A student of mine told me of his intention to change his job, so that he can live in a more spiritual environment. He was frustrated that his immediate family members and coworkers would not understand or be supportive of his dedication to and passion for his spiritual growth. I often hear this question from other students, which is why I wanted to take some time to address it.
Following a spiritual path is, in fact, beyond the choice you make. It is not necessarily the group you choose to practice with or how many times you meditate each day. Of course, it is great if you could get to do this and have a moment to rest your mind and nurture your soul – it will certainly be supportive of your spiritual practice, but they are considered as spiritual tools. Following the spiritual path is far beyond our physical actions.
There is a famous story in Japan. A new student became a disciple of a Zen master in his temple. The new student was excited to see how he would start his spiritual training with his master. The first assignment that the student received from his master was to clean the bathroom. He cleaned it, no problem. The next day, the Master instructed him to do the same again, then again and again. Nothing but cleaning bathrooms every single day! The student started doubting why he was cleaning instead of engaging in spiritual training. He became frustrated, and yet he trusted the master and kept going any way.
After months of cleaning the bathroom each day, he achieved the point where he was able to complete the job without any emotional attachment or reaction. He did it in a more content manner, achieving a sense of spiritual freedom in the chore. When the Zen master saw his progress, he discharged the student from bathroom cleaning and gave him a new assignment: cooking meals! The student continued to learn how to achieve spiritual freedom under any circumstances – only then could he become a true master.
Another example, late Nelson Mandela. I admire him so much. When the Apartheid ended, I was a law school student in the UK. I still remember like yesterday, celebrating that memorable day with South African students who were studying in the British University. Nelson Mandela was in prison, his body in captivity for 27 years. Even so, his soul was never imprisoned. His soul was free until the day that he was physically released.
No matter how much we seek spiritual liberation, it emerges from within. No matter the circumstances, it is in our power to liberate our own soul and attain spiritual fulfillment. This spiritual liberation is the core of our soul journey and our spiritual path.
With Love & Compassion,
Mika Ichihara