It is worthwhile for those aiming to live a fulfilling life through spiritual practices to check their inclinations: Do they like being surrounded by sounds or silence? In silence we can attain a powerful state that will serve many souls.
We need to see if we can make the mind silent in a moment or if it takes considerable time and effort to become stable in silence. The best way to end any upheaval in the mind is to go into silence.
It is easy to speak about meditation, but unless we practise and experiment with it, we will be unable to experience an elevated life. Without practice, we cannot acquire the power that comes from regular meditation, and we will find it difficult to deal with challenging situations.
We will also be bereft of courage, which is essential for a spiritual life. The main weakness of many who take to the spiritual path is that they do not practise what they have learnt, and are content to just speak about it.
Just as those doing serious research remain deeply engrossed in their work, one needs to be busy experimenting with and experiencing the truth of what one has learnt.
What is the power of tolerance? What do we attain from this power? How do we use this power? What kind of problems do we face when we are devoid of this power? Which situations test our power to tolerate?
When we reflect in this way, we become mentally prepared to face tests in real life, and will not fail. Cultivating a habit of such reflection also frees us from waste thoughts.
Yoga means connection with God. Remembering God is said to be easy, but do we find it easy or just say that it is so? Why is it easy? Do we know the answer to this? Applying spiritual knowledge in our life, and regular meditation, are what will bring clear understanding and power. One who has this power and deep love for God can easily face any problem.
When we just skim the surface of spiritual knowledge, virtues and powers, we feel happy and energised for a while, but to retain the vigour and joy all our life, we need deeper engagement. That will bring valuable insights and spiritual strength which will free us from self-made limitations and sorrows and enable us to live a life of bliss.
B.K. Dr Savita is a senior Rajyoga teacher at the Brahma Kumaris headquarters in Abu Road, Rajasthan.