The Permanent Gain of God

Recently, a photograph of Swami Kriyananda, taken by Nayaswami Devarshi, has deeply touched my heart. There’s something profoundly moving about Swami Kriyananda’s expression in that image. It beautifully captures a spirit of self-offering and a profound connection with God. Truly, as the saying goes, “A picture is worth a thousand words.”

The story behind this photograph is as touching as the image itself. It was taken around 2010 or 2011 at the Expanding Light, now known as the Teaching Temple. Swamiji was giving a Sunday satsang, and Devarshi was seated up front to Swamiji’s right. 

At that time, Devarshi was mourning the loss of his beloved wife, Nayaswami Maria. She had been diagnosed with cancer again while they were visiting the Ananda Dallas community for a weekend of programs, and she passed away a few months later. 

In the midst of his grief, Devarshi was uplifted by witnessing the divine presence in Swami Kriyananda. To capture the sweetness and solace he felt, he quietly took a side profile photo of Swamiji, who was unaware of it.

Years later, as we were preparing a book to honor Swami Kriyananda’s life of devotion, we needed a cover photo. Devarshi shared this photograph with the graphic designer, who instantly recognized it as perfect for the book. Thus, it became the cover image of the “Life in God” book. 

This photo beautifully reflects Krishna’s promise to Arjuna and all devotees: “I will make good your deficiencies and render permanent your gains.” Devarshi's sorrow deficiency found a permanent gain through the glimpse of divine joy in Swami Kriyananda’s radiant presence. 

In that moment captured in the photo, Swami Kriyananda was absorbed in listening to Nayaswami Devi read from Rays of the One Light, a book based on the teachings of Paramhansa Yogananda. Engrossed in the loving vibration of his guru’s words, Swamiji’s heart was lifted in prayer and self-offering.

By meditating on this photo, may we, too, feel God's permanent gain—our eternal, blissful home in Him!