(A devotee’s notes - Talk given by Swami Satyananda ji at Pasadena Temple)

Paramahansa Yogananda: Meditation is the most important action we perform.
–Even highest aspirations are hindered by lack of good habits.

(Instead of a “list of habits,” Swami Satyananda ji chose to speak on
a particular one, “Titiksha” or “Even-mindedness”, on the lines of cultivating a life skill than just a good habit).

Sri Uma Mata, a senior disciple of Sri Sri Paramahansa Yogananda, was quoted as being a legend where even-mindedness is concerned. An example was given, when some years ago, Swami Satyananda ji was returning from India to Los Angeles with Sri Uma Mata ji. Aboard the flight, there was much disturbance wherein some passengers were consuming alcohol and eventually when some of it was spilt on Sri Uma Mata, Swami Satyananda took a firm stand with the cabin crew. When he returned to his seat, Sri Uma Mata simply asked him: “Brother Satyananda, is everything alright?” She was not in the least perturbed by the incident.

(Bhagwad Gita quote: Chapter 2, verse 38 on even-mindedness. Guru’s commentary: Even-mindedness = basic principle of yoga; it neutralizes the effects of maya / delusion.)

– One who is free from effects of elation [or any extreme emotion] is able to perceive the reflection of Divine within.

– Mind pushes the emotional panic button; we tend to think that’s the way we feel and we have no control.

– Transmute reaction into response

– Response should be regulated = even-mindedness [the need to slow down]

– Restrain the emotions; feel the emotions, then take a deep breath, relax, perceive & not react. Things have a way of resolving themselves, even if they seem hopeless.

– Our emotional state of mind = maya & prevents right response and so we tend to react.

– Stillness / silence is useful in sticky situations

– Controlling reactions = self-governing of ourselves; this requires will power, a command so to speak. In this way we can become effective channels for God.

– Practice cultivating “spaces of calmness” in thought processes / during activities.

– Controlling the need to react often helps in diffusing situations.

– Fear destroys faith [stay calm!]

– Paramahansa Yogananda: even a yogi nearing his goal may be hindered by sense addictions - willful intervention is necessary.

– Make a conscious effort to cultivate even-mindedness, even by praying for opportunities to perceive instead of reacting.

– Keep out thoughts of hatred / negativity from the chamber of peace and God will visit.

Jai Guru!