Spirituality in Action

Sri Chinmoy gave tremendous importance to remaining in the world and contributing towards its betterment as a means of spiritual progress. This philosophy can be seen in a number of ways:

Accepting the world

Sri Chinmoy felt that the only way to change the world was by loving it and accepting it for what it is, with all its imprfections:

In the modern-day world, one has to play the role of a hero, a divine hero...At every moment the seeker gets the golden opportunity to face the world. If a potter does not touch the clay, how will he be able to transform the clay into a beautiful vase? Each individual seeker has to accept humanity and then, with his own aspiration and his own realisation, he has to transform the face of mankind. 1

He felt it was possible to live in the world, provided one had intense focus on one's goal.

We can be like a boat. A boat is in the water, but the boat is not affected by the water. Similarly, we can be in the world of ignorance but not be affected by ignorance. We can live in the unaspiring world of ignorance, limitations and imperfections with our own aspiration, inner cry and soulful dedication to the Inner Pilot.

We are on earth to accomplish certain things. But only the things that we ourselves are doing will be able to carry us to our highest Goal. The things that others are doing will lead them to some other goal. But a spiritual seeker knows that there can be no goal greater or higher than God-realisation. 1

Manifestation

Sri Chinmoy believed that spiritual seekers would also make progress not only by praying and meditating, but also through manifestation - sharing the light they recieve from their spirituality with others. He explained it in this way:

Inside your pocket—which means inside you—is a most delicious mango. You put your hand inside the pocket and bring out the mango and show it to me. This is revelation. Before, the mango was concealed, and now you have revealed it. Then you have to manifest it. How will you do that? You will cut it into a few pieces and share it with me and with others. 2

This philosophy is reflected in the meditation classes, concerts, sports events and other activities organised by the Centre. In addition, many students of Sri Chinmoy have opened up 'divine enterprises' - cafes, restaurants and other places of business where people can be refreshed in body and soul.