Many Pilgrims to Hug those Trees
December 31, 2008The year-end holidays bring a steady flow of pilgrims to Kauai Aadheenam. Three families from Seattle area visited for the first time and had darshan with Bodhinatha. They all had a great time and felt like they didn't want to leave. A lively darshan session with Bodhinatha including the children...
A Poem From Chennai
December 31, 2008It seems that great hearts can be inspired by the smallest of things. Sheela from Chennai wrote this poem when introduced to one of Kauai's residents, a snail by the name of Mr. Long-Whiskers. "Mr. Long-Whiskers I met him today Small though he was He had a lot to say!...
Serving Siva, In Pujas and Bookeeping
December 30, 2008Aloha from Kaua'i Aadheenam. Bodhinatha's presence brings with him the power of the Parampara, the blessings of the guru and great philosophical conversations. Bodhinatha was explaining recently how our order is very related to the Agamas. Gurudeva says that while the Vedas are the uniting thread among all Hindus, we...
Aadheenam's Guests
December 30, 2008Yesterday Kadavul Temple was filled to overflowing with Hindus and it was lovely to have them all here. Those who did not have flights to catch were later taken on a tour of the Iraivan Temple and, as you can see by the smiles, they were a very happy group....
Aadheenam Improvements Move Forward
December 29, 2008Aum Namah Sivaya, Sun Two at the aadheenam. Today marks the beginning of the new Mini-Mela building, after many delays and refinements in the original plan. Shanmuganathaswami gives instructions to the team. The main contractor is John Anderson, a long-time associate of the monks. He is an excellent professional and...
Observation and the Superconscious Mind
December 29, 2008Bodhinatha often mentions to his devotees a wonderful sadhana: to wander around nature, with the mind clear and open. The goal is to observe everything, not letting the thoughts get in the way. Children perceive amazing details that adults are certain to miss with their cluttered, noisy subconscious. Our photographer...
Sun One at the Aadheenam
December 28, 2008The monks are back from a great retreat, diving energetically into their kulam duties. It is a six-day phase ahead of us, full of opportunities to serve Lord Siva. Bodhinatha, settled down after a long schedule of travels, gave a talk on being pure energy and moving through the chakras....
More Photos From Pancha Ganapati
December 28, 2008A few more photos from the Pancha Ganapati celebrations here. This is Lord Ganesha, craftily covered in sandalwood. Many gifts arrived and were put at His feet. Before lunch, the monks honored Lord Ganesha together at the courtyard. Sadhaka Nandinatha does the arati. Offering the flame to Bodhinatha. Later on,...