By: BK Atam Prakash
Source: The Daily Guardian https://epaper.thedailyguardian.com/view/2701/the-daily-guardian/15
Dated: July 12th, 2025

Sunlight is the best disinfectant, they say. While the sun’s rays can kill germs, this is a metaphorical statement which suggests that transparency and openness prevent corruption and wrongdoing. When decisions, policies, and actions are exposed to public view, those who wield power are less likely to behave unethically, and the people are more likely to hold them accountable. It reflects the idea that secrecy allows abuse, while openness promotes honesty and responsibility. This holds true not only in government, politics, and business, but also in our personal lives. 

Just as sunlight exposes what is hidden in the dark, when we engage in honest self-reflection and shine the light of our awareness into the deep recesses of the mind, our unconscious thought patterns, fears, and flaws come into view. Spiritual growth begins when we courageously see ourselves clearly — the good, the bad, and the painful. In the absence of self-examination, we may superficially assess ourselves as doing fine, overlooking the weaknesses that may be visible to others, and which unconsciously influence our thinking and behaviour.

Once self-examination has revealed problem areas, remedial action must follow. Sometimes, introspection may uncover unpalatable truths about the self, which may lead to shame and guilt, which are fertile grounds for inner suffering. But when we bring our struggles into the light — through trusted conversations, meditation, or keeping a diary — they begin to subside. Emotional wounds that had festered in silence begin to heal when we address them head-on.

Openness in our personal lives also invites feedback and guidance. By allowing others to see us as we are, we create the conditions for growth. A mentor, spiritual guide, or even a supportive friend can only help us if we are honest with them — and ourselves. Sunlight not only makes things clearly visible, it also nourishes; similarly, honest accountability helps us develop strength and maturity by encouraging us to take the steps needed for personal growth, and make responsible choices in life. Living in truth — internally and externally — leads to trust in the self, and when we align more fully with our values, it brings peace and integrity.

But the greatest transformation takes place when we allow the most powerful light into our lives – the light of God, who is also called the Sun of Knowledge. As souls, we are children of the Supreme Soul. When we remember this and connect to Him with faith and love, this mental link becomes the channel through which God’s power and virtues flow into the soul. Regular communion with the Almighty, the ocean of peace, love, and mercy, gradually makes us more and more like Him. Just as sunlight kills germs, God’s light of truth and power eliminates weaknesses in the soul that had brought suffering. When we are freed from the influence of selfish desires, anger, and ego, peace and contentment follow. This gain is not limited to the self. A spiritually fulfilled soul radiates and reflects God’s light to others, helping them connect to the Supreme Father and bask in the warmth of His love, to be healed and become whole again.

BK Atam Prakash is a Rajyoga teacher
at the Brahma Kumaris headquarters in Mount Abu, Rajasthan.