There are no quick-fix solutions on the spiritual path. All there is is a marvellous, mysterious path upon which you must be willing to walk.

Tests for enlightenment

Here are a few questions for introspection. Verify your position.

A. Do I look to anything or anyone else for fulfilment?
B. Do I find any existence besides the Self, at any time, judged by any standards?
C. Do I think of any gain greater than the Self which I already am?
D. Do I feel that I am a non-doer, and hence non-enjoyer and non-sufferer?
E. Do I know clearly that the Self is the supreme Brilliance and in its light alone all other things shine with their respective lustre?
F. Do I realise that while wakefulness, dream and deep sleep states rise and set, their substratum does not rise and set? Do I also realise that these transitory states have no existence besides Self?
G. Do I feel like comparing myself with other Knowers in order to judge my Self-knowledge?
Do I feel I am less or more than others?
H. Do I walk my talk? Do I live out what I preach?

In short, Self-realisation implies a state of full freedom, in the consciousness level. It denotes psychological sufficiency and intelligential enlightenment, both of which must be foolproof.

Decide how much freedom you envisage and want and then fulfil it. Finally, the need for freedom will itself become extinct.
Adapted from a letter by Swami Bhoomananda Tirtha