Bouquets and Brickbats – Par for the Course

Most of us grew up hearing reasons to do the right thing: It helps you. It helps others. That’s what a good human being does.

We learn this best when our efforts are appreciated by people we look up to.

But here’s what we rarely discuss: doing the right thing isn’t always met with applause. What happens when it brings criticism, ridicule—or even outright hostility?

Here is a moment from Guru Nanak’s life with his companion Bhai Mardana that speaks directly to this dilemma.

The context of his times

Guru Nanak, the first Guru of the Sikhs, shared a message that was radical for his day. He questioned empty rituals, exposed the hypocrisy of the powerful, and encouraged ordinary people to rise above the endless chase for material wants.

He journeyed across forests, rivers, and deserts, facing extreme weather and resistance. By his side was Bhai Mardana, carrying his rebec (a stringed instrument). Guru Nanak expressed his teachings in verses, born of Divine inspiration. With Bhai Mardana’s music, these verses flowed into song.

The storm in my mind

One day, Bhai Mardana sat unusually quiet, rolling a stone in his hand. Seeing his troubled face, Guru Nanak asked gently,
 “Why do you look so lost today?”

Bhai Mardana hesitated, then spoke:
“Sometimes a storm rises in my mind, and I cannot make sense of it. We travel to so many places. In some, strangers welcome you warmly, refusing to let you go. But in others, people curse you, mock you—even turn hostile. Why is it like that? Why don’t they see you the same way?”

The mystery of the stone

Guru Nanak listened, then said, “I will answer your question. But first, take this stone to the market and see what you can get for it.”

Finally, he entered the shop of Salas Rai, the jeweler. As soon as Salas Rai saw the stone, his eyes lit up.
“This is no ordinary stone—it’s a ruby! I cannot pay its full worth, but if you allow me a closer look, I can offer you one hundred rupees.”

Bhai Mardana returned with the money, astonished. “What does this mean?” he asked.

Guru Nanak explained,

“Truth is like this gem. Many will dismiss it as worthless.  But those who truly recognize it – know it is beyond price.”

Lessons for the path

We often hear about the rewards of walking the right path. But less often do we prepare for the brickbats that come with it. Truth is not valued universally. You may face ridicule, rejection, or even hostility.

Yet if you know the value of the gem in your hand, you will not let go.

Bhagat Kabir Ji captured this beautifully:

राम पदारथु पाइ कै कबीरा गाँठि न खोल्ल ॥
The treasure of the Lord is obtained, O Kabeer, but do not keep displaying it to the world.

नही पटणु नही पारखू नही गाहकु नही मोलु ॥
There is no marketplace for it, no appraiser, no customer, and no price.

So, should we walk the path alone? Here are a few lessons the wisdom teachers leave us with:

• Trust the inner compass. Listen to others to learn, but for discernment tune in to the voice within. That is what should guide you—not shifting opinions, whether praise or criticism.
  
• Seek company that values the gem. Fellow travelers help keep the flame alive. Their lived wisdom offers guidance, inspiration, and solace in times of setback.
  
• Know when to walk away. A jeweler carrying a precious gem does not waste time displaying it in a market that cannot value it. He knows it must be preserved with care.

Because truth, ultimately, prevails. The greater its worth, the greater the resistance it may face—but also the greater the reward of holding on to it.

Reflection question

Can you recall a time when you chose to walk the right path—even when it meant facing criticism or opposition?

Sources:

• Discourse by Giani Pinderpal Singh – ‘Alas karenga ta kujh nahi milna’
• Guru Nanak and Salas Rai the Jeweler – discoversikhism.com
• John Woodward – Bouquets and Brickbats
  

Image credit: Asian Art Museum