How to Live a Good Life: The Message of the Garud Puran

Having heard everything, Garud's mind became calm. He bowed to the Lord and said: Lord, now I understand that we need not fear death; we need to live life rightly. The Lord smiled, for this was the heart of the whole teaching.

The message of the Garud Puran is very simple. Speak the truth. Do not take what belongs to others. Respect your parents and elders. Feed the hungry and give water to the thirsty. Be kind to all creatures. Thank God for what you have been given. And remember God for some time every day.

This Puran also teaches that life is uncertain. There is no promise of tomorrow. So if you need to ask someone's forgiveness, ask today. If you want to show someone love, show it today. If you have been putting off a good deed, begin it today. Remembering death inspires us to live today with a sincere heart.

Traditionally, a family that listens to this Puran with faith finds patience and peace, and the prayer for the departed soul's sadgati reaches it. But its greatest fruit is that the listener rises with a resolve to make their own life a little better.

If you are reading this after losing someone, know that your grief is natural and your love is not wasted. Keep your loved one's good qualities alive in your own life. That is the most beautiful shraddha of all. May God give them peace, and give you strength.