that restricts our freedom to act, that is to act from source, from our
core, is a cause of tension and stress. Freedom is gained incrementally
and over time.
We must return to the subject of Dharma. If we translate it as "the
science of religious duty," it immediately raises the question, "Is
dharma following the dictates of some religious creed?" Most defi
nitely not. Dharma is not about denomination or cult. It is universal.
The s.econd question that arises is, "Is dharma then about being a
moral person?" I would reply that what we call moral values are sus
ceptible to change over time and according to culture, place, and cir
cumstance. Dharma is rather about the search for enduring ethical
principles, about the cultivation of right behavior in physical, moral,
mental, psychological, and spiritual dimensions. This behavior must al
ways relate to the growth of the individual with the goal of realizing
the Soul. If it does not, if it is culturally limited or warped, then it falls
short of the definition of dharma. Sadhana, the practitioner's inward
journey, admits of no barriers between individuals, cultures, races, or
creeds. So neither can dharma. The discovery of the Universal Soul
through the realization of individual soul is an experience that, by def
inition, can leave no frontiers intact. I do not object to the word reli
gion-! am used to it-but some people do. So let us just remember
that the earliest Latin root of the word religion-relegere-means to
be aware, and absolute awareness will never perceive difference or con
flict. Only partial awareness can do that. Most religious people are
therefore only partially religious. That implies that however good their
intentions, they still need an even fuller, more inclusive awareness.
I have always been and shall remain an ethical man. The spiritual
life I have led has come by the grace of God, but to stick to ethics is
our human duty. If we follow certain universal principles in life, God
looks after us at all times, smoothing our path and helping us through
the hard times. My yoga is founded in ethics, but I must admit I am
bred and trained for the ethical life as a racehorse is trained for speed.
II K S I Y 1·. N l; All