On January 5, the anniversary of Paramhansa Yogananda’s birth, I reflected on the profound journey of discipleship. As we explore Yogananda’s life in "Autobiography of a Yogi," we find guidance for our own spiritual paths. There comes a moment when we realize that the material world isn’t our true essence, sparking the quest for deeper meaning. Initially, we receive guidance through books, then teachers appear to support us, and ultimately, we are led to our true guru, which is part of a divine plan. The relationship with a guru is both eternal and personal; they await us until we’re ready. The next step involves surrender and deep attunement, much like Yogananda's experience with Sri Yukteswar, who offered rigorous guidance that transformed his understanding. Embracing challenges as opportunities for growth allows us to receive the guru’s blessings. True surrender leads us to recognize God as the ultimate reality, merging our will and thoughts with those of our guru, culminating in a shared realization. Swami Kriyananda’s vows encapsulate these sentiments, resonating deeply with those who follow Yogananda as their guru.