Many of you who have loved ones here this week have been following this blog. If you felt a wave of warmth and happiness come over you last night, know that we were sending out love as we joined in with singer Ragani for kirtan – a joyful call-and-response “singalong” of sacred Eastern music. Although it’s difficult to describe in words, kirtan is something I hope you all get to experience. The word “cosmic” doesn’t do it justice.

This morning, Swami Veda gave his final lecture of the week. He reminded us all to keep practicing, and said we will know if our meditation is “working” by the quality of our relationships. “Don’t ask me if it’s working,” he said, “Ask your husband or wife. Ask your mother-in-law.” This is because meditation and positive emotions go hand in hand.

Speaking of the positive, many (lucky, lucky) people are staying here for a second week; some are staying a whole month. If you are one of them, or if you are coming, I want to share with you a list I made for someone who asked me what they should be sure not to miss during their stay. It was supposed to be a Top Ten list but, as you will notice, it inflated.

1. Hike on the mountain.
2. Have breakfast in the vegetable garden.
3. Play Bingo with Barry.
4. Take a hula hoop class.
5. Go birdwatching with Joe.
6. Go hear the Rancho La Puerta band.
7. Get a 3 p.m. smoothie at the gazebo.
8. Visit the art studio (there is chocolate there, BTW!)
9. Try a cooking class.
10. Swim in the new pool.
11. Get a massage (you deserve it).
12. Dance with Yuichi.

If you will be here while the ashram is till in progress (there are three more weeks) spend time with Swam Veda. It will be, I promise you, a life-changing experience.

Lastly, take advantage of the many “coincidences” that will undoubtedly unfold while you are here. At the Ranch, you meet people you are supposed to meet, learn things you were meant to know. I can’t explain why, though I’ll bend your ear with my theories, should we meet in person. I guess I should say when we meet in person. Until then, in the words of Crosby, Stills, and Nash: “Rejoice, rejoice. We have no choice.”

And in the words of Swami Veda, “Relax your forehead.”