Thoughts are spiritual lifts that take us up or down. With our thoughts we can attain an elevated state of consciousness. The ability to use the power of thought at will to reach a high stage is the sign of a powerful soul.
The soul, or the mind, is the creator of thoughts, and strong souls are always aware of this, so they have mastery over their thinking. They are neither influenced by their thoughts, nor do they struggle to focus their mind.
The subtle and easy way to serve others is to help them still their restless mind with the stability of noble thoughts. A lot of people in the world desperately want their wandering intellect and unruly mind to become quiet. To help them, we first need to have control over our mind. The ultimate stability comes from having full faith in the Supreme. That removes all doubt, fear and worry, and frees us from attachment to transient joys which eventually lead to disappointment.
To achieve that steadiness, and help others do so, we have to stop waste thoughts and cultivate a habit of creating pure thoughts; secondly, keep moving forward, crossing any hurdles on the way without much fuss.
Obstacles on the path of self-development scare many people because they forget that such impediments are inevitable. They are tests of one’s faith and ability that show where one stands.
“Why do I face these problems?”, “Why am I influenced by the atmosphere?”, “Why do these old weaknesses still come up?” We get entangled in such questions, which consume our time and energy and weaken our faith.
The truth is that the higher one goes, the tougher the going gets. The difficulties are meant to upskill us, make us stronger and wiser, not bring us down. If we think about the solution instead of brooding over the problem, we will become free from obstacles.
And why are we influenced by a negative atmosphere? We forget that we are the ones who create any atmosphere with our attitude. When we remember that we have the power to change the vibrations of any place, we will not be influenced by them.
Some people also complain that their family and companions do not cooperate with them. Every soul is unique and has their own role to play in the world. If someone’s nature or behaviour is not very good, the best we one can do is to have good wishes and pure feelings for them.
When we look only at their flaws, we become upset. The correct response is dispassionate empathy, not fear or dislike. We are disturbed by the company of a weak soul when we do not keep the company of the Supreme. One who remains in His remembrance cannot be coloured by any other company.
To serve others, create a happy atmosphere with your attitude, and inspire them by transforming your life.
B.K. Sheilu is a senior Rajyoga teacher at the Brahma Kumaris headquarters in Mount Abu, Rajasthan.