As I looked at these photographs, I experienced profound stillness. The images of the butterfly imbibing nectar, the flowing waterfall, and the soaring bird made me aware that I can experience stillness even when I am engaged in activity.
The picture of the serene lake with reflections moved me deeply. It showed me that a silent, serene mind can reflect the Truth. It reminded me that a mind free from agitation is able to experience and reflect God’s glory and the Guru’s grace.
I am grateful to Gurumayi for these profound insights from nature.
Hosur, India
For me, the harmony, beauty, and peacefulness in the pictures of nature in this gallery reflect the inner state of Shri Guru. Viewing image after image, I experienced my own heart filling with profound peace and harmony, and saying: Yes!
Bhandara, India
When I look at the heart shape emerging from the concrete in image 1, I perceive beauty and experience the heart-opening sensations of vulnerability and tenderness.
Thornbury, Australia
Gazing at the black-and-white picture of the multipetaled flower, I discovered new qualities. The flower petals filled the image so abundantly, while the petals in the center curled inwardly like an embrace. I felt abundance and love in my heart.
Then I became aware of my breathing. I experienced a vitalizing, sweet energy as I breathed in—and stillness as I breathed out. After some time my mind was peaceful and in the moment. I experienced the Guru's presence within.
I am very grateful for this experience.
Deventer, Netherlands
In the 1980s it seemed that every time I went up for
darshan with Gurumayi, she would ask me, "How are you?" And for years I would answer her with my worries: "I'm fine, Gurumayi, but..." I longed for the day when I could answer simply, honestly, "I am fine, thank you, Gurumayi."
Now, at last, as these beautiful pictures and the sweet story from Gurumayi's childhood remind me, my heart has accepted Gurumayi's unfailing gift—supported by all my years of practice and buoyed by her teachings. On this New Year’s Day I want to take this joyful opportunity to inwardly offer
pranam again before my beloved Guru and answer her, simply, honestly, "I am fine, thank you, Gurumayi."
North Carolina, United States
I am so grateful for these images and the explanation of the concept of
nishchintata. In viewing these images, I feel the grounded, silent peace of nature. It brings me into my inner silent forest where I feel “free from worry,” where the trees and sky remind me of the state of oneness.
North Carolina, United States