is real and that we have to think and understand the Truth by ourselves. How are we to do
it, Swamiji?
Reading will help you only to a certain extent. Too much reading will land you in
confusion. You should meditate and concentrate on one particular idea. That particular idea
should serve as the eye-opener. Then alone will you get Vairagya; you will be able to understand
the false nature of things. Take, for instance, the life of Sri Swami Sadasiva Brahmendra of
Nerur. The mere uttering of the word ‘wait’ by his mother, when he asked her to serve food,
inflicted such a blow on his mind and stirred it so well as to make him understand the Reality.
You may be convinced intellectually that the world is false, only God is real and all the
sense-enjoyments bring misery only. But this conviction is not strong. You may think, “Let me
enjoy the sense-pleasures for five minutes”. Thus you are deceived by Maya. All sensepleasures
are sugar-coated pills made by Maya.
You must reflect on such Slokas as “Ye Hi Samsparsaja Bhoga Duhkha Yonaya Eva
Te...”. You should identify with the Higher Self which is infinity, eternity, immortality. Always
think, “Suddhoham, Shantoham, Satchidanandoham”. You will be elevated.
Abhyasa and Vairagya are necessary. Tyaga and Tapas will give you tremendous powers.
Be not cheated by the temporary pleasures of the world -car, property etc. Be not unnecessarily
worried by undue attachment etc. Do your duty and leave the rest to Him. He will take care of
you.
From "May I answer that" by Swami Sivananda (1987-1963). More Informations on Swami Sivananda: on the Website of Divine Life Society, Photographs of Swami Sivananda, German Pages on Swami Sivananda
Comments
Practice kriya yoga techniques.
Yogacharya Tapan Bose