Some people feel they should wait until they have less fear, doubt or impurity before entering into the spiritual life. Sri Chinmoy responds:
“It is better to make mistakes millions of times while seeking the light than to remain idle.
“You have to start your journey, no matter how imperfect you are. Even if you cannot walk properly and are only able to crawl, do not delay. You will say, ‘Let me wait until I can sprint; in fact, let me wait until I can become the world’s greatest sprinter.’ But that day will never come. You have to go the fastest, but only according to your receptivity. And your receptivity will increase only if you start.
Right now you can only crawl. But if you start crawling, then God will give you the capacity to stand. You may stumble many times and fall. But, like a small child, if you keep getting up and trying to walk, eventually you will learn to walk. And then, if you aspire to go still faster — to run towards your goal — God will also give you that capacity. But if you only sit and wait until you become the world’s greatest runner, then you will never even start your journey.
“It is better to start at this very moment. Do not even think of your receptivity. Do not think of the condition of your body, mind and vital. Think only of your readiness, willingness and eagerness. Your readiness, willingness and eagerness will create receptivity. God will give you receptivity according to your readiness, willingness and eagerness.
“Each day you wait is a day of failure. But if you start your journey, then each hour and each moment adds to the success and progress of your spiritual life.”
– Sri Chinmoy