Sacred Companionship

One of the finest features of social media, particularly Facebook, is the ability to find people of like mind and befriend them. Call this experience what you will: discovering "holy company." The daily opportunity to share with kindred spirits one's own encounters with spiritual awakening, contemporary perspectives, beloved quotes, and the philosophy of cherished authors—it is like a refreshing bath in the waters of love itself.

It serves little purpose to lodge complaints against the many institutions of established religions and how they distort the core teachings of faith; yes, at least they provide a platform where the devout can express their beliefs and devotion. Yet regrettably, in many cases, this has become an excuse for fanaticism, division, and conflict.

"Holy company" carries a unique worth. Awakening does bring with it a certain stability and boundless joy, true enough; but even there, a world of cunning and temptation lies hidden. Thus, even the most illumined seekers sometimes stumble, err, and for a time become submerged in doubt and remorse. Read the scriptures or witness the controversial accounts of gurus, and one cannot deny this reality.

This is why to dwell in the presence of the guru—past or present—to read and hear their words, and to find reassurance in the company of one's own sacred circle—helps one keep pace with awakening, making that illumined understanding all the more firm.

In the path of devotion, the disciple remains eternally grateful to that guru who opened the doors of their heart. Devotion to him remains unshakeable, for in the guru's words there is a resonance that compels the student toward surrender. This truth appears across nearly every spiritual tradition, especially in the mystical schools.

Yet there is a subtle and contentious matter—much teaching from pop-books and the internet is like the truth of a half-eaten apple; among them is this: "There is nothing to seek—this is all." Such teaching serves little purpose for those weary and yearning for peace. For awakening is not merely the name of "ceasing to search." Rather, in awakening comes a powerful witnessing awareness that bestows an obscure joy and wisdom—which, though beyond reason, is profoundly real in experience. For this, relentless inquiry and effort are essential.

True holy company alone can tell the despairing soul that peace and joy are possible, that life is not merely a dry compromise. Shakespeare captures this truth: "Horatio, there are more things in heaven and earth than are dreamt of in your philosophy." Let us not forget—beyond our beliefs and understanding lie countless truths, and beauty.