Challenging the Mind

The desire to live up to our highest inner potential is probably the single most motivating force behind transformation of every kind; and transformation was what Yogi Bhajan was all about. From the first Kundalini Yoga class, to the most recent Summer Solstice, every part of the knowledge and technology he shared with us was for sole purpose of self-transformation.

Yoga, breathing, meditation, mantra, prayer – every physical and mental activity done with the focus on the Infinite is a transformative process of self-growth, because each activity challenges the mind. When the mind is challenged for its subconscious beliefs, we grow. “I can’t do that exercise for 31 minutes, no way!,” the mind says, and yet by practicing it, we prove the mind wrong. The monkey-mind jabbers on while we try to sit still and meditate, and we think, “Will this never end?,” but, of course, with time and practice, even the worst and most active monkey-mind will quiet itself, until the rushing silence of Infinity whispers in our ears. We sometimes feel fear in changing any part of our life where we feel a sense of routine and complacency, but there are times when it is right to upset the apple cart, to take a risk, and to shift ourselves into a challenge that will inevitably lead to self-transformation and higher consciousness.

Giving is another such opportunity for transformation. The mind says, “I can’t afford it,” or “There’s no way I can give,” and yet the principle of prosperity is to give, so that the vacuum will be filled. To give in faith, is to receive ten-fold. Challenge the mind by just starting. At our course during Summer solstice, one woman shared her story of how after 9-11-2001 her business was having trouble thriving, and she commanded herself to give anyway. She started a tithing program with just $25 a month and simply trusted. No matter what her mind said, she persevered and the result? Her business is booming!

This could be anyone’s story; it could be your story, by taking the leap. Initiate a tithing program and nurture it with your willingness to persevere, your faith, and your desire for transformation. As your prosperity increases, challenge yourself again by stretching and increasing your contributions bit by bit. We were given so many valuable tools to transform ourselves, such an incredible gift and opportunity to grow. All we need to do is participate. “Life is a flow of love, only your participation is required.”