I did the Art of Living course in November 2003 in Mumbai, under the dynamic teacher Ramesh Menonji. I still remember those six beautiful days of my life, which despite the many years that have passed by, still seem just like yesterday. My first Kriya (meditation) was a beautiful experience, which simply blew my mind. It was such a unique feeling, and I still treasure it. During the Kriya, a strong sandalwood smell engulfed the room, which added to the beautiful blissful experience I was going through. I still remember that lovely fragrance.
But at the time of the Kriya, on smelling the fragrance, I got a small doubt in my mind, that the teacher must have lighted some incense sticks, which was the reason for the sandalwood smell. So I asked some fellow participants regarding the fragrance, but none of them had got it. This was truly astonishing for me. This made me realize that each one had a unique experience. I considered this as a very precious happening and kept it in my heart. Even after the course was over, I could feel Gurudev’s strong presence, though I had not physically seen Him then
One particular day, after about two months of the course, while I was going back home from office on my motorbike, a vague thought came to my mind. I felt that the strong presence of the Master that I used to feel before, is probably not that strong anymore. Barely had this thought settled in, and in the next breath I experienced the same sandalwood smell that I had got during my first Kriya. Wow! I was stunned. Such a strong connection! And to add to it, a motorcar overtook my bike, and it had our beloved Guru’s photo smiling through the venation blind, fixed on the rear window. Immediately, tears of joy started rolling down my face, and I could feel that strong presence, yet again. This was just what I had asked for.
This is a very small incident, probably not even a huge miracle, but it is something that assures the faith I have for Guruji, it shows me that He is always there protecting me. Small happenings like this give us the confidence to smile and face difficult situations.
The Master has His own ways of keeping a tab on each and every devotee. It is beyond our small mind to judge that. The only thing that we can do is feel grateful for having a living Master in our life, and spread this joy and happiness to as many people as we possibly can, so that they also benefit from His unconditional Love & Grace. Thank you Gurudev for always being there. Jai Guru Dev.
- Satish Shetty
