For some reason, to me, this year went by very quickly. Generally, it is that time of the year for me to evaluate, among all other things, my own standing before God.  I do believe, many like me, are in the same situation trying to get a measure of their spiritual progress. I would like to share some of my own ideas with a hope that it will encourage someone.

I find that a finest test one can perform to gauge his/her spiritual progress is to ask ourselves simply this; are there things (actions) that I consider now to be not according the will of God, which I considered okay in the beginning of the year?  If so, I am progressing towards the goal of reaching that final destination. It means that I have been successful on peeling another layer of skin to get closer to God.

I find God created the Universe and its inhabitants for His pleasure. If we are to make of our lives pleasurable to God, there are three things God desires of us; 1 – To live justly.  Be fair in dealing with others. To do unto others what you would expect them do unto you. 2 – To love mercy of God.  Be merciful to others as God has been merciful unto you, and 3 – walk humbly before God.  Shed all egos when you present yourself to God and to others.

Finally, practice the presence of God in everyday activities, whether you are praying or doing something mundane. Ramana Maharishi was just as conscious of God’s presence when he was planting a seed in the garden or taking a nature walk as was when he was meditating or having prayer time.  Jesus was just as conscious of God when he was kneeling before God in prayer as he was when doing carpentry work.

This year has been a blessed year for me and my family.  God has kept us safe by being merciful and allowed us to achieve a lot by being graceful. I was able to publish my book related to my work. This Christmas I got a present from my son; “Man’s eternal quest” by Paramahansa Yogananda.  That should make a nice read for the year end.

I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a very happy and a prosperous new year.