Here's the latest on the remodeling of the LA studio from Gauda December 21, 2003

 
Hi everybody follow this link to my photo blog.... (Go to URL)

 

Atma Yoga teacher Gaudachandra checks in... December 15, 2003

 
A picture paints a thousand words... so better you visit my photo blog... (Go to URL)

 

update from Lee December 12, 2003

 
We've made a tiny bit of progress this weekend on the studio in L.A. Gauda and I hung the sides of the pandala with the help of Margaret. She came to L.A from South America to attend massage school. She was immensely helpful and is a vibrant, upbeat friend. You can see her and check out our progress on Gaudaji's blog.

Margaret's first language is Portuguese. She loves to talk. She unintentionally said a little rhyme that Gauda picked up on and helped to inspire us as we worked. We have adopted it as our latest motto to live by. It is: "Do your best and let Krishna take care of the rest." Since I can be worry-prone, keeping this in mind helps me to surrender some of that anxiety. That and a really rich atma yoga class melts my fears away. Aaah! The pleasures of surrender.

 

Detroit Mantric Tantric - a sweet success December 8, 2003

 
We had an amazing magical Mantric Tantric in Detroit. Everybody was moved, changed, exhilarated, and several said they floated out of the room. After an eight hour day of chanting mantras with a partner you would be "exploding with love…" as one participant described it.

Don't miss the next one.

Your servant with love,

Atmananda Das

 

From Lee (Atma Yoga Teacher) December 1, 2003

 

Monday, December 1st

Last night as I flew home to L.A. from New York, I used the time to get some clarity on a few decisions I will need to make very soon.

As I wade through the mental fog, I recall the video that my nephew, Justin, showed me this weekend. It's called "Pilgrimage" and it's about 3 of the world's best rock climbers and their journey to Hampi, India to climb boulders that have never been climbed by anyone except maybe a monkey now and then. Hampi is where the story of the Ramayana is told and is the home of Hanuman - a great yogi and devotee. I watch intently as Chris Sharma, the leader of the group and the best rock climber in the world, challenges himself over and over again with every climb to make it up these amazing boulders. Establishing new routes for others to follow. He meditates under the boulders like the sadhus who live there. And clears his mind to allow his intense physical energy to lead the way. Like the powerful Hanuman searching for Sita. He keeps his mind from getting in the way of what his body can do best. He's focused, sharp, clear.

There's one boulder that defies his attempts to conquer it. He tries over and over with increasing frustration. But his grip won't hold. He's relentless for 4 days until finally he surrenders. He says he'll be back. There've been others that have defeated him. It's all part of his learning to improve as a rock climber. Although he tries not to let it through, there's disappointment on his face.

Even with all our expert skills, our calmness, focus, strength and wisdom there will be boulders that can't be climbed. Yet. But not to attempt them, not to rise to the challenge, the inner challenge, would be living life less than what we are capable of. It shows a lack of faith. And trust.

Know that some paths will be difficult to go down and may require repeated tries. Keep trying. Fall down. Surrender. Then surrender some more. Clarity will follow. Your heart will open. Your practice will improve. Your devotion will deepen. Learn to let go. Release attachment to the outcome. But keep the faith.

 

Detroit News November 24, 2003

 
From Atma - Last night I spoke to a Large Audience and the Detroit ISKCON Sunday feast. I made a presentation about Atma Yoga to them and the new wellness center that is being developed. (Sorry I don't have a photo - I'll include a recent one of me here in Detroit.)

The Detroit facility is going to be an extraordinary center. I really hope that a lot of people take advantage of the opportunity here.

I will be back in Detroit in April to do another teacher training. I am hoping for a large turn out. I could easily facilitate 30 to 40 students in the 10 week program.

I am looking forward to the Vegetarian feast coming up on thanksgiving. I hope everyone has a fun and serene holiday. - If things get harried remember to control your breath and repeat your favorite Mantra (I recommend Haribol.)

Key you later

Your servant with love,

Atma