How Do You Give Direction and Meaning to Your Life?
Life is a journey, and for many, finding direction and meaning becomes a quest. As one individual might feel that God is guiding them, leading them with commands, and helping them realize their true purpose, others might seek spiritual pathways, such as asceticism. Asceticism offers a way to transform one's existence and find inner peace and purpose.
Conceiving Your Path in Life
Many find their path in life through divine guidance or personal introspection, leading them to embrace asceticism. Sannyasa, or renunciation, is the ultimate goal for ascetic initiates. To achieve sannyasam is not a matter of digging or seeking but of letting go. Translating to 'freedom from' or 'release from,' sannyasam provides a pathway to salvation, leading to the liberation of the mind.
The Upanishad envisions the mind as the cause of both bondage and salvation. True freedom lies in the acceptance of the Sannyas Ashram by practicing vairagya (detachment). This mental maturity is the key to true liberation, where the six chakras (centers of energy) in the body are balanced, and one experiences the bliss and stillness of the enlightened mind.
The Path of True Renunciation
A true example of living this path can be seen in the story of Bhavesai Bhandari from Gujarat. Possessing immense wealth, they chose to let go of it all, donating their entire fortune valued at two hundred crores of rupees to charitable organizations. With this act of extreme renunciation, they aim to embrace the life of a wanderer, living by begging from now on. Their decision is a testament to the belief that true happiness and fulfillment come from within.
The Role of Asceticism in Life
Asceticism is not merely about physical hardship, but it is the fruit of a life filled with mature dispassion. To practice asceticism is to let go of material pleasures, emotional attachments, and sorrows neatly and perfectly. It is a profound method to quiet the mind and achieve inner tranquility.
The ultimate goal of asceticism is to attain a state of Jivanmukta, or one who is free while living. This state of enlightenment is reached through a series of stages, including Tirakasanta, where the mind becomes the cause of bondage or salvation. The practice of vairagya leads to the final step, where one experiences the sound of a bell ringing in the heart, symbolizing the balance of the chakras.
Practical Steps for a Meaningful Life
While the journey of asceticism can be profound, it is not the only path to fulfillment. Life's purpose is often to lead us towards happiness, though the outcome may not always be immediate or obvious. It is suggested to spend time reflecting on activities that bring joy and happiness. By listing these activities and prioritizing them, one can ensure that their actions align with their true desires and ultimate happiness.
In essence, whether through divine guidance, spiritual practices, or personal reflection, the pursuit of meaning in life is a continuous journey. Letting go, practicing patience, and following one's heart can lead to a more fulfilling and meaningful existence.