Question: Until objects of enjoyment do not appear before us, our mind remains firm, that we shall not succumb to them. However we become weak when enjoyments confront us! What should we do?
Swamiji: It is a very good question. The intention to avoid succumbing to sense-enjoyments (Bhoga) is certainly a rare quality, indeed! It is a treasured aspiration. It is true human spirit (manushyataa), to turn down the ties of the world and awaken our relation with God, which in reality is the only solid relation.
Till objects do not come in front of us, our mind remains firm that we will not be entangled in the enjoyments (bhogas). Even having the intention and resolution itself, is a matter of great milestone. It is truly an immense quality to not desire sense enjoyments. It is definitely not an ordinary thing. If there be even a little inclination to give up the world and turn towards God, its fruit will not be fleeting, rather it will be everlasting.
“Svalpamapyasaya dharma traayate mahato bhayaat.” (Gita 2:40).
Even ten fold gains of millions, billions, trillions in wealth or “the kingdom of the Three Worlds” is like a tiny spec (nothing) in comparison to this firm resolve, for every bit of it is perishable.
When objects appear before us, we become weak and are easily enticed, so why such is our state? It is because we think of our frailty and easily succumb, out of accumulated bad habits. Having heard in “Satsang” (through good company) and read books, we think of improving, but soon thereafter forget, give up and fall back into our old ways. This habit of reverting to our old ways weakens us. If you have developed good habits such as giving up a bad thing once and for all, or holding fast to a thing that you truly believe and accept, then certainly you would not have been in this miserable plight! Pardon me, do not take it wrong; but this is dilemma indeed! We do not remain stable on the ideas we initially think about. There is not so much vice in the objects or in their acquisitions, as it is in our evil habits. Till there is no firm resolution or determination in you, you will not progress in any field in your life. A very big loss is taking place by spoiling your habits.
You will be blessed if you cultivate the habit of remaining firm on “God is mine”. Under whatever condition or circumstance, only God is mine. The world can never be mine, and will not be mine even now or forever.
to be continued …..
From book “Be Good” by Swami Ramsukhdasji
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