Question & Answers with Sri Sri Ravi Shankar
Q:
What mistake can’t be forgiven?
Sri Sri Ravi Shankar:
One who does not forgive, he is mistaken.Q:
Does Bhakti (devotion) make an impression on the Chitta (subconscious mind)?
Sri Sri Ravi Shankar:
Yes, of course. The impression of Bhakti wipes away all other impressions, all negativity of mind. Also the impression of Bhakti gets dissolved on its own. Like when you put a piece of alum to purify water, the water gets purified as the alum dissolves and disappears. The impression of Bhakti is just like this.Q:
I dropped alcohol after Art of Living course. If I meet my old friends who still engage in these sorts of habits will they extract my positive energy?
Sri Sri Ravi Shankar:
Don’t worry. As long as you remain firm in knowledge, and Sadhana - you can help them come out of all sorts of negative habits.Q:
What is the purpose of life?
Sri Sri Ravi Shankar:
It is a very precious question. One who knows will not give you an answer, and the one who answers, does not know. However, if you want to reach that answer, think about this: When you die, two questions will be asked.· How much knowledge have you gained?
· How much love have you given? How much have you loved Planet Earth and people?
Q:
Is there life after death?
Sri Sri Ravi Shankar:
Yes.Q:
When will everyone embrace the Art of Living?
Sri Sri Ravi Shankar:
There is nothing inside or outside the Art of Living.Q:
My wish and will for my spiritual growth is not consistent. Sometimes it is not very strong? How to be more aware of myself; how to see more and stop the chattering in my head for longer periods?
Sri Sri Ravi Shankar:
Just drop this more. I want to be more; I want to be more… Relax. Love for growth in the field of spirituality and mind is deep relaxation. All positive qualities are already within you. When you go deep in meditation, they unfold naturally. We can’t say: ‘I want this flower to blossom quickly. What do I do? Should I open the petal?’If I want the flower to blossom, just allow, let it be. Pour some water; in time it will blossom.
Q:
How do you know what level of spirituality you are at?
Sri Sri Ravi Shankar:
It depends on how often your buttons can be pushed. If you have no buttons to be pushed then you are very strong.Q:
Is there any maximum limit to how much we can meditate?
Sri Sri Ravi Shankar:
Just do as much is necessary. There is no need to do too much. Meditation is like taking a bath. To wash the mind, you need meditation. And once the mind is clean, you will be well.Q:
How to get God answer your prayers?
Sri Sri Ravi Shankar:
Have faith that he will answer and will do whatever is good for you.