4. Sin Unseen.

There are umpteen variable ways of defining an act. At times, they contradict too. An act may be categorized as nice by some while vice by others. Broadly, an act falls in either of these two categories. Usually, an act falling in the latter category is termed as a sinful act. Precisely, an act causing direct or indirect harm to anyone is a sin. This is a general definition.

Most of us avoid doing a sinful act. Even I do but do I really comprehend what is a sinful act? Besides, after understanding, do I really implement the idea of staying away from it? A shallow thinking makes me feel that I am pretty much a harmless person. I do not cause damage in anyone’s life. On the contrary, I really engage myself in doing some good activities recurrently. I do support and toil for a social cause. To a certain extent, I am a philanthropist too.

Well, sounds amazing but probably at a superficial level. Let me take myself to a deeper level and think about it. Charity begins at home. This is a well-known phrase. Do I live my life without causing any harm to any of my family members? Further, what about my life outside home? For instance – work, study, social circle, etc.

I might be donating a few bucks every month in a charity but on the other hand do I check if I am exploiting my servant (or any one who works for me and is paid by me) and paying him less than he actually deserves? If I donate an X amount but also do exploitation worth an X amount (only considering the money part), then doesn’t it nullify my charity?

Life is full of nonstop actions – physical, verbal, mental. If I perform any act which makes me feel happy but also gives me a pinch in some corner of my heart, I have 2 choices – either to overlook it or to act on it. Nevertheless, the choice may be mine, but the pinch still persists. The occurrence of such pinches is evident in cases where I have been unethical. There are many cases where in I can escape from the offense by offering a bribe. This is usually followed by a feeling of contentment but what about the pinch? Is it disregarded?

Anyhow, at the end of day, if I feel that I have lived my day without a pinch, I am a success.