Many seekers perform spiritual practice; however, they do not have a goal, such as certain aspects are to be achieved within a specific time. Seekers who have severe spiritual distress feel their distress is so much that having a goal, etc. are a long way off for them. Why is it necessary to have a goal and make efforts in that direction while performing spiritual practice is given ahead.
1. A goal helps restrict the unrestrained mind. As a result, the extent of entangment in many thoughts and Maya (Great Illusion) reduces greatly.
2. A goal helps generate positivity in us. As a result, it becomes easy to counter negative thoughts.
3. When seekers who are suffering from spiritual distress have a goal, attention to their own distress reduces. Hence, their efforts to perform spiritual practice take place with yearning.
4. One experiences satisfaction when the goal is accomplished.
5. Samashti sadhana also improves with the positive vibrations that are generated and emitted in society when we have a goal.
6. Guru and God always say ‘Tathastu’ (So be it). Hence, when we decide on a goal, we get their blessings, and we are able to make efforts in that direction. Therefore, do not worry whether you will be able to make efforts as per the decided goal.
All seekers, including those who suffer from spiritual distress, must have a goal. Those who are facing spiritual distress can have a simple goal; for example, I will pray 20 times-a-day. According to individual ability, one can decide a goal of four days, one week, etc. Review yourself after achieving the goal or give your review to others. Do not decide another goal before achieving the first one perfectly and to your satisfaction.
Achieve one goal at a time and move on to the next. Do not regret the fact that you have not yet reached the spiritual level of 60%. Have faith that the Guru knows you are making efforts to achieve a goal, and by His grace, you will certainly reach the spiritual level of 60%.
Sanatan’s Saint H.H. Sandeep Alshi