Cultivating Fulfillment Through Selfless Work

 
 Cultivating Fulfillment Through Selfless Work

Throughout our lives, we are bound to engage in various forms of action and work. In the context of our industrialized society, the primary driving force behind work often centers on the pursuit of financial gain. Over time, this focus on returns can coarsen our inner lives, leaving us dependent on the outcomes of our efforts.

However, there exist individuals who possess a deep appreciation for work in and of itself. They find intrinsic joy in the act of doing, gaining a profound sense of fulfillment from their endeavors. For them, the rewards stemming from their work take a backseat to simpler forms of recognition, such as a pat on the back or a word of appreciation. This approach is exemplified by a mother tirelessly dedicating herself to her family and children, guided by an innate sense of duty, seeking no extrinsic rewards.

 

Similarly, a student immersed in the process of learning isn't immediately compensated for their efforts. While thoughts of future prospects and career plans may lurk in the background, the present demands their complete absorption and devotion to their studies. They must approach their academic pursuits with a strong sense of duty, transcending personal likes and dislikes to delve deeply into their studies.

But what motivates the transformation of all our actions into "karmayoga" - the yoga of selfless action, where work is executed with a profound sense of duty?

When work is undertaken with this selfless attitude, it tends to yield superior results. We discover an increased wellspring of energy for our tasks, work brings us satisfaction, and we glean valuable lessons from it. Gradually, this approach enables us to perceive the broader tapestry of life, revealing deeper meaning in the everyday aspects we once took for granted. Our self-esteem flourishes, deriving not from the rewards garnered but from the knowledge that we have committed ourselves to our work to the best of our abilities. This enrichment of our inner life through work and action is what's referred to as "Karmayoga."

 The Four States of Consciousness and Their Connection to the Supreme Being

Within the realm of consciousness, there exist four distinct states: the waking state, the dream state, the deep sleep state, and turiya - the state of merging the self into Pure Consciousness. Turiya, in particular, stands as a unique state where the Supreme Being exists in His pure form, much like milk remaining milk and not transforming into curd or butter. It is in this state that the control over the other three forms of consciousness is asserted, illustrating why God is referred to as the master of the three lokas - the three states of consciousness: waking, dreaming, and deep sleep.

 

Each of these states of consciousness possesses its own distinct characteristics:

 

1. **Waking State**: In this state, the conscious mind is at its zenith, and one tends to place greater trust in the truth of those experiences perceived directly by the senses (indriyas) rather than in the products of the mind, such as thoughts.

 

2. **Dream State**: Here, one predominantly believes in the creative power of the mind as the source of truth. The senses do not directly participate in this state.

 

3. **Deep Sleep State**: In this state, both the sense organs and the conscious mind operate indirectly, and one is oblivious to the workings of the mind. The Supreme Being ensures their essential but minimal functioning.

 

In all these states, an individual's capacity to act independently is contingent upon the support of the Supreme Being, who functions as the witnessing and controlling entity for these states. For example, even in the waking state, where your sensory organs may be active, your ability to see and hear is fundamentally provided by the Supreme Being. The Supreme Being can withdraw these faculties at will, underscoring that without His support, we are powerless and incapable of any action.

The activities of the mind, which dominate the dream state, are also subject to the control of the Witnessing Entity. Without God's consent, none of these states of consciousness can manifest. He is the ultimate Witnessing Entity for both individual and collective expressions. While the other three states are relative, the Supreme Being is absolute, representing the ultimate truth - Sadashiva, Eternal Consciousness. He observes every action, thought, and intention, making it impossible to conceal anything from Him.

Therefore, the goal should be to align the inner and outer aspects of the self, harmonizing the inner mind with outward expressions. Every individual possesses two personalities - the inner and the outer. The inner self is simpler, while the outer self often appears more complex and multifaceted.

 

Sadhana, the practice of spiritual discipline, aims to bridge the gap between these two personalities, bringing them into perfect alignment. When inner and outer expressions of consciousness are harmonious with the Supreme Being, duality dissolves, leaving one grounded in enduring peace and greatness. This path, the union of the self with the Divine, is the path of ultimate bliss.

 

IF HE EXIST

 

 I drive joy there was a doctor in Benaras who spent 7 minutes in the morning and evening for mediation on God. Knowing this, his colleagues and friends laughed at him. One day they argued that he was wasting 7 precious minutes on something, which he had been misled into believing. The doctor replied, “Well, if God does not exist, I agree that I am wasting 7 minutes a day. But, if He exists? I am afraid you are wasting your entire lifetime. I prefer to waste 7 minutes rather than a lifetime. Why should you grudge me the 7minutes joy that I derive 4m.-

 

ILLUSTRATED REVIEW :7th heaven moment in world cup India beat Bangladesh by 7 wk.