When you first begin to walk the spiritual Path, it may feel as if you are moving through clouds. You enter another world, where deep peace and quiet joy seem to reign. Enthusiasm and vitality arise naturally; nothing appears to be lacking. This initial phase is completely normal and may last for months.
Then, one day, you notice that the enthusiasm begins to fade. A subtle heaviness settles in. Your vitality decreases, doubt arises, and a persistent sense of boredom replaces the early joy. You begin to wonder whether this truly is your way.
This is the moment when the spiritual Path truly begins. Many turn back at this point. They search for something else, perhaps another tradition, and the entire cycle begins again. But those who stay experience an inner shift. They are confronted with the fluctuations of existence, with the duality of life, and they learn — slowly, with trial and error — to move with it.
They begin to walk their own Path, the one meant for them. The courageous ones gradually loosen themselves from traditions and dogmas, without hostility, without resistance. This is only one of the many scenarios you may encounter. It simply shows that the spiritual Path is not an easy one. Much must be released, but without falling into fanaticism or suppressing yourself. Somewhere along the way, you must find the middle ground between humanity and divinity.
May your Path remain clear, and may you find the strength to continue.
With our best wishes for profound peace,
Sannyasin Anamika
