Asp Experiences In San Francisco

Muthaiah .N

My experience at the ASP retreat in San Francisco, which started with skepticism and uncertainty quickly, turned into conviction and commitment.

In addition to the range of emotions that I personally experienced, I witnessed grown men and women of all ages and backgrounds literally brought to tears when they received Swami's Energy Darshan.

During the two days of the discourses at the retreat, the various analogies and "small stories" that Swami narrated and the knowledge that he imparted left no doubt in the minds of most, if not all of us, that he was indeed an enlightened soul. The uncanny manner in which he related to the average person's dilemma and was so aware of contemporary culture in the east and the west forced one participant to ask Swami if he "watched TV". His answer was NO.

Most importantly, at no point did Swami say that he

was anything more than an enlightened soul. He also preached the universality of religion without forcing down any religious doctrine or dogma. This is refreshingly different from others who practice proselytization without reproach. In fact when one of the participants told him that she was considering whether she should take him up as her guru, he told her to "continue to contemplate" until she is comfortable.

I am sure that we have all gained additional spiritual insights, but the challenge that remains in each of us is to practice some of the teachings.

Mrs. Muthiah

How do you sing the praises of THE SUPREME PONTIFF OF HINDUISM BHAGAWAN SRI NITHYANANDA PARAMASHIVAM How do you tell the story of this man? How do you sing the praises of THE SUPREME PONTIFF OF HINDUISM BHAGAWAN SRI NITHYANANDA PARAMASHIVAM A healing touch, a spiritual guide, a plan!

Many a thing you know you'd like to learn here Many a thing you ought to understand But how do you find your way? Just listen to all he says How to plant the joy upon this land.

Oh, how do you spread the feeling of Ananda? How do you hold these secrets in your hand?

When I'm with him it's so clear No more problems, no more fear And I really know exactly where I stand I'm out of stormy weather, so much lighter than a feather He's my guru, He's my father, He's my friend.

His knowledge is so vast Mastered sciences of the past He can set your rhythm right All your chakras glowing bright He is happy! He is wise! He's a Master! He's a guide! He's a Healer! He's our sunshine! He's our Light!

Oh, how do you spread the feeling of Ananda? How do you hold these secrets in your hand?