Honouring Haanel & Vairagi

Haanel

Vairagi

Accepting “what is”

It was the differences between us that were to become my teachers. For instance, Vairagi had the wisdom to accept what came to her as coming from God, and the faith to know it was for her highest good. Since I struggle to “accept what is,” her faith was and is a beacon of light for me.

Also, Vairagi (whose name means “non-attachment” or “austerity”) had chosen to be a renunciate in the formal sense of the word. Many years ago, one of her female friends came to her and confided that she desired a relationship. Vairagi’s cryptic reply was, “Why do you need marriage when you have five gurus?”

It’s not as if she was never tempted to leave her single state. She was, but as soon as she realized it wasn’t God’s will, she was able to let it go. For her, the spiritual path was all-sufficient and she was able to find solace inside. I found her independence quite inspiring.

~ Nayaswami Nalini

Receive the Orphans and the Stricken, Who Have Come to Thy Door

The orphans and the stricken have heard of Thy healing power. They have come to Thy door. Wilt Thou turn them away empty-handed? Those whose hearts are breaking with sadness and despair: dry their scalding teardrops with Thy invisible hand. Those who are lost in delusion—to whom shall they turn, but to Thee? Lift Thine unseen veil of silence and appear in Thy overwhelming, divine compassion. Before the coming of the dawn of Thy presence, all their dark troubles will take wing.

~ Paramhansa Yogananda