Guru Purnima

In spiritual India, today is reserved for honouring teachers and guides. The post-modern mind often rebels against authority figures and the principle of gurus. They promote fraternity more than hierarchy – position and titles don’t mean as much as camaraderie and kindness. The post-modern are explorative more than conclusive – the truth they say, is something we are constantly discovering and absoluteness smells suspicious. Post-modernism promotes inclusivity over exclusivity – nobody has a monopoly, claim or control over the truth, they say. Though these notions may sound antithetical to traditional spirituality and the acceptance of a guru, not necessarily.

In Vedic tradition, the guru is as much a loving friend as a protective father, eagerly waiting to give independence and empowerment so that the disciple can creatively design their destiny. The guru lends vision and opens doors, allowing the disciple to explore a previously inaccessible world of opportunity. The guru teaches the absolute truth, but then encourages the disciple to mine that oceanic knowledge for their own jewels of wisdom and insight. The relationship with gurus and guides is one of the most mystical and beautiful components of the spiritual journey. Of this I am fully convinced.

Take some moments to offer gratitude to all those who have helped you on the journey. Nobody in this world is self-made.