"In the early 1930s, Paul Brunton embarked on a voyage to India, which would bring him into contact with such luminaries as Sri Shankaracharya of Kancheepuram and Sri Ramana Maharshi. In fact, Paul Brunton has been credited with introducing Ramana Maharshi to the West through his books "A Search in Secret India" and "The Secret Path"."
from Wikipedia
Sorry, Web Admin, I'm not great with details. Glad you're listening. (I am pretty good with content though)
Did you read about the situation which developed
between Mr. Brunton and some senior members of
Ramana Maharshi's Ashrama?
"Be as it may, Brunton's influence was not always viewed so favorably by everyone. One day in 1939, Brunton was sitting taking notes in the meditation hall and told in English by a high ranking ashram dignitary that he was no longer permitted to take notes while sitting before the Maharshi. Brunton asked, "Is this also Bhagavan's view?" The Maharshi, who was easily within earshot, continued sitting quietly and didn't say a word. A few tense moments passed. Then Brunton got up and left. That was the last time Brunton took notes in the hall and also when he began distancing himself from the ashram.
In later years, because of that incident and a misinterpretation of a shift in his philosopical outlook, Brunton was no longer welcome at the Ramana Ashram, mainly because of the attitude of certain high level disciples.
n the end however, Brunton's long-standing conflict with the ashram dissipated, with him actually being invited to spend his final years there, which he was not able to do for a variety of practical reasons."
Additional Comment:
In some ways, I can understand, that the 'taking of notes' during Ramana Maharshi's discourses, would be distracting to those present. For instance, "M" never took notes of Sri Ramakrishna's talks; but rather would keep a diary at home; based upon his own excellent memory of the day's events.
Very interesting to me, Web Admin. I had not heard that information. I will investigate that further when the time is right...
The reason that Brunton's meeting with M is important...to me...is that it is somehow comforting...to hear of his welcome (an English mind)..and to also picture the blessing that was bestowed upon this Western seeker that evening on the rooftop. This mental picture has made an impression on my mind.
Also, the "picture" of M, the description of his physicality, and also finding that he remained completely true and devoted to Sri Ramakrishna, this is also a comfort to me.
