from Stacey Fisher
With Gratitude
“What is this kṛtajñatā (gratitude), it is nothing but honouring something which is great, which supported us in this journey for our welfare. So, the more we often recollect that and honour that, automatically, we get more of that kind of support. As a result of that, we can facilitate our journey very easily by this mechanism. It is an inbuilt mechanism in this body, mind, as well in this universe. – Ācārya
I grew up in a household that didn’t follow any particular religious beliefs, and I often longed for a sense of belonging. As a young girl, I accompanied my Catholic neighbour to church once, sometimes twice a week. I always felt a profound sense of upliftment and security within those church walls. My home life was filled with instability, and I faced numerous challenges at school, so finding solace and security in that environment was a significant relief. It was a form of devotion I couldn’t fully comprehend then, but it felt like I was seeking something beyond the mundane. I yearned for more. But where and how…
My life took a significant turn when I left my hometown. I delved into rock climbing and joined an Aṣṭāṅga Yoga class to enhance my flexibility. I was captivated by the dynamic movements and the vibrant energy in the room. In February 1996, this newfound passion led me to India to study āsana with Pattabhi Jois in Mysore. I loved India and felt an overwhelming sense of returning ‘home’. During this trip, I attended a Yoga theory class with Dr. Śaṅkaranārāyaṇa Jois. My initial impression of him was that of a stern and seemingly unapproachable teacher. Coupled with his accent and the complex content that my ears weren’t quite ready to comprehend, it felt like he was speaking an entirely different language despite it being English. Nevertheless, something within me resonated, even though I couldn’t fully grasp it. It wasn’t until my return to India in October 1997 that I reconnected with Ācārya and began to consider him as my Teacher.
In late August 1997, a pivotal turning point unfolded over six weeks. During those six weeks, I met my future husband, Jonathan, as foretold by Ācārya, my dearest friend Mary. Through Mary, I crossed paths with Ācārya. Looking back, those six weeks were pivotal and impactful in shaping my life.
During that transformative time, I practised asana in the morning and, with Mary’s guidance, attended classes on the Bhagavad-gītā at Ācārya’s home in J P Nagar alongside a handful of fellow students. After the class, we practised prāṇāyāma and meditation in different places in his home. I now count myself incredibly fortunate to have experienced these deeply personal classes. In addition, I received a personal reading from Ācārya, during which he made many profound statements which have unfolded over the years.
We travelled to India up to two or three times a year with our children. Sometimes, we took our children out of school for extended periods, though it was not encouraged by friends and family members. Their close interaction with Ācārya, listening to his teachings, and being in his presence profoundly impacted their lives and how we were able to educate them. We believed that this experience was their True education.
Hosting Ācārya, Vijayā, Gaṇapatiāraya, Ādarśārya, and Madhukeśvara in our homes in Israel and Portugal allowed us to witness and absorb this ideal yogic lifestyle being practised consistently, authentically and whole-heartedly. Being in close contact with them and witnessing their noble qualities and grace was a truly transformative experience, which helped us navigate this ideal lifestyle and incorporate it into ours in a smooth way.
Ācārya and these teachings have shaped the foundations of my life, which, through this letter, I can only convey a drop of its vast ocean of impact. I have had the incredible grace and good fortune to have these teachings take priority in my life, relationships, work and involvement with Bhāratī Yogadhāma.
BYD
I have vivid memories of the early days of BYD and how a barren piece of land at the foothills of Chumundi transformed into a sanctuary for these teachings and students. Every year we visited, we witnessed the progression and evolution of Ācārya’s pure, unyielding vision.
I remember accompanying Mary on her scooter for her morning walk on the outskirts of Chumundi, overlooking the BYD land. With each visit and morning walk, looking down, new structures emerged, and trees flourished. Today, it is a thriving and inspirational organisation founded on the pure ancient teachings of Indian yogic culture.
The Sadvidya organisation has been fortunate to experience a wealth of knowledge and support from Ācārya and the BYD staff. Vijayā’s devotional singing and presence have inspired a passion for Āyurvedic cooking. She always welcomed us into her home, ensuring our hands and hearts were never empty. Sri Gaṇapatiāraya has developed a deep understanding of Western culture and has become a fluent speaker of English, effectively conveying these teachings in an uplifting and moving manner that melts our hearts. I am grateful for his guidance and generosity. Ādarśārya and Madhukeśvara have shown great patience and enthusiasm in teaching us Saṁskṛta and giving lectures in Āyurveda, āsana, prāṇāyāma, and meditation during our visits to Portugal and India. Praśānt has been unwavering and dutiful in helping us organise retreats and administration. It has been a humbling experience. Additionally, all the students, workers, and wives going about their duties on the land with kindness and devotion have been a great support. An organisation that welcomes with pure graciousness.
On this special 25th-year commemoration of BYD, wishing continued success and blessings to BYD.
I bow in gratitude.
Jonathan, Yasmin, Elijah and I feel incredibly fortunate to have met such a noble and exceptional teacher who can impart true knowledge and instil the birthright for Realization and Liberation. I hope this experience continues to strengthen my determination and intention to achieve the ultimate goal of Yoga.
Namaste
Stacey Fisher
