Higher levels

Vows make us act on levels higher than what comes natural to us.

For most of us we could say that the vows we take, make us act on a level which is more exalted than we would naturally follow on our own accord. Once the vows are there we are facing the challenge to rise up to the level of the vows. As we struggle we become aware that we have to fill in the gap left by the restrictions with inspiration, higher taste, supportive discipline and favorable people and situations. We become humbled, we realize we are not great saints or powerful transcendentalists, but simply depending on mercy to make us carry on. Mercy from Krishna, from His devotees, from the Holy Name, from prasadam, the Holy Dhama and other things that are full of transcendental potency. Eventually we need to become more authentic in being situated on that higher level, that will only happen by always humbly taking shelter of Krishna, without Him we are willing toys in the hands of Maya.

Prahlada Maharaja had fully taken shelter of the Lord, even in the most extreme situations where his life was endangered. Later he prayed to lord Nrsimhadeva as follows;

O best of the great personalities, I am not at all afraid of material existence, for wherever I stay I am fully absorbed in thoughts of Your glories and activities. My concern is only for the fools and rascals who are making elaborate plans for material happiness and maintaining their families, societies and countries. I am simply concerned with love for them. SB 7.9.43