Preface

Dr. S. Radhakrishnan emphasizes the fundamental need for spiritual growth in his introduction to Mahatma Gandhi-Essays ad Reflections, "The greatest fact in the story of man on earth is not his material achievement, the empire he has built and broken, but the growth of his soul from age to age in its search for truth and goodness. Those who take part in this adventure of the soul, secure an enduring place in the history of human culture."

From the cradle to the grave man aspires for five things: (1) everlasting happiness, (2) infinite knowledge, (3) immortality, (4) sovereignity, and (5) freedom. But we script our own miseries and failures through moral misconduct, spiritual ignorance and laziness.

The eternal truths evade us because of our mundane pursuits and joys! But these truths strike a conscious note in times of tragedy, failure and illness. We are then spurred to seek the Divine for solace, happiness and the fundamental truths so essential for personal stability and growth.

Turning Point, through its wide range of enlightening and empowering essays, seeks to awaken and elevate the readers to a higher level of knowledge, wisdom and spiritual living. They provide an opportunity to reflect upon and also introduce a change in our spiritual, social and health aspects of life.

We acknowledge the divine inspiration of guru Pramukh Swami Maharaj and the labour and devotion of BAPS sadhus and devotees in contributing to this excellent publication of enlightening essays.