“A guru is whatever it is that removes darkness from you, whatever it is that illuminates you. That’s going to include all of the difficult experiences you’ve had in your life from which you’ve learned, and all of the great experiences that you have in your life from which you learn.” ~ Thom Knoles

It was such a joy to celebrate Guru Purnima this weekend at the Boulder Meditation Center.

Guru: teacher

Purnima: full moon

Guru Purnima is a night to honor the teachers who have guided us on our path and reminded us that all of the light we seek is within.

This celebration occurs once a year on the full moon after the summer solstice. It is a time to look back at the previous 12 months, reflect on how we’ve grown, and recommit to our continued evolution.

We started the evening with a special gratitude ceremony. Each student got to offer a flower at the end of the ceremony and make a “boon”, or a wish, for the year ahead. This wish is meant to benefit both the individual and the collective.

Then we meditated together followed by storytelling and a group discussion. We also ate yummy desserts to symbolize the sweet and fruitful guidance we’ve receive from our teachers.

It is also recommended to spend time in the moonlight on Guru Purnima. The “Soma Chandra”, or spiritual quality of the moon, is said to have a deeply auspicious and healing effect on this night.

This gathering is open to all Vedic meditators, so if you’re interested in joining next year, let’s chat!