The fully decorated Shiva Lingam in the altar at Vedic Life Foundation

Flowers cover the altar. They have been carefully arranged during a succession of Prayers or chants. I have been visually overwhelmed sitting next to this Altar as the Puja progresses. The orange background is very stimulating. Each flower, or group of flowers is held while the full chant is made. As the chant is finished, the flowers are offered on the Altar. Sight and sound are big because the colors of the flowers and the sound of the chanting fill the primary senses. Incense and the scent of roses fill the nostrils. Water, ghee, yogurt, and salt occupy the touch. A sweet flavor wells up from within me. Involvement in the ceremony becomes the prescence of God.

One has feelings of flow as the puja progresses. It feels like goose bumps, or warmth, or cold streams moving through the body. It varies according to the individual. Each experience is unique. For me, it was pleasant, ecstatic.

All this beauty lifts the soul and reminds us what is possible. The VLF has brought the best from the past into the present. Their yagyas have wrought a profound change in me. I am more confident today. I am more relaxed today. I am ready to get back to the modern world of Asheville, North Carolina, and connect this website with more and more people. Part of the action will be in periodic trips to Kanpur. We’ll share this experience with as many as will come. More on the new guest complex soon.