My Encounters with Inner Spiritual Guides:

And How to Tap into Your Inner Guidance

By Heather Davari

I’ve always been a spiritual seeker. From childhood, I longed to know truth—not through tradition or belief alone, but through direct personal experience. I visited churches and temples, explored different philosophies, and followed an inner call that never quieted. I didn’t want borrowed truth. I needed to know truth for myself.

In my late twenties, I made a cross-country move to the West Coast alone, certain that hard work and a positive mindset would lead to success, as it had in the past. But my “luck” quickly ran out. Stable, meaningful work was elusive, I ran out of money and took whatever jobs I could get just to get by. Relationships didn’t pan out—and the list went on. This “settling in” period lasted 10 years! And as friends moved on—starting families, buying homes—I felt stuck, ashamed, and deeply alone.

Hardships Ignite a Quest for Truth

As a result, my search for truth intensified. I was desperate to understand the reason behind my difficulties. I explored Christianity, Judaism, Buddhism for Soul guidance—each rich in wisdom, yet not quite answering the longing in my heart. That led me to a local class on meditation and healing. On the first day, we were asked to connect inwardly with our spiritual healing guide and draw their image. I sketched an older Chinese man in red robes, with a red hat and a long white beard. I worked with him inwardly for the duration of the class, then tucked the drawing away.

A year later, a friend invited me to a local ECKANKAR center for a Light and Sound service. I had no idea what ECKANKAR was, but I was open. The moment I walked in I felt comfortable. On video, Sri Harold Klemp, the spiritual leader of ECKANKAR, spoke about a practical tool called a “Spiritual Exercise.” I was intrigued. My mind had doubts, but my heart knew I was home. I enrolled that day to study ECKANKAR’s Spiritual Living Courses.

Meeting a Spiritual Master in a Dream

One of the first spiritual exercises I learned was singing the sacred sound HU—a universal mantra of divine love that can uplift anyone spiritually. From the moment I began singing this sound, my inner life ignited. Dreams became vivid and full of light.

One night, I dreamed I was struggling to play an ancient stringed instrument inside a small round hut filled with golden light. I sounded terrible! Then I noticed an elderly Chinese man beside me. Lovingly, he said, “Keep practicing!” Then I struck the most beautiful chord, and the sound reverberated all around. I woke up overwhelmed with love and knew I wanted to “keep practicing” the HU.

Later, I visited a local ECK Center where portraits of ECK Masters hung on the wall. I couldn’t believe my eyes—among the portraits was the Chinese man from my dream—the very same healing master from my drawing! I learned his name: Lai Tsi.

I now knew the truth: My struggles had not been in vain. I was gaining the spiritual strength to accept more divine love in my life. Finally, a light on the horizon!

Deep Insights About My True Identity

Looking back, I realize I was never alone. Even in my darkest, most confusing moments, help was already present—quietly guiding me through the experiences I needed to grow. The teachings of ECK gave me the tools to have a daily, working relationship with Divine Spirit. I also learned this life-changing truth: I am Soul. As Soul, I am eternal, loved, and unlimited. And my worth isn’t tied to success or failure.

The ECK Masters are more than legends. They’re real spiritual guides who serve as Coworkers with God. Their love and support have transformed my life—not by removing hardship, but by giving me the strength and confidence that everything is in its rightful place.

A Life of Love and Purpose

Fourteen years later, my outer life reflects this inner transformation. I’m married, a mother, and I love the work I do. Life continues to present its challenges—but I have spiritual tools that work. I have guidance I trust. And I have a deep knowing that I am never truly alone.

If you’re searching for something more—if you’ve ever wondered whether there’s a higher purpose behind your life experiences—I encourage you to try one of the exercises below. The path of Soul is real. And the love waiting for you is beyond anything words can express.