Chapter XVIII

 

DIET

 

 

  It is good that you are observing strict dietary regulations which is one of the basic prerequisites.  You will appreciate that for obtaining a refined state of mind, one is required to adapt himself or herself to refined vegetarian, simple and nutritious diet, for maintaining the physical body in a normal state.

 

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  It is gratifying to note that you health is improving and that you have lost some weight.  Useful combinations of fruit and vegetables coupled with light physical exercise should help you to have a slim and smart physical.

 

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  Regarding laxity in the prescribed diet, I wish to say to all aspirants on the Path that it is necessary so long as one is in the physical body, vegetarianism should be strictly adhered to.  Any relaxation in the matter of diet would not only be a definite hindrance in meditation but would unnecessarily contract karmic reaction.  The real Goal is to use every means possible to rise into full God-consciousness.

 

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  It is the moral duty of the housewife to cook the pure foods with her heart engrossed in sweet temem-brance of the Lord.

  All food cooked in this manner with the mind entrenched in the Beloved and the hands engaged in the work, becomes a Manna from Heaven and proves a blessing to those who partake of it.

 

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  It must be borne in mind that restriction to pure vegetarian diet is of utmost necessity.  Any transgression in this respect is liable to affect you spiritual progress adversely.

  The prohibited food flares up carnal desires other than contracting karmic debt.  Both are highly detrimental and should be avoided scrupulously.  I hope you are abiding by all of the rules and that you take my advice in proper perspective in the larger interests of your spiritual progress.

 

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  You state that you are healthy now and the doctor advises you not to live on meat.  You also state that while away on business you have to oblige your friends by partaking some chicken.  In this connection, I would like to remind you that the eating of liver and fish will definitely stand in the way of your spiritual progress without in any way helping you in your illness or in any way extending your lifespan.  ‘Thy days are numbered,’ is a well known aphorism.  So why unnecessarily create karmic debts which you may easily avoid? You had better avoid these.  It would be much better if you could influence your friend rather than be influenced by him, for you know for certain things of which he may be ignorant.  So in such cases, behave lovingly with others and abstain from taking the prohibited foods.  In this lies your benefit.

 

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  You are correct in your idea to take very light evening meals, as this is most helpful to early morning meditation.  Most initiates on the holy path have preferred to take very light meals for the evening, which should be taken early before going to sleep.  Soami Ji has often stressed the importance of dispensing with night meals for those who wish to enjoy the deep bliss of the holy Shabd.  You may, however, do as best as you can in this matter.

 


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