Obstacles in the Path of Dhyanam

The sadhaka should avoid the difficult obstacles in the path of dhyanam, (concentration) viz. anger, pride, conceit, the tendency to discover the faults of others, mischief, etc.

The sadhaka must be vigilant not to lose his temper on even small things, for that will block his progress. The sadhaka must welcome gladly the announcement of his defects by anyone. The sadhaka must, by inward observation, examine the mind and its contents and condition. By proper disciplinary habits, he should remove the accumulated dirt, little by little, systematically. The sadhaka must minimize all discussion and argumentation, for this breeds a spirit of rivalry and leads one on to angry reprisals and vengeful fighting. Do not struggle to earn the esteem of the world. Do not feel humiliated or angry when the world does not recognize you or your merits. Learn this first and foremost if you are an aspirant for spiritual success.

Digest, pp. 253-254

The sadhaka (spiritual aspirant) who is earnest for the results, has to be ever vigilant. The senses might at any moment, regain their lost mastery, and enslave the individual.

Digest, p. 253

Prasanthi is as the backbone to each individual and for the sadhaka, it is as the very breath. The syllable ‘pra’ in pra-santhi means expanding, enlarging, and so prasanthi means that type of santhi (peace). That is to say, the absence of desire and anger, greed, and hatred. Prasanthi means success in the elimination of these qualities… the process called sama (control of the senses) is very essential for all. The sadhaka must be constantly engaged in practicing it.

Digest, p. 223

Be steady in sadhana (spiritual discipline) and never hesitate once you have decided on it. When the bus is moving on, the dust will be floating behind as a cloud. It is only when it stops with a jerk that the dust will envelope the faces of the passengers. So keep moving, keep steadily engaged in sadhana, then the cloudy dust of the objective world will not cover your face.

Digest 2, p. 313

Whoever has the enthusiasm, steadfastness, and the determination to reach the goal will certainly succeed. Cultivate that faith in ultimate success; never despair or cavil or doubt. This is My advice to one and all. Success is your birthright and you must get it, sooner rather than later.

Digest, p. 285