The Lover's Life - 7b

November 23, 2001

The dharma of refuge is not dependent upon the

performance of any particular karma. The dharma of refuge is

a state of being. It is the root of all dharmas

and can be found everywhere in all

undertakings. To the lover, this apparent. It is the heart of the

yogas, it is their inner secret. Non-lovers cannot see,

although it is unmistakably clear. Saint Nandadas

says it all: "A lamp is not lit by

discussion, but by being ignited." It is a matter of

taking refuge to heart. The devotional policy is about

experience and never about worldly gain. All is done

in order to be invited to the Beloved's abode. Then,

the Beloved's endorsement is found everywhere. All is

attained when there is freedom from vested

interest. Then the lover feels her Beloved in all things. Her

consciousness is alert when she remembers that He could appear

at any moment. She is forever ready. This sweet

mixture of union and separation keeps her above the

common law. Even if diverted, the path is easily

found again through refuge. In the heights of

devotion, the lover leaves all dharmas and finds the source

of dharma. That source is called Dharmi(Lord) and He

is her Beloved, the remover of all

impediments. Refuge is always rewarding and felt by anyone who can

put down their guard long enough to feel His

effect. Refuge is the foundation upon which the advanced bhakti

practices have been established. Without refuge, bhakti

yoga (Divine Love) is impossible to practice and that

is why Sri Mahaprabhu silently stresses

dedication. (contd..)

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