A certain cynicism has set in about organizations in general; so many have proved corrupt. But if organizations can be bad, it is equally possible for them to be good. Ego-whether institutional or individual-can go one of two directions: toward self-interest, or toward self-transcendence. Each has its consequences. Studying the successes and failures of others is one important way of learning.
Two organizations that consider themselves guided by the same spiritual master have developed so differently from one another that now they hardly seem to represent the same teaching. Self-Realization Fellowship has followed the well-trodden path of spiritual authority: power in the hands of a few, obedience for all the rest; governance by rules, the first of which is, In every situation, ask yourself first, 'What is best for the organization?'
Ananda has chosen the road less traveled: cooperation; decentralization; not taking oneself too seriously; and following twin principles of which the first is, People are more important than things. The second principle is, Where there is adherence to truth, there lie victory, happiness, and success of every kind (Yata dharma, sthata jaya in the Sanskrit original).
This book has two purposes: one, to restore to people a true and much-needed understanding of the real life and mission of Paramhansa Yogananda; and two, to give hope to truth-seekers everywhere that they need not compromise a single high ideal to accomplish even their worldly objectives.