A friend and the foe

Aalasyam hi manushyaanam
sharirastho mahaan ripuhu |
Naasti udyama samo bandhuhu
kurvaano na avasidati |

Lethargy is the greatest enemy that resides in the human body.
There is no relative equal to work. One who works does not encounter problems.

Lethargy makes man complacent and then he may not feel the need for improvement any more.
Once complacency sets in, he becomes egoistic. That’s why it’s considered as the enemy.
One who works, keeps him active, feels the need for improvement. It does not necessarily mean a job which pays. People may work just for their interest in something, as a service to the community or the oppressed etc. Many people work on an honorary basis in NGOs, educational institutions, old age homes etc. They find solace in their work and hence enjoy it in spite of their problems. Hence it is referred to as the relative. May be it would be better to put it as friend.