Divine Friendship

Some of Paramahansa Yogananda's most beautiful writings have to do with the subject of friendship. His devotees and followers often end their letters to one another with the words, "In Divine Friendship." The purpose of all friendship according to Yogananda, is to unite us more deeply to the Divine, however we imagine this Presence to be in our lives.

I had not read these beautiful passages in a while, and I found re-visiting them the last few evenings, nothing short of delicious, and much richer with insight the second time around. I will share some excerpts here, and let them speak for themselves. May you imbibe the beauty of these words and what constitutes true friendship...

"Friendship is God's love shining through the eyes of your loved ones...

True friendship unites two souls so completely that they reflect the unity of Spirit and its divine qualities...

True friendship is broad and inclusive. Selfish attachment to a single individual, excluding all others, inhibits the development of divine friendship...

Be a cosmic friend, scattering love everywhere...

Consider no one a stranger...

Realize that the same lifeblood is circulating in the veins of all races...We are Americans or Hindus for a few years, but we are God's children forever...

Be ready at all times to shed the light of friendly service over all living creatures...Brightly reflect the light of God's love...

If you open the door to the magnetic power of of friendship, souls of like vibration will be attracted to you...

When perfect friendship exists either between two hearts or within a group of hearts in a spiritual relationship, such friendship perfects each individual. The heart purified by friendship provides an open door to unity. Through it you should invite other souls to enter the temple of brotherhood - those who love you, and even those who love you not..."

Savor these gems. There will be more to follow in the coming days...

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