Question

Imagine the following situations. For each situation, write down how you would act and explain why.

• A friend is spreading false rumours about you to other classmates.
• You find a lost wallet with money at the school playground.
• You want to buy a new expensive item such as a mobile, even though your old item is still working.
• You go to the fair and spot your favourite ice cream. You want to buy it even though you are suffering from a cold.

Now, create one situation related to the above yamas.

Answer 1

• False rumours - Satya (truthfulness) and Ahimsā (non-violence): I would calmly tell my friend that the rumours are untrue and ask them to stop spreading them. I would avoid responding with rumours or hurtful words and seek help from a trusted teacher if needed.
• Lost wallet - Asteya (non-stealing): I would give the wallet to a teacher or the school office so it can be returned to its owner. Keeping money that belongs to someone else would be stealing.
• Wanting a new mobile - Aparigraha (non-possessiveness): I would avoid buying it while my old mobile is still working. This helps me control unnecessary wants and value what I already have.
• Wanting ice cream while having a cold - Brahmacharya (moderation and self-control): I would choose not to eat it for now and take care of my health. Practising moderation means thinking before acting on an impulse.

My own situation: I see a classmate drop a pencil case without noticing. I would return it to them rather than keep anything inside. This is an example of Asteya, or non-stealing.