The eighty-ninth in a series of talks by Swami Nirmalananda Giri (Abbot George Burke) on the Bhagavad Gita, India's most famous scripture: the unforgettable dialog between Sri Krishna and Arjuna about the essence of spiritual life.In this talk, continuing with Chapter 18:45, Swamiji discusses about swakarma (a person’s own duty), and how it is better to do ones own duty, though flawed, than another's duty done well.Core Teaching • Perfection (siddhi) is attained by fulfilling one’s own dharma (swadharma)—the duty aligned with one’s innate nature (swabhava). • True contentment and strength arise from acting in harmony with one’s inner being, not by imitating others. • Living your personal dharma—even if imperfectly—is better and safer than trying to live another’s, even if it looks superior.Worship Through Dharma • Worship is not just ritual, but living your inner truth. • Performing your own duties well is the highest form of offering to God, who is the origin and sustainer of all. • Spiritual practice that aligns with your true karmic nature purifies the mind and brings you closer to Brahman.Important Distinctions • Even if your swadharma appears flawed or humble, it is never wrong if done sincerely. • All worldly actions are touched by imperfection, just as fire is accompanied by smoke. • The Yogi’s path is about perseverance, detachment, and inner strength, not outward success. Qualities of the Perfected Yogi • Intellect is detached, not influenced by outer praise or blame. • Lower self is subdued; desires are weakened or transcended. • Actions are no longer karma-producing—he acts in freedom. • The perfected Yogi has: • Pure intellect (vishuddhi) • Control over senses and mind • Equanimity toward attraction and aversion • A solitary, inward-focused life • Light diet and light living • Discipline in speech, thought, and behavior • Constant devotion to meditation and japaWarnings • Spiritual life must be balanced—not negligent of family or daily duties. • Avoid hypocrisy: pretending to be spiritual while abandoning responsibility is tamasic. • Repressing desires without inner transformation is not real renunciation—true detachment is when the desire itself is gone. Closing Message • Fulfill your own swadharma fully, without envy or imitation. • Even imperfect effort in your true calling brings real spiritual advancement. • The path to Brahman begins with sincere, self-true action.