Test or Fate?
Question
Hello Sir,
I am a 59-year old male with just under 9 months unbroken brahmacharya. Recently I spent part of a day with a female acquaintance. We had dinner at her house and then went to a movie. Following the movie, we had dessert at her house. There was no romantic activity, but I admit I was very tempted. Both the woman and I have no children and have never been married. This woman has a very similar appearance and personality to my sister-in-law (my brother's wife). She also has the exact same somewhat unusual occupation as my sister-in-law.
This leads to my question. Is this fate or a test from the Divine? Many aspects of the situation suggest I am fated to be involved with this woman as my late life partner. On the other hand, I greatly value and recognize the tremendous benefits of brahmacharya and don't want to lose it. At this stage of my brahmacharya, I know I will eventually act on my desire if I continue to spend time alone with this woman.
Any observations will be greatly appreciated. Thank-you. R.
Answer
Involvement with the opposite sex outside the precincts of marriage for recreation as man/woman ends in suffering. The purpose of cupid is to lead to marriage, not more. Hence the association should be looked forward to if marriage (carried out at the earliest) is the genuine objective from both sides, after taking all other factors into consideration.
ॐ तत् सत्
(That Supreme being is the absolute truth)