The first three verses of Chapter 16 of the Bhagavad Gita, one of the holy yogic texts, lists "divine endowments": fearlessness, devotion, purity of heart, abiding in the Spirit, charitable giving, self-restraint, holy offerings, study of sacred texts, austerity, and uprightness.
The list continues: Non-violence, truthfulness, absence of anger, renunciation of wrong desires, serenity and freedom from finding fault. Finally, compassion for all beings, absence of cravings, gentleness, modesty, steadiness, vigor, forgiveness, fortitude, freedom from malice and pride.
This is a larger list than the one we have in our scriptures. I find it interesting to contemplate those that are added. In the yogic tradition, it is assumed that you can cultivate all the good qualities on the list through meditation. One way to experience your true Self is to be alone and quiet. Inquire of yourself, "Who am I at my innermost being." You are not the mind which is subject to being changed and modified. You are not your moods which are also changeable. You are not your personality, "the mask" you present to others. And you are not your body which is going through its deterioration process and will eventually cease to exist.
Although these aspects of yourself have changed, You have not. Here is an exercise that allows you to reach that Self. Meditate to the stage of alert, tranquil awareness. Rest there for a little while, then go more deeply into the silence. Think about God. Contemplate the energy field that He emanates which is identical with the essence of your being. Merge with that field and feel the oneness that is possible with God.
It is wonderful to remember that our deepest selves are in us, more wise and empowered than we normally think about ourselves. Thanks.
ReplyDelete