Dear Ones,
Guru Purnima is an auspicious day to join the many souls in India, and throughout the world, who follow the tradition of paying homage to the guru — the “dispeller of darkness” of maya that obscures the innate radiance of our souls. Let us express our gratitude to our own beloved guru, Sri Sri Paramahansa Yogananda, for the countless blessings he pours into our lives; and to renew our resolve to follow ever more enthusiastically the sadhana he has bestowed on us.
In Guruji’s omnipresent consciousness there is no barrier between him and us. He assured his disciples of his eternal care and guidance, even after leaving his physical form: “I shall always be watching over each one of you, and whenever a true devotee thinks of me in the silent depths of his soul, he will know that I am near.” As you study his Lessons and other writings with the thought, “He is speaking to me,” those words will come to life for you, saturated with the transforming power of his God-consciousness. When you need to solve a problem, if you surround yourself with the aura of his peace and ask his guidance, he will help you to see your way more clearly. If you make a mistake or are facing unpleasant circumstances, inwardly ask him: “What do you want me to learn?” Remaining open to his guidance will bring you precious gems of understanding to hasten your soul progress.
The deepest attunement with the Guru comes through meditation. As soon as you sit before Guruji’s picture to meditate, place yourself in his living presence so that the power of his higher consciousness and devotion can strengthen your efforts. By practice of the sacred YSS/SRF techniques, which are permeated with his blessings, restlessness of the inner being will gradually fade away. And in the silent temple of your soul you will feel more tangibly the embrace of his infinite love, ever encouraging and helping you to bring out the divine qualities within you.
May God and Gurudeva’s love and blessings surround you always,
Swami Chidananda Giri
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