Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0.                     .....JEWEL IN THE LOTUS.......     Like the lotus that grows in water whose leaves and petals remain dry, the yogi derives nourishment from the material world but remains undefiled and untouched by its seductions. In this way, one who wishes to lead a spiritual life can simultaneously perform the role of a responsible member of modern society; neither necessarily compromises the other. With care, practice and knowledge one can reap the benefits of both worlds – to be spiritual you do not have to run away from the world. This book examines the philosophy, spiritual teachings, metaphysics and cultural practices of Hinduism- known collectively as the Sanatana Dharma- and attempts to give one a grasp of its true essence.   *************************************************                            ....SHUNYA A NOVEL....   "......He was awakened by an unfamiliar growling sound that seemed to come from above the roof. He saw Shunya sitting on his mat and looking up. The growling grew louder and Thambi’s hair stood on end as he saw a round, cannonball-sized blob of brilliant white light coming through the roof. It descended to the ground in front of where Shunya was seated. Then the blob elongated itself into a fearsome shape that could only be described as a yellowish brown, furry, ape-like creature about nine feet high, with a black wolf-like face and long, protruding canines. Facing Shunya, the creature kept growling at intervals in different pitches and frequencies, and nodding vigorously. Shunya was doing the same thing, growling and nodding back, and it took some time for Thambi to realise that they were communicating with each other......."