Usually a contributor to this literary e-zine, I have the enviable status of
being only a reader this issue. Why enviable? Because it seems like better
etiquette to not be singing the praises of something one has also written.

Since the "dog ate my homework," ;=) I can now easily sound the trumpet like the
town crier saying "hear ye, hear ye" and quickly left click on the link below
and avail yourself of the excellent prose and poetry to be found in the
"Destiny" issue.

I'll spare everyone my version of flowery praise but that doesn't lessen the
extent of my enthusiasm for the articles to be found here. It's difficult to
even single any one out as a favorite because they were all so good.

Sumangali's piece about living briefly in Thailand reminded me that it seems no
one describes nature better than her. Her description of monsoon rains will rise
like steam in your memory every time you get caught in heavy rain ever again.

Palyati's article will resonate every time you encounter the words "it is
written" and you will wish you could get introduced to her "genius" friend.

John-Paul's article shines as my possible favorite, best of all. I say
"possible" because like I said above, they are all good and it is hard to single
one out. If I had to though, I would choose his. It is a compelling, charming
and highly readable spiritual and personal autobiography. The rites of passage
from youth to adult, the difference between his mother and father (and perhaps
similarity after all with both of their religiosity), the clash of culture, the
spiritual awakening which leaves you feeling that he cherishes spiritual union
with God above all else. I don't express it that well in writing so you have to
just read it for yourself and you will know what I mean.

Noivedya's article left me pondering "What if...!" in a big way, which seems
awfully appropriate for the theme of destiny. What if they chose the other
actress who auditioned? What if?

Abhinabha's article will amaze you. His "coming to the path" story of going to
hear an Indian guru at one church, not finding it and instead noticing a small
poster for a class in meditation offered by the Sri Chinmoy Centre instead is
nothing less than iconic when it comes to the various and beautiful miracles
that led us to embark on Sri Chinmoy's spiritual path.

Suchana's poetry is delightful. I am all admiration for anyone who can write
beautiful verse in a language other than their own mother tongue.

Jogyata is the consummate apostle of Sri Chinmoy's mission. Not only does he
travel the globe giving classes, talks and lectures in far-flung locations from
his home "down under," he also writes in such a way that you feel a real call to
battle to raise your consciousness and strive to be the best you can be and
beyond. And he wraps it up in a basket that transports you to Bali whether you
personally went there or not.

Last but not least, Mahiruha's writing is always inviting to the reader. His
introductions to each issue are masterpieces in and of themselves. His actual
article in the Destiny issue is extraordinary.
Towards the end of his piece he writes,
"But his last words to us, that hope is sweeter than ambrosia, touched me
deeply. My Master told me in that phrase to keep a positive attitude, to stay
happy and well, and to remain hopeful. Sri Chinmoy's first message to me was to
forswear anxiety about what people think of me or how I am judged in the eyes of
society. His last message to me was to keep hope alive forever."

Don't take my word for it. Read them yourself and we can compare notes on the
back of a napkin while drinking hot chocolate.
http://www.srichinmoycentre.org/inspiration-letters/16

Sharani
p.s. aren't you glad the dog ate my homework?