My heart feels for all who have been affected by the devastation wrought by Cyclone Fani in Orissa – including Puri and surrounding areas – and I am deeply praying for those who have been affected, as are all the monks and nuns in Gurudeva Sri Sri Paramahansa Yogananda’s ashrams.
As you know, Gurudeva had a special connection with Puri because he spent much time there receiving training from his own revered Guru, Swami Sri Yukteswarji. Surely in their omniscient consciousness these two great avatars are sending their blessings to all who are suffering and to those helping with the renovation of the affected areas. And how pleased they would be that Yogoda Satsanga Society is actively participating in the relief efforts, and that members of YSS and SRF are also praying for all who are in need in Puri and the surrounding locale. Though this is such a difficult time for them, may their burdens be lightened by the knowledge that caring souls in India and around the world feel for them and are seeking God’s help. We ask God to strengthen those who are suffering, to give them hope and confidence for the time of recovery; and especially to embrace them in the security of His all-healing, reassuring love.
Guruji teaches us that whatever our external circumstances, the Divine is our safest haven of refuge from all the storms of life in this realm of maya. When we turn to Him with faith and devotion, we are turning from darkness toward light, energizing our will, and connecting it with the Cosmic Power that brought this universe into being. God created each of us in His image and endowed our souls with His creative power and all of His qualities. If we remember the truth that each of us has the potential to be a victorious spiritual conqueror, nothing can intimidate us – no matter what obstacles maya puts in our way. When we hold firmly to God and put to use His divine gifts, His power will reinforce our efforts. And when we pray for others in sympathy for their suffering, we are lifted beyond the limited scope of our own daily cares into that larger consciousness of universal love and compassion in which the Great Ones live. In so doing our own hearts open wider for God’s love to flow through us, laying a foundation for greater kindness and brotherhood in the world.
May the eternal Divine Presence invoked by the united prayers and continued serviceful acts of many be a tangible Power of encouragement and help for all who need to rebuild their lives in the days and months ahead.
God and Guru bless you all,
Swami Chidananda Giri
