The first priority of life is to keep good health (Ayu). First, one should know how to live, how to survive. Within that comes yoga or physical exercise, breathing exercises, meditation and relaxation. Sickness does not let you experience life; it does not let you think. When sickness comes, we begin to realize what beauty it is to be alive and healthy. To be healthy or to know the science of life is the first priority which is known as Ayu. Ayu means age or life-span and Ayurved means knowledge of the life-span.

Learning (Vidya) is the second priority of life. A healthy body without learning is a waste. Learning enhances the beauty of life. One should always be eager to learn more. The more you know, the more you will enjoy the world. Life will be more fruitful and useful and you will feel rewarded. Knowledge is like a pure gem which may be picked up from any corner of the world. The greatest wealth of the world is knowledge. Read selectively what will open up new avenues for you. Life is given not only just to live but to learn many things.

The third priority is wealth (Dhanam) or creativity. Money is only a medium of exchange. It must be obtained by “sweat labor” or in exchange for your skills. However, the real form of wealth is the five elements. Earth, water, fire, air and sky are our real wealth. Also, our skill, creativity or trade is our real wealth. This art of creativity combined with the five elements can create many things.

The fourth priority in life is good deeds (Yasham Kirti). After all your desires are fulfilled, it is important to do some good for the benefit of future generations. Set a good example. Pave the way for the younger generations. Always remember the day of final departure and leave behind a legacy of noble deeds. These are the four priorities of life as outlined in the scriptures.
January 1997