To gain a true perspective on an object, we need to move away from it.
If we are too close, we are confused by its motion or the details of
its appearance. When we stand on the shore, the ocean may appear angry
and restless, but from space it is a calm blue pond. Our closeness or
our attachment to objects robs us of our peace. When objects are near,
mentally, emotionally, or physically, we are more likely to relate to
them on an ego level. We are apt to interpret them in terms of our own
personality. To cultivate peace we must move back and detach from
objects.
When we calm our emotions and center ourselves within, we gain control
of our minds. Peace grants us perspective for intelligent action. In
fact, peace encourages many virtues. It grants divine vision, which
encourages wisdom and love.
"Santhi (Peace)is essential for sharpness of intellect. Santhi develop
all the beneficial characteristics of man. Even farsightedness grows
through santhi. Through that, obstacles and dangers can be anticipated
and averted" Baba
The vision of unity is won by intense spiritual practice. Practice
helps us to see God in everything and in everyone. That vision results
from clearly analyzing the results of thoughts and actions. When we
see the painful consequences of desires for fleeting pleasures and
material acquisitions, we learn to search for more lasting values.
Then we experience the joy and peace derived from knowing God.
"Only thoughts of God and intense love for him bring peace. As worldly
thoughts diminish, thoughts of God increase. Normally, the mind
desires these worldly things all the time. As the desires are cut one
by one, the peace becomes stronger. When there are Godly thoughts,
there is peace of mind. Swami cannot give peace of mind; one has to
work for it" Baba
Until the mind is stilled and peace is experienced, we must engage the
mind in pure thoughts. We must have faith that God will give us our
due. The Lord dispenses results in accordance with what we have
earned. If we leave the results to God, we can experience peace.
Centered on God, we are content with whatever may happen.
"But you cannot easily detach yourself from activity; the mind clings
to some thing or other. Make it cling to God, let it do all things for
God and leave the success
