Monk's Minimalist Mindset

Summary

Monks have understood that truely lasting happiness comes irrespective of material goods, comforts and commodities. Eventually, spiritual happiness (ananda) comes from the soul, part and parcel of God. The mind in this respect is like a wild lion, which is dangerous to encounter. One might be killed and eaten up by the obstinate mind, but there is hope, because the mind can be tamed. This is possible through suitable practice and detachment. “For him who has conquered the mind, the mind is the best of friends; but for one who has failed to do so, his mind will remain the greatest enemy.” (BG. 6.6) In this book a thought-provoking path is presented to 1) establish a spiritual connection with the Absolute Truth, 2) to channel emotions, thoughts and ecstasies through this connection 3) to bring about a revolution in one's boring and stagnant material life and 4) to reawaken spiritual love for God. In due course of this book we will explore the greatest service to humanity that is described in the scriptures as bhakti-yoga. This ancient science is aimed to establish a mindset of deep thinking and profound spiritual understanding. Simultaneously, one becomes tuned to the greatest ability that is to manage life and death, respectively. “One who is not disturbed in mind even amidst the threefold miseries or elated when there is happiness, and who is free from attachment, fear and anger, is called a sage of steady mind.” (Bhagavad-Gītā 2.56) We are aware, that not everyone is yet ready to fully surrender to this practice, however, we are assured that everyone can practice Bhakti-Yoga and establish the principles which have been mindfully cultivated by monks throughout the ages. The Monk's Mindset will be duly presented so that even a child can understand it.