---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: sangeetha sundarajan <sangeetha.krsna@gmail.com>
Date: Tue, 30 Mar 2010 20:36:46 +0530
Subject: Fwd: If you find yourself struggling with chanting or the
four regulative principles.
To:
*Tips for the Struggle*
If you find yourself struggling with chanting or the four regulative
principles, don't be alarmed, it is natural and to be expected for any
individual who makes sacrifices (mental or physical) in order to progress
spiritually. In fact, expect challenges as you move forward, be prepared for
them and gradually work through them rather than evade them, otherwise they
will only come back again and again. *Find your own level of manageable
practice, even though initially it may appear to be a compromise, gradually
work up to the ideal, it may take weeks……., months………, or even years! But,
sincerely persevere and the Lord within the heart will reciprocate.*
*
*Whenever there is a human impulse, our tendency is to respond immediately
without even contemplating the outcome. In reality there exists a short
moment between an impulse and a response, catch yourself during this short
moment, think first, then act. If this thinking is based on principled
directions (or scripture), you will succeed in holding back the force of
unwarranted impulses.
*Remember, whilst striving for the highest spiritual principles, we still
have responsibilities to our spouses, children and friends. We must be
conscious of their needs before imposing our own*.
In all cases of upholding any vows,* the key principle is DESIRE*, half of
the battle is won if we ourselves make a conscious decision to follow a
practice rather than feel obliged to do so – so desire it!
*Things to do*
· Pray to Krishna for strength and direction. · Learn to take shelter in
chanting, this will help to transform your heart. · Find your own
maintainable level of devotional practice, one which will gradually enable
you to reach the ideal rather than an unrealistic and unachievable end which
will only frustrate you. · *Associate with those who have a slightly higher
level of practice than you do (those who are also struggling but maintaining
higher standards). · Practice some level of self discipline, it is the
genuine path to higher enjoyment.*
*-- HH Bhakti Tirtha Swami Maharaj *
* Please do not print this email unless it is absolutely necessary. *
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