Exploring the Purpose of Our Existence

AUG 21. 2024

It's automatic that when someone curses you, you may respond with anger or even violence. However, if you are elevated like Buddha, with a high level of awareness, you may respond with peace, understanding that it's the other person's problem, not yours.Doing Your BestOne way to approach life is to do your best in every situation. Achieve the best results in the worldly sense. But if the soul, separated from the source and born many times, returns to the same condition, where is the growth? It would be a foolish game played by God if we returned as we came. Instead, through ourspiritual practices (sadhana), we should multiply our soul's potency many times over.The Growth of the SoulLife after life, we can increase the potency of our soul. This is why we meditate—to enrich the soul. Just as we experience physical, mental, and emotional growth, we must also grow spiritually. Hinduism often assumes the soul is changeless and pure, but if it were, why would we need to purify it? Sahaj Marg suggests that the soul's potency should grow infinitely, returning with increased consciousness and awareness.Understanding ConsciousnessConsciousness can be defined as the degree of awareness. The extent to which we are aware—or unaware—matters. Trees, for instance, have a basic level of consciousness, aware of sunlight, oxygen, and carbon dioxide. Humans, however, possess not only awareness but also the ability to respond. Appropriate responses, especially towards loved ones, are crucial.Elevating ConsciousnessOften, our responses to loved ones are erratic, driven by emotions, temperament, and ego. This can spoil relationships, particularly with parents. Elevated consciousness helps us respond appropriately to various situations, enhancing our humanity. When cursed, a high level of awareness allows you to remain peaceful and blissful, understanding that the issue lies with the curser, not you.Multiplying the Soul's PotencyIncreasing our level of awareness, understanding, and responsiveness enhances the potency of our soul. Like being given a million dollars and expected to multiply it, the soul's given potency must also be multiplied. This multiplication gives purpose to life.Emotional ResilienceLife involves emotional ups and downs. Feeling tired, depressed, or sad is part of our existence. There is nothing wrong with crying or feeling sad at times. It's okay to experience these emotions as part of the journey of life.