Life often brings challenges that test our patience, faith, and understanding. But what if we saw these problems not as burdens, but as reflections of our karma shaped by our past actions, either in this life or a previous one? This is the essence of the art of surrender and spiritual awareness, as taught by enlightened masters like Vallalar.
Ego and Surrender: The First Step Toward Peace
A person free from ego doesn’t hesitate to show humility. Touching someone’s feet is not just a gesture of respect, but a sign of surrender. Only the back bends, not the soul. When we let go of our ego and surrender to situations as they come, we open the door to solutions. This is the art of surrender, the path where humility leads to clarity.
You Are the Root of Your Problems
Every problem you face is tied to you. It may be the result of past karma, your actions in this life, or a previous one. Instead of blaming others or using intelligence to ‘escape’ the situation, face it with full acceptance. Trying to outsmart karma only adds more complications.
Accept, Don’t Resist
We often get angry or disappointed when reality doesn’t match our expectations. But why should we expect things to always go our way? Everything that happens is a part of the divine plan. Accepting life as it is, whether pleasant or painful, brings peace. Resistance creates suffering; surrender ends it.
See Problems with Awareness
Facing problems with awareness changes your perspective. Acceptance doesn’t mean passivity; it means understanding that the situation is here for a reason. Observe, learn, and grow from it. Don’t run from problems. See them clearly, without ego or fear.
Cleanse Karma Through Service
According to Vallalar, one’s karma can be purified through acts of compassion, especially donating food and wisdom. These acts not only serve others but also cleanse your soul.
Vallalar’s Three Golden Principles of Wisdom
Vallalar, the great saint and spiritual teacher, laid down three responsibilities for every individual who acquires wisdom:
- Live the Wisdom, You Learn
- Don’t just collect spiritual knowledge. Practice it in your daily life.
- Teach the Wisdom to Others
- Share what you’ve learned, even if it’s with just one person. Wisdom grows when it is spread.
- Protect and Support the Growth of Wisdom
- Encourage learning and prevent the loss or destruction of true knowledge. Be helpful to others in their pursuit of wisdom and support its preservation and expansion.
Final Thoughts
Spiritual growth is not about escaping life’s problems but facing them with awareness, humility, and surrender. When you accept that you are the cause of your problems and take responsibility, transformation begins. Serve others, spread wisdom, and stay rooted in humility; that is the true path to peace and liberation.