Chapter 15: Aum and The Power of a Dream —Lorne’s Story
A Letter from Swami Kriyananda
WITHIN A FEW MONTHS (August 1999) Lorne received a letter from Swami Kriyananda, blessing him for undertaking this remarkable mission. Here is an excerpt:
I admire your courage, Lorne. I don’t need to tell you that you’ve taken on a good challenge! We’ve usually sent ministers only to places that have already developed at least a strong meditation group. My concern for you is only that you not become discouraged at how long these things can take to really get going, or that you begin to feel isolated. On the other hand, perhaps groups will develop there relatively quickly. Certainly Mr. Black planted some good seeds during his many years there. And you have a wonderful vision of what you’d like to help bring to birth in Michigan, which can only help to magnetize the work there.
That you felt inwardly inspired to do this is the best sign that it’s worth trying. Keep “checking in” from time to time, of course, to make sure you continue to feel guided in what you’re doing; one doesn’t want to be asleep at the helm if God suddenly calls for a turn in one direction or the other! So long, though, as you feel in your heart that Master is smiling on your service there, don’t be discouraged by the inevitable challenges that will arise. Every worthwhile work requires someone’s tapasya [austerity] at the beginning. This I can attest to from personal experience! But I don’t regret a moment of it; for I can also attest to the joy that comes from serving this ray, and sharing it with others.
I send you my blessings, Lorne, on all you’re trying to build there. As you serve others, may you, too, be deeply blessed.
Joy to you!
In Master’s love, Swami
Swami Kriyananda later authorized Lorne’s ordination as a Kriya minister—on March 7, 2011, during the celebration of Yogananda’s mahasamadhi* in Los Angeles, California
Lorne & Swami Kriyananda
Lorne’s Book
