Adjust Every Where

Here is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Adjust Everywhere" by Dada Bhagwan, based on the provided content:

Book Title: Adjust Everywhere Author: Dada Bhagwan (param Pujya Dadashri) Publisher: Dada Bhagwan Aradhana Trust Core Theme: The central message of the book is the profound importance and practical application of "Adjust Everywhere" (Edajast Evrihayar) as a universal principle for achieving peace, happiness, and spiritual progress in life.

Introduction to Dada Bhagwan and the "Akram Marg": The book begins by introducing Dada Bhagwan (Shri Ambalal Muljibhai Patel), a spiritual master who attained self-realization and the manifestation of the "Dada Bhagwan" within him in 1958. He is described as a deeply detached businessman who lived by the principle of having religion in business but not business in religion. Dada Bhagwan facilitated "Akram Marg" (the step-less path) or "lift-path," a shortcut to self-knowledge, enabling others to attain it in just two hours. He clarified that he was A.M. Patel, the enlightened being, while Dada Bhagwan was the divine presence within him and in everyone.

The Philosophy of "Adjust Everywhere": The book, compiled by Dr. Niruben Amin, emphasizes that life is fundamentally about adjustment. Whether we choose to adjust willingly or are forced by circumstances, adjustment is inevitable. Therefore, embracing adjustment proactively leads to the avoidance of conflict and the establishment of peace and happiness.

Key points regarding "Adjust Everywhere" include:

• Universality: This principle applies to all aspects of life – relationships, work, societal interactions, and even dealing with differing opinions and the changing times.
• Conflict Resolution: Failing to adjust leads to conflict, making life miserable. Adjusting, even when it feels difficult, is the key to navigating life's challenges smoothly.
• Acceptance of Differences: The world is characterized by a diversity of natures and opinions. Adjusting means accepting these differences without resistance or judgment.
• Inner Peace: By adjusting to external circumstances and people, one can attain inner peace.
• Karma and Liberation: Adjusting in a mindful, conscious way helps avoid creating new karmic bonds.

Practical Applications of "Adjust Everywhere":

The book provides numerous examples and dialogues illustrating how to apply "Adjust Everywhere" in various situations:

• Dealing with Change: The modern era is constantly changing. One must adjust to the times, not cling to old ways. This applies to accepting new trends, technology, and the evolving perspectives of younger generations.
• Interpersonal Relationships:
  • Spouses: When there are disagreements (e.g., about food preferences), adjusting by yielding to the other's preference or finding a mutual solution is crucial. Forcing one's own desires leads to conflict.
  • Family: Adjusting with parents, children, and in-laws is essential for familial harmony. If there are disagreements, one person needs to be the harmonizer.
  • Friends and Colleagues: Whether with a boss, colleagues, or friends, adjustment is key to smooth interactions.
• Dealing with Negative Behavior:
  • Chor, Pocketmar (Thieves): Even with those considered wrongdoers, one should not condemn but understand their "view-point." Adjusting and explaining the consequences of their actions can be more effective.
  • Criticism: If someone calls you unintelligent, adjust by agreeing and stating you've known it since childhood. This diffuses the situation.
  • Unpleasant Smells/Situations: Just as one learns to live with a bad smell, one should adjust to unpleasant people.
• The "Counter-Weight" of Women: The book explains that women often act as a "counter-weight" to men, balancing their energies. Understanding this dynamic helps in adjusting. Men need to adjust their own "revolutions" (thinking speed) to match their wives' to achieve harmony.
• The Science of Adjustment: Dada Bhagwan presents "adjustment" as a science that prevents conflict and leads to spiritual liberation. It involves understanding others' nature and adapting accordingly.
• "Don't See Laws, Adjust": Instead of focusing on rules and laws, one should prioritize adjustment. Even if the other person is "crooked" (tatra), the wise person adjusts. If someone needs to be convinced, even a small extra payment to a porter might be necessary.
• Taking Responsibility: If a mistake occurs, it's better to accept it as one's own fault and adjust, rather than blaming others.
• Overcoming Differences: Disagreements arise from lack of understanding and ego. Recognizing that people's "revolutions" (thinking speeds) differ is crucial. By applying a "counter-pulley" (adjusting one's own speed), one can bridge these gaps.
• The Nature of the Self and the World: The true Self is pure awareness, but worldly interactions require skillful handling. Neglecting adjustment leads to suffering.
• Practical Wisdom: The book emphasizes learning these "arts" of adjustment to avoid suffering. Even simple things like accepting food without complaint, even if it's not to one's liking, or bathing with hot water by adding cold water gradually, are examples of adjustment.

The Legacy and Continuity: The book highlights that Dada Bhagwan, before his passing in 1988, passed on his spiritual powers and mission to Dr. Niruben Amin. Dr. Amin continued this work until 2006, when she passed it on to Shri Deepakbhai Desai, who is now actively propagating the "Akram Vignanam" (science of the self) and the principle of "Adjust Everywhere."

Conclusion: "Adjust Everywhere" is presented as a practical, accessible, and powerful key to navigating the complexities of life. By embracing this principle, individuals can achieve peace, harmony in relationships, and progress on the spiritual path, ultimately leading towards liberation. It is a call to action to transform one's perspective and behavior in every situation, making life smooth and fulfilling.