I have found that after an initial burst of enthusiasm after entering the spiritual life, I have become discouraged by my failures and my lack of real progress. If I may be frank, I feel sometimes like giving up.

Ans : To enter into the spiritual life is a rare blessedness; it is a great good. To take it seriously and engage in active spiritual sadhana is a second blessedness and a still greater good. But, to persevere in the spiritual life, to be ever progressive and ceaseless in one's spiritual life, is the greatest good, the crowning blessedness. One makes up one's mind: 'come what may, until the very last breath persists in this body, I shall not swerve from the path of sadhana. Until the very last breath I shall persevere; I shall dedicate myself to the divine life. I shall be a yogi; I shall ever be intent upon attaining the goal. I shall never slacken my efforts-much less cease my endeavour.' Thus, if one gladly takes upon oneself, after serious deliberation and firm conviction this 'do or die' approach-that would indeed be the crowning glory of one's spiritual path. This is the greatest good; it is the supreme blessedness. And it is to such a seeker that success comes. Success is sure-fulfilment awaits.