Integrity, Devotion, and Courage Dear John , As we move forward into 2017, burdened perhaps with a greater than usual uncertainty about what the new year might bring, it is helpful to be reminded of those qualities that enable us to transcend even the most difficult challenges: integrity, devotion, and courage. Whatever lies ahead, we can all benefit from reading and taking to heart the new articles from Clarity Magazine discussing each of these qualities: 1) “What Is True Integrity?” by Swami Kriyananda; 2) “Learn to Love Heroically,” by Nayaswamis Jyotish and Devi; and 3) “Malala: An Example of Boundless Courage,” by Nayaswami Prakash. Sister Gyanamata, Paramhansa Yogananda’s most advanced disciple, when facing a major challenge, was given the following prayer: “Change no circumstance in my life. Change me.” God and Guru have given us the understanding and tools to shape our own destinies in difficult times. A more conscious, dynamic practice of integrity, devotion, and courage will not only guide us through whatever lies ahead, it will also leave us greatly strengthened spiritually. Many blessings, Nayaswami Naidhruva |