Hind Swaraj

“In my search after Truth I have discarded many ideas and learnt many new things. Old as I am in age, I have no feeling that I have ceased to grow inwardly or that my growth will stop at the dissolution of the flesh.”

Gandhi has spent a long time considering and reflecting on his ideas and beliefs. He understands that knowledge and understanding are processes that unfold over time and that no one can assume they have achieved perfect certainty or wisdom.

“What I am concerned with is my readiness to obey the call of Truth, my God, from moment to moment, and, therefore, when anybody finds any inconsistency between any two writings of mine, if he has still faith in my sanity, he would do well to choose the later of the two on the same subject.”

Gandhi is well aware that some of his words may seem contradictory or that his actions and statements do not always appear to be in accord. With gentle humor, he suggests that the discerning reader of his written works will give preference to his latest musings. Gandhi expects readers to follow not his preaching, but their own hearts in these matters.

“It is a mark of wisdom not to kick away the very step from which we have risen higher.”

To those who would overthrow the past, Gandhi advises caution and a respect for the old ways. It is better to build on what has been established than to cast it aside and have to start over continuously.