In the end, only the soul matters.

Along the way, the soul may be glimpsed, as in art and music, as in falling in love. It may be pursued through many different practices, nurtured through loving kindness. But even if we have lost sight of the soul, Endings reveal it to the busiest of people.

John Friend, founder of the Anusara Yoga system, was still close to his mother's death from cancer as he led a workshop for 200 people at Omega Institute, along with Sharon Salzberg, co-founder of the Insight Meditation Society, and Krishna Das, the King of Kirtan.

"At the last moment, she said - it's all so wonderful -- and passed,"

John recounted as he dedicated his contribution to the workshop to his mom, and her affirmation of life. Then he set out to help us all shine in our poses and our lives.

Robin Golt, Upward Bow/Dancer, Courtesy Sun of the Wind Yoga Studio, Photo by Malcolm McLean

Krishna Das rose above a week of painful morning root canal operations to lead evening chanting sessions that brought the room to heights of ecstatic outpouring, celebration, singing, dancing and movement, mosh pit. Then KD would draw us back to still moments, with only quiet breath moving through the room. Ty Barhoe played tabla, and John Gorn flute.

Sharon Salzberg led meditation sessions on loving-kindness, gave daily talks and a reading, and addressed the issues that arise about and during meditation.