Our world is currently facing significant challenges, from environmental issues to war and political polarization, leading many to feel anxious and helpless. In response, Ananda is offering hope during this year's Spiritual Renewal Week, themed "The Time for Knowing God Has Come." Understanding the urgency of our times, we aim to provide tools to foster inner peace and strength, acknowledging the changes that require new ways of thinking and being. We are grateful for the guidance of our divine line of masters who are here to help us navigate these turbulent waters. They bring us invaluable teachings, such as Kriya Yoga, which enables a direct connection with God and embodies principles of love and acceptance. By embracing their wisdom, we can cultivate true peace even amidst uncertainty, working together toward a more united and compassionate world.

Finishing what you start, even in small tasks, can bring a sense of freedom and clarity to your mind. It's essential to tackle chores like dirty dishes or emails promptly instead of letting them linger. Larger projects deserve the same attention; unfinished work can drain our energy. After a break from writing my book, The Heart of Service, I realized how much of my focus it occupied. Resuming was challenging, but I'm committed to completing it without distractions. On a deeper level, unfinished business impacts our future lives, carrying over unfulfilled desires and tendencies shaped from past experiences. As Paramhansa Yogananda noted, those unmet desires influence our current behavior. By cultivating the habit of finishing what we start, we not only conserve our energy but also promote spiritual growth, preventing many lifetimes of struggle. Let's embrace this practice together!

On a trip to India in 1998, I was anxious about staying healthy due to well-meaning friends' warnings about food and water. Upon arriving at a less-than-modern New Delhi airport, I saw a faucet labeled “Drinkable Water,” which filled me with hesitation. Thankfully, Swami Kriyananda asked me to fetch him water from that faucet. To my surprise, he drank it without any issues, which shifted my perspective on fear. Realizing I could either let fear control me or take reasonable precautions, I chose to embrace the experience. We explored the beautiful country and connected deeply with its spiritual essence, without any sickness in our group. It’s a reminder that we need to be mindful of our thoughts and fears; they can be just as impactful as the experiences themselves. As Yoganandaji suggested, rather than focusing on fear, we should place our trust in God’s protection and let go of anxieties, ultimately choosing to live with faith.

Life is much like creating a garden—it begins with a vision. Just as the gardeners at Crystal Hermitage worked with a scant outline from Swami Kriyananda to develop something beautiful, we too need goals to guide our actions. It’s crucial to revisit our initial plans regularly; if we stray, we should renew our commitment to our vision. Faith plays a key role as we plant seeds in life, trusting that even the tiniest efforts can yield beautiful results over time. Just like watering a garden is essential for its growth, we must nurture our body, mind, and soul to thrive. Being adaptable to challenges, whether in gardening or living, is necessary, as setbacks can lead to valuable insights. Observing the transformation of the gardens and individuals over time shows the power of dedication and love in cultivating beauty and peace in our lives. As Paramhansa Yogananda expressed, the past may fade, but the beauty and hope of growth brighten our journey forward.

Paramhansa Yogananda shares that everyone has their prayers answered, emphasizing that God hears our hearts beyond our words. He encourages us to focus our thoughts on God and to pray with full concentration and faith. When praying for others, it’s best to leave outcomes to God’s will. A suggested prayer is to ask for the Divine Mother’s healing presence in those we care about. Personally, I’ve adopted the practice of praying for harmony with God’s will instead of personal requests, trusting that Divine Mother knows my needs. In times of uncertainty, faith is our guiding light. As Swami Kriyananda said, true security comes from trusting in the Lord after we’ve done our best. Let’s embrace divine friendship and trust in God's care!

Life is full of challenges, but it’s the choices we make in response to those setbacks that truly define us. Swami Kriyananda exemplified this attitude by facing difficulties with unwavering faith and positivity. An inspiring example is when he continued to hum a song after the temple burned down, reminding us that while external losses can occur, our internal joy remains within our control.  Whenever you face trials, keep in mind that what matters most is who you become because of them. Wishing you blessings on your journey toward inner freedom.

Fear of the unknown is a natural part of being human, but for those on a spiritual journey, it can be a powerful teacher. I want to share three stories that highlight the importance of confronting our fears with courage and faith. One story from Yogananda’s Autobiography of a Yogi features Sri Yukteswar, who, after being frightened by a ghost story from his mother, bravely entered the dark chamber only to find there was nothing to fear. This teaches us that when we face our fears, they often lose their grip on us. Additionally, Swami Kriyananda emphasizes that true courage comes from recognizing God's presence within us, which helps us understand that our fears are opportunities for growth. Embracing this perspective allows us to see fear as a stepping stone rather than an obstacle.

Crystal Hermitage, the home of Swami Kriyananda at Ananda Village, has transformed from a simple landscape into a stunning tulip garden, attracting over twenty thousand visitors last year and welcoming even more this year. People are drawn to the gardens for their serenity, beauty, and peace, creating a harmonious atmosphere filled with diverse cultures and languages. Visitors experience the gardens in various ways—some enjoy taking photos, while others find joy and tranquility. A touching moment occurred when a Ukrainian family visiting with a non-English speaking grandfather encountered warmth and understanding. Additionally, a photographer expressed a deep emotional connection with the flowers, saying they spoke to her heart. When we realize that the world is filled with timeless beauty, inexpressible joy, and love, then every day can be “our favorite day.” This is what the tulip gardens can teach us.

As members of a community, we have a wonderful responsibility to live in the light and share it. I recently came across an intriguing article explaining how acts of kindness can create a ripple effect, influencing others far beyond just the recipient. A great example of this is from Riccardo Pes, a talented cellist from the Ananda Assisi community. After the tragic vandalism of the iconic sycamore tree in Northern England, he was inspired to compose a piece titled “Lament for the Sycamore Gap Tree.” Despite being in Rome, he felt compelled to pay tribute to the tree by journeying through challenging weather to play his composition at the site. His heartfelt performance not only honored the fallen tree but also resonated with many, going viral and spreading compassion globally. This reminds us that in a world where darkness exists, our creative responses can shine a light and inspire others. It’s a beautiful call to action for each of us to embrace our role as bearers of light and kindness.

In a recent satsang at the Ananda Community in Portland, a common question arose: how to maintain peace amidst life's struggles. While meditation provides calm, daily activities can easily disrupt it. To stay centered, consider a three-step strategy inspired by Swami Kriyananda’s teachings. First, commit to regular meditation to build clarity and detachment, allowing for fresh perspectives on challenges. Second, remember to breathe and relax; take moments throughout the day to reconnect with the peaceful feeling you experienced during meditation. Finally, foster harmonious relationships with others who seek inner peace, as cultivating such friendships can enhance your own tranquility. By finding and continually listening for your “note” of inner peace and sharing it with others, you can navigate life’s ups and downs from a place of joy and connection. In the end, embrace each day as an adventure in recognizing the ever-present joy of God’s presence.