Kripalu Retreat and Enlightenment

At our recent Kripalu retreat our theme was Enlightenment. This term, enlightenment, is very interesting to me because it means many different things to many different people. In the Bhakti tradition, enlightenment is less about transcendence and more about deepening one's devotion to the beloved. In other words, to see the ONE in all. So to me, it's less about the dissolution of life to find some higher plane of existence. Rather, it is a celebration of life as it is. For, the world as it is, gives me an opportunity to Love others and to serve others. I can deepen my faith by trusting that each moment is perfect as it is and at the same time I can stay open to growth and make efforts to relieve the suffering of others. So, enlightenment, to me is a dynamic process. It is not a leaving behing but a deepening and an opening to Grace. It is not a goal, or even a desire to merge; but rather a moment to moment choice to appreciate the richness that the opportunities of life present and to respond to them with gratitude and conviction!
What does enlightenment mean to you?
This photo is of Mira and I playing at the beautiful Kripalu "Main Hall".
Also, recently, Yoga + Joyful Living did an article on Terry McBride, the record industry maverick who recently signed me, Krishna Das, Wah and others to his label - Nettwerk.  Terry is a wonderful guy and it's a great story. Here's the link: www.anywherebutacubicle.com/pdfs/McBride.pdf
Many Blessings!! David