Karen Vorkapich

A: My nature is of artist/dancer. I have participated in tap dance with LaVaughn Robinson and was a member of the Mill Creek Cloggers and Vardar Macedonia Dance Ensemble. I taught tap at Temple University and a performing arts college in Philadelphia, retiring at age 40. After my career in the world of dance, I became the secretary of the South Asia Regional Studies department at the University of Pennsylvania and then worked at the Mayor’s Commission on Literacy. I have studied art and continue to draw.

A: Studying Sri Aurobindo, in the Mother’s work, this statement appeared “If you can’t go any farther using my words as motivation for action then you must find a living teacher”. On my quest, I attended a symposium on mind/body in King of Prussia, PA and was handed a program guide to the Himalayan Institute. That was what I was looking for.

A: Pandit Rajmani Tigunait and the teachers here educate and guide from experiential knowledge. The campus grounds put one in touch with nature. The environment is quiet and encourages self-reflection. One has the opportunity to be around others who are walking the path of self-transformation.

A: I have learned:

• Not to compare my progress with anyone else.
• Look at the motivation behind my action.
• Be wise, cheerful, thankful and inclusive.
• Use specific techniques to fulfill spiritual goals.
• That within each of us are all the best qualities of mankind and we can manifest them, through work and dedication, to make a better world.

A: I would like others to attend seminars here and experience the teachings of this tradition.