Samaira Bangatufts university, Tufts University · startups and sidequests

One of My Favourite Ever Quotes on Association

7 Jan 2023 · 1 min

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1:00

In this short motivational video, the speaker shares a favorite Swami Vivekananda quote that compares a drop of water’s value to the surface it lands on—pure in the hand, useless in a gutter, pearl‑like on a lotus leaf, and a pearl when on an oyster. The speaker uses this analogy to argue that a person’s worth and behavior are shaped by the people and influences they associate with. Examples are given: hanging out with smokers may lead to smoking, and frequenting gossipers can foster gossiping, while engaging with saintly individuals, their books, videos, or lectures can cultivate positive traits. The video’s purpose is to remind viewers to consciously choose their companions, media, and role models to foster personal growth.

Chapters

One of my favorite ever quotes that I constantly remind myself of is one by Swami Vivekananda. A drop of water, if it is caught in the hands, it is pure enough for drinking. If it falls in the gutter, its value drops so much that it can't even be used for washing feet. If it falls on a lotus leaf, it shines like a pearl, and if it falls on an oyster, it becomes a pearl. The drop being the same, its existence and worth depends on whom it associates with. My friends, the same is with us. No matter how intelligent, how evolved we are, our worth depends on whom we associate with. If you hang out with smokers, chances are that you would start smoking soon yourself. If you hang out with people who are gossiping all the time, don't be surprised if you find yourself talking behind the backs of others also. On the other hand, if you associate with saintly people, even though it's through their books or their videos or lectures, chances are that you will develop some of those positive characteristics. I made this video just to remind you to choose the people you spend your time with more carefully.