The Struggle for Perfection
by Swami Sivananda
Live with a definite purpose. Do not roam about aimlessly. Walk with a definite aim. Climb the hill of knowledge steadily and reach the summit of the temple of Brahman or the Sweet Abode of Immortality.
In the spiritual path there are constant failures and set-backs. Repeated endeavour, constant vigilance and undaunted perseverance are needed.
When the heart-knots are gradually loosened, when the Vasanas are thinned out, when the bonds of Karma are loosened, when ignorance is loosened, when weakness vanishes, you will become more and more peaceful, strong and serene. You get more and more light from within. You become more and more divine.
Hard enough is it to purify the lower nature. Difficult enough is it to practise concentration and meditation. But vigilance, perseverance, constant practice, steady and persistent efforts, company of sages (Satsanga), resolute will, strong determination will obviate all difficulties and render the path easy, pleasant and attractive.
Fight with the mind bravely. March onwards. Spiritual Hero! Go on fighting with an undaunted heart. Struggle now. Be courageous. At the end of your battle you will attain the illimitable dominion of Eternal Bliss, the Sweet Abode of Immortality, the immaculate, imperishable Self or Brahman.
Strive ceaselessly. Despair not. The light is on the path. Serve all. Love truth. Be serene. Meditate regularly. You will soon attain the life beautiful, the Silence and the Supreme Peace.
Even when you get a glimpse of Truth or the Supreme, your whole life will be changed. You will become a changed Being. You will have a new heart and a new vision. A new thrill of spiritual current will pass through your entire being. A wave of spiritual bliss will sweep over you. The state is indescribable. There are no words to express. There is no language to describe your inner experience.