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THE MYSTERIES OF MIND
Concentration of the mind and a new channelization of the vital energy not only enable us to enter into new spatial realms but also to travel in time other than the present i.e. the past and the future. The practitioner can transcend the limitations imposed on him by time and space. It is for the practitioner to decide what exactly he wants to achieve. If his aim is very high, he will no longer be interested in small things.
Ramakrisna Paramahamsa said to Vivékänand, "You are short of financial resources. Go to godess Kali and seek her help." Vivekananda went to the temple of the godess, stood before her and began to meditate. He did so for a number of days. He could not speak to the godess about his difficulty. After a few days Ramakrisna asked him, "Did you pray to the godess to get rid of your financial difficulty ?" The latter replied that his financial difficulty was such a small thing that he felt shy to speak of it to the godess.
Great spiritual practitioners never had the intention to produce miracles. Only those who did not practise selfexertion and belonged to a mediocre category took interest in miracles. They remained satisfied with pleasing and impressing the masses. Their sadhana aimed only at giving boons or inflicting losses on others. It was with this yardstick that they measured their powers. Such practitioners create a sense of awe among the masses. It is awe which compels the ignorant to seek their help. These practitioners do not lead a happy life but miserable in the end. Ultimately they begin to denounce their art.
Speculators often tell people not to take to the dirty business of speculation. They begin to criticise themselves and say that it was due to their weakness that they speculated. Those who try to employ their mental powers in achieving trifling material gains fare no better. Attracted by small Siddhis or supernatural powers they turn away from their grand aim. It is due to our inclinations that we choose either spiritual exertion or miracles. The journey to miracles is an external journey whereas the journey to self-realization is an internal journey. Mental powers can be aroused by both the journeys. The difference between the two is a difference in direction and in the use to which we put our mental powers.
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