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SELF REALISATION

By Sri Ramana Maharshi

 

In the following extract from Gems from Bhagavan, we are reminded of the

truth and inspired to

realise the True Self.

 

THE STATE WE CALL realisation is simply being oneself, not knowing anything

or becoming

anything. If one has realised, he is that which alone is, and which alone

has always been. He cannot

describe that state. He can only be That. Of course we loosely talk of

Self-Realisation for want of a

better term.

 

Effortless and choiceless awareness is our real state. If we can attain it

or be in it, it is all right. But

one cannot reach it without effort, the effort of deliberate meditation.

All the age long vasanas

(impressions) carry the mind outwards and turn it to external objects. All

such thoughts have to be

given up and the mind turned inward. For that, effort is necessary, for

most people. Of course

everybody, every book says 'Be quiet or still'. But it is not easy. That is

why all this effort is

necessary.

 

There is a state beyond our efforts or effortlessness. Until that is

realised effort is necessary. After

tasting such bliss even once, one will repeatedly try to regain it. Having

once experienced the bliss of

peace, no one would like to be out of it or engage himself otherwise.

 

You may go on reading any number of books on Vedanta. They can only tell

you 'Realise the Self'.

The Self cannot be found in books. You have to find it for yourself in

yourself.