If the mind is properly understood and disciplined and is applied to get rid of wicked qualities based on selfishness, it will lead to a purposeful and fruitful life.

 With the help of the mind, man can rise from the level of human to the highest level of Divinity. But he can also descend to animal nature or demonic level. Once you turn the mind towards worldly objects it tends to become animal and demonic in nature. If the mind is turned upwards towards God and freed from thought processes, it tends to merge with nirguna, nirakara and becomes liberated. The most important reason for bondage is giving too much freedom to the mind. For example, when an animal is tethered to a post, it will not be able to go to another place and cause trouble. It will not be able to show anger, violence or do harm to anyone. But if it is let loose, it can roam over various fields, destroy crops and cause loss and harm to others. It will get beaten for the mischief done by it. Similarly, mind must be bound by certain regulations and limits. So long as man lives within certain limits and disciplines, rules and regulations, he will be able to maintain a good name and lead a happy and useful life.

Bagavan Sri Sri Sri Sathya Sai Baba