What is Yoga?

I quote (paraphrase) Nicolai Bachman, 'The Yoga Sutra-s of Patanjali, the preeminent text on yoga as a philosophy, explains in detail how our heart-mind field works and provides excellent ways of refining our human being.....encouraging us to act with keen discernment for the benefit of all sentient beings.  Yoga is truly a way of life that emphasizes friendliness, compassion, understanding, health and true lasting inner happiness.'

All of that over just this lifetime is a lot to ask - that is why we call it a practice and that is why I believe in reincarnation and the laws of karma.

I have met self proclaimed yogis/yoginis who walk this path in name only.

I have met strict vegetarians who treat human beings poorly.

I have my own challenges and things to work on - which is why this is indeed a practice and it may take lifetimes. 

But no gain is ever reversed along the path. 

So I pray for continued guidance and tolerance for self first then for others along our journey. 

And I hope to live up to the advice given me by another one of my teachers;  for me to always have the ability and mindfulness to notice the small miracles that surround me every moment.  Thank you Ed Cardinal !

Namaskara