“I am awake! energetic! enthusiastic! I give my full, alert attention to everything I do, knowing that in absolute consciousness I shall find God.”
(from Affirmations for Self-Healing by Swami Kriyananda)
Pay Attention To What Is Trying to Happen
a personal reflection by Nayaswami Pushpa
Swami Kriyananda had a beautiful approach to life. Whether he was working with people or on projects, he would ask himself: “What is trying to happen here?” He was always alert to God and Master’s guidance and presence in everything. He might have started with an idea, but he would turn on a dime if he received inner guidance to do so.
When we travel through life with alert attention, we can avoid much suffering! Be aware of the lesson that God and your karma are presenting you. It is as though God were saying, “This is the gift I am giving you right now, if you will receive it.” I may not be able to appreciate that gift in the moment, but I know from experience that as I grow spiritually, there will come a time when I will realize its value. 
Often the most challenging times of my life have turned out to be accompanied by the most valuable gifts. As my mind and body age, I have become more aware of the importance of using my energy wisely, paying attention to what is unfolding in my life at this moment. Each situation in which I find myself, each person with whom I interact, is an invitation to expand my consciousness. It is very important to be aware of the opportunities for growth that life presents. As I embrace each one, I take my next step towards awakening.
Prayer
“Let me pray always with alert, awake attention to Thy listening presence, knowing that Thou dost hear the merest whisper of my thoughts.”
(from Affirmations for Self-Healing by Swami Kriyananda)
Alertness
by Nayaswami Pushpa
Swami Kriyananda suggested that “Intensity should be practiced in every phase of our lives. Keen, alert attention is the way to find the time for everything we need to do. And it is the only way to reach God. Master was never idle. ‘Be constantly active’ was his counsel. He meant that even when we are sitting still, the mind should remain alert, active in the sense of alive—never dull.”
Here are some reminders of ways through which we can stay focused and alert to opportunities to grow spiritually:
We need to expand our awareness to every situation from its broadest perspective—that is what God does.
Be watchful for the silver lining in every hovering dark cloud—Divine Mother has sewn one in every cloud.
Humor gets us through the rough spots—learn to laugh at yourself as well as the situation.
See the humor in life—share in God’s joke.
Be aware of other’s realities—support them.
Be alert to personal prejudices—they blind us to the truth.
Be aware of God in everything—including yourself.
Be alert at all times for God’s communication with you—listen for His whispers.
Be alert for God‘s guidance—it can be very subtle.
All the choices that we have made have led us to this point. We have much to be thankful for. Let us rejoice!
