dharma: There is a book in the Kripalu tradition called Light From Guru To Disciple. That's a beautiful image - like passing the torch from one to another and especially to young people. Like when people tried to hold hands all the way across the country a few years ago, we're all interconnected. Of course it refers to the inner light of dharma tradition. The shakti (energy) is transmitted by the guru to disciple to open the heart and the third eye of inner wisdom. It comes from the unbroken tradition/lineage that has been handed down through the ages for thousands of years. It's a living tradition - you don't get yoga from reading a book about it. The master would also inspire the student by example and we all do that for others. Our actions speak volumes.

Guru means dark/light - one who leads us from  darkness into light, i.e. from ignorance and illusion to the wisdom that comes from union with the higher mind. This internal guru is within us all but usually covered over with layers of agitation in the mind until we begin to awaken. Often a catalyst - an event or person (guru) - comes into our lives to accelerate our awakening. When the student is ready, the guru will appear. Of course spiritual growth is not  instantaneous - it's a lifetime process.

We are all teachers for each other - our whole lives.  Everything we do or say has an impact, for better or for worse. And through the ripple effect, each of our actions can have far ranging consequences through our unbroken connection. The one spirit lives through many bodies. One light shines through many windows. Think of all the people throughout history who have had great impact and changed the world! And think of the teachers or others who had a positive influence on your life but never knew it. We are part of this same connection. As we get older it is  especially important to provide guidance and support for the young people who will take our place. The right words at just the right time can make a huge impact on their lives. Keep passing the light and never let it go out! It can be dark for 100 years but it only takes a moment to turn on the light.

 -- Paresh