To Empower the Soul

If only we could have smooth relationships and perfect circumstances at all times! But the mystics remind us that this creation is itself an imperfection – a characteristic of duality. So, are we seeking the impossible? As human beings travelling on the spiritual path, we are in the process of becoming perfect. As our awareness develops, we develop God-like qualities that enable us to slowly but surely shed the layers of imperfection that encrust our souls.

In the meantime, when we find ourselves in the middle of chaotic and difficult situations, our general tendency is to react, by showing displeasure and frustration through impulsive action or emotionally charged words. And what usually happens is that we end up making matters worse and tension escalates, leading to a whirlpool of negativity.

Although spirituality tells us that it is the unfolding of our karmas that is behind the highs and lows of our lives, we forget this and let our emotions take over, and then we simply react. Reacting, however, is an unconscious habit that does not involve thinking. It is an automatic response fuelled by emotion instead of logical thinking, a fruitless habit that always leads to regret. Calm thinking, on the other hand, takes energy and time.

Satsangis should form the habit of ‘thinking’ – clear thinking. Clear thinking is ninety percent abhyas (spiritual practice). Clear thinking is a blessing. It can easily be attained by a little practice.
_{Maharaj Jagat Singh, The Science of the Soul}

Responding rather than reacting is the road less travelled but indeed the road we ought to take. It involves stepping out of the heat of the situation and thinking about possible solutions and the right course of action. Responding requires acting with faith that a solution will present itself. It requires us to stay open, trust in our Creator and believe that the solution, in fact, already exists. We only need to be in a state of calm in order to receive his inspiration.

We have to remember that there is a reason why we are advised by the mystics to meditate. The main purpose of following a spiritual path is to understand the importance of making meditation the core of our lives. As we build on our meditation, it gives shape to our being – to the way we think, the way we act and the way we are not supposed to react. Meditation teaches us to surrender our will and accept his will. Surrender leads to acceptance, and acceptance finally eradicates our personal will. It is a natural process of taming our egos and developing self-control.

The effects of meditation are always accruing, albeit very subtly. As we go forward in our evolution, we will come to truly appreciate and value that sacred time spent in his remembrance. We will start to look upon it as the best gift we have ever been given and not simply a task to be accomplished. We start to experience that solace, comfort and peace that energizes us and helps us face our battles and maintain our composure at all times.

The Masters tell us that the battle is inside, and it is inside that it has to be fought. This fight is the real purpose of our life. This is the way of the spiritual warrior, the way to empower the soul, and enable it to shine in its splendour and glory!