By Corie Roseman

Interviewed by Lissa (Yogyananda) Fountain, Yogaratna

I am at every online Swami Sunday and Wednesday satsang as well as the daily Meditation Club.

Gurudevi inspires me with her thoughtful and entertaining discourses and articles. She makes the process of enlightenment so accessible, if you just put in the effort.

I thank Gurudevi for her endless patience in guiding and encouraging me through this process. I appreciate that she sees the Divine light in me, even when I can’t.

My experience reminds me of Sally Fields 1985 Academy Awards acceptance speech: “You like me, you really, really like me!” Better yet, I like me. In fact, I am loving myself more.

Gurudevi helps me become more resilient as l age. I look for purpose and connections in my life.

I started Svaroopa^® yoga classes 25 years ago. The poses release spinal tension and strengthen my bones, joints and muscles. A recent bone density exam confirmed I’m in better shape than the average seventy-year-old!

And there’s more! I’ve dedicated my time and resources towards online Ashram participation these past five years. The more yoga I do, the more benefits I reap. I now feel a whole new level of awareness and deepening. And by Guru’s Grace, knowing my capital “S” Self has become my life’s purpose.

My resilience from Gurudevi’s practices and programs takes many forms. I’m able to let go of things that challenge me more quickly. My self-talk is more positive. I am able to be more engaged in what’s happening in the present moment.

When issues with my family come up, I accept the reality, even if I can’t repair it. I allow them time to sort it out for themselves. Gurudevi has helped me shift from a state of fear and anxiety to clarity. My daily meditation calms my mind, and I feel more blissful and focused.

I wish I lived closer to the Ashram so I could attend the satsangs in person. I’d hang around to chat and eat goodies, and pitch in to help.

Instead, I arrive early at my local Monday morning yoga class. I set up the room for my teacher. This feels like an Ashram seva that I can do, and it’s meaningful to me. I’m looking forward to my first visit to the Ashram for a Shaktipat retreat in July!