Lucie M. - Switzerland

Before I learned about Knowledge, my philosophy was that life was short, and I wanted to take advantage of all that I could while I was still on this earth. When I first began the process of discovering the experience of Knowledge, I remember very clearly having the feeling that I was doing something important—for myself alone. Now, 22 years later, this experience still gives me a joy that feels fresh.

I experience the benefits of Knowledge every day—including the freedom to make my own choices. It is this freedom that allows me to be grateful, and genuine gratitude feels so good. For me, Knowledge requires honesty and sincerity. It is not always easy, but it is worth making the effort to make a commitment towards myself. In these times of uncertainty all around the world, I am extremely grateful to experience some certainty inside; I have been shown a safe harbor.

Through thick and thin, having the guidance of a friend like Prem Rawat has been extremely precious. I thank him so much. He is a very special person to me. He is more than a friend; his commitment to be there for me has never failed. His perspective and sense of humor are incomparable, and his kindness touches my heart.

— Lucie M.
Switzerland

Marcus L. Munger - US

A nuclear physicist with degrees from Cal State at North Ridge and the University of Colorado, Marcus L. Munger, Pb.D., became interested in self-knowledge through his.fascination with the forces of nature. For over two decades, be has worked on the design and development of surveillance satellites, initialy for IBM Federal Systems Division and currently, as senior scientist, Research and Development Project Lead for Lockheed Martin. Having worked on the early development of the Strategic Defense Initiative during the ‘80s, he holds two patents for algorithms that allow satellites to track objects in ballistic motion. Before receiving self-knowledge, Munger tbought the pursuit of science in and of itself might enable bim to understand his own nature. He’s discovered that there’s more to it than that.

Ever since I can remember, I have been fascinated by how nature works. When I went to University, this curiosity led me to study nuclear physics. I hoped that through these studies I would also come to understand myself. After a few years, I realized that studying nuclear physics, although interesting and challenging, was not yielding what I was looking for.

I first became interested in self-knowledge in 1972 when I read an article about it in a Denver newspaper. This lead me to attend a Maharaji lecture in Red Rock later that year. What I heard made sense to me. Maharaji spoke of a superior power within each of us that could neither be created nor destroyed. This, of course, is one of the tenets of the principle of the conservation of energy. The pursuit of self-knowledge became for me the means to realize and experience what was happening within me moment by moment. Thinking a certain way is not as important to me as being able to experience contentment. Analysis and syn-thesis are still necessary in dealing with problems both at home and on the job, but I don’t have to rely on them for my own satisfaction.

Self-knowledge has increased my understanding of my inner self. It connects me to something that is perma-nent, affording a wider perspective to see the beauty around me. The experience has taught me that there is a way to have satisfaction even when I can’t find it in the world outside. People notice that I tend to remain calm and am not upset by changing circumstances. I have talked several times with one of the managers I work with about life and where contentment lies. The other day, he said to another manager who was feeling upset: “Talk to Marcus. You will understand things from a different perspective and begin to feel better.” After this person had talked to me, she became aware that there was something more important to understand.

I find that this fast-paced life can be confusing, and it is wonderful to have someone to guide me who knows how to experience joy. In the 30 years I have known about self-knowledge, he has reminded me again and again to consider what is most important to me. I now know that it is possible to feel satisfaction and contentment in this life. It is worth the search.

Ricardo S. - Uruguay

My name is Ricardo. I live in Uruguay, and I was taught the techniques of Knowledge more or less twenty years ago. Life with Knowledge for me has been a big learning curve. On one hand, it has been like a ride on a roller coaster; and, on the other hand, it has been generating so much appreciation and thankfulness.

I am a veterinarian, forty-three years old, and consider myself to be quite scientific minded. However, when it comes to the realm of Knowledge, I have no idea how it works. All I can say again and again is: “It works so well for me!” It's been twenty years since I clumsily started trying to turn within, trying to go beyond my pre-conceived ideas. I don’t like being irrational; however, I must admit, I need and cherish every day the opportunity to reach to that place Maharaji showed me. I remember so many times feeling: “It can’t get any better than this.” Although it makes no logical sense, I know what I feel when I practice Knowledge and when I see Maharaji. I've had a full life, but I'm still learning. This is my testimony. I guess I’m just a lucky guy.

— Ricardo S.
Uruguay

Adeline A. - Cotonu, Benin

I first heard about Maharaji in 1986, when a friend invited me to a video presentation of Maharaji’s message. At first, I didn’t believe in what I heard. Then one day, without knowing why, I asked my friend to take me to another presentation. At the end of the first video, I was so satisfied that I told everyone I had found what I wanted. I slept deeply that night, which was unusual for me at the time.

Since that day, through listening to Maharaji, my life has changed for the better. My friends also see something in me. They realize that I know what I am talking about. I feel light, unworried, and satisfied.

Since 1989, when I received the gift of Knowledge, my inner garden has continued to blossom. I really take care of it. I am happy. Time passes easily.

I thank Maharaji sincerely for his generosity.

— Adeline A.
Cotonou, Benin