Tamara: Dear Sundari, I hope you are feeling better and thank you for replying with such generosity. I’ve read your email several times.
Sundari: I am very well, thank you, and you are most welcome, Tamara, I am glad I could help.
Tamara: About this line: (Sundari writing) “That’s beautiful, Tamara. Meditation is yoga and an important practice to prepare and purify the mind for Self-inquiry. But it is an action, and therefore very different from Self-knowledge, which is action-free. Please read the satsang I attached on the difference between mediation and Self-inquiry.”
I read James’ autobiography, the satsang and understand the difference between experience and meditation. I really appreciate that. I understand now about Ganesh, and it’s very beautiful but no longer something else in my mind. It’s probably the most real example (for me) of action to action-free. And I’m reminded of it constantly. I’m so glad I shared that with you, for it’s a pivotal moment.
Sundari: Knowing the difference between experience and knowledge is at the heart of Self-inquiry. It is not easy to take on board for many yoga students, because they have been taught that you need to do something to “get enlightened.”
Tamara: I am becoming familiar with self and following my nature. Something I’ll share that seems to be a theme is an awareness of giving and receiving as one. Whereas the concept of giving and receiving as a principle of yoga was understandable, I am a part of an exchange of abundant flow in ways beyond understanding and even beyond witnessing the presence.
Sundari: Yes, you are all that is as the Self. You give and receive to and from yourself, always. Isvara as our field of experience takes care of all our needs as a jiva. The teaching on non-injury is based on this knowledge: when you know there is only you, you never do harm to anything, because you know it is all you. Your life becomes a contribution to the whole.
Tamara: I have been studying the qualifications and studying your comments on karma and dharmas,which has helped me direct my focus, discerning my values and tracking myself. Tracking myself on my values has been deeply rewarding; beauty comes from this discipline.
I will stay in close touch with some questions when I’m ready for more.
Thank you kindly.
Sundari: Very good. A value for the correct values is of utmost importance if freedom from limitation is your primary goal. What we value underpins everything we do and will determine our qualifications for Self-inquiry.
Feel free to write any time, Tamara, we are here to help you if you get stuck.
~ Much love, Sundari
