Previous

Next

Ask a Question

Summary of Question:	How Do I Keep Doing Nitnem?
Category:	Sikh Practices
Date Posted:	Tuesday, 11/07/2000 10:32 PM MST

I have tried doing Nitnem (5 banis in the morning, Rehras in the evening and Sohila before sleeping), but it usually lasts about a week. Several times I have started but then for some reason - huge load of work, feel like taking a break from routine etc. - I stop. I have started again but I am afraid when the next weekend comes I'll stop again. It'll probably be months before I can start again. Do you have solution to this problem? I want to take Amrit but first I want make sure I can do everthing.

*****************************************************************************
Reply
*****************************************************************************
Life is a process of keeping yourself on tract. You are successful some times and sometimes you loose your momentum. This is all part of your whole experience. You like the state of having done your daily nitnem. Yet, even when you cannot make it, you are still you and laying a guilt number on yourself is doubly punishing...you already missed your nitnem...that is punishment enough. Your soul hasn't been fed. Both is the will and grace of God.

The Bani's are to help you. Keep on trying....."chardi kala" is to be in that state of doing your best, and letting "God" take care of the rest. If your load is heavy this week or this semester, then adapt. Turn on your bani's tape and at least have the sound current there for you while; you shower and dress, or as you walk or drive to school ( you can use a walkman). Be creative and nonjudgemental to yourself. God created you and entrusted you with a consciousness. Use it with grace and gratitude.

As far as taking Amrit, no need to wait. You know you can do it. You have your lifetime to perfect yourself and with Amrit you have the added support of your committment to the Guru working for you.