For some, it might sound funny, I know. How in the world can someone do that? Talking to lifeless form is weird, isn’t it? That reminds me of this quote.
Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time.
– Thomas Merton
You wonder what I am talking about? It is this painting that has exactly done this to me when I painted it.
I had a small talk with the Lake Manasarovar as I mirrored it on my canvas! Before you label me insane, let me make it simple 🙂 I personified the divine lake in my mind. As this conversation unfolded, I was surprised how art helps us find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time. Read every sentence carefully. I am sure, it will open new doors and allow you to see life in a new light.
So here we go!
I asked Manasarovar, “Why people call this place ‘abode of Gods’?”
His soothing voice answered, “Do you know what my name means?”
“No,” I said.
“Manas means ‘Mind’ and Sarovar means ‘lake’. The mind is where your consciousness resides. Higher consciousness comes from stillness. The lake represents this stillness. When you attain higher consciousness you become one with the universe, the God, residing within you.”
“You mean God is within me? How do I see this God?”
“Yes, indeed. Still your mind like my water. You see… only when I am still you can see the reflection of Kailash. Clear the chaos. You’ll see a clear reflection of life!”
“How do I still my mind?”
“Find some time for yourself from the chaotic life. Give your phone solace for a few days.” Manasarovar laughed, “…Relax and talk to yourself. See what answers you get.”
“If I do this, I’ll see God?”
“No. You cannot see God.”
“Then why should I do it. All this makes no sense if I can’t see God!” I said defensively.
Manasarovar guffawed, “That’s the problem with you, humans! You want to see to believe. Let me give you one example. Do you think a fish is aware of something called ‘water’? Only when you pull it out of the water the fish realize the magnificence of its abode! It becomes conscious of the existence of ‘water’! Likewise, when we say saints or yogis have achieved higher consciousness, it means they have pulled themselves out of the chaos of human life and experienced the magnificence of this universe or God!”
“So, you mean I have to leave all the material possessions and come to you, meditate like yogis to see God? Isn’t there any other way?” I asked worriedly.
“Hahaha, I never said that. It is all up to you. The fish need not necessarily put their life at stake to come out of the water. It can listen to the experiences of other fishes that are conscious about the existence of water. All it has to do is to feel grateful for its existence. Gratitude is the most powerful force that helps you to stay connected with the universe.”
Did you like this surreal conversation? I would love to here your thoughts in comments!
Note: ‘Peace at Manasarovar’ limited edition canvas print (20″x24″ – Stretched frame) is available for sale at Rs. 10,000. Please write to harshada.vispute@gmail.com for inquiries.
Apna Art Adda 