Power is a key factor in achieving success in any task. The stronger we are, the more success we achieve. Power or strength can be physical, intellectual, financial or social in terms of one’s relationships and social network. These powers are needed to varying degrees at different times. In the absence of even one of them, we may not attain complete or constant success. These four powers are essential for success in spiritual life as well.
A healthy body is a blessing and a healthy soul is even more so. When the soul is healthy, it can take physical ailments in its stride. Then, there are no signs of illness or suffering on the face, nor do we talk to all and sundry about our illness, because doing so actually makes us feel worse. It is one thing to be physically ill and quite another to suffer because of it. Lamenting one’s illness not only dampens our spirits, but it also spreads a wave of sorrow around us, affecting those who come in contact with us. Remaining calm and content, on the other hand, keeps us and others stable.
The powers to tolerate and to adjust to difficult situations help at such times. When we use these powers at the right time, the experience makes us wiser and better able to face difficult situations in future. They act like medicine as well as nourishing food that makes us stronger.
So, spiritual health helps us feel physically healthy as well. The higher the quality of our self-awareness, the better we feel about ourselves and others. If we think that we can easily cope with any situation, we will be able to do so. On the other hand, if we just mope about our problems, we will always be looking to others for help and support. Can such a person be happy? They will always be complaining about something or the other.
The power of wealth includes material wealth as well as knowledge. Knowledge, in fact, helps us earn material wealth and use it wisely for the self and others, which in turn brings great satisfaction and goodwill.
The power of relationships or the ability to connect with others with genuine care and respect earns us their love and cooperation. Cooperation received during times of need makes even difficult tasks easy. But the basis of good relationships is having a healthy relationship with the self, in which one recognises one’s true identity as a soul, a child of God and sees others in the same way. This spiritual awareness removes the barriers created by our physical identity—of race, nationality, religion and social status. Only one who has risen above these can attains self-mastery and serve others selflessly.
B.K. Geeta is a Rajyoga teacher at the Brahma Kumaris headquarters in Abu Road, Rajasthan.