I would be grateful for your discernment regarding the process and expectations for becoming a residential member of the Ashram as an overseas seeker, including whether periodic visits home to family are permitted. I hope to visit in January to experience the community’s rhythm, meet in person, and discern if this pathway represents a true call to consecrated living.
Such radical shifts in life are a kind of rebirth, a spiritual rebirth that changes all the past co-ordinates shifting us out of every comfort zone. It is a golden opportunity to take a leap towards the future, to be born anew to a higher and deeper life. What is needed at such moments is a leap of faith.
If the thought and aspiration to come and live here has arisen, then perhaps it is itself an indication of the direction you should take. When destiny prompts us then things get arranged in ways that we may not understand. Take the prompt and the lead and come. I am sure things will sort out by Their Grace.
Of course, the Ashram doesn’t bind you to any outer things such as travel, etc. The only consideration is that one should be able to sustain oneself initially for a couple of years. So a bit of financial arrangement helps. But all this we can talk about when you come. I would be happy to help you in this process.
May Her Love and Grace be with you. May She heal you completely and set you inwardly free for this new life.
Come.
Affectionately,
Alok Da
