समय के समक्ष
In the Presence of Time
~ Gurumayi Chidvilasananda
I ignite gratitude in my heart every day by remembering the countless tools my Guru has bestowed upon me—and realizing that most human beings on this planet do not have such amazing good fortune. For me, “time’s boon of courage and splendor” is the Guru’s prasad: after years of sadhana, the being inside me has been constantly nurtured by the practices and strengthened by the teachings. This being within is finally holding the reins of my life, and over time has grown into a courageous, resplendent human being. I am forever grateful!
Milan, Italy
When I first read Gurumayi’s teaching offered on the sacred day of Mahashivaratri, my mind drew a blank. Yet, during the course of the day, I did my practices as an offering to Lord Shiva. I chanted the mantra, recited Shri Rudram, and sang the Shiva Arati. As a result, a sense of calm and stillness prevailed within me, despite a few anxious moments arising.
The next morning when I woke up, I revisited the teaching “Time’s boon of courage and splendor.” As I contemplated the Guru’s words, it suddenly dawned upon me that, because of all of the time I have spent over the years consistently doing my practices, time has rewarded me by establishing the precious “boon of courage and splendor” within me.
The next morning when I woke up, I revisited the teaching “Time’s boon of courage and splendor.” As I contemplated the Guru’s words, it suddenly dawned upon me that, because of all of the time I have spent over the years consistently doing my practices, time has rewarded me by establishing the precious “boon of courage and splendor” within me.
Chennai, India
For me, the detailed artwork accompanying Gurumayi’s teaching given on Mahashivaratri goes hand-in-hand with the teaching itself. As I looked at the rudraksha beads framing the image, they reminded me that time gives the boon of courage. In my case, it is the courage to keep pursuing sadhana, to choose the highest actions and thoughts, and to continuously return to repeating the mantra. The green hearts reminded me of time’s boon of splendor—the splendor and joy that I can experience in my own heart. The crescent moon forms a smile, which I happily return.
Salisbury, United Kingdom