Recently, the world has witnessed much unrest and uncertainty. Whether we are going through personal turmoil in our daily lives or confronting the widespread suffering caused by wars between nations, Paramahansa Yogananda’s teachings are always present to guide us.
A few weeks ago, Brother Chidananda, president and spiritual head of Self-Realization Fellowship/Yogoda Satsanga Society of India, addressed the many devotees at the Sadhana Sangams taking place at YSS ashram centers in India. The full talk, streamed live from SRF International Headquarters, has been posted on our website, but we would like to encourage you to watch an excerpt that is particularly relevant to what is currently occurring in the world. In this excerpt, Brother Chidananda mentions the sadhana of the Sangam participants, a reference to the uplifting practice of the SRF/YSS teachings and meditation techniques.
Below is the text of Brother Chidananda’s words in the video above, excerpted from his talk “Paramahansa Yogananda’s Ideals on Balanced Living”:
“My dears, in times like we’re going through these last days and weeks, we realize anew what a chaotic place this world is. And in times of war and widespread unrest or disruption, that affects us. It affects the harmony of our lives if we’re not on guard. It affects the vibratory balance in the ether and our individual existence as well. Events like what’s going on in the Middle East and elsewhere are creating vibrations around the world of uncertainty, instability, insecurity, anxiety [affecting] so many people.
“And yet, my dear ones, how wonderfully you have countered all contrary vibrations, all potentially disruptive or upsetting feelings and emotions by the sadhana that you have undertaken [during this Sangam as well as in your daily lives].
“You know, at times like this, this is when the teachings of our Masters become especially meaningful. And they remind us, as you have felt each one of you in these last few days, they remind us that each person who anchors his or her consciousness in God contributes real, tangible spiritual power toward peace, toward greater harmony throughout the world.
“So let us hold that thought throughout this gathering and in the days ahead. Hold that thought — anchoring our consciousness in God — in that peace and harmony — for our own well-being and also to influence others around us in the world….
“Remember, my beloved ones: We become what we concentrate on. If we concentrate upon chaos, on the outer flow of circumstances, our lives will be chaotic. We will be chaotic. But if we concentrate on peace and harmony, we will be peaceful and harmonious, and our lives will be peaceful and harmonious.
“And not only that, but let’s always remember: we become what we concentrate on, and what we become radiates out into the world. What we become radiates out, first, into our immediate surroundings and those we associate with — our family, friends, so on — then into the community, to our nation, to the world, and on into the cosmos.”
The person who keeps himself cleansed of all wrong vibrations produces a powerful uplifting effect on his contemporaries….One who in every way tries to uplift himself, harmonizing body, mind, and soul with the Divine, creates positive karma not only in his own life, but in his family, neighborhood, country, and world.
Paramahansa Yogananda
Recommended Resources
Spiritual Light for These Challenging Times
This collection of reflections and resources includes special affirmations, techniques for overcoming fear, counsel and encouragement from the wisdom teachings of Paramahansa Yogananda as well as from Brother Chidananda and past presidents Sri Daya Mata and Sri Mrinalini Mata.
Worldwide Prayer Circle
We invite you to join the SRF Worldwide Prayer Circle in serving others around the world and the cause of world peace, through the dynamic power of prayer.
Ongoing Spiritual Support
Spiritual counseling is a resource that SRF offers to members and friends worldwide at all times of the year. SRF monks and nuns who serve as ministers and counselors are available to offer comfort and perspective from the all-embracing teachings of Paramahansa Yogananda. This includes helping, listening to, and praying with those who may be in distress due to external upheaval in the world.
For spiritual counseling, we invite you to call: +1 (818) 549-5155.
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What an absolute divine gift these teachings are! Deepest gratitude to SRF/YSS for making them so readily available, in a world that seemingly tries to force it's chaotic energy into our lives. We are truly God's spiritual soldiers, providing energetic balance to our planet and beyond. Keep loving, keep practicing! Jai Gurus!
“We become what we concentrate on “ a wonderful reminder dear brother thank you so much, as stated when we concentrate on peace and harmony that’s what we radiate, what a gift to the world during such troubling times!
Jai Guru
A most welcomed inspirational talk at these difficult times. Many thanks to Br. Chidanandaji and all nuns and monks who
serve in the ashrams. It truly helped me to feel more confidendly. Jai Guruji
Thank you Brother Chidanandaji for your ever-uplifting and inspiring words! We are so blessed that Master established the monastic order in the SRF/YSS to keep us steadfast on the path back to our Father, Mother, Friend, Beloved God! Jai Guru!
Dear Brother Chidanandaji, thank you for your positive and peaceful message!
Infinitas gracias por estos consejos tan sabios , espirituales... Seguiremos centrados en nuestro hgurú, en Dios ...para tener paz y podamos dar la paz amor y compasión al mundo entero..Jai gurú!!
Thank You :)
Thank you for sharing these soothing and empowering thoughts! Jai Guru!
These words so well spoken from Brother Chidananda bring my spirit right into peace. May I work on hanging on to the higher connection always. Thank you, peace to all.
Thank you. Wonderful sharing and blessings to all.
Thank you
THANK YOU, beloved and revered president Chidananda. . . .
Thank you Brotherji for the divine reminders. Peace.... unto us, our world, our cosmos. Thank you for your divine prayers and for uplifting our hearts and minds. Master's love. Master's light. God first. God last. God alone. All will be well.