Humanity in the body exists because of the soul; without the soul, there is no humanity. Thus, the soul and body are distinct. When the mind feels bored, we say, “I am bored.” When the mind seeks rest, the soul instructs it to work. Effort belongs to the mind, not to the soul. The mind and the soul are separate entities.

When life identifies with itself, it claims everything as ‘I.’ But this is not the reality; it is the deceptive nature of the mind. Life has entered the body for its fulfillment. You, the body, and the mind are separate. However, we mistakenly perceive them as one. Both the body and soul are inert like wood. Only ‘you’ possess consciousness. How can the conscious and the inert be considered one? The body and mind function differently, and ‘you’ exist on a higher plane.

We do not feel worried when another’s house catches fire, but we panic if our own house burns. This reveals our irresponsibility, where a sense of duty needs to be established. All principles are meant for practice, not mere preaching. They must be experienced firsthand. Words alone cannot lead to true realization.

Just as one cannot master cycling without falling and getting up repeatedly, maturity requires persistent practice. Initial struggles are inevitable, but with consistency, everything becomes effortless.

 

~ Sri Sugunendra Theertha Swamiji of Paryaya Sri Puthige Sri Krishna Matha

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