“One who has control over the mind is tranquil in heat and cold, in pleasure and pain, and in honor and dishonor; and is ever steadfast with the Supreme Self.”
Bhagavad Gita quotes
In Hindu Philosophy, man is compared to a charioteer. He is driving a chariot composed of six horses which are likened to the five sense organs and the mind. The challenge for us is to be good charioteers and keep control of the horses. We are most often found letting the horses run wild. Being ruled by instincts, passion and lust takes us not where we want to go but rather somewhere else.
Often I am found putting the cart before the horses; disaster follows as the cart tumbles out of control, horses and all go spilling over a cliff. This is no way to lead a happy or responsible life! The practice of meditation is the best way for me to keep a tight rein on the "horses". My mind is not my master, at least not today.
Through the practice of meditation I cultivate detachment from my thoughts. I become an observer - not acting or reacting...just being present in the moment. Tranquility is utter calm, a place of no agitation or anxiety. It is the choice I make. To sit quietly and watch as thoughts come and go, breathing in and breathing out; the "horses" are trained to go where a placid lake spreads across acres of pristine land nestled in a lush green valley.
