Shoucha (Purity) - Day Two, Take Two

This is the first time I have come to appreciate the positive qualities of ahamkara (ego) and tamas (inertia).

My drive to do this practice (and all of these practices) comes through ego: "I" must do this. "I" can do this. "I" will do this. As long as I continue to perceive that I am distinct from universal consciousness (jiva-atman vs. param-atman), the ego will play a significant role in generating the necessary drive for me to push forward. Therefore, it is only when I reach full samadhi that ego will cease to be needed. Cool; finally a use for ego.

Tamas also generally gets a bad reputation, and perhaps deservedly so. It is the guna that is responsible for sloth, laziness, stupidity, blah, blah, blah. On the other hand, it is also responsible for steadiness, resolve, grounding. These latter qualities are what gives me the occasional sense of "I will not be shaken from this practice." Perhaps I need to cultivate tamas for a while?

So today's insight is that sankalpa shakti is successful because of ahamkara and tamas. Who knew?

I must do this. I can do this. I will do this.