Path of Least Resistance

Published by

Susan Yankoski

Krsnaji teaches me to do what my heart desires.

In life, one sometimes chooses “the path of least resistance.” In fact, it is almost always recommended. I first came across this expression as a teenager and thought it was about working smart, finding the quickest and most unobstructed path to gain an end. It was not until later in my life that my idea of this notion began to change.

It happened that, “the path of least resistance” began to look a lot like a path made by a bulldozer or was a path followed out of laziness, or a lack of creativity. One might just take an open path simply because it is open — and may still reach one’s desired end, but at what cost? Determination and single-mindedness should not rest in desire alone.

There has to be some righteousness in the path. And this is where my understanding of this phrase finally matured. Typically, taking “the path of least resistance” represents taking the easiest way to move forward. However, “the path of least resistance” in fact, may be the most difficult worldly path one may take.

“Least resistance,” for me is a measurement made in my heart. It is when I hear from my inner voice what is right, correct or necessary, that is the measure! “The path of least resistance” is the path, when viewed through introspection, in my heart of hearts, meets with the least resistance.

Following this path gets me in trouble all the time! It has at times put me at odds with many of the people I have known. Prior to my active journey, I had not thought that this view was spiritual, but it is. This “path of least resistance” is His path. Since studying with my Guruji, I have learned that it is God who speaks to us in that inner voice. Our very first response, our very first thought is the Divine. But, immediately following God’s voice is our mind’s voice, full of other ideas.

It takes practice to shut the mind’s voice down, to act solely on the Divine’s intention. Until one can faithfully listen to that very first voice, it may be best to review plans and ideas in one’s heart of hearts — and then follow that heart’s desire!