|
Progress through Constant Remembrance
By meditation we create a temporary lull in our mind and calmness
prevails for the time during which we are in touch with the divine force.
But meditation only at a certain fixed hour is not enough, for we are
thus in touch with the sacred thought only for a while after which we
have no idea of God whatsoever and are for most part of the day away
from the path of service and devotion. This is the reason why often
after years of practice we still find ourselves at the lowest level
of spiritual attainment. What in fact we feel during meditation is only
simplicity and calmness, if we are rightly guided by a capable master.
But an aspirant is generally unable to understand it, for it is beyond
his conception at the early stages. The effect thus being imperceptible,
he often complains that he feels nothing during meditation. This is
chiefly due to the fact that he remains in touch with the divine force
only for a few minutes of practice. Thus the real thing gained during
meditation remains with him only for a while. On the other hand, there
is a man who tries to retain the effect gained by meditation for most
part of the day, and abides in the same state for as long as he can.
He is, in a way, in constant remembrance of God and his progress is
easy and rapid.
Physical ailment is really meant for the cure of spiritual diseases
because thereby it consumes some of the samskaras and increases the
power of endurance as well. One proceeding in the proper manner will
find his spiritual condition much improved by the effect of illness.
Besides, continued thinking of God during the period of illness will
offer him a happy pastime as well.
One who aspires to reach the Goal must be vigilant lest his feet stray
off the path. How to be vigilant? Is it possible to be in the permanent
state of alertness? It is possible. It is constant remembrance. One
in remembrance of the Master keeps his mind on Him and Him alone,
and this automatically and effectively prevents everything else from
coming to the abhyasi's awareness. This is the only sure way of avoiding
all distractions and diversions, and thus of keeping one's feet surely
on the path of progress following in the Divine footsteps of the Great
Master.
|
