Rasha Kamand, has received the name Radha
The journey that spiritual initiates undertake is frequently described in terms of inner realms. We come to realize that Maya has “pulled the wool over our eyes” as it were, and the struggle to rise above mundane human convention begins as we embark upon the “jnana marga,” or the path of knowledge.
One recent initiate into the SRV sangha has journeyed far — both geographically as well as spiritually. Rasha Kamand was born and raised in Lebanon and arrived in America at the age of 24 to attend university. She has received the lovely and auspicious initiatory name of Radha – the beloved of Krishna.
Radha is in the final stages of earning her PhD in physics. While in the midst of her intensive studies of matter and the physical universe, she brought the same discipline and clarity of intention into her spiritual search. Auspicious timing and guidance came in the form of a suggestion from YouTube to watch one of Babaji’s Livestream classes. Radha clicked on one class, then another, and then another. After absorbing the copious wisdom of the classes she realized that she truly wanted and needed guidance. This led to her writing to Babaji, and a fruitful and regular email correspondence with the guru began.
The natural next step was to attend a retreat. She flew to the West Coast to attend a retreat in Seattle, which seemed like a homecoming. She was able to stay at the Portland ashram for a couple of days after the retreat. After university life, it was a blessed experience to be around peaceful, like-minded people. She was drawn especially to the practice of mauna.
Rasha found the ashram to be a place to relax and steady the mind. The opportunity to be in service was also invaluable, and she appreciated the presence and benefit of Holy Company.
Returning to worldly life is often a challenge after leaving retreat, and this was no different for Radha. She was fortunate to be able to have Skype conversations with her sangha brother, Tadrupa, and she continued with her readings and correspondence with Babaji. The decision was then made to take initiation, which took place at the most recent Divine Mother retreat in Seattle.
Since initiation her mantra meditation practice has deepened. There is an overall sense that everything is fine, and that everything will work out. This will hold her in good stead as she graduates in June and makes some important life and career decisions.
As Radha has expressed it, “I am fortunate and blessed to have gotten on the path with Babaji and SRV. I hope to be more fully amongst the sangha sometime soon.”
We all welcome Radha and hope the same.