Please check this page for daily reports of Events and Happenings during Sri Swamiji's visit.
Following are the list of latest news and happening at Jesus Datta Retreat Center.
Datta Retreat Center July 9th 2011
Childrens Book Release
The program began with a book release – a picture book for children and adults about Sri Swamiji’s selfless service as the child Sathyanarayana, with lovely digital color pictures, prepared by Meera Laird. Meera explained how she fell in love with the child Sathyanarayana while compiling the book.
“We need Videos, photos, songs, books, DVDs, CDs and it is your duty to teach your children. Don’t say, “I have no time. I have no time. I have no time. I have no time. I have no time. I have no time.”
Sri Swamiji went on to explain that a baby in the womb is already hearing and is susceptible to conditioning. Their minds record everything; “Just like a tape recorder.” This is why it is so important to play Bhajans, (Spiritual songs that have a positive message), even while the child is still in the womb. Once the children have the advantage of SatGuru information, (through books, music, DVD
Sri Swamiji reiterated that, “it is very important to teach children Appaji’s life history through available videos and pictures.” Parents must frequently talk about Swamji with their children. Show them DVDs, let them hear bhajans all the time. If you do this for them while they are young, then there will be no problem for or with them in the future.
As an example, Sri Swamiji referred to a child who is about to have her third birthday. Her mother is always speaking about Swamiji. This provides a very secure future for such a child.
“Trisha, says shlokas. You just say Hanumanta, and the Telugu Hanuman Chaleesa she chants fully.”
To the great delight of the audience, this adorable little girl, who has just had her third birthday, chanted clearly, in tune, into the microphone for all to hear. The entire audience responded with an enthusiastic applause. “She has learnt it while in the womb itself.” In the womb, babies can hear and record information, just like a tape recording. Allow them to hear bhajans instead of hearing husband and wife quarrel, urges Sri Swamiji.
Swamiji then reminded us older American devotees of Art Linkletter’s TV program: “Kids say the darndest things”, by calling several very young devotee children up to the podium.
Sri Swamiji said about a beautiful little four year old girl, “See Bhargavi, she’s always saying, ‘I love Swamiji, I love Swamiji.’
Sri Swamiji asked “Will you come away to Mysore?”
Bhargavi – “Yes!”
Sri Swamiji, “Why?”
Bhargavi,” I will come to marry you!” The audience laughed in great delight.
Sri Swamiji, “I would have to carry you around. Why do you like Tataji?”
Bhargavi, “I love you Tataji.”
Sri Swamiji, “Who is Tataji?”
Bhargavi, “You! God! You are Datta, Krishna, Hanumanta.”
After further conversations with the children Sri Swamiji paged through the children’s book with the children, who readily identified the characters in the book; the different deities, Sri Jayalakshmi Mata, Satyanarayana, and aunt Venkamma.
July 9th Morning Discourse
Please be understanding with the note taking of the following... It is not word for word, however the essence of Sri Swamiji’s message is contained within.
If you want to have a good friendship and healthy relationship with a Guru, then take time to learn about the Guru. Read Swamiji’s biography. There is a smaller version of the biography available in the book store. There are also audio and video versions of Swamiji’s life history. The more you understand the better the relationship with Swamiji. There are books available in many languages and they are very easy to understand.
When you don’t understand, there is confusion which creates a lot of drama. You can always find time to read Swamiji’s biography, for instance you can read when you are travelling.
Some people think that they have a good understanding of what a relationship is with a guru. They think that if they always carry a photo of their guru in their pocket then that is a good relationship with a guru. But there is no real understanding and you must understand how to deal with and solve your own problems, otherwise you are wasting your time and money.
When you are explaining about Swamiji, perhaps you say:”He is a good musician, he helped me get my visa, my father was healed….” Or you might say, “I am attracted to him, I heard good music, the food was delicious…” That is all superficial, get understanding. Learn about Karma, incarnation and what it means to have a guru. Ask, ‘who is this soul?’ What energy is travelling in this body. How does one follow a guru?
For nearly 35 years Swamiji has been publishing the Bhakti Mala magazine. How many people get and study this magazine? Some people are only interested in the programs. They want entertainment, not understanding.
During lunch people are wasting time. They take an hour and a half eating, talking, laughing, but they have no time to study the Bhakti Mala. People talk about Swamiji's protection but they don’t understand that through the music, books and discourses Swamiji is imparting spiritual knowledge. People do everything for show, they want to get a big house, a nice car, but what is really important is getting spiritual knowledge. Learn something and you will change your heart and your life. A big house or big car is only temporary – inner change is permanent. Learning is equally important to earning.
Read Swamiji’s daily message. When you learn spiritual lessons, change is permanent. This is important because when you are eighty you can’t hear, you cannot eat because you have no teeth, then you have to get a different heart; different body parts like car parts. Respect the old but the most important issue is to learn. Learn while you earn.
God has given the gift of life to learn. Get understanding… what is the connection in this friendship? People want only money, want to win the lottery, Las Vegas, then one day dead… losers, all losers.
During this 25th Celebration there is much happiness. Use this happiness. Swamiji encouraged the audience to sing, “It’s a happy, happy day; it’s a holy,holy, holy day… Be happy.
This 25th year celebration is a miracle the way it has unfolded since Swamiji’s first visit in 1976. This Center… Jesus Datta Retreat Center. Swamiji has a good relationship with Jesus. We at the center respect the bible, and all kinds of Dharma, (spiritual paths), Buddism, Islam… we follow Datta teachings because it is inclusive, and music because music has no religion.
‘Very happy that we have 108 people who have pledged to look after the Jesus Datta Retreat Center. The Center needs electricity and people to support and protect this center. This area does not have a lot of doctors to protect the maintenance of the Center, so we need small amounts of money from many people to sustain this Center. We are not asking for funds, but if you want to givefunds we will be grateful and take the money.
The Shiva rock in the temple has power points on them that Swamiji has identified. Sit there with your hands on those points and feel the energy, it will bring you peace and you will be healed. This is a nurturing center, a mother center. Aplace of healing and restoration, take care of it and benefit from it.
Datta Retreat Center July 8th 2011
This evening’s program began with a Sri Chakra Puja. The Prayer Hall continued to fill up throughout the evening as people from many parts of USA and Canada hurried in to find a seat with a view of Sri Swamiji.
During a brief discourse in between Bhajans, Sri Swamiji mentioned how special Datta Retreat Center is and the importance of having regular donors to maintain this precious facility.
Sri Swamiji went on to say that a special miracle had occured because today He had been given a new name, a new title. Naturally everyone in the audience wondered what new aspect of God would appear as part of Sri Swamiji’s ’new name. “My new title” said Swamiji, “is ‘Cancellation Swamiji”. The audience burst into laughter, realizing that Sri Swamiji was making light of the fact that the Birthday celebrations scheduled to be held at the Center had suddenly been cancelled. Sri Swamiji explained that decisions are not up to him because He is following the guidance of Mother Goddess.
Datta Retreat Center July 6th. 2011
Today at Jesus Datta Retreat Center, the gathering stepped back in time to have a peaceful, treasured experience that many thought was lost forever. This was a day of pure bliss for about 40 devotees who, by Sri Swamiji’s Grace, were blessed to be at the Center. These most fortunate devotees received Sri Swamiji’s Darshan in the quiet, relaxed, Datta Retreat Center haven.
It was such pure delight pleasure to note that even Sri Swamiji seemed to enjoy a more leisurely pace than what has been his experience for way too many years. This was a day of heavenly magic.
Towards evening, after a short refreshing rainfall, Padma, Cindy and a small group of devotees guided Sri Swamiji around the center to see all the new additions and improvements at the Center. Sri Swamiji blessed the kitchen volunteers before leaving for the Prayer Hall. Sri Swamiji refused the microphone and chatted with DRC members about the importance of keeping the email lists up to date.
The collection of devotees who were given such a rare, personal experience with Sri Swamiji came from Florida, Vermont, Washington DC, and several States that surround Pennsylvania.
Several devottees took part in the morning and afternoon Kriya Yoga classes that received excellent reviews. One of the students said that what she enjoyed most about the class was that she has a really busy life and Kriya Yoga has shown her that although breathing occurs automatically, the mind has the ability to control the breath. Slowing the breath creates a quiet mind and unity through being conscious. The beauty of Kriya Yoga is that it shows how to use the breath throughout the day, every day.
Please see the photo’s of the pictures in the Photo Gallery on the left of this page.
July 5th. 2011:- Sri Swamiji Is Greeted At Pittsburgh Airport
“Who is that man?” asked the well dressed man as he stepped out of his Mercedes at the Pittsburgh International Airport. As the question was being answered another mesmerized man came up and asked “Who is he?” He seemed awestruck by Sri Swamiji, who lovingly smiled and waved from the passenger seat of the Bentley.
Sri Swamiji’s radiance went out beyond the the enthusiastic group of devotees to glow on many passengers wanting to know,”Who is that man?”
When the Bentley pulled into Jesus Datta Retreat Center, the welcoming devotees chanted louder with joy and excitement. Apart from the car and the cameras the ancient traditional Poorna Kumba and Aarthi, bridged the gap between the Indus Valley and modern America.
Sri Swamiji led the way to the temple which was magnificently and lovingly decorated. Devotees silently joined Sri Swamiji in the temple. Nancy Murray introduced two key participants of the ‘Stone Workshop,’ held at Jesus Datta Retreat Center in the summer of 2010, Susan and David Amorose. The couple presented Sri Swamiji with several gifts that included the Stone workshop materials plus in depth research by David. Sri Swamiji invited the couple to visit Mysore Ashrama in India.
Before entering the Guru Nilayam, Sri Swamiji visited the powerful energy Crystal and observed the newly constructed water feature that flows down into the fish pond.
Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji, who travels the world uplifting Souls through His out-of-this-world music, will be conducting programs at the Center from the evening of July 8th through to the afternoon of July 10th. In preparation for this incredible visit, a Kriya Yoga class will be held at the Center on July 7th and 8th.
Accommodation: Please refer to the list of Motel/Hotels, at ‘Hotels’ located on the left of this page. They are within 30 minutes of the Center. Even though we have arranged for (DRC) Datta Retreat Center Group discounts, we suggest you also check prices at the same hotels on the Internet at sites such as Hotels.com, Hotwire.com and Ortbitz.com. Some have found better deals that way.
IMPORTANT NOTICE ABOUT FREE PARKING July 8, 9, 10: Convenient, Easy Access Parking with a continuous, free shuttle bus has been arranged close to the Center at Moniteau High School, on Rt 308 South. There will be NO (unreserved) PARKING AT THE CENTER. Be good to yourself and take advantage of the complimentary parking and shuttle at Moniteau High School.
The shuttle schedule is as follows:
Friday, July 8: 5pm to 10 pm
Saturday, July 9: 8am to 10pm
Sunday, July 10: 8am to 4pm
Sri Guru Datta!
Mysore Visit January 9 2011: H. V. Prasad and Kusuma Akka of Mysore, India, were special guests at Jesus Datta Retreat Center on January 9, 2011. Also visiting was Prasadi's childhood friend Kannan from Kerala, India. Those present were graced with a wonderful paduka puja performed by Prasad in the temple. The guests then took a tour of the facilities and enjoyed the beauty of the winter wonderland, complete with sled riding and a snowball fight. They then shared in a delightful meal of vegetarian pizza, vegetarian lasagna and cake. After dinner the guests enjoyed looking through photo albums from the beginning days of the Center. It was a happy day!
Devi Navaratri at Jesus DRC
The fortunate participants of Navaratri at Jesus DRC are Meena Medicherle (Columbus, OHIO), DYC DC Devotees and Local Devotees of DRC. Programs at DRC are always enriched by living presence of Sri Swamiji. DYC DC Group hosted this event this time.
Navaratri began with Meena Medicherle daily kum-kum puja and recitation of Lalitha Sahasranamam.
Saturday evening Bhajan Session started at 6:30 P.M. followed by Maha prasadam., At 12:00 A.M (on entry of Dashimi day), We chanted Sri Matre Namah - 108 times followed by simple excersies.
Sunday began with Abhisekham and Navaratri Puja by Ravi Venkatraman followed by Lalitha Sahasranama and Bhajans. We had four girls so, Meena Medicherle decided to do Kumari puja. Mahaprasadam was served.
Please see the photos in the Photo Gallery.
DYC D.C. Group commented:
We are very fortunate to host this occasion, It was a Special moment for all of us being at Jesus DRC. Thank you Padma for being Wonderful, Welcoming Host on behalf of Sri Swamiji.
"If you feel your heart is empty, use DRC to fill that emptiness. Seek spiritual things here" - Sri Swamiji
Journals Of Past Events
PARTICIPANTS SHARE EXPERIENCES AT THE TRIMURTHI 'PLAYSHOP' HELD AT DRC
THE CENTER TO CELEBRATE GANESHA CHATURTHI
This weekend, commencing on Saturday ar 5PM, provides a wonderful opportunity for a welcome spiritual energy boost. Vibrations of wisdom, prosperity and good fortune will be emphasized during the celebration of Lord Ganesha's Birthday. Lord Ganesha symbolizes these life enhancing aspects of God. A delicious vegetarian Maha Prasadam will follow.
On Sunday at 11AM lift your spirits with the first Satsang (Holy/Spiritual fellowship), of the month.
TRIMURTHI YOGA RETREAT WITH SRI DATTA YOGI RAJA AT DRC
You are invited to participate in "Datta's Secrets For Transforming Your Life" a yoga meditation workshop with three aspects. You are sure to love what you epxperience at this unique and powerful two-day Yoga and meditation program. Return home filled with wonderful jnana (knowledge) and bhakti (blessings).
By the Grace of Sri Swamiji's, Sri Datta Yogi Raja is offering the First Annual Timurthi Retreat at Datta Retreat Center.
Begining Saturday September 4th, at 5pm enjoy a Ram Vakkaianka Recital. This recital is free and attendance is required for course participation.
Sunday September 5th, 7am to 7pm - The program will be enlightening and fun. Bhajans are included in the line up.
Monday Sept 6th, 7am to 4pm, with the clossing sessio from 4 to 5pm.
The workshop is $108. Meals are included .... Please call the Center 724 637 3169 if you would like to book your accomodation, which is not included in the price of the workshop.
Course Overview: The Three Aspects
Brahma, The Creator: Harness your inner creative forces through active silence. Participation Includes practises and inspirational discussion based on selected aspects of Pantanjali's "Yoga Sutra's"
Vishnu, The Sustainer: Deepen your connection with the Self through service to humanity (Seva). Feeling fulfilled and removing feelings of lack. Participation includes "Uddhava Gita", a special part of the 'srimad Bhagawatham' containing the last teaching of Krishna, delivered to his chosen deciple Uddhava.
Shiva, The Transformer: The Alchemy of Emotion includes practical guidance in transforming mental, emotional and psychological blocks into stepping stones along your path of fulfillment and self-realization.
Sri Datta Yogi Raja will also teach the '10 nadi Shuddhi Vyayamas and 12 Rasi Mudras' revealed by His Holiness Param Pujya Sri Gabapathi Sachchidananda Swamiji, during the Sathguru sannidhi kriya Yoga Teachers workshop, held at Datta peetham In Mysore, India this past June.
Please come! Enjoy the workshiop, bask in the energy of Datta Retreat Center with the magnificent Crystal Shiva Lingham.
For workshop registration contact Anjana (Clare), cbkriya108@gmail.com
Please call Datta Retreat Center 724 637 3169 to enquire about accomodation. Delicious food is included in the price of the event.
STONE COMMUNICATION WORKSHOP
Participants from a 600-mile radius enjoyed the relaxed and comfortable atmosphere of the Prayer Hall at Jesus Datta Retreat Center, as Nancy Murray shared her knowledge of the meditative, healing and communication properties of crystals.
Innovative energy exercises, presentations and meditations with the priceless Crystal Lingam were all part of the Stone Communication Workshop. Nancy Murray, David and Susan Amorose and Nancy Pearce, were the facilitators who led the enthusiastic group of attendees, on Saturday, July 17, 2010.
An overview of the structure and “language” of crystals from David and Susan was followed by exploring crystal pathways and fields through dowsing with pendulums. Quartz crystals from a provided collection were used for the experience. Various aspects of human, as well as the connections with crystal energy fields were examined. Nancy Pearce facilitated the follow-up sharing of impressions by attendees. Afterwards a variety of crystal samples, jewelry and books were made available for observation and purchase.
Future programs on this theme are being planned in the coming months. For further information, please contact Nancy Murray, 412-727-1731, or nruthmur@yahoo.com.
July Fourth Weekend at Datta Retreat Center
Jaya Guru Datta!
A warm and beautiful July Fourth [2010] weekend at Datta Retreat Center was further energized by devotees coming and going from far and wide.
Even first time guests felt as if they were part of a pleasant family gathering. Everyone contributed, earlier arrivals cooked for those still on their way. The weekend was filled with joy, laughter and camaraderie, which included leisurely walks along the country road and children playing, culminating with evening sparklers to commemorate the Fourth of July holiday.
On Saturday evening, a spontaneous satsang formed outside, around the Vishnu Rock. As the sunset turned into dusk, sparkling lights from fireflies filled the air with magic. Everyone felt blessed and a sense of delight to be sitting in this holy place surrounded by nature’s magnificent bounty, while singing and chanting Sri Swamiji’s Bhajans and prayers.
Sunday dawned bright and warm with Anaghastami. Ravi Venkatraman performed with great devotion Anagha Vratham in the Prayer Hall. Ravi has been blessed to conduct he puja with clarity, so that it is understood by all. He explained the aspects and meanings of the rituals performed. Each person present participated by following along with their own puja. Kalyani Nimmagadda sung the Anaghastami bhajan. This peaceful, uplifting puja created an atmosphere of serene, gratifying energy. At the conclusion, we happily shared a delicious Maha Prasadam, which was affectionately prepared by a group of devotees, led by Meena Medicherle.
The Crystal Shiva Lingam delighted those who experienced it for the first time. The general impression is one of amazement. The vibrations emanating from the Lingam seem tangible, embracing all who visit, with a feeling of comfort, peace and love. The presence of the Crystal Shiva Lingam provides an atmosphere that soothes attendees into deep silence and blissful meditation. Visitors all speak of the blessing they feel, by being at this graceful, tranquil Retreat.
The weekend continuously flowed with visitors and satsangs. Many caring, conscientious, devotees automatically volunteered to carry out seva duties that go along with the ongoing upkeep of the Center. Srinivas Kathoju from Boston came and worked on the painting in the Universe Temple, around the Lingam. While others basked in the tranquility of the Center, meditating, and enjoying devotion for our Sat GuruDev. As people departed for home they took with them the wonderful sensations from a brilliant July 4th weekend at Jesus Datta Retreat Center.
Hari Om Tat Sat.
Celestial Birthday Celebrations At DRC
Datta Retreat Center, an oasis of serenity, also has occasion where all nature cooperates to create an atmosphere of Celestial Celebration. May 29th and 30th [2010] were two such days.
Devotees arriving from Virginia, New Jersey and other nearby States were greeted by the sun with heart-felt warmth that flowed to the core of their souls. Brilliant blue skies welcomed them as colorful flowers danced in celebration on a cool breeze that filled the air with a delicate fragrance. As each person arrived industrious insects hummed and buzzed, adding dimension to the chorus of song birds, conducted by an unseen angelic maestro. Such was the auspicious setting for the Birthday Celebrations for our precious Sad Guru Deva, Sri Ganapathi Sachchidananda Swamiji, at Jesus Datta Retreat Center.
The program began at 6 pm Saturday, with Bhajans, (praising God through song). It was held in the Prayer Hall, beautifully decorated with great devotion for the Birthday Celebration. Meera and Ramesh, infused the Hall with the love and care that they poured into adorning Sri Swamiji’s Life-Size photo, as well as the photo representing Sri Swamiji’s presence sitting on His chair. Added to the decorations were sparkling lights filling the Hall with a magnificent festive atmosphere.
NJ devotee Ramesh Paidi who marvelously pours devotion when singing Bhajans, guided the order in which these devotional hymns were sung. This was to be in alignment with Sri Swamiji‘s preferred arrangement for Bhajans to be sung. The consequential order provides optimum mental, emotional and vibration effect. Srinivas Chindu, also from NJ, played Harmonium while Megnath Chavva added a pleasing tempo with percussion.
After the Bhajan protocol had been satisfied, devotees selected and lead their favorite Bhajans. That evening 34 Bhajan’s joyously filled the Prayer Hall with love of the Divine.
Before completing the two day celebrations a total of 68 Bhajans would be sung, permeating the Center with great love for our Sadguru, who’s Divinity splendidly shines around the world, inspiring so many lives. The significance of 68 is to celebrate how blessed and grateful we all are for the past 68 years, since Sri Swamiji took birth.
Each day’s celebrations concluded with Kakad Arthi.
After Spirits were uplifted, devotees were treated to a feast. Throughout the two days the devotees were fed a scrumptious Maha Prasadam provided by Lalitha & Raj Marella, who worked lovingly behind the scenes to nourish all who were there. They arrived early in the weekend bringing all the food, which they and several helpers, lovingly prepared as if they were feeding Sri Swamiji Himself. Indeed, they provided feasts fit for kings.
DRC was delighted by the arrival of a visiting priest, Ramayya, from Warangal, India, who performed *Anaghavratam in the Prayer Hall Sunday morning at 8.30 AM. This was a special boon, because priests such as Ramayya, who have invested a lifetime in devotional mantras, amass a spiritual vibration frequency that reverberate a powerful energy. Such were the Blessings for this Birthday Celebration.
*Anaghavratam is an ancient ritual where Lord Dattatreya, (called Anagha Swami), and his Divine Consort Anagha, along with their eight Children, (Ashta Siddhis- The eight supernormal powers or faculties innate in man but at present generally latent or undeveloped, although attainable when a person reaches a state of enlightenment), are invoked traditionally and Shodasa Pooja is performed. This is conducted over a geometric design, representing all directions. Ten coconuts are adorned to symbolize Anagha Swami, his Consort and their eight children, (Siddhis). The geometric design is available on paper for attendees to participate. After the ritual is completed the story of Datta Anagha is told.
At 10AM on Sunday, Abhishekam was performed in the Temple followed by Gur u Paduka Puja…. Ravi Venkatraman presided in cooperation with Ramayya & Sreeram. Together they conducted powerful, compelling, soul soaring rituals.
Many devotees have seen Sri Swamiji perform Abhishekam. To the naked eye, it looks as if various fragrant liquids are poured over the Shiva Lingham Diety. One of the qualities of Shiva is purification. So when Abhishekam, or Spiritual ritual is performed, it signifies Cosmic Energy clearing and purifying all ill feelings, negative vibrations and replacing them with positive Divine energy.
Similarly, when the Guru Paduka Puja was performed in the Prayer Hall during the two-day Birthday Celebrations, the Paduka’s are a physical reminder of Guru’s presence, and by focusing one’s attention, with devotion, on such worship, we are able to consciously receive the direct Energy of Our Enlightened Master.
During the Celebration devotees treated themselves to blissful time-out, by meditating beside the pure, divinely energized, Crystal Lingam. Amazing vibrations have already accumulated, ( by the continuous chanting of Aum, from Sri Swamiji’s AumKara CD), permeating the atmosphere with a soothing, deep resonance. Add to this the soft lights, the sound of water flowing and you have a perfect environment for an out-of-this-world meditation.
On Sunday afternoon Meera provided a beautifully decorated, delicious, eggless birthday cake for Swamiji’s birthday. But the real icing on the cake came after all the celebrations were complete. The devotees, to their great delight, received a phone call from Sri Swamiji , who had just completed a Healing and Meditation Concert in India. The following link is a video of the call. http://vimeo.com/12188840.
Hearing Swamiji on the phone was an uplifting, joyful and inspiring end to an evening of delightful celebration. Sri Swamiji instilled Divine energy into the hearts of all who were there. At the end of the weekend, the 55 to 60 devotees returned home with renewed serenity, feeling peaceful and knowing that they are dearly loved.
The fortunate two dozen participants are sure to enjoy long, happy memories of the first Trimurthi Workshop this past Labor Day Weekend. Nestled in the lap of Mother Nature and enriched by the living presence of Sri Swamiji, Datta Retreat Center was the perfect location for a program dedicated to transforming life from the inside out.
Beginning with Ram Vakkalanka’s Sitar recital, playing Sri Swamiji's bhajans, the tone was set for a joyful, experiential 'play-shop’ during the long weekend. Sri Swamiji’s influence transformed a multi cultural, eclectic gathering of musicians into a celestial ensemble. Together with Ethan on a drum and Barry on banjo, they joined Ram in such orchestral perfection that it was as if Sri Swamiji was playing among them. The wonderful evening brilliantly launched the beginning of an uplifting, inspiring and thrilling weekend.
Saturday morning sessions began with prayers to Sadguru followed by Sri Swamiji's Vyayamas, to gently awaken the body and keep it limber. Sri Datta Yogi Raja was introduced as a 'highly qualified yogi,' causing him to laugh and humbly state that his only qualification is “Surrendering”. He continued modestly, by saying that he “is a child of God who knows he's a child of God.”
During the session the importance of physical well-being and healthy diet in spiritual work was emphasized. Over the course of the workshop, Sri Datta Yogi Raja showed how to create a space for transformation, so as to live
according to one’s true nature and life purpose. Among the activities were journaling, meditation, fully listening to people with an open heart, seva, (service, responding in the moment without mind interfering), and most importantly, being playful. Participants experienced guided meditations using breathing and music to relax and enter a thought-free state, a higher' place', (free of reaction and response), from which is created a life aligned with one’s nature and purpose. Also learned was the value of simplicity and being natural in this hi-tech world. Another important lesson worth mentioning was how to recognize if one is in dharma, through the application of a love mantra, (known only to the participants).
Sunday began with Ram explaining the understanding with which one can recite the daily prayers. He shared a prayer he composed for Sri Datta Yogi Raja.
Attendees learned and practiced vyayama exercises as taught by Sri Swamiji, which was followed by meditation using the breath. In addition to Sri Datta Yogi Raja’s discourse, Ram’s anecdotes and lucid explanations of the origin and framework of texts also proved to be enlightening. Together Sri Datta Yogi Raja and Ram explained the various layers of meaning in Sanskrit words used in select passages from Patanjali's Yoga Sutras and the Uddhava Gita. These explanations typically took the form of a sweet dialogue between Sri Datta Yogi Raja and Ram. They helped participants recognize, in practical terms, how often quoted, ancient truths, from Vedic and Christian scriptures still apply to modern day spiritual seekers. There was 100% participation and many questions were asked thereby further expanding understanding.
Sunday evening was fun filled with games allowing the ‘child within’ each person to come out and play. Later a Mantra meditation was practiced followed by Padma and Rick sharing the years of expansion and growth at Datta Retreat Center. Respects were paid to Lord Shiva and singing bhajans drew the fulfilling day to a conclusion.
Monday began with refreshing the vyayamas and learning the rasi mudras, followed by a meditation. Participants shared their experiences of entering ‘inner silence.’ Over all there were many ..."AHA...moments" with blessed insights and discoveries.
At the conclusion of the weekend, all returned home with hearts full of joy, having embraced new friends and cherishing established friendships...feeling at once unitedwith the Self and Spirit.
Much love and gratitude to Sri Datta Yogi Raja for facilitating this magnificent journey. Thank you and kudos to Ram and Anjana, for your part in making the rewarding event a reality. Your contribution is much appreciated. Many hands make light work, so a big thank you to all the volunteers, for your contribution towards such a rich and rewarding experience for all. Thank you Padma, for being a wonderful, welcoming host on behalf of Sri Swamiji.
Please see the photo's in the Photo Gallery.
Following are comments made by participants.
1) It was a great experience. I loved the flow of the energy and the
wonderful people. I learned to be very present in the NOW. I could
practice making my mind not so busy. I very much enjoyed the music of
the sitar and the guided meditations. The program had a variety of
experiences so it wasn't just sitting, sitting, sitting. We played.
That felt so good. I felt my shyness fading and want to meet people
and opening my heart at a deeper level. We could sing together and be
at a more intimate level. There was so much new information for me,
especially the Hindu stories and words that I think I progressed in
small steps. But it was more steps than I had before.
2) Transcendental and energizing; grounding and yet, somehow
tremendously uplifting. Guru is love and benevolence personified adn
Ram is a perfect complement of music and scriptural edification.
Enriching, moving, interesting, and enlivening. I believe I will take
this with me, share apsects where appropriate, and internalize these
teachings also because of the way they were delivered. Tandem
teaching- a strong point, a beautiful exchange, tempo shift.
3) It was enlightening and fun. It renewed our souls. It gave us time
to meet and enjoy people we have seen for years and did not know until
now. Suggestion: only that we do again 2 to 3 times a year.
4) I learned to keep peace in my heart, to choose to abide in peace.
Miracle: abiding in a deeper than ever before felt degree of silence;
silence permeates my flesh.
5) I experienced many wonderful things while here. On a personal level,
I was able to just be here NOW.
6) Got in touch with my tendency to be judgmental. I really liked Sri
Datta Yogi Raja's discourses.
7) Felt a lot of stuff coming out.
Datta Retreat Center July 7th. 2011
Sri Swamiji led a group of devotees deep into the Cook Forest, a fabulous protected area with trees that are hundreds of years old.
After Pada Puja's the gathering crowed around to received Sri Swamiji's darshan.
Please see the photo's in the Photo Gallery.