Rejoice 1988 Australia

Don Hogan, who has been instructing in Australia and New Zealand for the past six years, attended the recent Rejoice programmes in Europe. He was asked about it by Derek Harper.

Derek What was your overall impression of the Rejoice programmes?

Don: In Maharaji's opening address he said that these programmes could offer something different for each individual. Possibly a confirmation, a correction or even a fresh start. Personally, it was a bit of each for me. A confirmation of the high priority and central role of practising Knowledge in my life. Often I find that my understanding is evolving and changing but there is nothing in particular to confirm my feelings. At the programmes 1 felt a strong enthusiasm to practise accurately, with simplicity and affection and to remind myself that I'm doing this for my enjoyment. I know this sounds obvious, but it's said that common sense is quite uncommon.

As well as confirmation, / felt a correction in the specifics of the practice. It's also said that 'if all else fails, follow instructions. 1 know that it's so easy to adapt and modify for whatever reasons, and then if the enjoyment slips, to doubt my understanding of the method, rather than look at my effort. Standardisation, clarification, correction - whatever you want to call it - puts the onus back on me to be accurate and confident in the practice. When I'm clear about what to do, then it's just a matter of doing it.

One of the great joys of this experience seems to be the constant sense of renewal and rediscovery - so often the feeling of understanding something as if for the first time. With the hindsight of a few months since the programme, these things have become a little clearer.

Derek: I hear that Maharaji has designed and personally conducts the whole event. What impact did he have on you?

Don: Well, that's interesting, because often in the seminars that / conduct locally, someone will ask about Maharaji's role in all of this and I fluctuate between waxing lyrical and underplaying it. If 'a picture is worth a thousand words, then to attend these events and see his involvement, determination and constant inspiration states a fact. To feel corrected, taught, guided and encouraged, with both authority and kindness is a much stronger statement of his role than anything I might say or think.

Inspiration is a precious commodity that he offers freely by his words and example, so I would say to go for it while you can.

Derek: What would you say to someone who was undecided about attending?

Don: When I first heard about these programmes, I must admit that I had a bit of 'performance anxiety' because I thought that it may be a two-day marathon, and would I be capable of doing it and enjoying it. Some people may have such fears which can make them hesitate about attending. Maybe they haven't been giving Knowledge the priority they know it deserves and therefore feel unprepared or incapable of getting the most out of these events. Fortunately, the format has been designed taking into account our concentration span and comfort needs. The Rejoice atmosphere is relaxed and non-judgemental. I feel these events offer a unique opportunity for everyone who has been instructed.

Derek: You mentioned the unique opportunity of these events. How would you say that they differ from previous programmes that you have attended?

Don: Well, I mean unique in the sense that they provide a chance to receive personal instruction from Maharaji to enable us to synchronise our understanding. But also unique in the sense that they may not be repeated. As you know, Maharaji has been instructing people himself recently and seems now to be extending a similar chance to us. With the progression of his work, this may be an 'opportunity only knocks once' occasion. / don't know, but I personally wouldn't like to take a chance.

Derek: You have been involved in instructing in Australia for several years now. What have you seen happening here?

Don: Maybe a lot has changed in the ideas that surround the practice of Knowledge but the 'main event' just continues on. Many people around Australia are preparing to be instructed (40 in Melbourne alone). Although the preparation time is longer than in recent years, paradoxically this seems to encourage rather than discourage people.

After quite a 'drought' there are now 16 instructors in Australia. They all offer their efforts voluntarily.

At a recent national conference for instructors and organisers (Sydney, January) a team spirit emerged that was very encouraging. Not an organisation just people wanting to do something practical for something they value. In an attempt to provide for the needs of all three p's (those pondering, pursuing and practising Knowledge), open meetings have been held in most cities that are hopefully more relevant and enjoyable than the more formal introduction. ^

Reflections on Rejoice

'I really enjoyed watching Maharaji be himself and be able to relate in a natural and easy way as a teacher to people who were there to learn. In terms of what I was able to bring back and apply in my own situation, my own life, it was the most practically helpful programme I have been to. What I have learnt has helped me to be able to enjoy Knowledge more.

Tony Helman.

My experience of two Rejoice programmes in Europe was simply this: It was great to spend two whole days in the presence, or expectation of the presence, of Maharaji. Close up, available, and eager for interaction. No-one in the way, a great opportunity to ask all 1 wondered about and express all that was heartfelt. Of course I didn't say anything. Others said it all for me (plus more) and I simply sat, watched, listened, and was delighted as one of my life-long dreams came true.

John Winne!

'Didn't particularly think I needed a "refresher course" in Knowledge, had after all been practising for over 12 years. 'What changed my mind? . . . It was the result. That indefinable, relaxed, relieved and refreshing feeling that I first had on the day I received Knowledge - of touching home base again, of experiencing something totally familiar with new appreciation and (hate to admit it) a slightly humbled attitude and of knowing that it wasn't the 12 years that mattered but the quality of NOW …'

Emily Lesh

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