Page 170 - Faith Personified

For example, you may think, “May I get wealth, fame and
goodwill in return for my donations.”

“Let me follow celibacy today – It will ensure the availability
of sensual pleasures till my last breath.” “Why not fast and
stay a little hungry if it showers me with praises?”

What did you attain from such activities and thoughts? Mere
increase in attractions and attachments leading to an increase

in your cycle of birth and death.

Thus, strengthening your Vairagya is the foundation.

Q. That means in the absence of Vairagya, should you not
undertake the above activities?

Ans. Oh no! That is actually what you ought to do but you
should strive towards transforming it into an endeavour to

increase your Vairagya. You should carry out charity with the
intention of decreasing your attachment towards wealth.
Observe celibacy with an aim of breaking the attraction of
sensual pleasures. Follow fasts with the goal of resisting the
temptation of taste and craving for food.

Isn’t it possible? Repeatedly make attempts in this direction
and you will surely overcome its attachments – be it wealth,
fame or food.

Ways to increase your Vairagya

(non-attachment towards worldly objects)

1) Increase your acts of charity.

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