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“A guru is like a candle – it consumes itself to light the way for others.”
Happy Guru Purnima Day!
On July 13th people across the globe will celebrate those they call guru. Their teachers, mentors, the ones who have encouraged the pursuit of knowledge, happiness, and the path to enlightenment.
What Is Guru Purnima?
Guru Purnima is a festival celebrating spiritual or academic leaders and teachers of the past and present. “Guru” is a Sanskrit term for a guide, expert, or mentor in a specific field. Traditionally, a guru counsels and imparts knowledge on their student, helping mold them into a fuller state of being by removing “darkness” from the mind.
This festival of community, friendship, and the bond between teacher and student has its roots in India, Nepal, and Bhutan. Schools close, lavish festivals and performances are given, small gifts, like local delicacies, garlands, and fabric arts, are presented alongside poetry readings and great blessings. The practice of honoring the ones who came before us to enlighten our being is in part an examination of ourselves and who, through their guidance, we have become within.
“I believe that the guru also lives within us as a connection to spirit, God, the One Thing. I want to be the change in my world, and I need to own that desire and action to make it happen.” Vosges Haut-Chocolat Founder and Chocolatier Katrina Markoff touches on her practice of honoring our teachers through personal action to make change happen. While our teachers may have helped us remove the darkness from our minds, it is up to us to stay on the side of the light. This continued effort not only honors what they have taught us, it allows space for the next generation of gurus and mentors moving forward.
On July 13th, we encourage you to take a moment to reflect on all the mentors, guides, and teachers in your life. What knowledge and expertise have they imparted? What gifts have they shared? What parts of them do you carry with you? And how can you honor them? Make time for those who have molded you and celebrate them this coming Guru Purnima.
Looking for something to celebrate your guru? Take 15% off small gifts and favors with code GURU15 at checkout. Ends 7/7 at 11:59PM CT.
