With Sri Chinmoy in New York

With Sri Chinmoy in New York

Every April and August I go to New York to visit my spiritual teacher, Sri Chinmoy and friends from around the world. The biennial Celebrations are a good opportunity to focus on spiritual practices and also relax with friends. 

Each day is different but usually we meet in an outside tennis court, which is quite exposed to the weather. During celebrations there are various music groups which perform the music of Sri Chinmoy. There are some very talented musicians and it is very inspiring to hear their music and singing. I participate in singing performances sometimes, - not all groups are of the same high standard.

Sri Chinmoy is a great believer in the importance of physical exercise and the role of self transcendence - surpassing our own limits. He will often demonstrate this through his various weightlifting activities.   Every now and then distinguished guests will be invited to our "Aspiration Ground" to be awarded with the "Lifting Up The World With A Oneness Heart Award". This is an award to honour men and women of inspiration who have achieved something significant. The reward is quite and unique and involves Sri Chinmoy lifting the recipient overhead with a specially constructed machine.

I always enjoy seeing this simple but unique ceremony. Visitors often speak how they feel literally "uplifted" by the whole experience.

We are fortunate to hold some of our functions in an outdoor meeting place called Aspiration-Ground. It is a special place with a strong spiritual vibration. Being in such an environment helps to inspire a soulful and meditative consciousness.

New York is often quite hot in August, but the court is surrounded by many beautiful trees, which offer protection from the sun. At the far end of the ground there is a temple with a bronze roof and large glass doors. The court has an elegant simplicity and feels like a real oasis in the middle of New York City.

- Richard