In our sacred lineage, the Nandinatha Sampradaya of the Kailasa Parampara, a strict daily routine is advised for spiritual progress. In Tamil, there is a profound saying: “Maata, Pita, Guru, Dheivam” (Mother, Father, Guru, and God). While some interpret it as “God comes last,” the deeper meaning reveals the sequential introduction to life’s higher truths:
- Mother introduces you to the Father.
- Father introduces you to the Guru.
- Guru shows you the way to realize and reach God.
The essence of this teaching is clear: to find the right path, one needs a Guru.
The Illusion of “Self-Guru”
My Gurudeva humorously refers to the term “Mr. Shri Shri Shri Maha Viswaguru Ji” to describe those who act as their own guru, guided by ego and relying on trial and error. While this approach isn’t inherently wrong, the journey is often long, fraught with missteps, and may span multiple lifetimes before yielding clarity and realization.
A Question for Reflection
Do you have a Guru? Choose your answer:
- (A) Yes
- (B) No, how do I find one?
- (C) Why should I need one?
- (D) I don’t know.
- (E) I don’t need one.
If your answer is (E), I humbly request you to reflect on your life experiences and consider what has led you to this decision.
What My Guru Does for Me and My Family
Here’s how my Guru, Satguru Bodhinatha Veylanswami, transforms our lives:
- Accessible Presence: He is available both in the physical and astral realms, supported by the dedicated Kauai Hindu Monastery.
- Guidance by Example: He teaches tolerance and embodies the principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—”The world is our family.”
- Weekly Satsangs: Through consistent teachings, he imparts Dharma and the righteous way of living.
- Unbroken Lineage: He leads Kauai Monastery monks while faithfully following his Guru, Satguru Sivaya Subramuniyaswami, and our ancient lineage.
- Scriptural Foundations: We are guided by the Vedas, Upanishads, Thirumandiram, Thirukural, Natchintanai and Master Course Trilogy
- Disciplined Sadhana: Strict requirements are set for disciples, fostering growth through consistent practices.
- Timeless Wisdom: Our lineage values patience with the principles: “River of Life,” “No Hurry, No Worry, No Sorry.”
- Building Willpower: Through daily sadhana, he strengthens my resolve and inner discipline.
- Trusting Life’s Flow: He encourages embracing karma positively and living joyfully, trusting life’s divine timings.
When Will You Find Your Guru?
If reading this stirs a longing for a Guru, trust that the right one will appear when you are ready.
Let the search begin within. The Guru’s grace flows when the disciple’s heart is open.
Aum.
