Commentary by Siddha Yoga Meditation Teacher Eric Baylin
Dhairya is one among several terms for courage used in the Sanskrit language. Dhairya has multiple shades of meaning, among them “constancy,” “wisdom,” “equanimity,” “fearlessness.” Each suggests a different facet of courage in relation to sadhana.
Courage is grounded in the understanding of the Truth, which is constant.
Courage is born out of the wisdom of the supreme Self.
Courage is the fruit of equanimity.
Courage distinguishes between real and imagined dangers and fears, and reassures us to bring our attention to the reservoir of power within.
The derivation of the English word courage from the French coeur, meaning “heart,” adds another dimension to our understanding. We sometimes tell one another, “Take heart”—meaning, “Draw on your inborn strength to face whatever is necessary.” In the context of sadhana, heart takes on a still deeper meaning as the core of our being: the Heart is another name for the inner Self. In this sense, courage flows from the Heart.
Here is how Gurumayi Chidvilasananda defines this inspiring quality in her book Courage and Contentment:
Courage means rising to meet the demands of each moment with total delight, knowing you are equal to it. Courage means having faith that within you is an innate force whose essence is never depleted by external events.1
Gurumayi teaches that courage, which we often think of in terms of high-pitched challenges, is actually called for by the demands of each moment. In other words, we are to draw on courage in ongoing ways, on familiar turf, and at each moment of our day—amidst family, at work, or in the solitude of our spiritual practice.
Courage gives rise to the subtle inner act of shifting away from limiting thoughts, toward the expansive state of the Heart. Through courage, we relinquish the thoughts that erode our spirit, such as, “I am not worthy. I am not able,” and allow the Heart to say, “I am That I am.” Courage emboldens us to step back from the confines of pride and to act with humility. Courage urges us, in the quiet of meditation, to release every fiber of our being from anything that holds us back, and to become comfortable in our own skin.
In moments when we open to the strength and expansiveness of the Heart, our courage becomes manifest. Such moments enliven us completely. We experience not only strength but also delight and enthusiasm, as these, too, are qualities of the Heart.
It is apparent that by acting with courage, we express our faith in the inner Self. Such faith is secured over time by our steady practice and our remembrance of the revelatory experiences that come when the veil of the ordinary mind is lifted. In such moments we recognize our inner divinity. Through our own efforts and the unfailing gift of grace, we learn to trust that the Heart is an inexhaustible source and will sustain us no matter what external events may present themselves.
The Kularnava Tantra describes the process in this way:
He is a wise person who, through sadhana and the power of his enthusiasm, makes possible that which is impossible. He never neglects to engage himself in austerities and suitable work. He is courageous.2
A wise and courageous seeker is steady in sadhana and fuels his spiritual practices with enthusiasm—literally, divine inspiration. Through constancy, wisdom, equanimity, and fearlessness, the seeker makes steady progress toward securing the understanding that in this human form dwells the Divine.
The Siddha Yoga teachings empower us, encourage us, to be such seekers. In any situation, we can choose to take heart and rise to the occasion with confidence and delight. When facing any challenge, we have the ability to do what is right and necessary, because within us is a force equal to whatever life presents to us. In each moment—in this very moment—we can be our strongest, our most joyful, and our most courageous selves.
1Gurumayi Chidvilasananda, Courage and Contentment: A Collection of Talks on Spiritual Life (S. Fallsburg, NY: SYDA Foundation, 1999), p. 7. 2Kularnava Tantra 13.28. English translation by Swami Muktananda, The Perfect Relationship: The Guru and the Disciple (S. Fallsburg, NY: SYDA Foundation, 1999), p. 38.
These words from Gurumayi stood out for me: “Courage means having faith that within you is an innate force whose essence is never depleted by external events.” There are times when I have been faced with challenges that have brought me a lot of worry and tension. With the help of the Guru’s grace, I’ve turned within and experienced an immense strength with which I could overcome these challenges. I regularly meditate and recite the Kundalini Stavaha and Shri Guru Gita; these practices help me to stay connected with my inner Self and to remain strong within.
New Delhi, India
For two-and-a-half days, I had been unwell, unable to go to work, my normal routine disrupted. Today, I felt physically better, but still emotionally vulnerable. I began the day by opening the Siddha Yoga path website and reading the commentary on courage.
When I read Shri Gurumayi’s words “Courage means rising to meet the demands of each moment with total delight, knowing you are equal to it,” something within me felt empowered and at the same time responsible and expansive.
I allowed myself to glide through all my chores easefully, moving from one to another—making sure that there was no room for unnecessary thoughts. I felt imbued with courage and also contentment.
Karnataka, India
The commentary on courage has come to me at the right moment, when I am going through a challenging time. I have always been a courageous person, but was somehow feeling tired of being courageous. Then I read these words in the commentary: “In moments when we open to the strength and expansiveness of the Heart, our courage becomes manifest. Such moments enliven us completely. We experience not only strength but also delight and enthusiasm, as these, too, are qualities of the Heart.” Now, being courageous doesn’t feel like a burden; it feels like my heart is softening! I am grateful for this blessing.
Washington, United States
I am so grateful for this articulation of sacred courage. I am challenged by a progressive health condition. Following the teachings and practices given by our Siddha Yoga Gurus gives me joyful courage, which transcends limitations. I am thankful, grateful, blessed, even-minded, strong, and content within.
Missouri, United States
Gurumayi’s teaching that I am equal to “the demands of each moment” has sustained me again and again.
Connecticut, United States
I realize after reading this commentary how my awareness and honoring of the movements of Kundalini Shakti within my heart connect me to courage. For instance, after reciting Shri Guru Gita, I stay with my eyes closed, relishing the sweetness, and that gives me the courage to turn within, to stay with myself no matter what is going on in my life.
I also recently followed an inner inspiration to sit outside on a balcony I share with neighbors in my block of apartments. By following this inspiration, I overcame an inhibition about doing this, and have found joy in exchanging the simple greetings of each day.
Thornbury, Australia
This year I am reading the commentaries with even more attention. I take notes and take time to imbibe the teachings as much as possible. This commentary on courage has been especially helpful as I am experiencing one of the most challenging times in my life. It reminds me that I am not alone and that I have within me the strength to go through the challenges. It is such a gift to be reminded that I have courage; this virtue is within me.
Willemstad, Curacao
Facing a few challenges on the professional front recently, I realized that, while I need to practice the virtue of balance, I simultaneously need to take ongoing action. So each word in the commentary on courage went straight into my heart with a direct message as to what I need to do in my life currently. The commentary is replete with practical insights about how to practice courage at every moment in my life.
To begin with, I need to believe the teaching quoted in the commentary from Gurumayi’s book Courage and Contentment. I also resolve to keep the affirmation at the commentary’s conclusion in the forefront of my awareness so that—in each moment, in this very moment—I can be my strongest, most joyful, and courageous self. I will come back to this commentary again and again to refresh my courage so that I may face my life boldly and joyfully.
Hosur, India
Courage has been my close companion this year, as I have dealt with a diagnosis of cancer. This commentary is such a strong affirmation of my experience.
Even as I first read the biopsy result, I remembered Gurumayi’s teaching that I am equal to the challenges I face. My unwavering faith that grace was with me helped me to deal with what each day brought with equanimity. I understood that this too would pass, and that whatever was happening would be for the best. This enabled me to face each day with a grateful heart and see blessings in the situation, such as the love of my family, the expertise of my doctors, and the fact that I am now cancer-free.
Whenever I felt overwhelmed, I was able to instinctively take a deep breath and connect with the mantra. This helped me to experience the truth of the beautiful statement in the commentary: “Courage distinguishes between real and imagined dangers and fears and reassures us to bring our attention to the reservoir of power within.”
New Delhi, India
I am soon going to be moving into a newly built house. There are many projects going on at once, and I tend to get paralyzed around such details.
In the quote from Gurumayi’s book Courage and Contentment referenced in this commentary, Gurumayi says: “Courage means rising to meet the demands of each moment with total delight, knowing you are equal to it.” “Delight” is not a word I would use to express my attitude toward taking on something seemingly daunting. On the contrary, I tend to shrink and not feel equal to the task.
But now, inspired by Gurumayi’s words, I will place “dread” aside and embrace delight. I will remember that there is a strong, capable, and wise person inside of me who can tackle anything, as long as I stay in the moment, stay in my heart, and see the delight and the joy in the task.
I will be contemplating this amazing commentary as I access my inner courage.
Delaware, United States
As I read this commentary, I understood more deeply that the Self is always present within me. As I repeat and contemplate the affirmation, “I draw courage from the reservoir of power within,” I know this reservoir is the Self.
Being aware of this reservoir—this never-ending supply, always at hand for me if I just draw from it—I feel blessed!
California, United States
After reading this commentary on courage, I realized how powerful I can be if I trust my heart instead of listening to the messages coming from my mind. Fear has long been one of my greatest challenges. I love the idea of trusting my heart as I face whatever lies before me with enthusiasm and determination.
I have recently relocated and in my new location face new challenges both to my spiritual life and in my living arrangements. I now feel as if I can move forward with contentment and a courageous heart. I am very grateful for this illuminating commentary—and, of course, for Gurumayi’s timeless teachings.
Delaware, United States
The explanation of courage in this commentary is so different from the definition of courage I have previously held. The author reminds us of how Gurumayi encourages us to look within for courage, to release our attachments to pride and ego, and to let the power of the Heart guide us in every moment of our day. I feel renewed and refreshed by steeping myself in this explanation. I will focus today upon the resplendent, inexhaustible river of wisdom within as I practice living each moment courageously.
Pennsylvania, United States
This morning, I served as a substitute teacher for a middle-school class. The regular teacher had left no notes for me, and I could feel panic rising up inside. All too soon, the class began to spin out of control, with some girls dancing and some boys starting a noisy game of their own. I enjoyed the students’ spontaneity, but I knew from experience that the students needed a structured activity.
From within I heard, “Let the students have this unstructured time until recess, and you’ll come up with something appropriate after that.” During recess my mind was calm as I reached into my past for a high-interest activity. When the class returned, I presented my plan, and to my delight the students embraced it with enthusiasm. The rest of the day was filled with purposeful and constructive activity.
When I read the virtue for today and the magnificent commentary, I understood that a deeper connection to my heart’s wisdom—the foundation of courage—had turned a chaotic situation into one of harmony and respect. I am deeply grateful as I contemplate how Gurumayi’s grace is transforming my life into one of wisdom and purpose.
Vancouver, Canada
During the sweet month of June, I have been starting each day by reading and reflecting on the virtue Gurumayi has given us for that day.
Today I had to let an employee go at work. This is never easy for me because I am sensitive to the challenging impact it can have when someone loses their job. To prepare for this, I recalled the golden virtues given so far this month. They helped me find a thoughtful approach. As I focused on courage, I was able to step into my heart and speak truthfully. The conversation went smoothly, and the person I was talking to said they felt supported in moving forward.
I could feel the virtues guiding and strengthening me. I’m so grateful for Gurumayi’s gift of these virtues, these gems of awareness.
South Melbourne, Australia
This morning I noticed my mind was overwhelmed. Then, as I sat to meditate, I opened the commentary on courage. Its beauty and insight drew my mind to meditation, and I followed. While anchored in my heart, my awareness travelled lightly throughout my body, touching gently and briefly on traces of contraction and releasing them.
Now my workday begins, and, with this experience of grace, I feel open to meeting the demands of each moment.
Castlemaine, Australia
This commentary on the virtue of courage touched my heart. I have recently been facing my fears. I am trying to understand them precisely, along with the limiting beliefs I have about whether I am “enough.”
As I was reading this text, I shivered in awe at the reminder of my own true courage. Then, as I continued to face my fears and question them, I felt ready to begin to let them go by confronting the thoughts that reinforce them. I know that I will not be doing this on my own. I know that God, the Guru, the Self are there, within me, guiding my sadhana.
Mexico City, Mexico
I looked at the word Courage as it is expressed in different languages and had a happy feeling of unity. Each represents a unique culture. I connected to the vitality in each word, and seeing them all together was powerful for me.
Ohio, United States
This commentary on courage has helped me more deeply understand that the gift of courage comes from a source within the heart. I see that courage is not about exhorting myself to just grit my teeth and power through my circumstances, still essentially locked in fear of them. Rather, I can draw on grace and knowledge to go forward through circumstances that may frighten my mind, with full faith in the heart.
Washington, United States
At lunch, the people at my table and I had an enthusiastic conversation about the virtue of the day—courage. We saw how this virtue really brings us to the heart. I shared that, inspired by the commentary, I felt connected with my own divinity and that I had decided to take on a task that I’d postponed for weeks.
Later in the evening I had dinner with one of the sevites with whom I had shared lunch. Once again we spoke again about the virtue of the day. She told me that because of what I had shared during our lunch conversation, she also had chosen to take an action in the afternoon that had called for a bit of courage.
I like to imagine all the visitors to the Siddha Yoga path website taking a small action every day after discovering each virtue and its commentary. How powerful! How awesome!
I’m thankful to Gurumayi for her teachings, and for disseminating them through the Siddha Yoga path website.
a sevite at Shree Muktananda Ashram
This beautiful description of courage has reminded me that this virtue has indeed been there for me at those times when I have faced great challenges. In those moments I have often felt drawn to the power within my own heart. This has always made me feel so alive and exhilarated, filled with feelings of freedom and joy.
I’m grateful to be reminded to apply this virtue of courage to “meet the demands of each moment” and to stay steady in my sadhana.
