Self-Realization.
Bhagavan Sree Ramanadevayanamah! How is realization made possible? Bhagavan answers: There is an absolute Self from which a spark proceeds as from a fire. The spark is called the ego. In the case of an ignorant man it identifies itself with an object simultaneously with its rise. It can not remain independent of such association with objects. The association is ajnana or ignorance and its destruction is the object of our efforts. If its objectifying tendency is killed it remains pure, and also merges into the source. The wrong identification with the body is dehatma buddhi('I am the body'idea). This must go before good results follow. The 'I' in its purity is experienced in intervals between the two states (wakeful and sleep) or two thoughts. Ego is like that caterpillar which leaves its hold only after catching another. Its true nature can be found when it is out of contact with objects or thoughts. This ghostly ego which is devoid of form comes into existence by gra...