The Haliburton area is also a famous tourist mecca at this time of year for the fall colours. Swami insists that taking something away from a retreat which we can put into daily practice, is essential. In the Summer Course of 1996, Ramayana was the basis around which Swami fashioned a series of enlightening talks. He explains many knotty points, including the motivation of Kaikeyi and the killing of Vali. But the most important lesson, on which Swami elaborates at length, is the power of devotion of which Hanuman serves as the model.
Ordinary devotion is marked by ego.
Ananya bhakthi is marked by the feeling You alone exist. I do not exist at all . When I think that I am the body, I am overcome by the feeling that I am Your servant. When I think that I am the individual self, I am overcome by the feeling that You are the object, and I am your reflection. When I know I am the Atma, then I feel that You and I are one.