Do we know who we are dealing with?

Do we know who we are dealing with?

“You don’t know who you’re dealing with” is a common line delivered by villains in movies to intimidate or dominate others. Sometimes, these threats are mere bravado, but occasionally, they come from truly powerful villains capable of wreaking havoc. Often, the hero initially underestimates the villain’s power and suffers a crushing defeat. However, this sets the stage for the hero’s growth, leading to eventual triumph.

Our inner world mirrors this narrative. The mind often acts like a powerful enemy, one that we underestimate until we actively try to discipline it. When we attempt serious endeavors like meditation or self-control, we realize how unruly, stubborn, and overpowering the mind can be.

The underestimated power of the mind

Typically, we resolve to control our mind, naively believing it will submit easily. However, these attempts often end in failure, leaving us embarrassed or disheartened. It’s only when we face repeated setbacks that we begin to understand the mind’s formidable power. This realization marks the beginning of our inner transformation.

To deal with the mind effectively, we need a systematic and sustained effort. Practices like meditation, philosophical study, introspection, and journaling help us build the mental and emotional strength necessary to confront and manage the mind. Over time, we become more equipped to understand its workings and discipline it effectively.

Victory over the mind: Transformation, not destruction

The Bhagavad Gita (6.7) describes the stage when we achieve victory over the mind. This victory brings inner stability and serenity, a state akin to a triumphant hero in an action movie. However, unlike in movies where the hero vanquishes the villain, the goal in our inner battle is not the destruction of the mind but its transformation.

As we progress, we realize that the mind itself is not inherently evil. Rather, it is clouded by ignorance and negativity. Through sustained effort and divine grace, we can cleanse the mind of its darkness, transforming it into a valuable ally. The climax of this inner war is the redemption of the mind, which then becomes our greatest supporter in life.

Summary:

• When we try to discipline our mind, we often underestimate its power and resistance, leading to failures and setbacks.
• Like a hero’s growth arc in a movie, we must strengthen ourselves through meditation, philosophical study, and introspection to confront the mind effectively.
• The ultimate victory is not the destruction of the mind but its transformation into a friend and ally, achieved through sustained effort and divine empowerment.

Think it over:

• Recollect an incident when your self-improvement resolutions were sabotaged by your mind. Reflect on how this experience reveals the formidable power of the mind.
• List three areas where you may currently be underestimating your mind’s power, resulting in setbacks.
• Identify three practices that can strengthen you and help you manage your mind. Plan how to tangibly commit to these practices.

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06.07 For one who has conquered the mind, the Supersoul is already reached, for he has attained tranquillity. To such a man happiness and distress, heat and cold, honor and dishonor are all the same.