Patanjali's
sutras state that the spiritual aspirant needs 'provisional faith' as
well as mindfulness and energy to step onto this path. What about
those already on the path for many years, how can our faith continue
to be strengthened? In cultivating our connection with our highest
self on a daily basis, but also through seeing the emergence of the
highest self in others.
I've
just finished a month of teaching YTT in Rishikesh. I thank firstly
my teacher Yogrishi Vishvektu for his faith in me, even at times when
my own conviction falters. But also the 25 Akhanda teachers emerging
fully cooked from the 'oven' (as he describes it) of an intensive
month at Ananda Prakash ashram. Living, breathing and being 'yoga'
together as a community is about much more than becoming a teacher of
others, but building faith in our own divine nature.
And
reaching out a hand to guide this process offers the same benefit. We
see after a certain time (and effort) the transformational power of
yoga in our wider lives as well as bodies and minds, but mindfulness
is strengthened through seeing the new blossoming of Self in others.
This year's group inspired me with their bravery, devotion and will
to overcome whatever obstacles appeared. And to embrace not only the
practise of yoga on the mat, but in every moment. I go home full of
renewed energy to share this practise, on a physical level and as a
path to divine living.
My
meet and greet card on day one was 'embrace the negative as well as
positive experiences' and this is where our faith is truly tested. I
borrow a quotation from several students, via the words of Osho: 'I
am the centre of the cyclone, so whatever happens around me makes no
difference to me. It may be turmoil or it may be the beautiful sound
of running water; I am just a witness to both, and the witnessing
remains the same.'
When
we have faith the right teachers arrive in our lives at the right
time to awaken our witness. And from this place our fears - not being good/ smart/
beautiful/ whatever enough - are exposed to be transformed. I'm learning to thank these fears too! For showing me the strength of my faith! Faith
does not mean a storm free journey, but does hold our hand and guide
us back to the centre.
Love,
congratulations and thanks to all. Hari OM.
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