Given the current outbreak of the pandemic disease which has threatened not only the lives of countless people but is pushing the world economy towards a massive meltdown. It seems we are standing on the brink -- waiting for a disaster to happen. Could it be what Yogananda had predicted?
—Devika, India
Dear Devika,
It would indeed seem very plausible that this pandemic could be the start of a series of events that would align with the warnings Paramhansa Yogananda gave to audiences in the last few years of his life.
It is too early to say conclusively what statistical impact the virus itself will have on the world population (as the percentage to date of deaths remains relatively “low”), but the impact on the global economy is not difficult to predict!
Here in America and in other countries as well, economic activity, including employment, has dropped suddenly. Massive shortages of foodstuffs and, by extension, other goods are already being experienced.
Without jobs, well, pretty much everything we are used to in the developed economies comes to a screeching halt. Government bailouts may sound good but government and private debt are already massive.
From economic meltdown could easily come outbreaks of military or violent conflicts hastened by the withdrawal of the willingness and economic strength of nations like America to act as global police.
It goes downhill from there. Now I am painting a pessimistic picture but since you asked whether the pandemic could be the beginning of a series of events that resemble Yogananda’s warnings, I felt to sketch a scenario that might align with his warnings.
Do I think this is likely? Right now, it’s too early to say. My greatest concern as it relates to the scenario above is the economic one, inasmuch as that seems the easiest to imagine. Warfare and violence are but speculation extending from economic collapse on a global scale.
But what an opportunity to put “first things first:” God! Our neighbors; our health; positive attitudes; service; kindness; meditation, prayer and devotion!
It doesn’t get better than that! Prepare for the worst in material terms but expect the highest in soul awakening. “We were born for this” is a phrase being used in Ananda circles. Why?
Because Swami Kriyananda, founder of Ananda worldwide and a direct disciple of Yogananda, shared with us on many occasions just this possible scenario. It’s spiritual purpose is to wake people up, spiritually. For decades he urged us to follow Yogananda’s advice of growing food; pooling our resources with others of like mind to buy land in the country and grow our own food; deepening one’s devotion through kriya yoga and seva.
Humanity needs to make a drastic course correction towards sustainable living (harmony with all life and with the Creator of all life) guided by high ideals of God-communion and fellowship.
But, in truth, who can say for sure what will unfold? I can guarantee, however, that it will be different for each person. Some will die; some will be greatly impacted; others, untouched. Some will be emotionally destroyed; others, inspired, courageous, and uplifted.
Which will it be for you?
Blessings,
Nayaswami Hriman
Seattle WA USA
www.Hrimananda.org
