Value: Steadiness- July 2025

Fourth Week: Be steadfast in sadhana

Spiritual paths are numerous, and so are the practices, known as sadhana. In the path of devotion, there are nine prescribed practices. In the path of yoga, the focus is on the daily practice of specific asanas and meditation. In the path of action, the emphasis is on transforming selfish actions into selfless acts dedicated to God. Meanwhile, the path of wisdom involves study, reflection, and contemplation, which lead to a deep abidance in the Self.
 
Regardless of the chosen path and practices, the most important element is steadfastness. Lord Krishna also described the qualities of one who is liberated while living as a person of 'steady' wisdom.

Sadhana is a constant self-effort

You are likely familiar with these two words: prarabdha and purushartha, which translate to destiny and self-effort. Destiny refers to the outcomes of your past actions, while self-effort is how you respond to those outcomes and work to overcome any misunderstandings about yourself and your life. In essence, every spiritual practice (sadhana) is an act of self-effort.
 
Since the results of your past actions come to you without your choice and without interruption, it is essential to engage constantly in the sadhana of self-effort. Imagine standing in the middle of a fast-flowing river; to remain steady, you need to either hold on to something firmly or sit in a boat that moves gently with the current.
 
The path of devotion encourages you to surrender completely to the feet of the Lord, while the path of wisdom can be likened to travelling in a boat of knowledge that helps you navigate the turbulent waters, preventing you from sinking. Lord Krishna advises Arjuna 'सर्वं ज्ञानप्लवेनैव वृजिनं सन्तरिष्यसि'  - you will cross over all the evils with the boat of Knowledge alone.

Be regular in what, when and how you do the sadhana

Once, Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa was approached by a distressed villager. The villager complained that, despite his many efforts, he had been unable to find groundwater in his field for irrigation. Sri Ramakrishna asked how many places he had dug to find the water. The farmer replied that he had tried 10 to 20 spots, digging 10 to 20 feet in each location. 
 
Sri Ramakrishna paused for a moment and said, "If you had dug in one spot as deep as 50 to 60 feet instead of trying many spots, you would have found the water!"
 
Most of us are impatient when it comes to persisting steadily with a chosen practice or sadhana. We want quick results. Our minds have become accustomed to obtaining everything quickly, much like buying desired items online. However, you cannot become proficient in maintaining a steady asana without daily practice. The same principle applies to worship, study, and selfless actions. 
 
Each of us carries the baggage of our past experiences. It will resurface on its own accord. Only through constant self-effort can we prepare ourselves to face the unpredictable and strive for personal freedom. There is no shortcut in sadhana. If you choose the path of action, continue without seeking recognition. In the path of yoga, work on perfecting your posture and often practice sitting with a calm mind. On the path of devotion, surrender everything to the Lord and let go of all worries. Lastly, on the path of knowledge, delve deeply into study and reflection to become fully free of inner urges and confusions.

 Value: Steadiness- July 2025

Third Week: Build confidence

When you go shopping, you often notice various items displayed with price tags attached. You understand that these prices include a profit margin, and the actual cost of producing the product is often much lower. However, when you genuinely need something, you are usually willing to pay the full price because its value enhances your life or work.

 

Now, consider your self-worth. If you have an inflated view of yourself, it's referred to as high self-esteem, while a diminished view is called low self-esteem. Both extremes are undesirable. Many people believe that high self-esteem fosters confidence, but it can sometimes lead to egotism and arrogance. True self-esteem is crucial for living with motivation. So, how can you develop a genuine sense of self-esteem? What is your real worth?

Recognize your areas of weakness

Thinking about your weaknesses can often lead to low self-esteem. You may feel shy and wish that no one notices or talks about your shortcomings, which can result in constant worry. However, closing your eyes doesn’t make the world disappear. Instead, take a moment to list the weaknesses you want to overcome and start working on them. Allow yourself the time you need to improve; it doesn’t have to happen overnight.

 

In the Mahabharata, there is a story about Ekalavya, a tribal boy who was unable to learn from Dronacharya due to his low birth. Despite this, he did not let it deter him. He created an image of Guru Drona and, with great reverence, taught himself archery over the years. Eventually, he even became skilled enough to challenge the skilful archer, Arjuna. He became worthy enough that Dronacharya himself came searching for him!

 

In the Ramayana, we encounter the tale of an uneducated tribal woman who, guided by her Guru, devotedly chanted the name of Sri Rama for many years. She, living alone in a small abode in the forest, never allowed her situation to overwhelm her. In response to her dedication, Sri Rama himself visited her to offer his blessings. 

 

These and many such stories illustrate that it is indeed possible to overcome weaknesses by consistently working on them and seeking the right guidance. Take one at a time and work on it. You become increasingly aware of your worth.

Recognize your areas of strength

No one is born useless. A Sanskrit saying is: अमन्त्रमक्षरं नास्ति नास्ति मूलमनौषधम्। अयोग्यः पुरुषो नास्ति योजकस्तत्र दुर्लभः॥ This translates to: No letter is not a mantra, no plant is without medicinal value, and no person is inherently unworthy; however, finding someone who utilises these qualities well is rare! God has not created anything in this world that is worthless. Discovering your strengths boosts your confidence, and steadily enhancing them should be a joyful endeavour.

 

During my time as a student in the Vedanta course at Sandeepany, I was asked to teach a group of seekers who attended a month-long spiritual camp. When Pujya Gurudev visited to inaugurate the camp, I approached him for his blessings. As it was my first time taking on the role of a teacher, I felt hesitant. He looked into my eyes and said, "Go and share what you know. Speak not from the book; instead, express your own understanding of the subject, fearlessly!" 

His words invigorated my spirit. From that moment on, I never doubted my ability to convey what I had learned to those interested in understanding it. His encouraging words continue to resonate in my mind and serve as a guiding light in my journey toward self-improvement.