Dear reader,
Before saying a prayer to overcome obstacles,
one should first introspect to find out whether the root cause
of the obstacle is due to gross factors
(comprehended by our intellect) or subtle factors
(beyond the comprehension of intellect such as distressing
energies, destiny,
etc.). The reason being, if one says a prayer for overcoming an
obstacle
that can be overcome by gross efforts, then it would result in
wasting one's spiritual
practice.
In case one feels that the problem is due to
subtle factors, then one can certainly pray for the appropriate
guidance in overcoming certain exceptional worldly problems, which
pose obstacles in spiritual practice or efforts to experience closeness
with God. (Even in such exceptional problems, it is better to ask
for guidance to overcome and the ability to face them, rather than
for the problems to go away.)
However, one should not ask for solutions
to day-to-day problems, such as child's incorrect behavior,
because this unnecessarily wastes spiritual practice For day-to-day
problems, such as a child's disobedience or one's own
mistakes, it would be best to overcome them with the use of one's
God-given intellect and abilities.
Additionally, as the child grows up,
parental control over him is going to reduce. Thus, just as we
teach children the skills to look after themselves, by teaching
them how to walk, talk, good manners, values, etc., teaching them
spiritual practice would equip them to take the most sattvik decisions
and derive divine protection and benefits as they grow up. Thus,
initially, until the child cannot do so himself properly and consistently,
one can take measures for the child's spiritual progress.
However, once he is able to talk and walk, that is, from the age
of three or so, it is best to teach him to rely on God by repeating
(chanting**) God's Name every day and praying to Him before
every activity.
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