The passing of Sri Chinmoy, October 11, 2007

Many folks have kindly and compassionately asked me "How are you doing? Are you alright?" They were referring to the recent passing of Sri Chinmoy. The answer is both "Yes, I'm okay" and "No, I'm not" but ultimately I'm okay.

I have lost both parents, and I am sure many people share this experience. But losing my spiritual Master has effected me much more deeply than losing my parents. Guru was more than a father to me. You see, with a spiritual Teacher, you consciously allow and encourage your Master into the inmost regions of your being.

It is interesting that I seem to feel Sri Chinmoy's presence now more than ever before. Whether that is because he is more "present," or that I am trying harder, or both, I can not say. But I am sad for the outer loss...the physical presence of someone who was so dear to me, and who loved me more than I deserved.

Many wonderful comments have been written and spoken. When folks ask me if they can do anything, I ask them to do me a favor. Take 10 minutes and watch and listen to the words spoken by U.S. Congressman Gary Ackerman. Congressman Ackerman was a friend of Sri Chinmoy, not a student, but his words have meaning for anyone who aspires to live an inspired life.

What's in a name?

One of the questions I am most often asked is about our name, Victory's Banner. As you might know, Victory's Banner Restaurant is inspired by the philosophy of Indian spiritual Master Sri Chinmoy. I have been studying meditation with Sri Chinmoy for some 36 years.

At a certain point in a student's life, Sri Chinmoy will offer a spiritual name. It is not a random name at all, but rather a name which reflects the inner personality of the individual. I received my name, Pradhan, in 1976. Pradhan means "one whose heart is open to the way of God."

In a similar fashion, when a business is dedicated spiritually (as we try to be), Sri Chinmoy will also give it a "spiritual name." Victory's Banner actually received its name in its first incarnation...in Evanston, in 1981. Think "God's Banner of Victory," and perhaps it is more evident.

Sri Chinmoy has written many poems which make reference to Victory's Banner:

My heart's aspiration-heroes
Have powerfully planted
God's eternal Victory Banner.