What To Do

Swamiji has a favorite saying when things don't turn out or go your way...."What to do?" Note that it should be said in a higher pitched sing song tone with a slight smile on your face. Having been here for over a month now I think this saying should be adopted as the official Indian motto. So little goes according to plan in the ashram that I find I have lost interest in getting angry or complaining or even comparing India to our "western sensabilities" and instead find myself frequently chanting "What to do?"
This chant is applicable for any situation really. I have learned to use it for many situations like when I thought that lining up meant going to the back of the line and not squeezing your way in somewhere near the front. And when a session time set for 6 does not start until at least 6:30....or 7:00....or 7:30....or not at all. Or if a seller can't or won't give you change when you buy something and you are expected to buy something esle with the change they owe you. And when the ATM or money exchanger always gives you large bills....1000Rs or 500Rs which know one has change for. Or that sweeping floors in your 50 person dorm room is not as important as sweeping the dirt road of large stones and the grass of dead leaves. And when "they" suggest you buy a sari or book or anything that it may be used only once or not at all. And that slightly stained underwear is more likely to be on the washing line the next day than the ones you scrubbed really clean. Or that you can live with an ant nest in your room for a week before they have time to remove it....... All these things and more can be tolerated or at least endured if you simply smile and say "What To Do?"
Give it a try......And Happy New Year!