समय के समक्ष
In the Presence of Time
~ Gurumayi Chidvilasananda
I remember the first time I came across the word zenith; it was in one of Gurumayi’s poems. English isn’t my first language, so studying Gurumayi’s teachings has always been a source of quiet wonder, with each new word a gift of joy.
That first time I read zenith, something in me lit up. Later, I heard Gurumayi speak the word aloud, in the recording of that collection of her poems, and it was as if the word zenith rang through me—bright, clear, and full of light. It was more than sound; it was the fullness of presence, a white brilliance that seemed to hold everything at once. That moment took place twenty-seven years ago.
Today, as I read the teaching “The zenith of time,” Gurumayi’s voice echoes again for me, as alive and luminous as ever. In this moment, there is no time, no distance, only stillness and awe. I feel the peak of something eternal. And I understand that “the zenith of time” doesn’t pass. It remains.
New York, United States
This morning I studied definitions of zenith and then recited Shri Guru Gita. My meditation after Shri Guru Gita led effortlessly to an experience of soft light and energy coming straight down from a source far above my body and falling on the crown of my head. Its gentle, pulsing presence is still with me.
This experience shows me that “the zenith of time” is always present. What varies is my mind’s being present, my mind’s being open to divinity.
North Carolina, United States
For me, “the zenith of time” occurs in the moments when my consciousness turns inwards and I can rest in the sacred space of my heart. When I can experience unity with everything and savor the deep silence, love, and peace within, I am happy. In these moments, time is most valuable to me and at the zenith of the possibilities it holds for me.
Konolfingen, Switzerland
When I think of “the zenith of time,” I think of the moment I will achieve realization. Then, I will be a pure vehicle of the Guru’s grace—something my heart longs to be.
Maryland, United States
I was excited to discover that one meaning of zenith is “high point” and another is “peak of illumination and divine purpose.” It immediately became clear to me that “the zenith of time” for me is the moment I met Gurumayi in August 1988 in Shree Muktananda Ashram, in darshan after an evening program. I remember this moment clearly. When our eyes met, I knew that Gurumayi knew me better than I knew myself. With this recognition, something shifted inside of my being. I wanted to know more. I left that weekend with a copy of the text of Shri Guru Gita.
That most auspicious meeting led immediately to a whole new life—I started chanting, meditating, offering seva, repeating the Siddha Yoga mantra, and so on. That was nearly thirty-seven years ago and I remain forever grateful, since that moment—the zenith or high point—began a mystical, magical process of understanding who I am and my relationship to God and the universe.
Vienna, Austria