Narrow minded heart
Always bears malice
Living a drifting aimless life
How meaningless it is!

This is a short poem written by Mr. Ikeda which depicts the ugly nature of envying others where in the end, nothing is gained. My dear friends, ‘I hate you!’ ‘I envy you!’ Have you ever uttered such words yourself?

When we admire the qualities our friends have, and in turn work hard to improve ourselves for the better, this is an example of a good aspect of admiration. It is because at this point, we are striving to learn from others and improve our weaknesses. On the contrary, if we get angry or resent because others are better than us, then, we are just merely blinded by hatred, not able to see our own strengths and virtue and in the end, resulting in us unable to progress or improve.

Say for example: A friend of yours achieved good results and you feel jealous thinking that he didn’t really try hard enough and that no matter what you still think that you are better. If that’s so, you will eventually lose the spirit to strive harder and end up living in your own fantasy land. When we envy others, at times we may do things which may hurt others like say for example: envying someone who came from a rich family or closing up your heart not wanting to befriend them. These actions will cause others to lose trust in you and leave a bad impression of yourself.

‘Oh! She looks so pretty!’ Outward appearances, vanity – only caring how others would see in you or dressing to make yourself look good. However, all these are just mere dreams. Regardless of how a vain attention seeker may show their arrogance, they are merely just living a life walking on the tip of their toes, where extreme exhaustion is what they get in return, they would feel that living itself is miserable. Life is hundred times happier if we don’t live for vanity! 

It is pointless to envy others; instead, improving ourselves to be a more charismatic person is enough. Regardless how others may be or how the environment may change, we must strive to grow and become someone who could influence others. Living in a poor family doesn’t mean that we are ill-fated. Instead, we must strive even harder and make good use of our time to read books and appreciate what we have. This is called ‘value’, and you are in turn ‘creating value’. Open up you hearts! When you come in contact with good people, good friends and seniors, you will realize and discover the richness within yourself!


One who genuinely feels happy and applaud others for their achievements will accumulate good fortune within their lives. Similarly, one who envies or harbours resentment seeing the success of others will in turn diminish their good fortune. Women who can lead their friends to attain happiness are the Professor of happiness! Seeking luxurious life or living with jealousy – one couldn’t be more foolish if one lives merely for the sake of fame or wealth. Foolishness begets unhappiness. We must be wise and look at our life on a deeper level. This sort of person is a philosopher, one who will always live a happy life!

Labels: e. Words of mentor