The image of the majestic eagle soaring in the sky took me a few years back to when I had the picture of a soaring eagle on my office desk. It reminded me of freedom and rising above the ordinary, despite difficulties.
So I was thrilled beyond measure when I saw the soaring eagle above this Reflection on Gurumayi—and when I read how the author of the Reflection heard Gurumayi in a dream, saying, “Follow your heart’s desire and soar like an eagle.” I was equally inspired when the author—writing while in prison—says that “my life is going the way it is supposed to go and I can make it what I want.” I loved the conviction in his words, “I have Gurumayi’s grace, which guides and protects me.”
I can resonate with his understanding that, with Guru’s grace, we are all leading the life that is perfect for us, as we learn to fly “to the highest truth.”
Hosur, India
“In my dream, Gurumayi's eyes are like diamonds," says this devoted Siddha Yogi. What a beautiful image—to see the light from the Guru's eyes as guidance. I am so grateful for this heartfelt Reflection that embraces the Guru as the means. I can feel this writer receiving the grace in every word. This individual in prison is not imprisoned.
I offer gratitude to this devotee for the reminder to both ask the Guru for guidance and to listen to and obey the command.
California, USA
What a beautiful and moving Reflection. Thank you to the writer for taking the time to contemplate your experience, put it into words, and then share it with us. We are united in that love that you speak of, no matter where we are in this world.
When I finished reading, something unexpected came up for me. The recognition of my mind’s tendency towards self-pity. I did not sense any of that in the share. So, thank you. This is something I want to become more aware of. Perhaps the opposite of self-pity is gratitude—a practice I want to become more and more dedicated to.
Thank you again to the courageous writer.
New York, USA
When the "The Fruit of Shri Rudram Recitation" appeared, I was enraptured by the photograph of the eagle in flight. Before reading this Reflection, I asked my inner Self what message can I receive from this magnificent bird.
For the next two days, whenever I consciously looked at the sky, I thought of that eagle. Some of the words that came to mind were
dynamic, stillness, mastery, poise, freedom, vastness, alert, protection. As I allowed each word to give rise to feelings, I was drawn deeper into my heart.
Then I read the Reflection, which was such a strong affirmation of the importance of studentship. I was reminded that my state of freedom depends on my openness to learning from my surroundings, the
sangham, family, work, and most importantly from the situations and people that I feel challenged to love.
I remembered that I also have two wings: self-effort and grace. And I have my Guru’s ever-present benevolence, like the wide blue sky, to soar into.
Many, many happy returns of the day, Gurumayi!
Sydney, Australia
Thank you to the writer of this beautiful Reflection. I can feel the movement into deeper, sweeter studentship in your words. I am inspired by the perfect response to your prayer, reminding me that Gurumayi is absolutely present for us in each moment. Your story reminds me of the power of a heartfelt prayer and the potent energy of ancient mantras, such as Shri Rudram. We are so fortunate to be able to listen to and repeat these mantras, knowing they are alive with the Guru's shakti.
I’m thinking about what an uplifting presence you must be, what blessings you must bring to the people around you! And what a privilege it is for all of us to be walking the path at this time with the constant guidance of a living Guru.
Thank you, Gurumayi, for the great light of your being and of your teachings.
Melbourne, Australia
This Reflection is a great example of the incredible power of Gurumayi's grace to pervade and touch the lives of anyone, anywhere, at any time, regardless of their life's circumstances. The writer's experiences and insights remind me that there truly are no bars or walls to the heart—no matter where we are—when we connect with the Guru's grace, do our practices, and follow Gurumayi's teachings.
This student's understanding that his life "is going the way it is supposed to go" and his efforts to share his love and uplift others in prison inspire me to make a greater effort to embrace my own life with gratitude and to share my light with those around me.
New York, USA
How wonderful to read how this Siddha Yogi in prison is so dedicated to his
sadhana and his Guru!
The Guru has no boundaries. It was so moving to read how the writer's simple request to Gurumayi was met with such an abundance of teachings, love, and compassion. Truly, Gurumayi is always with us; we only need to extend the invitation.
California, USA
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