Abhyasi Self Study Course
Seeking Spirituality
Introduction
The popular belief that the attainment of liberation is not only difficult but also impossible within the span of one life is a mistaken notion. Who knows, this very life of ours might be the last one to bring us to the level of liberation. Indeed our great Master has boldly asserted that one can, for sure, attain liberation in this very life, nay, even in a part of it, provided one is really earnest about it and has the fortune of having a proper guide. This he has practically demonstrated in many instances, which only direct experience can prove.
We all have the innate urge that seeks growth and self-actualization. This impetus for development beyond the possibilities offered by an ordinary education may be expressed in the search for spirituality, first felt as dissatisfaction with life or wish for lasting peace or happiness. It may be expressed as a quest for meaning in life, or come as the result of pain or loss.
The self is the most important part of 'self-development'. It is we ourselves who determine when and to what extent we wish to devote ourselves to this fundamental necessity of our life. If we choose a suitable system for spiritual evolution, and practice conscientiously, we can make rapid progress. Once we have committed ourselves to a method for self-development, we wish to be sure that it will serve us well. Reviewing the path that we have traveled to this point can be useful in clarifying our goal and giving us an appreciation of the method we have chosen to reach the goal.