Answer: Definitely a guru is required to tread the right path in spiritual life. But one can start the life with the help of books and finding the guru will not be very difficult. But, you have to choose the right guru.

RESPONSE to the Above REPLY : Respected Sir, I’m an Engineering graduate of 25 years age. Last year during 2001 February, I went to Ramakrishna Math (RKM) for personality development programme, there they taught us Yoga & Meditation. I practised those very sincerely; during meditation I used to experience some very good spiritual experiences. At RKM, Hyderabad, they taught us how to meditate. Later I studied a book named ‘Dhyana Yoga’ by Sri Swami Sivananda. In that book every thing regarding meditation was there. I had the same experiences as what it was in the book. My mind turned inwards. I’m not interested in all these worldly affairs. I want to lead spiritual life and I’m the lonely son of my parents. But they want me to pursue a carrer; They don’t know all these spiritaul aspects & yoga. My father is a drunkard & my mother – she does rituals, I mean Pujas & all. For the last one year I’m unable to take a decision and I’m not having peace of mind. Earlier I used to do all evil things like smoking, drinking and not studied well. But, now a radical change occured & now I’m completely a different man. For the last one year, I’m struggling very much. I don’t have peace of mind. I’m very much interested in leading a divine life. Please guide me in this aspect.

Answer to the Above Response: That there are lot of contradictions in your statements. You say that you have picked up the yoga, meditation and given up all bad habits. You were also happy and peaceful. But, again you write, you don’t have peace of mind for last one year. First of all, pay your utmost attention to the studies and complete it. Your future life of becoming a monastic or otherwise, has to be decided latter. Read good literature of Swami Vivekananda by which you will get more strengthening inspiration to face the challenges of life. You are welcome to correspond whenever you feel like.