ASK MAULANA

the same time has a strong spirit of self-correction, he will surely be able to completely de-condition himself. Can one de-condition oneself on one’s own or does one necessarily require a mentor? In my view a person can undoubtedly do his own de-conditioning. For this self de-conditioning two conditions are essential: first is that one should be intellectually awakened and second is that he should have a strong desire for self-correction. Without these two prerequisites, self de-conditioning is not possible. Since most people do not possess these two qualities, it is advisable that the majority should discover some competent person and take him as their guide or mentor in this matter. If de-conditioning requires a guide, then should it be done in person or can we do it by reading the literature and listening to the talks given by the person whom we choose as a guide? If one reads the writings of one’s guide and regularly listens to his talks, then this method can be an alternative of having a personal audience with the guide. But the condition for this is one should repeatedly read the writings of the guide and listen to his talks on a daily basis. o Spiritual Training To train oneself spiritually, the most important thing a person must do is to train himself to refrain from taking offence. The moment one allows oneself to be offended, the door to spiritual training closes.