Embarking on a spiritual journey of transformation requires great courage and honesty; it is not for the faint-hearted. As we progress and have to deal with the less attractive elements of our own personality, we can often miss the signals that are alerting us to change something from within. One of the main signals that can emerge is that of anger. When we know that something is true, that it needs our attention, but we do not at that moment have the power or will to face it, then anger in the form of disappointment or frustration can emerge. These eruptions of anger or other damaging vices are in fact signs that more self-compassion is needed. It is only when we can see clearly, how we are, and where we are, that we can deal with whatever it is that is making us unhappy, and make sincere efforts to work on ourselves.
The negative thinking patterns we have acquired have been created due to past hurts over several lifetimes. These have become so ingrained in our personality that it is very difficult to see them all. It is a blessing that they seem to emerge one after the other, when new situations trigger them, rather than all at once.
It is at these times that we need to foster a truly loving relationship with ourselves. This can only be generated by the understanding that we are souls and not the body, labels or roles that the body has assumed during this particular lifetime. In meditation, and with a connection with the Divine, we can experience the self to be the eternal light that we are, and with peace and Divine compassion, recognise what needs to be done to heal our spiritual self.
Spiritual power is needed for change and letting go. First, we need to spend time seeing our own value, appreciating our contribution, and recognising what efforts we have already made. Then, with the intention to heal, and with sincerity and compassion, we can acknowledge and accept whatever mistake we have made and seek forgiveness from God, the One who knows each one completely. In that request for forgiveness lies the space for true realisation. Until this cycle of forgiveness is completed, there can be no moving on. It is in silence and introversion, in communion with the Divine, that we can complete the cycle.
It is only at the level of heart that we are able to find this self-love and acquire the loving kindness to serve others from the heart. To give fully from our hearts, we need a true and clean heart, and to serve in a selfless way. We must be merciful, respond with respect, that is with love and truth, and see the self and others through our highest consciousness.
Aashish Patel works in IT and coordinates Brahma Kumaris activities at the Lighthouse Retreat Centre, Worthing, UK.