The Red Saree Diaries - I

Have you ever wondered how your spiritual progress compares to others on a similar path? Have you found yourself comparing your spiritual experiences with those of others (and right off the bat, I must confess that I am guilty of doing this from time to time)? For example, do you think that the fleeting visions you may have of certain Divine energies that you may be praying to, the subtle, random, divine experiences or cues, the impromptu inner knowing, etc. may not be as significant as those of others in your close or extended spiritual circle? In my instance, and at this point in my life, (I noticed I seem to be a bit multi-dimensional when it comes to religion) I am talking about the subtle, divine experiences facilitated by the Divine Feminine Goddess who is known by different names in different religions. However, the genre is the same, whether she be known as Sophia, Mother Mary, Adi Parashakti (in the Hindu dharma), Lalita Tripurasundari (also in the Hindu dharma), Lilith, Isis, etc.),

I initially found myself asking – “Where do my experiences fall within the spectrum of the collective’s divine experiences? How far is my spiritual progress when compared to them? How far am I from ‘turning into them’?” Or becoming as wise as they are (or as they sound)?

Are their prayers and meditation practices more efficacious? And what makes them more qualified than me to address an audience on subtle, yet deep topics of spirituality and worship? How far am I from being as articulate as them in spiritual prowess?

As I put this question on paper, the following sentiments flowed out from my pen (I do like using an ink pen to journal or write my thoughts…hence the words “flowed out of my pen” seems apt). I will address this thought in reference to the Goddess’ energy I have been working on tapping into.

And this is what sort of became a bit clearer to me -

Each of us has a profound, significant relationship with the Divine. And each of our experiences is impactful. It is no use comparing our experiences to those of others - since we would not be comparing apples to apples. The Divine needs a certain “somebody” to fulfill a need that would benefit each of us because of the Divine’s infinite compassion. And this “somebody” is not necessarily a person who is favored by the Divine “over” you. This “somebody” has been put in your way to be able to stir your devotional sentiments and help you in your spiritual journey. And all this is because of the immense love and compassion of the Divine for You!

At every step of the way in your journey, there are these sequences of steps that are orchestrated by the Divine to ensure that All are included in Her fold or care. It’s the concept of “No child left behind”.

Sometimes, the dimensionality or depth of a particular person will need to be leveraged for it to be grasped by someone who may be a bit multi-dimensional or broader in their approach towards spirituality. Does this mean those who are deeper in certain strata of knowledge are better? Not necessarily. And maybe that’s why they encountered you as well!

Each of our paths and role in this rich fabric of life is absolutely divine! No one is excluded or preferred over the other. The sweetness of the relationship with one child cannot be compared to the nuances of sweetness of the relationship with another child. A mother loves all her children. Yet, every child is important and is an integral part of Her (the Divine Mother) that make Her whole. We are all part of the whole, that is “She”. No one is left out – even if we are the ones listening to a spiritual lecture as opposed to the one leading the lecture. Just as a lecturer is necessary in a lecture, so also, the audience is necessary to the lecturer and to add meaning to the term “lecture” or “discourse”.

The audience will then move on to fulfill a purpose that “only they” are intended to fulfill – with the newfound understanding gained by attending the lecture or discourse. And in that regard, they will automatically fulfill this requirement of being connected intimately with the Goddess with no difference between each of Her children. The children complete the Goddess – and She guides them accordingly in a way that only She can!

No one is placed in a chronological order according to their status, qualifications, superiority in a specific subject matter, etc. They are only placed there to orchestrate Her functioning of guiding us in a manner that is best for us! And not because of their “preferred” status. In Her eyes, each of us is Special in this rich tapestry of Life! The Goddess has no favorites; and no “want for favorites”. As the Divine, She, is only orchestrating events and making them unfold in a manner that is most organic and palatable for our growth and progress thereby honoring each and every one of us! This orchestration ensures that we are able to handle our life’s “Karma” in the least abrasive manner possible.

And in this regard, She, is the most caring and impartial Mother! And this is one of the reasons, the Divine Feminine Goddess in the Hindu culture, has her name prefixed with the Sanskrit word “Shri” (meaning highly respect worthy!). Hence the honorific title “Shri Mata”. The term “Mata” stands for Mother. Considering the above, the name “The Highly Respect Worthy Mother” seems apt for her – doesn’t it?