Freedom from fear: Faith, Purity and self realization

 

If someone believes that there is no higher power, no Parmatma, guiding us with wisdom, then surely, they must at least accept the presence of a Mahatma—an enlightened soul. If not even that, then how is it that our lives naturally improve on their own? If you lack even this basic faith, why do you try to undermine ours? Is the responsibility for our actions yours or ours? Today, people struggle to take responsibility for their own lives and actions, as seen in the prevalence of disease, sadness, and vice. So how can anyone claim responsibility for the lives of others? Those who make such claims often have not perfected their own lives, so why should anyone trust that they can improve the lives of others?

When we follow the guidance that brings us purity and peace, and we witness these improvements in our own lives, why should we abandon this path in favor of what others say? Do you truly understand the complex nature of actions and their consequences? If you have not experienced the path we walk, how can you justify interrupting us based on others’ opinions? A wise person observes, thinks, and then draws conclusions. What faults do you see in our lives that warrant your interference? Do you consider virtues like purity, brahmacharya (celibacy), discipline, fasting, and righteousness to be bad? If that is your view, then we would rather hold on to God and purity, even at the cost of our lives.

We regard critics as friends because their criticism motivates us to improve our character and actions. Through this, we believe some of our past wrongdoings are absolved. By first consulting our own minds, filling our souls with the strength of yoga, and then speaking with kindness, respect, strength, and fearlessness, we can break down the walls of social reputation or free ourselves from certain bonds. Remembering the ever-powerful Parmatma and our own inner strength dissolves timidity and fear. Even if our fate seems bound, we can transform a prison created by those with negative intentions into a ‘Yog hut’—a place of spiritual practice—by focusing our minds on the Supreme Father and praying for enlightenment.

Ultimately, understand that others can bind only our bodies, not our minds. If someone tries to imprison us physically, we can still free ourselves mentally through remembrance of God. This courage helps us overcome fear and pass the tests life presents us with.