Chitrabhanu Man with Vision

Author(s): Clare Rosenfield
Publisher: Jain Meditation International Centre New York

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his ego, he revealed his real strength.
The statue's powerful energy appealed to Rup. It was a reflection of his own youthful vigor and high ideals. It made him aware of the vast power of the human spirit. He pondered its meaning and felt its presence.
This huge statue has a lot to say to us. For years we are told that we are mere mortals, determined by the course of the stars and planets. Well, I do not agree. A chart of my life was made at birth, but have I ever read it? No! Will I ever be tempted to read it? No! Why? Because I will chart out my own life. That is what this image means to me. It is telling - "You are not a pygmy. You have inner strength and willpower. You too can bring out what is hidden in you. But the ultimate power must come from egolessness, from understanding."
After that experience, whenever Rup saw his mind start to become weak, he thought of the statue and envisioned that mighty strength in him. He used this experience to inspire him to feel continually his inner height.
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Struggle for Life
There comes a time in everyone's life when a quest for truth is awakened and the Self is ready to take a definite leap forward. It may be seen as a call to service, a longing for unity, an urge to live for a higher purpose. Often it comes in the form of a test, an adversity, a struggle. It is a process of purification. Matter bows down and spirit comes forth. Like the sun break-ing through a darkened sky, our life force evaporates the clouds. Until a flower gives up its protective outer covering, it does not bloom. In the same way, when we stop clinging to weaknesses, we are free to reveal our innocence, our innate beauty and purity.
The process occurs gradually over many years, many lifetimes. Each confrontation, each test lets in a little more light.
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