Holding to Her When Temptation Arises at the Feet of Mā Devī
There is a quiet tendency within us to feel strong when circumstances are favourable. When objects of desire are not present, the mind appears steady and clear. We feel that we are in control, that we have risen above certain tendencies. But when those very situations arise, something within begins to shift. The same mind that felt firm begins to waver. This creates a subtle confusion; we begin to question our own strength. The heart, in its simplicity, is not asking for perfection, it longs for steadiness even in the presence of challenge. When this is understood, even briefly, a quiet honesty begins to arise within, and we begin to see ourselves more clearly.
That steadiness begins the moment we come to the feet of Mā Devī.
To live at Her feet is to gently recognise that the presence of temptation is not a failure; it is an opportunity to turn inward. The very desire to not fall, the wish to remain clear, is itself a sign of awakening. Slowly, as understanding deepens, we begin to see that this inclination is not ordinary, it comes from something deeper within us. When this is seen clearly, even briefly, something within gains strength. A natural sincerity begins to arise, without force or pressure.
The difficulty we experience does not come from the world, but from our shifting connection with it. We feel drawn when something appears attractive, and we feel resistant when we want to avoid it. In this movement, the mind becomes divided. We try to fight, suppress, or control what arises. But in doing so, the struggle continues. This is where weakness is felt, not because we lack strength, but because we are trying to manage everything on our own, without support.
But when we turn towards Mā Devī, something begins to shift within. We start to see that our connection with Her is not like our connection with the world. The world keeps changing, what attracts today may not attract tomorrow. But Her presence does not change. There is a quiet recognition: “She is always with me.” In that understanding, the need to struggle begins to reduce. The heart begins to rest in something more stable, something that does not leave us.
In the spirit of the teachings, what supports us is not force, but connection. When everything is seen as Her prasāda, even temptation becomes a reminder to return. The heart slowly begins to understand: “I am not here to fight everything… I am here to remain at Her feet.” This understanding brings a gentle strength within. It allows us to turn back, again and again, without discouragement or fear.
Our restlessness continues when we expect ourselves to never waver. But when we begin to accept that the mind may move, this pattern begins to change. Even if we falter, the direction remains. The moment we remember Her, the connection is restored. Slowly, a quiet confidence begins to arise. This confidence is not in our control, but in Her presence, which never leaves.
To live like this does not require becoming perfect, it requires returning again and again. We continue to live, act, and face situations as they come. But inwardly, we begin to hold on to Her. Slowly, a quiet strength begins to arise, not forced, but natural. A strength that remains even in difficulty, a strength that quietly supports us through every experience.
Today’s Sādhanā — Turning Back to Her: Today, gently notice moments when temptation or distraction arises. In those moments, pause and turn within. Ask softly, “Can I return to Her now?” Let this question bring clarity. Do not fight the mind, simply turn. At least a few times during the day, close your eyes briefly and feel, “I am at the feet of Mā Devī. I belong here.” Do not force this feeling, just return to it gently.
Inner Bhāva: Do not judge yourself when the mind wavers; simply return. Let both strength and weakness be offered at Her feet. Even if you forget, come back again. Each return deepens your connection.
Reflection for Today: When challenges arose today, did I get carried away, or did I return to the feet of Mā Devī?
Gentle Reminder: Come back to Her feet again and again, not by becoming perfect, but by turning sincerely. No movement towards Her is ever lost, and in that devotion, strength becomes natural.
Mantra for the Day: Oṁ Kulayoginyai Namaḥ
Watch the Day 35 video for guidance using the QR code on the last page of this book, and listen to it in the morning and evening.
Sādhanā Notes: (Use a pencil to write your reflections in your personal diary if you do not have the physical book).
Today I practiced:
What I observed within:
Where I forgot / struggled:
What I offer at Her feet:
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