When we strive to progress in spiritual life, we often find ourselves shaken, even shackled, by our worldly attachments. How can we break free?

By diligent devotion.

Gita wisdom explains that we are souls trapped in material existence that is like a formidable ocean wherein the waves of worldly dualities toss us emotionally.

In this ocean, the process of bhakti-yoga is the lifeline. It provides us multiple facilities to anchor ourselves to Krishna internally through remembrance and externally through service. The more we anchor ourselves thus, the less worldly waves shake us, that is, the less worldly pleasures allure us.

Still, the force of worldly waves may sometimes break our inner hold on Krishna. Thankfully, no wave lasts forever. As soon as the wave subsides, we can immediately catch hold of Krishna again, that is, re-commence devotional service. By doing this unfailingly and unresentfully, we show Krishna our sincerity and humility: sincerity in wanting to unite with him, whatever the price; and humility in being ready to fall on our knees and beg for his mercy without caring about our loss of face.

Once Krishna sees our diligent devotion, he personally airlifts us, as the Bhagavad-gita (12.07) assures, from the ocean of material existence. This happens ultimately when he takes us to the spiritual world. But even before that, he gives us realizations to see the futility of worldly pleasures. Just as waves can’t affect an object above the ocean, worldly dualities can’t shake us when Krishna’s wisdom spiritually elevates us and takes us beyond the charm of worldly pleasures.

If we just hold on to Krishna long enough, nothing else will hold on to us long enough – and before long we will regain the eternal happiness that is our most cherished longing.

Bhagavad Gita Chapter 12 Text 07

But those who worship Me, … having fixed their minds upon Me, O son of Prtha – for them I am the swift deliverer from the ocean of birth and death.