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Life of an aspirant
97
animal that is led to graze by its master in the field. However tempted the animal may feel to stop and chew the luscious grass, it moves straight on without daring to succumb. Why? Is this restraint? Has he become a yogi? No, this is not restraint, it is fear. The fear of the cowherd's cane keeps him steadfast on his path. An Ācārya has stated in Sanskrit:
He who has overcome his impulses is one, who in the face of rampant corruption, immense material and sensual temptation remains calm and unaffected.
Even in an untoward situation, his worldly impulses remain dormant. Such detachment is possible only when one has earnestly and absolutely renounced from within. Such a renunciation is not an external garb. It is born not out of anger, greed or bitterness towards life, but from discrimination and vigilance. It is a true awakening of the soul.
How can we initiate a spiritual revolution in today's world? Are changes in impulses and values necessary? Yes, they are. The thought process and vision prevalent in the present day sādhanā is not a healthy one, for it is directed by cowardice; it is false renunciation caught in the clutches of fear and shame. There is a need for change and revolution. A change in vision can change the universe.
Imagine you find your child indulging in an unhealthy habit like smoking. What would your first impulse or reaction be? Either you will resort to anger or you will say, "What are you doing? What will people say?"
The very statement-“what will people say" - stems from fear of others rather than concern for a loved one. Such logic cannot change nor squash his negative impulse. It can only suppress it and create the impulse of fear in him. By creating the fear of social disapproval in his mind you have encouraged him to follow his impulse, in this case to smoke, in hiding. Your intention may be to inspire him to think ethically, but your reason and logic fail to prepare an ethical grounding for him.
8
vikāra-hetau sati vikriyante yeşām na cetānsi ta eva dhīrā
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