could not grasp that perspective. His mindset is that life revolves solely around business and earning money. If someone has not been exposed to spirituality, literature, or art by the age of 60, it is likely too late to start something new. This represents a significant loss, but it is also a reflection of his past shortcomings. There’s no way to change that now.
Those who remain completely entangled in worldly life through your videos will not achieve anything meaningful. These videos may only serve those who are already caught in that cycle and wish to escape it.
R. Ranganathan
