What is the difference (if any) with fear that we invent and fear that is more instinct, such as fear caused by a sudden loud noise? One is invented by the mind, and one is a response to outside stimuli. Are they the same or different?

Answer:
Fear that is instinctual is rooted in the organism’s drive for self-preservation. It is a biological warning system that there might be a threat to one’s physical safety. It causes increases sensory alertness and a host of biochemical changes that prepares the body for action. This mechanism has obvious advantages when one’s life is endangered.

What is the difference between trust and 'giving up'? Does the experience of being guided by one's higher self depend on the healthiness of one's body and mind? ie. Can a person be too exhausted to be aware of whatever guidance the spirit is trying to provide?

Answer:
I would say that trust implies that you are maintaining a connection of consciousness to the eventual outcome. Giving up is an abdication of that connection along with any action, responsibility or benefit that might ensue.

I've been thinking about death lately, and the fact that I will miss unique expressions of the spirit when they die, as well as the question of whether I will recognize people who have died when I die. ( In a childlike way I was wondering if I am going to feel lonely and lost when I die). In your book, "Power, Freedom, and Grace", I happened to open to the following: "When you die, you don't go anywhere; your soul is simply vibrating at another frequency." I was hoping this might mean that everyone who has died is vibrating at another frequency and maybe I could recognize others. Could you possibly help me with this?

Lately I have been made aware of sickness, seemingly premature deaths, and illness in people's pets. My question is how does one respond to these situations. Even though I believe in the spirit in all, the emotional suffering of others is overwhelming, and I wonder what the most compassionate response is. I feel as I get older I am going to become more and more aware of this and I find it frightening, which is not helpful. I would be very grateful for your advice.

I have my mantra from T.M . since the 70’s ….. Maharishi Mahesh Yogi … when you refer to the mantras you teach from your organization ..do these come from the same tradition as T.M. ?

To do satsang is it necessary to initiate in your tradition of mantras ?

Answer:
No, the mantras used in Primordial Sound Meditation (PSM) are different than those used in Transcendental Meditation(TM). Both practices however draw upon the same basic source of mantras , known as bija or seed mantras. This original fund of mantra knowledge is thousands of years old and is not proprietary to any group or organization.

To do satsang you can use any silent meditation you prefer.

Love,
Deepak

I have a question about Guru's. I have a friend who has introduced me to various Guru's/Saints. She is an awesome healer and very spiritual, however she doesn't seem to be manifesting in her life the things she desires. I feel having so many Gurus is not necessary. Why can't I reach self-realization - God Conscious by myself through deep meditation? Can becoming a student of a Saint/Guru bring me there faster? Also, would it not be best to pick one Guru not have so many? My favorite Teacher is still the Christ and I have had visions and encounters with Him in the last 2 years. I am only mentioning this because one of the Guru's says it is best to have a Guru who is currently walking the planet then one who has passed on. What are your feelings on this? I value your opinion.

I'm a student from Holland studying abroad in South America, and I have a big problem in my marriage. I’ve been married for six months, and every time my husbands leaves the house I'm afraid he won't come back. I fear that something terrible is going to happen to him he'll die and I'll be left all alone. I know this is stupid and thinking bad things will attract bad things, but I can't let these thought go. I try but they come back every time. I’ve gained inspiration from your writings. I just can't put them into practice. Can you help me?

Could you please explain how I can attract more potential love interests into my life. I feel awkward and shy when I am around a woman I find interesting and attractive. Yet, when I am with someone whom I don't find myself drawn to, I can easily engage in conversation. I suspect that I have talked myself into enjoying being alone, afraid that someone may upset the apple cart.