Two Core Problems on the Spiritual Path 1. Tamas (Inertia) Inability to follow through on what we know is right like not waking up early poor habits and lack of discipline. There is a behavior mismatch. When dealing with tamas,…
Introduction Yatra comes from Ya which means “to go” – the mind being moved, not the body. Any yatra has a high impact when it is uncomfortable. Re-orienting ourselves to these virtues: Communal Reflection question: How can we be less…
Question 1: Self-awareness is better than self-consciousness. Beyond contemplation, how do we build self-awareness? And what do we do when we feel self-conscious? Answer: Self-consciousness comes from misidentification. We “measure” ourselves (mana) and then we praise ourselves or get praise…
Introduction When the functional is fundamental, that is living by dysfunction. It shows interdependence but it becomes dysfunctional when we start to depend on that which is not dependable. Small “i” independence is to say “no” more to buying more,…
Introduction Viveka = the faculty of discriminationThe ability to distinguish between: Key Analogy: Birds in the snow ate seeds but left stale bread behind. Even birds have discrimination. But humans have greater capacity — we can use discrimination not just…
Introduction A framework for dvaita / advaita is the sādhana-catuṣṭaya. Catuṣṭaya means an expression of four. Sādhana (self-development practices) makes you feel the sadhya (the finality, freedom). For a beginner seeker, sādhana brings about qualities like viveka, vairagya etc. For…
Introduction Prompt: Of all teachings on oneness, which one is most profound and you’re actively practicing? Shared reflections Vivekji’s synthesis: Many reflections converge on acceptance as the lived expression of tapa making life’s hardness feel soft inside. Dialogue (Q&A) Q:…
Introduction Being a good listener is invaluable. Requires sincere effort and practice. The better a listener one is, the better one knows their own strengths and weaknesses. Active listening checklist: Questions to reflect on: What have you learned based on…
Question 1 Choosing Company Without Judging Q: We’re taught to keep good company (satsang) to grow, but we’re also told to reduce judgment, likes, and dislikes. How do I know someone is “not good company for me” without slipping into…
Introduction In the Prasna Upanishad (Upanishad means to be near, with determination to change and Prasna means to ask), there are 6 students who come from afar to ask a question to the guru. The guru says before you ask…
