Friday, March 31, 2017

Sai Blossoms




The Goal



"Realisation of the Divine is the goal. But most of our actions are related to worldly concerns. The only way to sanctify all actions is to do them as acts of worship, as an offering to the Divine. Thereby life itself becomes sacred."

~ Sri Sathya Sai Baba ~
(Divine Discourse - 7.1.1988)

Divine Wisdom




Thursday, March 30, 2017

The Lord's Response




This narration reveals the truth that God does not distinguish between the poor and the rich.  He cares only for the loving pure heart.

One poor old woman considering herself not eligible to enter the Bhajan hall at Prasanthi Nilayam for Baba's Darshan because of her poverty, waited patiently in the rear verandah in the ladies side for Baba's Darshan. Though she knew very well that Baba never comes to that side of the hall, yet she hoped for His Darshan because love knows no reason.  She rested on the verandah.  No one called her in.  It was about 4 o'clock in the afternoon. The front verandah facing the entrance to Baba's room and the Darshan grounds were full of people waiting for Baba's evening Darshan. Dr. B. Ramakrishna Rao, the then Governor of UP was also waiting for Darshan.

Baba came out for granting His Darshan.  He walked very fast unusually in the opposite direction and made a beeline for the rear verandah!  All the ladies rushed there to know the reason. There they were able to witness the sweetest scene of grace.  Baba went and stood close to the poor old woman. She got up with a shock.  She couldn't believe herself sitting near the Lord's Lotus Feet.

Baba, His voice soaked in love, spoke to her, "Amma, I am Baba your child come to you.  Come on, give me that betel leaf."  Having said this, He himself took that dirty old pouch from her hand which she was holding, opened it and took out a withered betel leaf, some hardened lime and areca nut.  With evident relish, He put them all into His mouth.

The old woman wept with tears of joy that her Lord came and fulfilled her desire.  All the ladies, those who pitied and those who mocked at the old woman and those who had seen Baba brushing aside richly stuffed "paan" offered in golden caskets especially made for His use, all of them joined the old woman in shedding tears of joy.


(From the book "Mother Sai's Miracles of Love")

Monday, March 27, 2017

Karma



"All that you see in the world is the result of Karma. Everything has a beginning and an end. Pleasure and pain have a beginning and an end. They are inseparable."

~ Sri Sathya Sai Baba ~
(Divine Discourse - 29.8.1992)

Sunday, March 26, 2017

Sai Madhuryam




Men seek a good time, position and good life 
But will not cultivate good thoughts, wisdom or right conduct. 
Do you know why legs have been given? 
Is it to roam aimlessly in alleys and bylanes? 
No. It is to take to the shrine of Lord Siva. 
Do you know why you have been endowed with eyes? 
Is it to gaze on all kinds of things? 
No. It is to behold the Lord of Kailasa.


~ Sri Sathya Sai Baba ~


Baba's Storytime - The Ways of the Divine




The ways of the Lord in granting relief to devotees in distress or trouble are infinitely varied and often baffling. 

On one occasion, the Pandavas during their exile from the kingdom, had strayed into the forest of Romarishi. Romarishi was a sage whose body was covered with hair so long, that it spread as a carpet into the surrounding forest. There was .a holy tree in that forest, yielding a very special fruit. The unique quality of that fruit was that once it was tasted one would not have hunger for years and years. But that fruit should not be plucked; it should be eaten after it dropped by itself. So, waiting for the fruit to fall, Romarishi was doing Tapas there. 

One day, when Dharmaraja and Draupadi were on a stroll in the woods, Draupadi happened to look at this particular tree and saw the luscious big fruit hanging from it. "Can we not take this," she said to her husband, "so that all of us could share it today?" Then Dharmaraja shot an arrow and the fruit fell to the ground. Holding his bow in his right hand, he went to lift the fruit with his left hand. It was so heavy he could not move it. Draupadi also tried to help. Dharmaraja used both his hands, still the fruit would not move. 

In the meantime, Arjuna also came there and all three - Arjuna, Dharmaraja and Draupadi - tried to lift that fruit, but it would not move. The two younger brothers also came and tried to help lift the fruit but however hard they tried it was no use; it would not move. Finally came the strong man, Bhima. He asked the others to move away and said, "I will lift this." But even Bhima could not succeed. 

Meanwhile the hair of Romarishi, which had spread over all that area, began to stir. Because these six people were trampling about trying to lift the fruit, Romarishi felt the disturbance as strands of his hair were being trodden and pulled. He realised that there was someone trying to steal the fruit and he became very angry. Immediately his long hairs started to come together and coil round the Pandavas and tie them up. 

Draupadi realized the danger, and immediately prayed to Lord Krishna.  Draupadi called on Lord Krishna whenever she sensed any trouble. Krishna appeared before her. Draupadi fell at His Feet and prayed to Him for help to protect the Pandavas from the danger that was about to engulf them. Krishna told Draupadi that there was nothing He could do, since Romarishi was a great sage. As Lord, He resided in the hearts of all rishis, including Romarishi; so how could He do anything against the wishes of that Rishi? But Draupadi held on to His Feet and said, "You alone can save us. You can do anything you wish to do, in all the three worlds!" Then Krishna said, "All right, I will help you, but all of you should be totally silent, not say a word; you should do exactly as I tell you. Do not have any doubt or hesitation, but do exactly as I direct." Draupadi promised that they would obey Krishna's orders. 

Krishna went to each of the Pandavas and whispered His plan in their ears. He told them: "I will now go to Romarishi's ashram; a little later, you must follow me there." In the meantime, Romarishi was furious with anger. He was about to curse the poachers. At that very moment, Krishna entered the Ashram. Romarishi fell prostrate at Krishna's Feet. He was overjoyed to see Him and asked Him, "What is it I can do for you, Lord?" Krishna kept Romarishi occupied, making a few casual inquiries, till the Pandavas arrived. 

As soon as the six reached the Ashram and entered it, Krishna fell at the feet of the Pandavas. The Pandavas were feeling very embarrassed, but remembering Krishna's command, they said nothing. Romarishi, seeing Krishna fall at the feet of the visitors, also fell at their feet. Then Krishna introduced the Pandavas to the Rishi. As Romarishi listened to the words of Krishna praising the greatness of the Pandavas, he totally forgot his anger. 

When Krishna explained that these were the people who were tempted by the fruit he awaited, Romarishi was so transformed that he said, "Let them take the fruit. I would like them to have it." By eating that fruit the Pandavas were able to live without hunger for a long time. 


(From an informal talk to devotees by Bhagawan at Trayee Brindavan on 4.4.1986)

Sai's Enigma



An Immortal armed with tremendous power,
He is an unshakable Spiritual Tower.
His healing touch cures the blind and lame,
Indeed Divinity cloaked in Physical Frame.

He is the loving legend in human civilization,
Inspiring all to follow the path of realization.
An Apostle of Love and Epitome of Sacrifice,
His boons on humanity will continue to mesmerize.

An Avatar of such grandeur was never seen before,
His glory is a flawless procession of enigmatic lore.
His Divine Legacies will continue to flow,
In the ceaseless saga of supreme glow.


~Raja Sekhar Ganta ~
(From his book "108 Heart Beats)

Thursday, March 23, 2017

What Went Right

Today I made the mistake of turning the news on. I found my senses instantly assaulted with stories of fighting politicians, corrupt corporations, and countless crimes. It seemed like the only news worth showing was mankind at its very worst. It seemed like the only thing they wanted to talk about was what went wrong today.

After a few minutes I turned the television back off. I poured myself a glass of iced tea, sat down at my kitchen table, and instead thought about what went right today. 

Today the sun came over the horizon and bathed the world in its golden, life-giving light. 


Today my little house once again kept me warm, safe, and dry. 

Today I had 3 meals of wonderful food that kept me healthy, alive, and energized for the work of the day. 

Today whenever I reached my hand down I had a furry head to pet as my dogs and cat shared their unconditional love with me. 

Today I got to hug and encourage my handicapped sons and see the boundless joy that they share with the world. 

Today I talked with my daughter and was once again amazed at the incredible, young woman she has become. 

Today I got messages from friends and family both online and off sharing their lives and their love with me. 

Today I shared a few messages of love and joy myself. 

Today I felt God’s love for me flowing through all of His creation and encouraging me to once again spread His love, tell His truth, and shine His light.

When you are at the end of your days in this world are you going to dwell on what went wrong or rejoice in what went right? God showers this world in goodness and we need only to open our hearts to see it. Rejoice in everything that goes right in your life then. Give thanks for it. And do your best to add your own goodness, kindness, and love to it as well. By doing this you will be helping God to make this Earth a lot more like Heaven.



~ Joseph J. Mazzella ~

Quotable Quotes





"Hope is important because it can make the present moment less difficult to bear. 
If we believe that tomorrow will be better, we can bear a hardship today."


~ Thich Nhat Hanh ~

Sanctify Your Senses



"In order to sanctify your senses, you should utilise them in the service of others. Yad bhavam tad bhavathi (as you think so you become). If you have bad vision, listen to bad talk, indulge in bad activities, you will ultimately ruin yourself. If you cannot undertake any service activity, at least speak softly and sweetly. You cannot always oblige, but you can speak always obligingly."

~ Sri Sathya Sai Baba ~
(Divine Discourse - 19.1.2002)

Sunday, March 19, 2017

Tears of Pain




Once during the Birthday Celebrations of Bhagawan in the year 2004, He showed a glimpse of the spontaneous love He showers on His children.

On the 19th November, all the students were watching a children's cultural dance programme.  Suddenly everyone noticed that the tiniest girl student was in tears.  Even before anybody could realize what had caused tears in those tender eyes, Bhagawan knew that the hot wax from the burning lamp which the children were holding, was scalding her soft skin.  

Bhagawan immediately called her up to the stage, took the little one's palm into His own and wiped away the hardening wax, and tears started rolling down her cheeks.

Who would know whether they were tears of pain or joy?  Whatever it was, the Lord chose to wipe them away gently with His own handkerchief!


(From the book "Mother Sai's Miracles of Love")


Divine Wisdom




Tuesday, March 14, 2017

Sai Madhuryam





During his childhood man develops absorbing interest 
in play in the company of other children. 
In youth and middle age, he is entangled in worldly matters 
and deeply engrossed in earning money. 
Finally, in old age, he craves for this and that 
without contemplating on God even at that ripe age. 
Thus, he wastes his precious human birth. 

~ Sri Sathya Sai Baba ~

Baba's Storytime - The Devotee of Lord Siva




Once there lived a devotee of Lord Siva. He used to worship Siva every day and chant the sacred Panchakshari mantra “Om Namah Sivaya”. But, after some time he felt that Lord Siva had not done him any favour. Hence he put aside Siva’s picture in the almirah and kept Rama’s picture on the altar. Initially, he could experience some peace.

However, his desires remained unfulfilled and he became restless. He kept Rama’s picture also in the same almirah and started worshipping Krishna, on the advice of his guru. He chanted the divine name “Gopala Krishna” incessantly. After some time, he felt that even Krishna had not done him any good. 

One day a lady devotee came to him and said, “What is the use of worshipping Rama and Krishna? Better you do Devi puja (worship).” As per her advice, he kept a picture of Devi on the altar and started worshipping it. As the puja was in progress, he noticed that the fragrance from the incense sticks was wafting towards the almirah where the pictures of other deities were kept. He therefore decided to remove those pictures from the almirah thinking that the incense sticks were meant for the goddess and that the other deities had no right to enjoy the fragrance. 

Immediately, the Divine Mother manifested Herself before him and said, “Oh simpleton! You worshipped Siva for a few days, and then you switched over to Rama and later on to Krishna. What is the guarantee that you will not discard My picture also tomorrow? This is not true devotion. You should contemplate on one name and one form till your last breath. You should remain unperturbed by diffi culties and lead a spiritual life. Fill your heart with sacred feelings. Only then will your life be redeemed.” 


If you want to progress in life, never forget the name of God. Do not divert your mind from one name to another. Let your mind be focused on one name and one form. 


(From the Divine Discourses of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba)

Love and Education




"Love is the essence of education. Bereft of love, education is artificial. Therefore, develop love in the first instance. Understand that the indweller is the same though bodies are different. Hold on to this fundamental principle and experience ananda (bliss)."

~ Sri Sathya Sai Baba ~
(Divine Discourse - 17.8.2005)

Friday, March 10, 2017

Ever Enticing God




O!  Lord Sri Sathya Sai, Your serene glance
Has immersed me in a sea of trance.
A touch of Your most Holy Feet
Has brought me back on spiritual field.

A few words with You is nothing but bliss
That I just can't afford to miss.
Swami, at Your Divine Presence,
I have discovered my life's true essence.

And every endeavour with You I have won,
Thank You Swami, for all that You have done.
Grateful is my heart, Unto Your love and grace,
I touch Your Holy Feet, on behalf of human race.


~ Raja Sekhar Ganta ~
(From his book "108 Heart Beats)


Quotable Quotes




To Believe




To believe is to know that everyday is a new beginning.  It is to trust that miracles happen and dreams really do come true.

To believe is to see angels dancing among the clouds.  To know the wonder of a stardust sky and the wisdom of the man in the moon.

To believe is to know the value of a nurturing heart.  The innocence of a child's eyes and the beauty of an aging hand, for it's through their teachings we learn to love.

To believe is to find the strength and courage that lies within us.  When it is time to pick up the pieces and begin again.

To believe is to know we are not alone.  That life is a gift and this is our time to cherish it.  To believe is to know that wonderful surprises are just waiting to happen.  And all our hopes and dreams are within reach.

If only we believe.

(Author unknown)

Wednesday, March 8, 2017

All Names are One




Bhagawan Baba encompasses all with His Divine, selfless love. Just one passing thought of the Lord and He is at the seeker's doorstep.

One day, a teacher in the US accompanied her students to the nearby countryside hills, with much anticipation of a great day.  Disaster struck them on the way when the teacher, who was driving the car, lost control.  The car went off the road.  After a few minutes of running zigzag, to everyone's surprise, it came to a halt safely, leaving every child unhurt and the teacher herself with only a few superficial bruises. The teacher heaved a sigh of relief and it was only then that she thought of Bhagawan and murmured, "Swami, thank you so much for serving us all."

After about a month, she arrived at Prasanthi Nilayam and was fortunate to be called for an interview.  She thanked Bhagawan Baba profusely for His timely help, though she had failed to call out to him at that crucial moment.  The merciful Lord's reply brought tears to her eyes for He said, "But did you call out to Me.  Didn't you say "Oh My God, save us!"?"


(From the book "Mother Sai's Miracles of Love")


Divine Wisdom




Friday, March 3, 2017

Everywhere

I have always believed that reading books can expand the mind, touch the heart, and enrich the soul. They can also cause your imagination to do some funny things at times. I can remember several years ago reading a book where the hero went through several tragedies and at one point in the midst of his pain and torment cried out: “Where is Love?”. At that moment in my imagination I leapt into the story, grabbed him by the arm and told him: “It’s everywhere! It’s everywhere!”

Love is everywhere. You just have to open your heart to see it. For me it is there every time I watch the dawn break upon a new day. It is there every time a brisk winter breeze blows across my face. It is there in the first flower of Spring. It is there in the green grass of Summer. It is there in the last leaf of Fall. 

It is there every time my handicapped sons give me a hug. It is there every time my daughter laughs at one of my dumb jokes. It is there in the adoring eyes of my old beagle and my new puppy. It is there in the purring cat that naps on my chest. It is there in the smile of the clerk behind the counter. It is there in the old man who opens a door for me. It is there when I read a letter from a friend. It is there every time I pray. It is there in everything I write and every act of kindness I do.

The Bible tells us that “God is Love.” And since God is without beginning or end then so is love. It fills all of His creation. It fills us as well every time we open our hearts and souls to it. Don’t shut out love then. Don’t live your life in pain. Open your heart instead. Share your love instead. You will find that the more love you give away, the more love you will have. You will find that the more love you share, the more God’s love will surround you. You will find that when you live your life in love, you will find love everywhere.


~ Joseph J. Mazzella ~

Quotable Quotes



"Love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries.
Without them, humanity cannot survive."

~ Dalai Lama ~

Thursday, March 2, 2017

Sai Blossoms




Baba's Storytime - The Hermit



Under all circumstances follow the path of Truth. In case the utterance of truth is likely to lead to some danger, remain silent. 

A hermit was deeply engrossed in the contemplation of God. He had vowed to speak “Truth always”. Lord Easwara wanted to subject him to a test. He assumed the form of a hunter and started chasing a deer, which, out of fear, hid in a bush close to the hermitage. This was noticed by the hermit. 

On being questioned by the hunter about the whereabouts of the deer, the hermit was in a dilemma. He could not feign ignorance and say that he had not seen the deer as that would amount to uttering a lie. At the same time he could not reveal the whereabouts of the deer, lest the hunter should kill it. In that case he would be a party to the crime. 

He prayed to Lord Easwara fervently to show him a way out. A brilliant idea flashed in his mind by God’s Grace. God is always with you, in you, around you, above you guiding and guarding you. Why fear when He is near? 

The hermit replied, “O hunter, that which sees cannot speak; that which speaks cannot see.” By such a tactful answer, the hermit not only upheld his adherence to Truth but also protected the life of the deer. 

Then Lord Easwara manifested in His true form and declared, “Such yukti (tact) which safeguards your interests as well as those of others is true yoga.” 

Therefore it is said, Truth is the life of the tongue. Righteousness is the life of hands. Non-violence is the life of the heart. Sivarathri is celebrated to teach man the significance of these values. 


(From the Divine Discourses of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba)


Wednesday, March 1, 2017

Sai Madhuryam




One who cultivates the crop of love in the field of 
one’s heart is a true Christian, 
a true Sikh, a true Hindu and a true Muslim. 
In fact, he is a true human being on earth 
who cultivates love in his heart.

~ Sri Sathya Sai Baba ~

Spirituality




"Spirituality does not mean simply doing bhajans and performing some acts of worship.
Cultivate noble qualities. Always be helpful to others and earn a good name."

~ Sri Sathya Sai Baba ~
(Divine Discourse - 25.12.2002)