Inner self: Building Bridges To Inner Country  

By GURUMAYI CHIDVILASANANDA  

Inner self: Building Bridges To Inner Country  

The mysteries of the universe fascinate every human being. As we observe its manifold phenomena, we marvel at how this entire process of creation came about and wonder if we can ever fully understand what it is all about. We see the innumerable stars in the night sky, and we want to discover those distant worlds. When we see a bird flying in the sky so effortlessly, we too want to soar high.

Everything that our senses see, hear, smell, taste and touch is fascinating. Our natural propensity is to go searching for experiences outside, in the external world. But if we go looking for knowledge only on the outside, we will never discover what is inside of our self. And if we do not understand what is inside, we are cut off from our life force like a branch that has broken off from a tree and which withers on the ground right next to its roots.

If we go on looking for knowledge only on the outside, then we will not feel anything within. Sooner or later, life just evaporates. We know there is something greater within our inner selves, and we want to experience it - the most significant thing is to know this inner being and to become comfortable with our own inner treasures. The inner world is full of light, full of bliss. There is no place here for darkness.

When you make the inner country your home, when you realise the abundance of this realm, you are able to live with greater self- esteem, greater understanding of what happens in the universe, and can feel deeper compassion for what happens in the ordinary world. You are able to perceive the world with greater tolerance because deep compassion wells up from within. You see this world as the fullness of love. The inner country is the true support of all living beings. It is the source of all the goodness that exists in the world. It is the foundation of a balanced state of mind.

Let us begin building this bridge to the inner country right now. It will not be fashioned from anything you can collect from outside. The philosophy of Kashmir Shaivism says that Consciousness has created this entire world out of itself. You will be building your bridge to the inner country in the same way: out of your own Consciousness. As you are building the bridge, you may be aware only of your own efforts. The signs of progress may be quite subtle, but the outcome will be very satisfying.

Remember that grace is with you. You are not alone. It is not a tedious effort; it is actually delightful. If someone could put sweets right into your stomach, would you be able to appreciate them? No. So the efforts you make to build this bridge to the inner country are truly wonderful, and they are needed.

One of the things you come to understand when you have lived in this world for some years is that you have to be in touch with your self: only then will this world mean anything to you. Therefore, build a bridge to the inner country. When you meditate, you open your entire being to your inner experiences.

Each one has the right to reclaim their inner country, to regain the power of this inner country. In that place everything is pure. This world is ever fresh and endlessly rejuvenating. It is free from any samskaras, impressions of the world outside. And we can travel to this country over and again, and learn to come from that dwelling place. Then, we are not subject to mental suffering or any kind of suffering. In fact, we can share this light with the world.

Anyone can meditate and anyone can experience the inner light. Baba Muktananda said, quite emphatically, that it really doesn't matter what vocation you have, who you are or where you come from. You are a child of God and you have the right to experience God from within. Then, you come to know the true worth of a human being. You understand the real significance of spiritual knowledge and why you must have knowledge of the inner self.

It is so important to live in the world with this greater energy, with lightheartedness, so that you are not crushed under the burden of the world. Have great faith in yourself and in spiritual practices. Grace is with you every step of the way on this journey.

By GURUMAYI CHIDVILASANANDA The author is spiritual head of Gurudev Siddha Peeth, Ganeshpuri.

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More from same author see: GURUMAYI CHIDVILASANANDA  

See also: Inner self, Faith and Belief, Spiritual Guidance, God and Religion, Peace on Earth, Peace of Mind, Love and Happiness, Life and Beyond, Body Mind and Soul)