Dear Readers,

In this issue we present four interesting articles. The first, by Ananda Reddy, examines and compares several different views within Indian philosophy regarding the aim and nature of spiritual realization. It concisely describes the views of the Buddha, Sankhya philosophy, Sankaracharya, Ramanuja, and
Sri Aurobindo on the nature of spiritual liberation and transformation. In discussing Sri Aurobindo's view, which in its own way includes the liberation envisioned differently by the others, Dr. Reddy touches on the three transformations— psychic, spiritual and supramental—that are unique aims of the Integral Yoga.

The second article is by one of the learners in our Master's Programme, Menaka Deorah, on some of the important principles of Sri Aurobindo's Yoga. It frames its discussion in terms of a decisive shift that must occur in the individual's consciousness from its involvement in the workings of its outer nature of mind, life and body to the deeper soul within. Within the context of this general aim, she discusses the complex structure of the being as well as the key disciplines essential to effecting this shift to our hidden soul, such as concentration, renunciation, dedication of our work and activities, and surrender to the Divine.

The third article is by Larry Seidlitz and focuses on some critical experiences and changes in the consciousness of the Mother during her later years of sadhana which were discussed with and recorded by her disciple Satprem in Mother's Agenda. This period of Mother's sadhana in the body begins with the descent of the Supermind in the earth consciousness in 1956 and extends through 1972, after which Satprem no longer had the opportunity to speak with her. The article attempts to suggest a cohesive thread in the development of her experiences which shed light on the nature of the supramental change.

The fourth article by Shruti Bidwaikar, a member of the SACAR faculty, discusses the contrasts between the conventional British system of education in India and the educational philosophies put forth by Indian stalwarts such as Gandhi, Tilak, Vivekananda and Sri Aurobindo. These nationalist leaders laid emphasis on the growth of the mind, heart, body and soul, while also fostering national feelings, and appreciation of India's languages and literature and culture. They also emphasized education of women to make them selfdependent and strong advocates of social change in India.

Finally, the wonderful flower photos in this issue have come from the very fine, color photographic book set, The Spiritual Significance of Flowers, by the Mother, published in 2000 by the Sri Aurobindo Ashram.

Till next time….

Larry