This universe is designed for learning, not comfort. We are subtle spiritual beings ensconced in a material world with which we are incompatible. As oil and water never mix, similarly we never mix with the gross world of matter.
If we try to live a life of material convenience, we’ll be disappointed. If, however, we view the incidents in our lives, including the inconvenient ones, as opportunities to learn and to refine ourselves, we’ll experience the exhilaration of progress.
Those who look for the lesson in whatever happens to them will see how everything and everyone is interconnected. Instead of asking, “Why me? Why am I the victim?” ask, “What is the lesson?” When you engage in this practice, you’ll find that your intelligence will be divinely empowered to find the lessons in life’s events. With the question ready on your tongue, you’ll climb steadily toward the high ground of self-realization, integrity, and spiritual self-esteem. Notice for yourself how simply asking “What is the lesson?” expands your consciousness.
The Gita and other wisdom texts explain that our present life is but one in a series of lives. Each life is like a frame in a roll of cinematic film. For each of our actions, we receive a perfectly measured reaction. Whatever our present situation may be, it is the fruit of our cumulative activities from many lives. Whatever happens to us is not arbitrary; it is a perfectly measured response to what we have already done.
When we blame God, the universe, or who- or whatever, we miss the opportunity to learn and grow. When we accept the responsibility of looking for the lesson, we develop the insight and internal strength to embrace whatever happens to us as not only a divine intervention but also a custom-designed arrangement to help us advance.
We can be victims or learners, but not both. We are all students, and the universe is our schoolhouse. Whatever comes our way is therapy, or cosmic sensitivity training. Those who collect and apply the lessons, learn to transcend all troubles and attain true peace of mind.
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