Hold On Tight!
Our spiritual adventure is underway – we’re on a journey of self-discovery and transformation; a journey to eternal liberation. However, along the way, we realize that the path is not as smooth as we envisaged, but marked by twists, turns, and moments of exhilaration.
The call to adventure
Our spiritual adventure arises from a profound call echoing within us, a longing for meaning and a yearning for connection. An insistent energy drives us to seek answers beyond the boundaries of the material world. Whatever form it takes, this pull encourages us to step out of our comfort zones and explore the astonishing possibilities that lie ahead. With a sense of curiosity, we muster the courage to take our first step onto the path of spirituality. It’s thrilling and scary all at once. We stand at the edge of the unknown, unsure of what’s coming next. Yet we feel drawn forward by some mysterious force. With a mix of nervousness and anticipation, we take a leap of faith, trusting that our Master will guide us through the twists and turns ahead.
Navigating the ups and downs
‘Lifestyle’ is a term that encompasses the choices we make, the habits we form, and the way we navigate our daily existence. Our routines, rituals and relationships reflect who we are and what we value. At the heart of spiritual transformation lies a conscious decision to embrace a lifestyle rooted in ethics and spiritual values. The spiritual path is a quest for self-discovery, aligning our actions with the goal of God-realization. Yet, like any great adventure, it is not without challenges, and we may find ourselves struggling with turbulent emotions.
Transitioning to a lacto-vegetarian diet isn’t just about swapping burgers for broccoli; it’s a radical shift in perspective, inviting us to see all living beings as equal. Giving up our favourite comfort foods can feel like bidding farewell to old friends. However, with every bite of leafy greens and each sip of lemonade, we nourish our bodies and minds. Our meals become a celebration of life and compassion.
Next is the social scene. We say goodbye to that glass of wine and hello to a clear mind and a happy heart. It’s not always easy to resist letting loose, especially when family and friends raise their glasses in an illusion of celebration. But the real celebration begins when we are fully present and in tune with our inner selves.
And let’s not forget that decisive showdown – battling our inner demons, those pesky habits and tendencies that hold us back from reaching our full potential. It may be the urge to tell a white lie or the temptation to take the easy way out and skip our meditation. We’ve all been there. The struggle against dishonesty, laziness, greed and pride is a battle with our minds. But our secret weapon is the teachings of a true living master. We turn to him when the going gets tough, finding strength and solace in the Sant Mat teachings. His guidance is a constant source of comfort and reassurance, helping us navigate the challenges of our spiritual journey.
The struggle with the mind is universal when it comes to lifestyle changes. With it comes the pull of old habits, fear of the unknown, and the discomfort of stepping outside of our comfort zones. There will be setbacks when we feel like we can’t seem to keep it together. But we need to remember that struggle is part of our journey. By facing our fears, we grow, and our faith strengthens.
As in a thrilling rollercoaster ride, we experience exhilaration, fear, and moments when we want to hide and cry. Even so, we need to hold on tight, especially during those moments of weakness, knowing that with every effort we make, our Master is helping us to tame our pride and shed the layers of habit that hold us back, bringing us ever closer to self-realization.
Embracing the thrill of the ride
Mind is the biggest challenge – the master of distraction – yet we cannot function without it. Until we still our thoughts, we are controlled by our wants and attachments. Just as a rollercoaster can leave us feeling dizzy and disoriented, our minds can also wander off track and make us lose focus on what matters.
Staying committed to the path is challenging, but we need to remain focused. What helps us stay focused? It is the teachings, the timeless wisdom handed down by the masters through the ages. We are not alone on this rollercoaster ride of life; our Master is alongside us, offering his grace and mercy. Our fellow seekers of truth are here with us, all working towards the same goal of God-realization. In their company, we find strength, support, and encouragement to persevere on the path. Surrounding ourselves with like-minded people, attending satsang, dedicating ourselves to seva, immersing ourselves in Sant Mat literature, and, most important, engaging in regular meditation practice help us stay grounded and navigate life with purpose, steadily moving towards the divine truth. The camaraderie we experience with our spiritual companions is a comforting reminder that we are not alone on this journey.
The final destination: union with the divine
The journey of spiritual awakening is not about seeking something external or finding God. It is the inward realization that he has been with us all along. This realization transforms our struggles into meaningful experiences, as he slowly opens our awareness within. Each obstacle we face will no longer be a hindrance but a stepping stone. Each step we take with faith, love and devotion brings us closer to this realization. Our struggles are not in vain; they are the very means through which we can experience and realize unity with the divine.
Just as a rollercoaster eventually returns to its starting point, so does the soul return to its eternal home in the loving arms of the Lord. In his presence, there is no more striving, no more seeking – only true inner peace, love and unity. The rollercoaster of spiritual transformation will end when we realize our unity with the source of all existence – the resounding, radiant light of divine love.