Then this action was done by me only for my physical fitness, of the body, not for the Divine Mother. Only in the Relics Centre, where little work is performed, the mind assume that this is the work of the Mother.
It is the motive that needs to change first. One may eat for the pleasure of the palate or for remaining fit so that one can be a good instrument of the Divine. So too about maintaining the body in good health so that the body can be a strong and fit vessel to become Her instrument and temple. Nishkaam karma means that I am not doing an activity to satisfy some ego tendency or personal desire. Nishkaam karma will itself set the motive right because if one is sincere, one will not do anything just for personal pleasure, but since all is to be done with Her at the centre and goal, one will automatically take pleasure in all that falls to one’s share.
Nishkaam karma also means that the focus will be on the work, on doing it well, regardless of possible outcome, which may or may not be favourable or as expected. One does not seek success and appreciation, though one increases the chances of success when one is focused upon the work and does it well with attention and as an offering to the Divine. Obviously, if the inner motive is to serve the Divine, one won’t be lax and casual or negligent about all that is being done through us. One will give one’s best and yet, not be discouraged if things don’t work out and the results are contrary to expected. One will still do it as part of one’s kartavyam karma, the work one is meant to do. Eating, exercise are all part of maintaining the well-being of the body. The question is whether one wants to keep the body fit and strong for looking good and smart, etc., or else to keep it as a fit instrument for the Divine use or as part of the sadhana. It is this inner motive that makes the difference.
Affectionately,
Alok Da
