समय के समक्ष
In the Presence of Time
~ Gurumayi Chidvilasananda
“The chariot of time” evokes a powerful and sacred image for me—the sun as the golden, one-wheeled chariot, a vivid image of time’s passing. Teaching 5 also helps me remember that the chariot is a metaphor for my body and its relationship to the Self, mind, and senses.
This morning as I meditated, the image of the golden sun stayed right in front of my heart. As I chanted the Surya Gayatri mantra, my body heated up. Then my breath, softly coming in and going out, cooled and quieted both my mind and body. The images evoked by the teaching “The chariot of time” gave focus to my meditation, and then another divine chariot, Hamsa, made my meditation time calm and sweet.
I am so grateful to Gurumayi for these teachings that are increasing my reverence for time and helping me to make better use of the time I have been given.
This morning as I meditated, the image of the golden sun stayed right in front of my heart. As I chanted the Surya Gayatri mantra, my body heated up. Then my breath, softly coming in and going out, cooled and quieted both my mind and body. The images evoked by the teaching “The chariot of time” gave focus to my meditation, and then another divine chariot, Hamsa, made my meditation time calm and sweet.
I am so grateful to Gurumayi for these teachings that are increasing my reverence for time and helping me to make better use of the time I have been given.
North Carolina, United States
When I first read this teaching, I thought only of the chariot itself. I envisioned it traveling far and wide, for many centuries on end—as eternal as time itself. But then I asked myself, “Who is driving this chariot of time? Am I more in the driver’s seat of this chariot than I’ve realized, or been willing to admit?” I feel Gurumayi is teaching me that I am in charge of how I spend my time. So I proclaimed out loud, “I am the charioteer! I am the charioteer of all my days, my weeks, my months, and my years!” It sounded very affirming, very positive, and very empowering.
As I completed my morning’s activity, which was a worthwhile one, I looked forward to taking charge of the rest of the day by proclaiming once again, “I am the charioteer of my day!” I intend to use this affirmation to give my highest priorities the time that they, and I, deserve.
As I completed my morning’s activity, which was a worthwhile one, I looked forward to taking charge of the rest of the day by proclaiming once again, “I am the charioteer of my day!” I intend to use this affirmation to give my highest priorities the time that they, and I, deserve.
Illinois, United States
As I contemplated this teaching, I thought about how, for me, the chariot represents my life. This has led me to question myself about where this life is heading and how I treat it. I am examining aspects of my life, such as the thoughts I have, the values I hold, the way I show respect to others, the way I use words, and how I respond to others.
I am also evaluating my determination to stay true to my spiritual path. This process has helped me realize that I must approach my life and its journey with vigilance, care, self-effort, and self-inquiry. I can value my time by using it to meditate, chant, and read the Guru’s teachings.
I pray that I drive this chariot of my life, through whatever time I am allotted, with love and focus. That way I can stay on track and remain aware of how and where I am directing it.
I am also evaluating my determination to stay true to my spiritual path. This process has helped me realize that I must approach my life and its journey with vigilance, care, self-effort, and self-inquiry. I can value my time by using it to meditate, chant, and read the Guru’s teachings.
I pray that I drive this chariot of my life, through whatever time I am allotted, with love and focus. That way I can stay on track and remain aware of how and where I am directing it.
Melbourne, Australia
When I read this teaching, I envisioned the scene in Shri Bhagavad Gita where Lord Krishna is driving Arjuna’s chariot to the battlefield. I love the moment when Krishna reveals to Arjuna his true nature, and Arjuna is able to align his actions with the Truth.
I often reflect on this moment and pray to understand and act from the Truth—especially when the battles of life occur. I see these moments as opportunities to align with grace. They continually enable me to see and try to make the right choices.
Performing spiritual practices, such as japa, meditation, and the remembrance of grace in my life, supports me in my effort to realign with my heart, with the Truth in each moment. And remembering the divine virtues helps to guide me through the journey of my life.
I often reflect on this moment and pray to understand and act from the Truth—especially when the battles of life occur. I see these moments as opportunities to align with grace. They continually enable me to see and try to make the right choices.
Performing spiritual practices, such as japa, meditation, and the remembrance of grace in my life, supports me in my effort to realign with my heart, with the Truth in each moment. And remembering the divine virtues helps to guide me through the journey of my life.
Nora, Sweden