Easwaran repeatedly raised “a question of priorities” in last week’s reading, noting that “if only we make it our number one priority, as young Thérèse did, no matter what difficulties come in our way, our love cannot help but grow.”
This week, as we finish his essay “The Supreme Ambition” in Climbing the Blue Mountain, he shows how the inspiration of someone in whom we see the Self’s beauty manifested drives us into action on such changes:
“The deep longing to be like the one we love gives us motivation to make great changes in ourselves – many of which are distressing – not only with courage but with a fierce sense of joy.”
He says this transformation even becomes “inevitable, inescapable” when we begin to feel drawn to the Self.
Let’s read pages 62–67* to finish this essay and begin the next. We are eager to hear what you feel drawn to in this reading!
Is there a particular situation that causes you to get speeded up or agitated? What tips does Easwaran offer in this reading that you could try out in this situation? Even if the tips don’t seem to directly apply, try them anyhow and tell us what you find.
As a putting others first challenge this week, what is one small thing you can do to turn this enticing observation from Easwaran into reality in your life?
“…As meditation deepens, you find there is a fierce satisfaction in letting go of your own way so that things can go someone else’s way instead. Gradually you develop a habit of goodness, a hang-up for kindness, a positive passion for the welfare of others.”
For spiritual entertainment, here is Easwaran reading the passage “Mother of All Things” from Lao Tzu.
* For those using electronic versions of Climbing the Blue Mountain with different page numbering: this week’s reading begins with “When you first feel drawn…” in the chapter “The Supreme Ambition” and ends with “…sooner or later we collide” in the chapter “Chasing Rainbows.”