Value: Let Go the Ego - March 2025
Third Week: Identify with God & His vision
In the land of Bharat, where many schools of philosophy originated and flourished, each school's perspective is referred to as 'darshan,' which literally means 'vision.' For example, there are 'Yoga darshan' and 'Sankhya darshan.'
Advaita Darshan, as taught by the Rishis in the Upanishads and by Lord Krishna in the Bhagavad Gita, emphasizes the importance of elevating our perspective on life to align with that of the creator. This alignment is essential for living a purposeful life and for liberating oneself from the endless cycle of birth and death.
Release the tendency to label others based on your strong preferences
Diversity is inherent in creation. No two flowers look alike, no two species behave the same way, and similarly, no two individuals think alike. However, humans tend to label others based on differing perspectives.
The ego can negatively emerge when someone disagrees with us, but it also manifests positively in favorable situations. As we interact with others in our daily lives, we often overlook how our minds become preoccupied with this labeling process driven by ego.
It also impacts our decisions, attitudes, behaviors, and reactions. Once certain patterns become established in our psyche, letting go becomes difficult, even with spiritual learning and guidance from knowledgeable individuals.
Notice when you find yourself labeling others around you. Instead, try to see everyone as a reflection of the same divinity that resides within you and in everyone else. Recognize that all the people in your life are there to teach you valuable lessons.
Spend quiet time in nature and acknowledge God's creative power
One of the simplest ways to move past our fixation on individuality or ego is to immerse ourselves in the appreciation of God's creation. Consider this: Flowers bloom for whom? Fruits are not consumed by the trees that bear them!
God's creation brings forth beauty and abundance without concern for who benefits from it. When we emulate this aspect of nature, we not only bring out the best in every action we take, but we also free ourselves from attachment to the outcomes. The ego, which thrives on the concepts of 'doership' and 'enjoyership,' will diminish in that process.
Next time you find yourself in a garden, take a moment to observe the flower as a perfect work of art created by Him. He smiles at you through His creation!
Mirror the love of God that overlooks imperfections in others
Nature does not possess individuality; it is a reflection of God's mind. When we emulate nature, we too become mere reflections of God, allowing His divinity to express itself through us.
A mirror simply reflects the person standing in front of it, without judging their appearance. A saint's mind operates similarly; it responds to those who approach without prejudice or preconceived notions.
When individuals reach the presence of saints, they become aware of their own imperfections and are motivated to overcome them, just as we correct ourselves when we see our reflection in a mirror. Does the mirror encourage you to do so?
March Week 3 Guidance Audio:
