Ten Days Journey Into The Self

Author(s): Chitrabhanu
Publisher: Jain Meditation International Centre

Page 26

For deep introspection, one needs a peaceful atmosphere. It is only in moments of utter tranquility that one can see what lies buried deep within. In our daily lives there are so many distractions, so many pressures and worries! Even the man who seems so prosperous in the worldly sense is not free from these pressures. On the contrary, the more he concentrates on the means to material prosperity, the greater the tension and worries. Such a man does not have a moment of peace even for a meal; Thus how can he have the time and calm state of mind so necessary for introspection? This is why for all of us meditation is necessary.
And as we concentrate on Namo Arihantanam, overcoming our inner enemies, at first we may find it painful. There is no instant enlightenment, no instant lasting freedom from inner enemies. We are accustomed to instant everything - instant coffee, instant light, instant water, instant photograph; and we want instant enlightenment. if you plant a seed you will not instantly get a tree!
Find what is the shadow blocking the light, if you are not ready to open the door, the sun won't open it for you.
As we meditate, we will open the door, .... our essence will separate from our inner enemies. Our inner enemies will go, and our essence will shine, radiate... We will be
free....
Let us concentrate on the process of becoming free by recognizing and overcoming our inner enemies.
Thoughts
1. Never lose faith in your deep self, the center of your being. 2. Learn to recognize and overcome all inner enemies. Be patient, realizing that seed and character grow slowly and that suffering and error can be used as manure to fertilize your inner garden. 3. Perfection is the inner potential brought by unremitting effort and struggle, to its fullest stature.