Mysteries of Mind

Author(s): Mahapragna Acharya
Publisher: Today and Tomorrows Book Agency

Page 56

TRANSFORMATION OF PERSONALITY-EQUANIMITY
nciation) with reference to the future and alocană (introspection) with reference to the present. Patanjali, the author of the Yoga Sutras, says that miseries which are likely to happen are to be avoided. The effects of deeds done in the past cannot be said to be undesirable because they have already been experienced and have become spent up. The deeds being done in the present are yet to mature, and, therefore, one should try to observe such deeds mentally. They cannot be stopped because man has to live, and, therefore, he must act. The effects of such deeds are yet to manifest themselves and have not been experienced. It is the future actions whose effects are yet to be experienced which are to be withdrawn from. They alone can be said to be undesirable. Thus one should mentally withdraw himself from past deeds, mentally observe himself from what is being done in the present and avoid future deeds. One need not regret what he had done in the past. The only thing he has to do with reference to the past is to withdraw the soul into its natural habitat. Present deeds are to be critically evaluated and watched. The greatest danger comes from future actions and they have to be avoided if they are likely to be undesirable.
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The transformation of personality is impossible without avoiding the undesirable consequences of future deeds. There is no meaning in sädhanā, if it does not bring about the transformation of personality. The practitioner has to disperse mental inhibitions. At least something has to be done in this respect. I am not talking about the ideal of vitarāga (passionlessness). Anyhow, this ideal has got to be kept in mind. Some kind of inner change has got to be begun. We do experience the succession of joys and sorrows, but the attempts to discipline the self can reach fruition only through the experience of pure joy. The habit to see life as a succession of joys and sorrows will then begin to break.
It is very difficult to remain constantly self-watchful which is possible only after a long practice. Such a practice should, however, be undertaken not carelessly but carefully. One should resolve to act self-watchfully at least for an hour or two daily. He should walk or stand still with the consciousness that he is standing or walking. The mind and actions should go together. The integration of personality is