Interviewer: “Is there any part of your work that frustrates you?”
Sri Dharma Mittra: “Yes, there is. If I notice a lack of obedience or interest on the part of the students in what I'm teaching, I feel extremely sad. At the same time, I feel pity for those that lack obedience because they are really only hurting themselves. It's so sad to see students lying down while the teacher is speaking or leading Kirtan, and most especially when the teacher is reading from the scriptures. This behavior on their part is disrespectful and unethical. Automatically, the student is blocking or avoiding a supreme relationship with the teacher and, without this connection, no real progress is made. Also, as a direct consequence, the student suffers lots of disappointments. I feel sad when this happens, but, at the same time, I don't blame them because they just can’t see that their actions and attitudes are not correct. Regardless, under these conditions, discipleship will never happen.”
Read the rest here.
Good interview. All students need to understand what is the practice, and what is the goal. Your gurudeva has made that clear for his disciples, and obviously a good number have heard him.
ReplyDelete-g.d.
Be sure and read the whole interview. It is getting rare to hear teachers say:
ReplyDelete“I love to teach on Yama and Niyama – the Ethical Rules and Observances of yoga, especially Ahimsa (non-violence, the first Yama) and compassion. What a joy this is!” (Sri Dharma Mittra)
Thanks to Kali Om we still cover the Eight Limbs of Yoga – thinking of the Retreat at Frankfort.
This is indeed one of his best interviews.
ReplyDeleteNow, Ralph, if we could only convince g.d. to come to the retreat (or at least to the Hindu Temple, where I will teach on 12/7)
Are you doing that again? That was a a fun group last time! Don't know if I can come 12/7 but I'll come if it's possible. Ralph-I'm looking for more book suggestions-you can message me through FB if it's easier. -Gayle
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