Transforming personality

Transformation of personality is impossible without avoiding the undesirable consequences of future deeds.

Time is divided into three categories: the past, present, and the future.

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The Jainas use the term pratikramana (withdrawal) with reference to the past, pratyakhyana (renunciation) with reference to the future and alocana (introspection) with reference to the present. Patanjali, the author of the Yoga Sutras, says that mysteries, which are likely to happen, should be avoided.

The effects of deeds done in the past cannot be termed undesirable because they have already been experienced. The deeds being done in the present are yet to mature, and therefore, one should try to observe them mentally. They cannot be stopped because man has to live and therefore, he must act. It is the future actions whose effects are yet to be experienced.

The transformation of personality is impossible without avoiding the undesirable consequences of future deeds. There is no meaning in sadhna, if it does not bring about the transformation of the personality.

It is difficult to remain constantly self-watchful, which is possible only after a long practice. Such a practice should, however, be undertaken carefully.

One should resolve to act self-watchfully at least for an hour or two every day. He should walk or stand still with the consciousness that he is standing or walking. The mind and actions should go together. The integration of personality is impossible without such a conscious attitude. Sometimes we feel joy and at other times only sorrow.

The practice of equanimity is a difficult task. We should not expect immediate results. We are not fully developed and free from the effects of our deeds and therefore, sadhna cannot be expected to bear fruits in a day or two.

Anyhow, we should at least attempt to keep our knowledge as pure as possible. The development of the sense of equanimity means the purity of knowledge. This is the initial process of the transformation of personality.

The transformation of personality is the consummation of the process of sadhna.