Unless One Roots Out One's Defects, One Has No Hope of Spiritual Progress --- However Hard One May Try!

Swami Sivananda: "Right from the very beginning of one's spiritual life, ones must understand clearly that in true 'humanity' --- sincere desire to gradually root out pride, egoism and jealousy,  earnest and unceasing introspection to find our one's own defects and improve oneself --- lies one's hope of progress. Without this basis, any form of Sadhana becomes a delusion and a waste. It makes the aspirant puffed up, more proud and egoistic. When this happens, all good advice and instructions fall flat upon him. Higher influences cease to have any effect as the aspirant becomes deliberately and obstinately non-receptive to them. Eternal vigilance should be exercised if he is to avoid falling into this dangerous state. Spiritual life is not a light matter." (pgs. 46-47, Daily Readings)