It is often said that our mind is our best friend, but it can equally be our worst enemy. It all depends on the thoughts we hold in our mind. Currently many people are finding that their minds are in a state of great fluctuation. One moment bright and sunny and the next moment, gloomy and overcast, or even stormy. Hardly surprising that the weather is reflecting all this fluctuation and seems to be constantly unstable. Of the four living entities in our world, the human beings, the animal kingdom, the plants and vegetation, and the salts, minerals and elements, only the human being has the benefit and opportunity to be spiritual. It is this ability which, if enough human beings turn to it, will affect the other three living entities and bring about a change to stability and beauty in our world.
In fact, the world situation at this time is such that unless I find a way to access my real inner self, the spiritual being that I am, and connect deeply with that, I will not be able to help myself and no-one else will be able to help me. Of course, on the external level, medicine, possessions, and friends will certainly be able to do so, but only for a short time. I need to master my mind, access the highest part of me, so that I can not only see clearly what to do for myself, but am also able to help others around me.
Mastering the mind has nothing to do with control. Just as if I try to help and guide a small child who is yearning for independence, my hand will be pushed aside when offered. The child wants to run and explore, charge around on impulse and often meet with a mishap. However, reasoning and gentle discipline works wonders, with small children and also with my mind that is constantly running around.
The mind is an organ of the soul, in the same way that the eyes are organs of the physical body. The eyes are created to see. However, I can choose what I see and give attention to. I do not control my eyes, I discipline them for my own well-being. In the same way, I must learn to choose what I think and gently discipline the mind to think in the most beneficial way for my own well-being and that of others.
The three faculties of the mind are, the conscious mind, which is concerned with the five senses. The subconscious mind, which records everything I think and do and never forgets, remains hidden to a certain extent, but has a great influence on my present moment, and the superconscious mind.
The superconscious mind is at a level of awareness beyond the physical and material reality, and it is where all spiritual experiences are to be found. It is in this realm of consciousness that all treasures of true knowledge and awareness are accessible and when I know how, I can tap into this awareness whenever I wish, and bring the light of understanding to my everyday life. It is through the silence of meditation that we access our super consciousness. Each day can begin with calm and before I begin the tasks and activities, I can sit quietly, and become silent inside. This is how I create a relationship with my own true self, and experience the wealth of love, purity, and peace within and recharge the spirit. When I practise this daily, for as many moments throughout the day as I can, I will see how the impossible becomes possible.
Pratibha Patel is the Asst. Regional Director of the Brahma Kumaris in Nairobi, Kenya.