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Photos
of Babaji
is a silent monk who has not spoken since 1952 and communicates by
writing on a small chalkboard. This verbal silence is a process which
gradually quiets the mind and eliminates unwanted thoughts. While
this concept may be initially difficult for most of us to understand,
the example of Baba Hari Dass is ample expression of the potential
for peace that lies within each of us as the result of spiritual
discipline and devotion to helping others.
Babaji is first and foremost a master yogi, having practiced
the disciplines of yoga from childhood. In addition he is an accomplished
author, builder, philosopher, sculptor, and proponent of Ayurveda
(the ancient Indian system of health and healing). He is also conversant
in several languages. Babaji gives his time unstintingly in service
to others and has been the inspiration for a variety of service
projects. The California based Hanuman Fellowship was formed in
1974. Two other fellowships, Dharmasara Satsang Society/Salt Spring
Centre near Vancouver, and Ashtanga Yoga Fellowship in Toronto,
also take their inspiration from Babaji. They too are involved
with yoga teaching, retreats, service and publishing.
Baba Hari Dass presides at weekly sessions in the Yoga Sutras,
Bhagavad Gita, yoga practices and other related subjects at various
yoga retreats. He also writes on many yoga topics and spiritual
stories, creates theatrical props and masks for the Ramayana, and
always has a special welcome for children. He is present every
Sunday at gatherings called Satsang, open to all without charge
at the Pacific Cultural Center in Santa Cruz. Satsang means keeping
the company of truth and provides an opportunity for spiritual
singing, meditation and questions for Babaji. In his presence it
is evident that he has found a way to be at peace despite the pain
and confusion of the world. His writings, his actions and more
importantly his example, communicate the realization that this
peace is available to each of us, if only we make the effort. |
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