While the mind is an amazing computer, it is not intended to or capable of discriminating whether an activity is in our best interest or not. Any repeated pattern of behavior forms a pathway or track, regardless of whether it involves healthy activities, such as physical exercise and taking vitamins, or less desirable activities, like taking drugs including alcohol. When a thought or action has cut the mindtrack deep enough through repetition, the habit becomes fixed, and the individual – like a marionette – has little choice but to be strung along.
If we are unable to let go of addiction no matter how hard or often we try, maybe the spiritual lesson here is to simply learn how to ask for help. It is not a weakness to recognize that we have developed a serious negative addiction – one that may require the help of a professional – but a sign of spiritual maturity, wisdom and strength. It is a sign that the sway of ego and stubborn willfulness of the lower self is losing its hold. As the director of our movie, it is up to us, Soul, our conscious aware selves, to make wise choices, to create healthy habits using the mechanical functions of the mind to our advantage. The daily practice of spiritual contemplation, gratitude, eating nutritious foods, and pursuing healthy activities that we are passionate about, will undoubtedly forge a straight path to a successful spiritual life, one worthy of our divine nature. The only addiction that Soul should surrender to is love!
