A Tribute to K. Pattabhi Jois

K. Pattabhi Jois, Guruji, was one of those rare souls that are larger than life and electric in their presence. He had an incredible ability to bring joy to anyone near him and make that person feel an immediate tangible personal connection. It really did not matter if one met him for only a moment or knew him for decades. He made a lasting impression. There are no words truly befitting the impact Guruji had on those that knew him directly or those that knew him only through his teachings.

The vacuum left in this world by the departure of such a magnanimous soul cannot be measured. Only a few rare entities that appear on this earth have such an impact. Guruji was such a soul. I liken his presence to a great and magnificent tree growing in a forest. When this tree falls, it leaves a large void where it once stood. That feeling of emptiness is the most evident result of its falling. Then as we look closer we see that the father tree has opened the canopy above to provide light for the young saplings to grow toward. The grand old tree also leaves behind fertile earth upon which the new young trees are able to set deep roots. In this way the energy of the great and powerful tree provides sustenance and strength to generations of trees to follow. Yes, it will take a forest to replace the void left by K. Pattabhi Jois, yet maybe that was the plan all along! That is the benevolence of those that walk the path before us. They prepare the way so that we may more easily journey down the path.

Thank you, Guruji, for the deep, rich, and fertile teachings that you have left behind. Your physical presence will be missed at every moment while simultaneously the glory of your time spent with us will be celebrated and relished as we partake of the fruits of your presence and teachings! Happy Journeys to you Dear Guruji!  

—David Swenson