The contrast between what we actually are and what we believe ourselves to be is the first great hurdle we need to overcome as aspirants. Introspection, or self-analysis, is the only means to relieve this initial block. Self-evaluation is the only method of learning to know ourselves. Regular practice in detaching one’s ego from oneself and watching it with pure, impartial judgement is introspection.
Invariably, self-examination reveals negative values, false hopes, self-polluting thoughts, low passions, animal urges, and impossible dreams. In short, our inner life contains a good deal of Mr. Hyde: conceit, delusion, endless arrogance, laughable stupidities, and reprehensible brutalities. To apprehend this creature within is to discover a creature who fights, loots, kills, earns, hoards, acquires, and multiplies – all to delude himself with some impermanent and incomplete satisfaction.
It is difficult to apprehend the devils lurking within. Though most may be detected, an insignificant few may still remain to grin and cut a grotesque caper. But if the aspirant has the will, courage and confidence in his own strength, he can apprehend them all.
From what has been said it may seem that introspection is impossibly difficult and unpleasant. But it is not. Within a few days, you will realise that it is a simple and amusing occupation, at once entertaining and profitable. When some of your personal weaknesses – jealousy, lust, anger, selfishness – are apprehended, and some effort has been made in negating them with the opposite divine qualities of love, confidence, serenity, equanimity, large-heartedness and selflessness, you will quickly find that you feel happier than before. Unconsciously you begin spreading cheer. These are the early fruits of studying your personality and improving it to a point that it commands attention and respect.
He who has honesty of purpose, and the heroism to cleanse his mind of animalism by replacing negative worldly tendencies with positive divine principles, is the true inheritor of the Life Divine.