This is a tribute to Sri Daya Mata who passed away on November 30, 2010. She was a direct disciple of Sri Paramahansa Yogananda and became the 2nd person, following Rajarshi Janakananda, to head his organization, Self-Realization Fellowship, after his passing.

I never met Sri Daya Mata in person, but I was inspired by the spiritual work she accomplished of collating and publishing Paramahansa Yogananda's writings for posterity. And, those works I have read and been inspired by, as my reviews of these books have shown.

I did receive a note dated February 16, 1996, through Sri Daya Mata's personal secretary, Sr. Savitri, that was in response to a submission I had made to the Self-Realization Magazine. Sr. Savitri assured me that Sri Daya Mata had received my card and enclosure thanking me and extending to me her prayers and blessings.

These blessings I felt as a warm infusion of energy, and have been inspired by her loving energy even to this day. She showed me by her example how important it is to reach out with words of kindness and care.

Part of that letter that inspired me was the encouragement I was given to continue my spiritual work, and is quoted here in part: "Your poem, in which you have expressed your thoughts about life and the spiritual path, reflects your affinity with Paramahansa Yogananda's universal principles and ideals, and we appreciate your sharing it with us. As you keep on deeply seeking God, inspired by the Great Ones who have known Him, may your own relationship with Him grow ever deeper and stronger." Now, who would not be inspired by those words?

Prayer

Beloved Sri Daya Mata,
We will miss your sweet devotion
To seekers everywhere
Continuing on the mission
Of Sri Yogananda's care.

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Excerpt of review by Susan Helene Kramer

The Yoga of Jesus by Paramahansa Yogananda

Another wonderful book from the insight of Paramahansa Yogananda has fallen into our laps - literally our meditation lap. The Yoga of Jesus, subtitled Understanding the Hidden Teachings of the Gospels is a inspiring, uplifting guide for daily living. As all of Yogananda's books are, it is so clear, that what we think is esoteric is made to be practical; it makes sense. more …

Tribute and prayer by Susan Helene Kramer, BellaOnline Meditation editor