Sri Swamiji at Bhakta Culture Center, Norwalk, California 9th Aug, 2008

Many people ask the question, “What is my duty? Why this problem for me? I have done so much to God. I have done no mistakes. I was always a good person. Then why am I facing such troubles? What should I do to avoid this?” The answer is, “Your duty is to remain silent. Practice silence. Face the good and bad of life courageously. Don’t ask the question to God. Ask it to yourself. Don’t blame God, Guru or Astrologer. Blame yourself. Look to your inner self. Make the inner journey. There lies the answer to all your questions. You are a complex planet with body, mind, Indriyas (sense organs) and soul (Jeevatma). The body is temporary like the part of a rocket. It withers away and merges with the Pancha Bhootas (five elements). It has to be left over. One day you must give it up. So use this body for seeking Atma Gnana (knowledge of self). Spend 50% of your time to attain Atma Gnana and another 50% for body care and needs. Atma Gnana is a very long journey.”