Going to Spiritual Extremes

When I met Acharya Shree, which I will definitely create a blog about how it all came together (as many of you have been asking me to write about it), I was allergic to spirituality for three months. I was not able to meditate, think about any teachings, practice yoga, or even say "spiritual stuff" to anyone. I was completely closed off and lost because I wanted enlightenment too fast, too soon, and had too much. Before I met Acharya Shree, I was a very active and extreme practitioner of reading books, yoga, and meditation...too extreme. Any "spiritual tip" I heard of, I incorporated into my practice. "Be Vegetarian. Check!" "Read Bhaghavad Gita. Check!" "Read another 5 books in one week. Check!" However, this was not the best way to start the spiritual path and I crumbled completely because at that time I did not have guidance from a living enlightened master.

Many beginning truth seekers or spiritual people often get a "click" in the beginning of their spiritual path which is in a form of peace, calmness, or inspiration to learn more about themselves and realize Truth. Because of excitement of the possibility for "self-realization", "enlightenment", or "becoming a master", the seeker becomes too extreme in their endeavors, and completely lose track of their original goals.

The Spiritual Path Requires Moderation, too!

When Acharya Shree told me, "slow and steady wins the race." I didn't understand it at first, but I realized while he was explaining the recent phase I had gone through - I was going to fall apart if I didn't slow down, and just relax.

Patience on the spiritual path is key. Ever since the first meeting, I learned to slow down, forget my goals and expectations of self-realization and enlightenment, and put balanced effort into my path. I would rather take baby steps up to the top of the stairs to prevent falling and enjoy every minute and experience of growing slowly, versus taking a risky leap from the bottom step to the 10th step, with a very high probability I will fall down and hurt myself.

Enlightenment will happen. There is no guarantee for it, nor can the exact moment be determined; but when there are expectations for enlightenment, it will never happen. I noticed when I personally dropped my expectations, a sense of liberation and relaxation have become a part of me. I haven't discontinued putting efforts, I just dropped my expectations - big difference.

Remember, there is no need to rush your spiritual path. Be patient with yourself. Soul is timeless, only the mind becomes impatient. So put efforts on your path, but don't become too extreme in your efforts as you will cause tension. Tension is the opposite of soul, so be relaxed.

With right guidance, patience, understanding and balance you can succeed. :)

*Photo Courtesy V10Online

Question for You: Have you ever had to take a "break" from the spiritual path, because it was too much? How did you get back on track?