समय के समक्ष
In the Presence of Time
~ Gurumayi Chidvilasananda
With this teaching, I felt that it was time for me to notice “the vista of time.”
Passing by a row of yellow, white, and pink tulip clusters in a sidewalk flowerbed, I thought that since they are at children’s eye level, the children would notice the change in the tulips’ color and perceive “the vista of time.”
Later, I perceived “the vista of time” once again. On my way to do some shopping, I saw the moon, like a white balloon floating silently in the blue sky. Then, on my way back home, I saw that the moon was still up, but clouds were gathering, dividing the sky: on one side—the blue sky and white moon; on the other side—the gray, cloudy sky.
“The vista of time” seems to be infinite when I pay attention and notice.
Tokyo, Japan
Recently, I have had the good fortune to collect and compile anecdotes and messages of good wishes and gratitude for several friends who are Siddha Yogis, in honor of their eightieth birthdays. As I read these beautiful submissions from people who appreciate them so much and whose experiences with them sometimes span many decades, I feel I am looking out over “the vista of time.” I see how the contributions and virtues of these Siddha Yogis have illumined their own lives and the lives of so many. I see how “the vista of time” can reveal the greatness of a human life.
California, United States
They seemed to be gazing at a large puddle where a patch of the sky’s reflection stretched beyond the puddle’s edge onto the asphalt. With her fingertips grazing the water’s surface, the girl exclaimed, “Look! The sky is in the ground!”
In that instant, time folded in on itself. Gurumayi’s teaching for the day arose in my mind, and suddenly, the vast and the small, the above and the below, the eternal and the fleeting all became one! Something shifted within me. “The vista of time” had opened—not just the seen but the unseen, not just the moment but the presence beneath it. That child’s insight filled me with wonderment.
New York, United States
California, United States
With the understanding that the infinity of the universe dwells in my heart, I can experience “the vista of time” from the perspective of my Self. And I can maintain this awareness and reactivate it by focusing on my breath and mantra repetition.
Rodez, France
Over “the vista of time,” I have gained and continue to gain confidence in my ability to take small steps that add up to great things. I can recognize the accumulated, unfailing effect of grace, my own self-effort, and the beneficent efforts of others.
Contemplating “the vista of time” makes me welcome the passing of time because, in my experience so far, the more time that goes by, the wider and more illuminating view this vista reveals.
California, United States