In the well-known body-car metaphor, the soul is the driver
of the bodily car. Though we are in the driver’s position, we aren’t always in
the controlling position, which is the broader meaning of the phrase “to be in
the driver’s seat.” Why aren’t we in the controlling position? Because we have
a companion who constantly distracts us, “Look at that; just see that; that’s
fascinating.” That distracting companion is the mind, who often makes us take
detours that are frequently needless and occasionally reckless. Thus, the mind
keeps us from working purposefully towards our worthwhile goals, spiritual or
material.
The mind can distract us, but not dislodge us from the
driver’s seat.
To regain control of our life, we need to neglect the mind.
Pertinently, the Bhagavad-gita (06.05) urges us to not degrade ourselves with
the mind. To successfully neglect the mind, it’s vital to recognize that its
power on us is limited – it can distract us, but not dislodge us from the
driver’s seat. If we keep neglecting it consistently, it is gradually forced to
acknowledge that its distracting tactics are futile and then it falls silent.
However, presently the mind keeps chattering constantly and
persuading relentlessly, so neglecting it is difficult. The best way to shut
out the mind’s chatter is to absorb ourselves in someone else’s voice,
specifically Krishna’s voice in his Supersoul manifestation. He speaks to us
internally as the voice of conscience and externally through
guru-sadhu-shastra. When we study scripture and practice meditation, we start
sensing Krishna’s voice more clearly, making tuning in to it easier. Being thus
guided, we get a higher vantage point from which to dispassionately evaluate
the mind and determinedly reject its self-defeating suggestions. Gradually,
contact with the Supersoul reforms the mind, making it not only realize the
wisdom of his counsel but also reiterate that counsel. Thus the mind becomes
our friend.
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