A special message from our revered Sanghamataji for Guru Purnima falling this year on July 9th.
Dear Ones,
On the day of Guru Purnima, we unite with devotees throughout India and around the world in the ancient and sacred tradition of paying homage to the guru—the dispeller of the darkness of maya, the guide God sends to bring us back to Him. During this special year marking the centenary of the founding of Yogoda Satsanga Society of India, it has brought much joy to our hearts to see how our own beloved Gurudeva Sri Sri Paramahansa Yogananda’s universal teachings continue to spread in his homeland and throughout the world, uplifting so many souls who are seeking a spiritual foundation amidst the constant flux of this realm of duality. Let the auspicious time of Guru Purnima be an opportunity to appreciate anew the supreme blessing of being drawn to a God-united Guru, and to resolve to make the most of that divine gift.
Guruji told us, “It is so hard to progress on your own on the spiritual path, but it is the easiest thing if you have a true guru to whom you surrender yourself and whose interest is only in your spiritual welfare.” Through such a soul, who is a pure channel for God’s love and wisdom, the Divine Himself comes to guide us safely to our true home of eternal bliss-consciousness. The guru encourages us and provides everything we need to reach that goal. But he also respects our freedom to make our own choices; and our willingness and motivation to persevere in following his counsel determine how much we receive of his limitless spiritual bounty. It is easy to be in tune with the guru when all goes well—when our will coincides with his, and our prayers are answered. But there are times in our spiritual journey when his wisdom-guided will, which perceives clearly what we need, conflicts with what our human nature wants, and the “little I” rebels. If on such occasions you choose to put your trust in him rather than in the ego’s preferences, and let go of self-will, you are taking a vital step toward soul freedom. To surrender in this way does not mean to give up constructive action, but to cooperate with the guru, who seeks only your highest good. By asking him to help you understand what he wants you to learn, you will discover even in challenging circumstances the gems of his life-transforming blessings.
Trust in the guru grows as you make him a constant presence in your life. With the deepening of your meditations you will feel his nearness as peace, love, or joy in your heart. And by regularly studying his teachings—absorbing his guidance and the vibration of his God-consciousness, you will find his words coming to your aid just when you need them. As Guruji has promised, “The more you tune in with me the more I will be with you in spirit.” Lifetimes of karma can be dissolved with the guru’s help and God’s grace, and if you apply his teachings with sincerity and devotion, he will lift you to the realm of ever-new joy in which he dwells.
May God and Gurudeva’s love and blessings surround you always,
Sri Sri Mrinalini Mata
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