Discipline

[Jitendra Hydonus]

Over the years I have become more and more comfortable with the discipline of the Masters.

In many ways i have found that following the discipline of the sadhana recommended brings rewards at various times. To give an example I have always enjoyed hatha yoga over Yogananda’s energization exercises, however because he requests his devotees to practice the energization exercises twice a day I find myself doing them instead of hatha yoga when I have no extra time. As a result I have witnessed miracles in my health over my life.

Yet over the years and incarnations we recognize we have blind spots in our spiritual awareness and though we are given discipline and understanding we still do not see them. We have more lessons before we overcome such challenges facing us on the spiritual path.

[Jitendra Hydonus]

I have found that there are many curves life throws us that can disrupt our meditation practice. After a little rest and responding to them I just come back to my practices again.

[Jitendra Hydonus]

What is it that awakens discipline and sticking to your spiritual routine? I can see that there are several reasons;

1. Wanting to be a good example
2. Recognizing what blessings and miracles are a result of discipline
3. Setting up a consistent routine
4. Exposing and putting yourself in the presence of other persons exhibiting such behaviors
5. Wanting divine protection
6. Attempts to follow the directions of the guru
7. Recognizing there are those who cannot exercise such discipline because of physical and mental limitations.
8. Exercising our ability of choice when it is available.
9. Practice physical and mental activity that strengthens will power
10. Observing rationalization of the mind to be lax.

[Jitendra Hydonus]

One thing I’ve watched and that is people eating whenever they feel like it. But it gives me a good feeling to know that I feel good about myself for occasionally fasting, and feeling I have some control over instant stimulus and response. That is seeing someone else being satisfied about having food when ever they desire it and having some control about eating.

[mccoy]

For some people, the hunger signal coming from the hypothalamus is hard to resist. They would like not to eat but find their thoughts constantly revolving around food if they don't eat, and they become nervous.

They are slaves to food but don't like this slavery. Few can break the chains. Today, there is a class of efficient medicines that can help them.