Wisdom from Sri Sri

‘As long as you are attached to material things, you won't find God’

Bangalore (India), June 7:

Q. What is the purpose of satsang?

H.H Sri Sri Ravi Shankar: The purpose of satsang is laya yoga. When everyone sings with one heart, and sound, then your heart becomes immersed in the sound. It then becomes ‘laya yoga’ - getting absorbed in the sound. If you become a spectator and just watch, it becomes difficult. You should also sing, then only the energy in you, the chaitanya will grow.

Q. What to do to get peace of mind?

H.H Sri Sri Ravi Shankar: Meditation.

There are two types of sadhaks (devotees).

1) One who is yet to get onto the path. They have to work hard, (parishrama).

2) One who has already on the path. They have to rest, (vishraama)

Those who are just starting on the path are like those who are running to catch the train and those who have already begun are those who are already sitting inside the train. People who are just starting are worried about their ability to catch the train; they have to catch a taxi from home, rush to the platform on time, find the right platform, and then find the correct coach, and then get on the train. Until they get on the train, they cannot rest.

If those who are on the train already run from one compartment to the other, will they reach their destination sooner? What is the use of running inside the compartment?

After getting into the compartment, put your luggage down and relax. And then you will get to your destination. You can take rest. You have the satisfaction that you are already on the path, that the guru is the engine driver who will take you to the destination, and you only need to relax.

Think about this, and make a decision about what kind of sadhak you are.

Q. Is God present or not?

H.H Sri Sri Ravi Shankar: Good, keep this question in your mind. However, if you know that God is present, then your life will change.

As long as you are attached to material things, you won't find God.

When you are tired of things here, when you have had enough, then you will find God. Then you will find maturity.

Q. Do we need a Guru to realize God?

H.H Sri Sri Ravi Shankar: If you need an answer to the question, then it indicates that you need a Guru.

Anyone who answers becomes a Guru.

There are 2 occasions when you have no questions.

1. You are so dumb that you have no questions

2. Or you are so full and satisfied that you have no questions.

Q. How should one pray to god?

H.H Sri Sri Ravi Shankar: By doing service, pranayama, and meditation.

Q. How do we handle politics in everyday situations?

H.H Sri Sri Ravi Shankar: It's good - it will bring out more talents in you.

If things are easy, your skills won't develop. So it is good.

© The Art of Living Foundation