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May 2012 Newsletter

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It appears to me that no matter the circumstances in which we find ourselves, the question is: “What can I do in this situation?”

We all love to think “if only.” If only my job weren‘t so stressful. If only I had a little more money. If only my spouse were just a little more sympathetic. If only my boss saw things as clearly as I do. If only my health were better. If only I could live where I want to live. If only, if only...

Yogananda taught that Divine Mother brings us exactly what we need when we need it. If we accept that, then all that is left for us is to see how well we can manage ourselves wherever we are. From this acceptance we grow. With that growth we find ourselves in another situation. In that new situation we have new challenges. We are not given challenges beyond our ability to handle. It is not only that we should accept what comes, but we should actually see it as our own path to enlightenment!

Until we've completed the cycle of reincarnations, this pattern will continue. As I understand it, we can shorten the process by accepting what Divine Mother sends us. The more we fight it, the more we stay tangled in delusion.

Recognizing that everyone else is in the same boat can help us to be more supportive and positive with others. This realization lifts the vibration in and around us. And it all becomes a bit easier.

The yogic practice of separating oneself from the results of our actions is an enormous help. The more we do this, the more we realize that while we always want to do the right thing, and do the best we can, the results are beyond our control. Even if your boss doesn't think so, you can know it is true.

I'm continually working to get past my own frustrations that things aren't as I think they should be - and accept whatever comes to me. I observe others facing the same challenges. Those who accept it all as coming from God have a life no less challenging, but one that appears less tumultuous and more purposeful.

When you are always wrestling with demons, your life is one spent wrestling with demons! Let go of the demons, raise your hands to a Higher Power, and live from a higher place.

I am thankful for the teachings of the Masters and Swami Kriyananda that show me how to better achieve this.

Love and encouragement to you on your journey.

Timothy

Swami Kriyananda's Birthday Weekend

May 17 - 20, 2012

Swamiji will be in Ananda Village to join us for his birthday weekend.
At the time of writing, The Expanding Light still has rooms available!

Ananda's Anniversary and
40th Anniversary of Education for Life Schools

3-day weekend

June 28 - July 1, 2012

Your weekend will include:

Orientation led by Ananda's Spiritual Directors, Nayaswamis Jyotish and Devi
Keynote talk by Nayaswami Nitai, and talks by Ananda School alumni and their parents
Learning Education for Life through Games and Activities
Applying Education for Life for Everyone
Kirtan led by the Ananda students' White Light Kirtan
Swami Kriyananda (health permitting), speaking on the communities movement and Education for Life
Talks by Education for Life teachers
Videos of Education for Life Schools around the world
Sunday Service led by Swami Kriyananda or Nayaswamis Jyotish and Devi

Inspiration from Swami Kriyananda

Accept your lot in life cheerfully, no matter how difficult it seems. Yours is what you've attracted to yourself, and therefore earned; it is your own special pathway to enlightenment.
Misfortune lies in our perception of things, not in the things themselves. Never complain, no matter what you have to endure. Whining merely tests other people's patience. But courage in the face of adversity wins universal admiration.
Adopt a serviceful attitude. Far from demeaning you, it will expand your self-identity, and will greatly increase your stature before others - not those, perhaps, who are steeped in worldly pride, but all those gifted with sensitivity and understanding.

From: Living Wisely, Living Well

Vegetarian Cooking for Health and Vitality
2 day weekend

Jun 1 - 3

Revolutionize your energy level and health - with guidance and tips for easy vegetarian cooking. Diksha McCord, the author of The Global Kitchen and Vegetarian Cooking for Starters.

Learn dozens of tips for fitting healthy food into your busy lifestyle. Diksha will prepare some of the dishes for you, so you can learn secrets for great taste in less time.

The Expanding Light Presents

The Yuga Cycle of the Ages and
Our Awakening Consciousness
A 3-Day Conference
In partnership with Ananda College

May 25 - 27,
Memorial Day Weekend

Seating and housing still available!

Inspiration from Yogananda

Everything will come in God's time. Meanwhile, consider meditation, too, as a form of Karma Yoga: action without desire for the fruits of action. Meditate above all to please God, not yourself.

Every sincere effort is registered in the divine consciousness. Your duty as a devotee is to accept whatever He sends you - and, for that matter, whatever He doesn't send. God alone knows what past karma keeps you from perceiving Him right now. He may want you to finish up your karma in this life, before He gives you eternal bliss in Him.

From: Conversations with Yogananda.

Spiritual Travel with The Expanding Light

LAST CHANCE

Walking with William the Conqueror
Experience Yogananda's Past Life in France

Jun 17 - 24, 2012

FIRST TIME IN YEARS!

In the Footsteps of the Masters
A Pilgrimage to India

Oct 5 - 24, 2012

NEW!

Arabian Desert Retreat
Meditate in the Stillness

November 28 - December 8, 2012

PLAN AHEAD!