Distraction 

is an invitation for temptation and

degradation
May 3, 2016|Chapter 02, Text 67

Suppose we are rowing a boat in an area where the current is going in a

direction different from where we wish to go. Suppose further that the current
is moving towards an area of stormy weather. The current will naturally push
the boat in that direction. If instead of rowing diligently to keep our boat on
course, we let ourselves get distracted, our boat will be swept into the storm.
Thus, distraction will turn out to be an invitation for danger.

Similarly, within our consciousness lie certain currents – these correspond

with our various attachments, which are our default definitions of pleasure.
Our consciousness in its innate pursuit of pleasure naturally moves towards
the things we are attached to. If we let ourselves get distracted, the current of
our attachments will sweep us into unwanted actions. And the ramifications
of those actions may become a dangerous storm in our life. Pertinently, the
Bhagavad-gita (02.67) cautions that if we dwell on our wandering senses, we
will get swept away, as wind sweeps away a boat.

Just as we can resist the sea current by rowing purposefully, similarly, we can
resist our attachments by engaging ourselves purposefully. The best
purposeful engagement is devotional service to Krishna because he is the
source of the highest happiness, and bhakti comprises a heart-to-heart
connection with him. The more we focus devotionally on him, the more we
relish a higher satisfaction that makes temptation less appealing.

Whenever we feel like becoming lax in our devotional focus, we can remind
ourselves of the danger of distraction – it is an invitation for temptation and
the ensuing degradation. Such reminders will spur us to absorb ourselves in
Krishna. Though attaining devotional absorption may seem to be demanding,
it will be protecting, and it will eventually become fulfilling, supremely
fulfilling.