As with most things of value, there is a price to pay for getting the "real deal". For material things, that price is often money. However, to truly understand bhakti, the price is something a little different - it's the price of faith and relationship.
That's what we hear Krsna say to Arjuna today. Krsna is saying, "I am revealing this science of bhakti yoga to you because you are my friend."
That in essence sums up the secret to successfully practicing bhakti yoga - staying in the association of and developing real and genuine friendships with bhakti yogis.
Often we've described how bhakti yoga is not something that can be learned from books and texts alone. That's because....
Bhakti requires guidance because it is a transformation of heart and attitude.
Such a transformation occurs more quickly when one is in the company of those whose hearts and attitudes have changed. However, it requires that we make an investment of time and faith in developing relationships with such persons. The hearts of the great bhakti yogis are soft as butter since they are actively trying to live a life of compassion, gratitude and service. However, as with any treasure, they guard that bhakti with great attention and care.
For most of us, our best friends are those that we have spent a lot of time with since it is only then that both sides start trusting each other and start to speak from the heart. Similarly, the heart of the bhakti yogi is revealed when a relationship based on respect and affection is established.
For anyone who wants to get to the heart of bhakti, the best way to do so is by securing a place in the heart of a bhakti yogi.
"Such a transformation occurs more quickly when one is in the company of those whose hearts and attitudes have changed."
ReplyDeleteThat makes a lot of sense. I've been learning that two factors are huge in serving as impediments to any kind of spiritual progress or realization. Association and the ego. Both can either help us or hinder us.
Great post. It's been awhile...Looking forward to visiting more regularly. :)
What a great realization Jessica! You've totally hit the nail on the head and it's wonderful how you've distilled it down to the essential two - association and ego. Just like the mind, they can either help or hurt us. Thanks so much for sharing and so happy that you'll be visiting more regularly! :)
DeleteWonderful! thank you, I have over that last year picked up going to Kirtans and have met many wonderful people there. After I leave I find myself trying to figure out when the next time I will be able to join with them and chant. There presence lifts me so and has helps guide me down a path to greater happiness. Having the support of those people can give you a feeling of security to allow for a greater surrender.
DeleteThat is wonderful. Kirtans open up the heart and allow everyone to connect through the power of spiritiual sound. It's one of the best ways that we can spend time with bhakti yogis. Thank you so much for sharing your experiences!
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