You Must Win God’s Love You all praise God, but it is far more important that God praises you. You declare your love for God, but you have to find out if God has declared his love for you. You believe that God is yours, but has God told you that you are his? Suppose you send a registered letter to someone. You will gain full satisfaction only after you receive an acknowledgment from the addressee that the letter has been received and read. Declaring your love for God and declaring that God is great can be compared to sending a registered letter. But that alone will not satisfy you. You experience the deepest contentment only when you get the positive acknowledgment from God that you have his love and that he considers you great also. It is only when he says, “You are my very own. You are most dear to Me!” that you attain total fulfillment. (Sai Baba Gita, pg. 216)
1 “Man seeks joy in far places and peace in quiet spots, but the spring of joy is in his heart, the heaven of peace is in himself.” (SSS Vol. X, p. 125 – 30 July ’77) Contents -2 -3 Message from Bro. Manoj Kumar Singh, Chairman Zone - 4 countries -4 Message from Bro. Billy Fong, Central Coordinator, Zone 4A -5 Message from Bro. Suresh Govind, Chair, SSS Scriptural Studies Committee -6 Message from Bro. Sugumaran Vairavappillai, President of SSIOM Message from Bro. Anil Kumar Kantilal, Deputy President SSIOM 7 Message from Bro. Amar Ramachandran, National Secretary, SSIOM -8 Message from Bro. Santosh Govind, National Treasurer, SSIOM -9 Message from Sis. Nalini Arumugam, VP Spiritual, SSIOM - 10 Message from Bro. Albert Ong Heng Ling, VP SCA , SSIOM - 11 Message from Dr. Malar Velli Segarmurthy, National Mahila Coordinator - 12 Message from Bro. Subash Elangovan, National Young Adults Coordinator - 13 Chinna Katha Tales - 14 A Variety of Questions Answered by Baba - 17 Karma, Bakti and Jnana – by Bro. Aravind Balasubramanya - 20 About Prashanti Nilayam - 24 3 Types of Actions - 26 A Peek into Bro. Aravind’s Blog - 30 SCA Article 1 by Bro. Toh Weng Po - 32 SCA Article 2 by Sis Chuah Huan Bee - 34 SCA Article 3 by Sis Tan Su Hooi - 37 Prof Anil Kumar Relates A Story - 38 Tamil Article 1 by Bro. P. Subramani - 40 Tamil Article 2 by Sis Shassie - 41 Sing Praises To The Lord - 42 Be A Vegetarian - 45 Great Words of Great Masters - 47 Questions To Ponder - 48 Poem: My Baba Teaches Me - 49 Poem: Rising To His Love - 50 9-pt Code of Conduct, 10 Guiding Principles - 51 Transform Me, Oh Lord - 52 Devotion Must Confer Patience and Fortitude Kids’ Corner 53 Notes - 56
2 Message from Bro. Manoj Kumar Singh Chairman, Zone - 4 countries, Sri Sathya Sai International Organisation Om Sri Sai Ram It gives me great pleasure to hear that Sathya Sai International Organisation - Malaysia (SSIOM) is hosting the 20th National Sai Convention, 2022 at Johor. I would like to congratulate SSIOM and the organising committee of Johor Sai Devotees for their commendable effort in hosting this divine event. May Swami bless this program to be a great success in inspiring many to serve the needy. With Best Wishes. Sai Baba talks about His mother… MOTHER IS THE CAUSE OF SUCCESS IN ONE’S LIFE “Behind the success of every great man, there is his mother. The noble mothers of this country, with their devotion and surrender, with their daily worship and prayers have been moulding the personality of their children, so that they may blossom into great men and women. They may not possess high education and academic degrees. But their character and nobility constituted their strength. In fact, this village acquired great name and fame only because of the noble qualities of Easwaramma, who did not have any formal education. Unfortunately, today people are extolling the son of Easwaramma, forgetting Easwaramma herself. From where did this great Avatar come without Easwaramma? Therefore, one should appreciate the role of the mother and protect the honour and glory of the mother. One should respect one’s mother. The glory of Sri Sathya Sai Baba has spread everywhere in this way.” Sai Baba, “His Story As Told By Himself”, edition: 2008, pp. 183 & 184
3 Message from Bro. Billy Fong, Central Coordinator, Zone 4A Sri Sathya Sai International Organisation. Sai Ram Dear Brother & Sisters, Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba is the greatest phenomenon of the 21st century. Although we are now unable to see His physical form, we must remember that He is Omniscient, Omnipresent and Omnipotent. Swami has said that if we focus on Him with total concentration for just 11 seconds, He will appear before us. So let us think of Him always – doing so, we will be in constant connection with the infinite power of the supreme Lord of the universe. His Grace and Protection will always be with us and our families. This event in Chung Hwa School, in Muar Johor is certainly most timely. This satsang of like- minded people will help all of us to strengthen our faith in Him and to receive His Grace. I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the organizing team under the leadership of Bro. Albert Ong for the success of this event. Jai Sai Ram “It is a great responsibility to tread the Godward path. There is no back-sliding, no stopping half-way, no tardy pace, no side lane on such a pilgrimage. It is up, up, and always up, right to the crest of the mountain.” - Sathya Sai Speaks, Vol. II, Chap. 3
4 Message from Bro. Suresh Govind, Chair, Sri Sathya Sai Scriptural Studies Committee The micron sized Covid virus has kept us all away locked up in the confinement of our homes for the past two years preventing us from meeting and even offering our congregational bhajans physically at the Sai Centers. This National Convention, organized by both the Johor state and our SSSIO’s National Spiritual Wing is a beautiful opportunity for us to meet once again. I had the good fortune of sharing the same stage with Bro Aravind, the invited guest speaker at the recent Singapore National Spiritual retreat. An amazing speaker full of deep insight and experiences with Swami. I was mesmerized by the experiences including the inner messages behind his stories which he narrates in his own style. We have heard and seen his YouTube talks previously but there is nothing like a live session. This nectarine dip at this convention is so necessary to wake us from our slumbering spirit so that we can return to our original spiritual zeal which we had prior to the Covid pandemic. Generally, the Covid phenomenon has caused a sudden lull and lethargy. No wonder Lord Krishna’s jail gates opened soon after his birth to signify that long term comfort can imprison us to a complacent lifestyle. We have this wonderful opportunity once again to bathe in this spiritual Spa at the convention by reigniting our spirits, refreshing our perspectives, reliving our ideals and reaffirming our faith to our beloved Lord, Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba. Satsangh is the ferry boat that takes us across the ocean of Samsara. There has never been a more important moment than the present where Mother Earth is found to be facing the gloomiest of times. The horrendous climate change, the terrible looming war, the threat of a financial collapse and more than anything else the decline of the general well-being of humanity has become a great concern. Our gathering of devotees from all over Malaysia offers us an opportunity to concentrate love and devotion at a single point for triggering a new awakening within ourselves to face these challenges. It will also be lovely to see the participation of our Young Adults for they are our future and this present opportunity can brighten their own future to face life’s challenges. Most importantly Swami has often said ‘where my glory is sung in unison I will be present’, this retreat themed appropriately is titled `Rising to His Love’ ...this is what we will do at this convention …....Rise to His Love! We need every one of us to do this collectively. This delightful, exciting, inspiring and wonderful retreat will remind us of what Swami has said `Grace is proportional to Effort’. Hence the redemption of our soul is only possible if our consciousness can be triggered through conventions of this nature to sacrifice for self-sacrifice is the first step to self- realization. The need today is to `Rise to His Love’, for the world today needs an upliftment in consciousness. If not US then WHO, if not NOW then WHEN? With love and respect
5 Message from Bro. Sugumaran Vairavappillai, President of SSIOM Om Sri Sai Ram Dear Brothers and Sisters of Sai, My Loving Pranaams at the lotus feet of Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba The 20th National Sai Convention of SSIOM, hosted by the State of Johor, with the theme “Rising to His Love” resonates with what Swami emphasised in Nairobi, Kenya on the 4th of July 1968. The message above is crystal clear that Swami has descended for each one of us who are indeed blessed. We should cherish and continue to hold on to Him and His teachings. Acting otherwise would be a waste of this opportunity and life. By holding on to Him and His Teachings, we can Rise with His Love! Let us give our love to all by serving all and we will come to realise that the purpose of our birth would be fulfilled. The Divine Power is within us while we are alive. Once the life force leaves us, the body is of no value. Swami explained the necessity in giving importance to the body because it is the temple of God. Always think that God is present in this temple, your body, and whatever you do, do it as an offering to Him. It is only when we develop such sacred feelings, life becomes sanctified. Swami asks us to transform from bodily attachment into attachment to the Self (Atma). That is the real sadhana. That is the purpose of our life, to know Oneself. Then we realise that the Divinity in oneself is the same in all beings. We would learn to cultivate compassion (Love) and kindness (Serve) towards all. With these thoughts, we take the opportunity to Congratulate the 20th National Sai Convention Organising Team (Johor Sai Devotees) who have selflessly and tirelessly worked with love and understanding to ensure the success of this National Sai Convention. Samastha Lokah Sukhino Bhavanthu Jai Sai Ram 27 September 2022 I have come to light the lamp of love in your hearts, to see that it shines day by day with added lustre. I have not come on any mission of publicity for any sect or creed or cause; nor have I come to collect followers for any doctrine. I have come to tell you of this Universal unitary faith, this path of Love. Believe that all Hearts are motivated by the One and Only God, that all names in all languages and all forms man can conceive denote the one and only God. Cultivate the attitude of oneness between people of all creeds, all countries, and all continents. This is the message of Love I bring. SSS Vol 8, Ch 22, July 4, 1968
6 Message from Bro Anil Kumar Kantilal, Deputy President SSIOM MY HUMBLE PRANAMS TO THE SWAMI SSIOM welcomes all of Swami’s beloved devotees to the long-awaited National SAI Convention (NSC) 2022. This year we are meeting after a 3–4-year gap due to the pandemic but nevertheless, we are here with his grace. All of you are blessed to be here and – it’s Swami’s WILL that you have an opportunity to get his LOVE by meeting fellow devotees, sharing satsangs & listening to our esteemed speakers. Let us take this opportunity to recharge ourselves once again with our fellow brothers & sisters from all over the country. This time, we are blessed to listen to, and be inspired, by our Guest Speaker - Swami’s student Bro Aravind Balasubramanya. RISING TO HIS LOVE! – the theme for the convention aptly gives us all a chance to “check ourselves” and ask where we are in our spiritual journey with SAI. Are we RISING …. in our spiritual journey? Are we more LOVING …. in our spiritual journey? The pandemic has distanced us from our normal SAI activities and the people we meet, greet, and serve - we may have become a little complacent. Whatever nay be the case, we should not allow this to affect our spiritual journey. In fact, we should become stronger if we continue to hold on to HIS HAND - for he will always be with us – all the time. “Each one of you must make your own heart a Prasanthi Nilayam. The transformation must begin from this very moment. Analyse your words, deeds, and thoughts and get rid of evil ones that harm you and others; instead cultivate sahana (fortitude), shanti (firm peace), satya (truth), etc.” Divine Discouse, Sept 26 1965 Let us all once again RISE UP and rejuvenate ourselves during this convention and take back the energy and LOVE and spread it out to all.A special thank you to our team from Johor, who have graciously agreed to host this year’s NSC and giving all of us the chance to RISE UP TO HIS LOVE. A big thank you to the organising team from Johor and all of you who have taken the effort to be here physically to make it a success. May Swami’s Love & Blessings be with all of you always.
7 Message from Bro. Amar Ramachandran, National Secretary, SSIOM After a lapse of three years, we are once again gathering in person at this National Sai Convention (NSC) 2022 organised by Johor State with the support of the Central Council (SSIO Malaysia). Congratulations to Johor State and the Organising Committee for putting together a wonderful programme catering to our spiritual yearning yet allowing for adequate leisure and cultural performances. A Sai Family gathering is a unique experience vis-à-vis other forms of social congress as the mind is tuned to receive sublime dispatches from the speakers and presenters and even during informal interactions with our fellow spiritual aspirants in the peripheries of the programme with the entire adventure taking place in a calm, serene and uplifting atmosphere. Satsang is important. “The satsang, the gathering of Godward-bound seekers, is a must for the sprouting of spiritual desire and its fulfilment. Even the tardy will soon develop a keen enthusiasm for the Spirit through the influence of satsang” (SSS Vol X, p. 30, 74). Bhagavan has said that satsang is very essential to understand the oneness of the Athmic principle. Satsang means unity and, understanding that ‘I am no different from the Atma’. Satsang also means harmony in thought, word and deed. Accordingly, the theme of NSC 2022 is Rising to His Love as the path of bhakti-marga expressed through love of the divine is the royal road to God. All the 5 principal values promulgated by Bhagavan are connected like a truss. Bhagavan has said that “prema can grow only in a heart watered by truth.” Verily, “if we really want to experience prema, we will have to understand what peace or shanti means. If we want to follow the path of peace, we will have to accept the path of dharma. If we want to follow the path of dharma, we will have to accept the path of truth” (SS: 1977, p. 60). It is hoped that this NSC 2022 will invigorate and inspire all of us to intensify our spiritual endeavours so that we all attain the purpose and objective of our human birth! Please enjoy your stay in Muar, Johor and the programmes put together by the Organising Committee for NSC 2022 while not forgetting to catch up with our fellow Sai brothers and sisters. May everyone, everywhere be happy. Jai Sai Ram. O Lord, take my love, and let it flow in fullness of devotion to Thee O Lord, take my hands, and let them work incessantly for Thee O Lord, take my soul, and let it be merged in One with Thee O Lord, take my mind and thoughts, and let them be in tune with Thee O Lord, take my everything, and let me be an instrument to work for Thee With Love and Grace, Baba (Prayer written by Swami for the use of Hostel Boys)
8 Message from Bro. Santosh Govind, National Treasurer, SSIOM Sai Ram to all of you and welcome to the 20th National Sai Convention hosted by the Johor Sai family. With Swami’s grace, all of us can meet after almost 2 years and hope all of you are keeping well and will have a wonderful time at the Convention. Dear Brothers and Sisters, we are indeed extremely fortunate to be part of the Sai Mission and this is not a coincidence but because of the good karma from our previous births. Having earned our merits in the past a and being part of the most powerful force in the Universe, Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, what is next? I think it is important for all of us to constantly pray to Swami for the inner spiritual strength to live HIS message to transform ourselves. The prescriptions have been given by Swami in terms of the 9-point code of conduct, the Vahinis, Sathya Sai Speaks and many other materials. We will need to really introspect on the messages to fully understand the inner significance of Swami’s message and that is why regular reading of Sai literature is of paramount importance. The reading of Swami’s literature will also help us to continuously tune to HIM. Only when we practice HIS teachings, can the inner transformation take place and we can truly RISE TO HIS LOVE letting HIS darshan flow to and through us to everyone. This is really the opportunity to be the instrument of SAI spreading HIS love and message to all that we meet. Conventions like this will help us to come together, sharing experiences and inspiring each other to reach the highest ideal. Hope we can take back the energy and learnings from the convention and even be more charged to move towards Swami’s infinite grace. The Essence of Swami’s Message is ABC---- “Always Be Cheerful” With Lots of Love. Think of Three Essential Things From morning till night, you must think of the three essential things, namely: do not forget God, do not believe in the world, and do not be afraid of death. These three things are essential in your life. You must forget any harm done to you by others. So also, you must forget any good you may do to others. If you keep on thinking in your mind the harm done to you by others, you will in return attempt to harm them. To harm them in return is a sin. You should not undertake to commit such a sin. By forgetting the good that you may have done to others, you will not be expecting them to do good to you in return. If you are expecting to get something in return and do not get it, you will have to take birth again. You should strive not to participate in transactions connected with the cycle of birth and death. Unfortunately, today, several people take the spiritual path as if it is a path of business. I am hoping that you will not do such a thing. You will recognise the truth and make your lives fruitful and purposeful.4 (Summer Showers in Brindavan 1977, Chapter 27)
9 Message from Sis. Nalini Arumugam, VP Spiritual, SSIOM Most reverential salutations at the Divine Lotus Feet of our beloved Lord and Master, Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba. Loving Sai Ram, dear brothers, and sisters, this year marks a decade since our beloved Swami dropped His most charming garb of a 5’ 2” mortal coil. Time has indeed flown by. But the challenging unprecedented difficult period we witnessed has come to prove that the years spent at His lotus feet were not merely a memorable period of life but a defining period in the glorious phenomenon of our indefatigable Guru, Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba. A thousand years from now, spiritual aspirants will be looking at us and learning from us His wonderful words, His timeless communique, His unconditional love, and His impartial magnanimity. In fact, for those who have made it through this complicated and sometimes painful decade of all ages, the world will look at us as caterpillars that have transformed to flutter as beautiful butterflies in this undoubtedly glorious Mission of Sai. Whether or not the seven billion other human beings contemporary to Sathya Sai were aware of the Sai finale when Sai’s physical frame was laid to rest in April of 2011, nonetheless, today we can proudly declare that like a large ship that leaves an immense wake long after it has passed, to this very day, a million times, the reverberations of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba’s phenomenon continue to unfold in the usual inscrutable Sai way. We know not what Divine providence crowned us but the fierce turbulence and challenges the Sathya Sai fraternity faced felt like the experience of gold which was once molten, and of the majestic sword which was once beaten, in a fire. What use could our faith be if it was not tossed and tested in the seas of doubts before emerging victorious? That could probably explain the calmness in the Sai family even when mankind all over the globe was thrown into the throes of an unprecedented viral pandemic. Instead of despair, doubts, and dejection, the Sai community got through it in a perfectly amicable way. The period of being kept away from the familiar comforting walls of Sathya Sai Baba Centres only evoked the intense innermost desire to feel the magical feeling of belonging to Him. For many of us, our perspectives of Sai have matured and evolved enough to recognise Sai devotees' identity as a special unique feeling that runs remarkably deep. Now, life for every Sai devotee is one big undertaking to see Swami in the world around us. The challenge remains to make the resulting feeling and conviction everlasting and permanent. At this moment, the era of Sathya Sai has much more in store. As a response to this yearning, I invite you to reflect, contemplate, cogitate, meditate, envisage, wonder, and ponder on the Divine providence that crowned us with such good fortune to gather in the Name of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba. This depth of feelings is what the Sathya Sai Convention 2022 seeks to build on. For this to manifest, I am grateful for the hard work of the organising team from Johor State to shoulder the onerous responsibility in whatever capacity to satisfy and bring joy to the devotees participating in the convention. I pray for Bhagawan’s benevolent grace to embrace, illuminate and shine on all of them. As for the entire Sai fraternity, as we keep our minds and hearts in tune with His love, I pray for His blessings so that we never forget, even for a single moment, what He means to us, and live the way He lives and love the way He loves. Thank you. AUM SAI RAM.
10 Message From Bro. Albert Ong Heng Ling, VP SCA (Sai Chinese Affairs), SSIOM My humble Pranams at the Divine Lotus Feet of Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba Loving Sai Ram to my dear Sai Family, This National Sai Convention takes me back to Year 2019 when Johor State was entrusted to host this very important spiritual event. At that time, I was still the State Coordinator for Johor. Johor Bahru was then chosen to be the convention’s venue. My team and I wasted no time in getting down to work and very soon, some ground work were covered. Alas, Covid-19 struck and we had to abandon whatever that was achieved. Come Year 2022, with Swami’s divine blessings, Covid-19 with its several variations have somewhat abated and the preparations for this Sai Convention picked up again, this time under our new Johor State Coordinator, Bro P. Ramachandran. A fairly new team was formed and collective efforts put in, the results of which are now unfolding in front of our eyes! The charming, riverine town of Muar was selected as its venue, a town fondly referred to by its residents as Bandar Maharani, the royal town. And from here, we hope to serve each and every one of our participants with our warm and loving Johor hospitality. Thank you, Team Johor, for your labour of love, and congratulations for this achievement! And to the Council members of SSIOM, thank you for your invaluable guidance, advice, concerns, and expertise that have helped immensely in making this Convention achievable. Again in 2019, on 19th October, to be exact, I took over the mantle of the position as VP SCA. This position requires me to look after the Chinese members and to help them in as many ways as I can to bring Swami’s teachings to them so that they are not only able to develop love and devotion for Swami but also to gain useful spiritual knowledge for their own spiritual growth and self-transformation, both of which are very dear to Swami’s heart. At present, Sai Centres with SCA members are Tangkak, Skudai, Alor Setar, Penang NED, Penang Gelugor, Langkawi and Kuching, while Sai Bhajan Units with SCA members are Bakri, Kuala Kedah, Kepong, Seputih, and Sibu. Apart from weekly Bhajan sessions which are the mainstay of our SCA members, other programmes such as Study Circle, SSEHV for children, and Seva activities are also conducted. As time goes by, I hope that this present group of Chinese devotees will, by fine examples of themselves, attract more Chinese to join the Sai fold. With this, my humble gratitude to Swami for giving me this opportunity to serve. May we love all and serve all! Thank you. “In the use of sense organs, there must be due regard to moderation and purity. This applies to food as well as to other things, which you may consume.” (- Baba - 30 Jan. ’65)
11 Message From Dr Malar Velli Segarmurthy, National Mahila Coordinator, SSIOM Om Sri Sai Ram, My humble Pranams to the Divine Lotus Feet of Mother Sai. Greetings and a warm welcome to the National Sai Convention 2022 hosted by the Johor state. The theme of this convention is a gentle but important reminder to us all, “RISING TO HIS LOVE”. To rise up to Sai’s love is by simply becoming Sai. Swami has lovingly reminded us in many occasions, to love all and serve all. While these words sound simple, it may be the most challenging quality to develop in us all, given the nature of Kaliyuga. However, Swami didn’t just remind us but has also given us various techniques on how to develop these qualities without much hassle. Swami Himself has offered to become the “Sanathana Sarathi” of our hearts, our inner compass who will guide us throughout our journey of becoming SAI. We are the ones HE has chosen among the billions out there, to be in HIS divine path. Let us all take this calling of HIS and fuel ourselves with HIS teachings, practicing it wherever and whenever we can, in our daily lives. Being in the Sai movement is like being given a special pass to the route of transformation. Rising up to HIS love should become our life’s mission and vision. Keeping in mind that our lives are HIS message, let us be the ones that the world needs, in order to become a better place. Through unity in thoughts words and actions we must all walk, talk and breathe SAI. That alone will be our tickets to the royal road of rising to HIS love. His universal teachings are relevant to adults, young adults, teen youths as well as children. I truly believe that this convention which is the result of hard work, love and dedication from the entire organizing team will be adding values to our lives, especially after a long hiatus due to the pandemic. I hope and believe, that at the end of the convention, each everyone of us here, are one step closer in our paths to rise up to HIS love. Swami has laid out a buffet of HIS teachings for us to adapt into our lives, we can conveniently choose the best method that resonates with our inner self, be it the 3Ps, 4Fs, 5Ds, He has given us the flexibility of choice and is patiently waiting to greet us with his open loving arms I would like to congratulate the organizing committee from Johor State for their commitment and love towards making this convention a success. While a lot of effort has been put in by various individuals so that this convention manifests beautifully, I truly admire that everything was done with unity among all team members. For a project to unfold beautifully, its foundation should have definitely been the unanimous love they share for our dearest Swami. I bow down with utmost respect and gratitude to all of them for giving us an opportunity to experience divinity through this convention. A much-needed dose of vitamin T (transformation) to push us all through this journey in transforming ourselves and RISING UP TO HIS LOVE With love and much anticipation for a reunion with my Sai brothers & sisters. OM SAI RAM
12 “Praise and blame are but − twists of verbiage, the magic of words in the clever hands of flatterers or traducers. Treat both with indifference.” (SSS Vol. V, p. 95) Message from Bro. Subash Elangovan, National Young Adults Coordinator SSIOM Om Sri Sai Ram, With the love and grace of our beloved Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, we are gathering for the National Sai Convention after more than three years. First and foremost, I would like to thank the organising committee for giving an opportunity to all devotees to gather here in our spiritual and self-transformational journey. To all Sai Young Adults of Malaysia, I hope you enjoy this moment and get to know fellow Young Adults from across the country and share the best practices in our journey towards Swami. “The youth of today are the future leaders of the nation and the architects of the new society. The future of a nation depends on its youth. The strength of the youth lies in their spirit of patriotism. The primary duty of the youth is to render service to the society. The physical and mental strength of the youth is the foundation on which a nation is built.” (Sri Sathya Sai Speaks, vol. 33, 14th January 2000) With the absence of His physical form, His words will forever be anchored to our movement. Hence Swami Himself has prepared His young adults with the wisdom and skills to take on the world as kings among men. The Young Adults wing of Malaysia is well equipped to train the transitioning Group 4 students into becoming Young Adults by feeding them opportunities to lead in programmes and activities while giving them the inspiration and guidance needed in their self-transformational journey. It is wonderful to see how the Young Adults wing has grown in the last couple of years by witnessing the bond of unity we have amongst one another. The reality of the world can be scary and overwhelming at times but we have set an acutely strong foundation for all Young Adults of Malaysia to brace the world with courage, confidence and a sincere faith in Swami. There are a total of over 400 Young Adults spread out across the nation who play a role at their respective centres and states at their own capacity. There are also various leadership opportunities that are being given to the Young Adults through the programmes and sessions that are specifically curated for them. I hope the Young Adults will benefit from Swami’s teachings and the organisation’s direction to be exemplary citizens of this beloved country and to share Swami’s teachings with all those connected to them. It is always important to have Swami with us and by surrendering to Him, He will always Guard & Guide us in this journey of LIFE. With that I would like to wish you all a blissful and inspiring convention over the weekend and please do take back key highlights and share them with those Young Adults who have not been able to make it. Jai Sai Ram
13 (Chinna Katha - Quoted from the Divine Discourses of Bhagavân S'rî Sathya Sai Baba) The Tongue and the Eye There was a monk once who as the first two steps in ascetic practice decided on two vows: 1. not to injure any living thing and 2. not to speak falsehood. While he was engaged in meditation under a tree in the thick jungle, invoking the aid of God to confirm him in these two vows, he saw a beautiful deer running in terror from some hunters and taking refuge in a bower behind his hermitage. The hunters came to him seconds later. They asked him about the whereabouts of the deer. The poor monk was in a fix. If he told them that he saw it entering the bower they would catch it and kill it. That would go against his first vow. If he told them that he did not know its whereabouts, it would be against his second vow. He avoided breaking both his vows in a very clever way. He said: \"The eye that sees cannot speak. The tongue that speaks cannot see. I cannot compel the eye to speak nor the tongue to see\". The hunters went away quietly and the deer was saved. The monk had not uttered falsehood. (Chinna Katha - Quoted from the Divine Discourses of Bhagavân S'rî Sathya Sai Baba) Even This shall pass Away When Dharmarâja was in exile in the forest, Krishna visited him in his retreat and they talked for long on the vicissitudes of fortune and the effect of karma and dharma. At last, Dharmarâja asked Krishna to give him some upadesh or formula which he can keep in memory and which will sustain him during the ups and downs of fortune. Krishna wrote on a piece of paper a few words and told him to look into it and read it only when he becomes really desperate. Later, he opened the precious paper, and found that the advice, the upadesh was: \"Even this shall pass away\". It meant: \"Why worry about this passing show? Put up with the good fortune as well as bad, knowing that both are transient\". (Chinna Katha - Quoted from the Divine Discourses of Bhagavân S'rî Sathya Sai Baba) Under his Own Pillow A rich merchant once went to a holy place to attend the temple festival. A thief too followed him, in order to knock off his purse. But, he posed as a companion proceeding to the same place, for the same festival. They stayed in a Dharmasala for the night. When everyone had gone into deep sleep, the thief who kept awake until then, rose and searched everywhere for the merchant's bag. He could not lay hands on it in spite of restless search. When day broke he told the merchant in a friendly manner: \"There are thieves in this place; I hope you are taking good care of your bag, which holds all your money\". The merchant replied: \"O, yes, last night, I kept it right under your pillow. See, how safe it is\". So saying, he took it from underneath the thief's pillow! God is like that merchant; He has placed the bag holding Atmasakthi, Atmajñana, and unalloyed happiness in the head of man. But, man is ignorant of this; he seeks to find it outside himself.
14 A VARIETY OF QUESTIONS ANSWERED BY BABA Q: What sadhana is prescribed to end this cycle of birth and death? A: The very first lesson I gave when I declared My identity at Uravakonda was: “Manas bhajare Guru-charanam, Dustara bhava sagara taranam.” That is to say, first know that you are in bhava-sagara, this cycle of birth and death. Then reolve on ‘taranam’, crossing it. Then fix on a Guru or the Name and Form of God, which appeals to you; lastly, dwell on His Glory, do bhajan, but do it with all your mind. (SSS Vol. 4, p. 28) (Sourced from “Sri Sathya Sai Gita – All about Spirituality”) [The four Q & A below are sourced from “DIVINE DIRECTIONS” by Prof Anil Kumar. Page numbers are given at the end of each Q & A] Q 1: Is Sadhana a difficult process? A: There is nothing rigorous about sadhana though some may find it somewhat difficult, and though undoubtedly it is to be associated with certain amount of effort. It is just like this: we see the buses climbing the hill to reach Kodaikanal. While ascending they roar with the effort to climb, but while getting down the hill they come down rather smoothly with relatively less effort. This means that ascent is attended by effort while descent is just easy. Similarly, to attain spiritual heights one should exert one self. Instead, if one chooses for a down fall, one may slide down the slope with ease. Further, it is believed that those who follow the righteous path go to Heaven and those who indulge in evil acts go to Hell. The path to Hell is wide and the place is spacious as more people tread towards it as in the case of an unreserved railway compartment. In contrast, the road to Heaven is narrow and the place is relatively smaller as only a few do good acts to qualify to go there. The implication is that the spiritual path is rather narrow and one should exert one self to tread along and stick to it. In other words, Sadhana does require some effort but not one impossible to attain. (p. 270) Q 2: What is free will and what is its role in human welfare? A: No body has free will. For, man is subservient to his senses. Even if he wishes otherwise, his eyes will look at the world, ears listen to all sounds, legs will move to places. He is thus reduced to the state of a slave of the senses. Where is the free will? Added to this, man’s behaviour is also fashioned around the acquisitions of previous birth; not only that, the effect of the deeds of his parents too will influence the child born to them. Thus, man is subjected to and influenced by diverse forces – the effect of his own deeds, that of his parents and
15 above all, the influences of his senses. Then how can free will prevail for man? This faculty is enjoyed by God alone. (p. 277) Q 3: How is one to love Swami? What is exactly meant when it is said that we love Swami? A: You know pet animals like dogs and cats exhibit emotion towards their masters when they enter the house by gestures such as licking, scratching, etc. Similarly, many of the devotees indulge in scratching the feet of Swami or run after his car. This is not love but only the affection of a pet creature, but actual loving of Swami is following his commands and not just preaching. An example: Yashoda, one day searched for Krishna at several places but could not find him. In this process she came across the tiny footprints smeared with curds. She implicitly followed them and could locate Krishna. Krishna just then stealthily completed eating the cheese and drinking the curds in a house and in that act, spilled the curd from the pot. Treading on the spilled curds while running away in a hurry he left his footprints in his way! Just as Yashoda succeeded in locating the Lord by following His footprints, so too, you should implicitly follow the message or command of Swami and locate or gain him. (pp. 279 & 280) Q 4: What is the difference between devotion and surrender? A: In devotion there are two: a devotee and God. You are devoted to God so you are the devotee. Without God there cannot be a devotee. Without the devotee there cannot be God. God is there because the devotee is devoted to God. Therefore, in the matter of devotion there are two things: devotee and God. This is what is called ‘dualism’ – or ‘dwaita’. In surrender, you do not exist, because you are dissolved completely. When you offer yourself and everything to God, you don’t exist later. There is no two, only one. That is ‘advaita’ – ‘oneness’. Example: Take sugar and water. When you mix the two, it is completely dissolved. Now there is only one – syrup. Likewise in surrender, to God you do not exist. There is only one that exists. This is called the theory of non-dualism or advaita. So surrender is advaita, non-dualism while devotion is dwaita, or dualism. (p. 219) Q: What effects does food have on your thoughts? A: The mind is the puppet of the food that is consumed by man. It is prompted one way or the other by the subtle pull of the food it is fed on. The quality of the food determines the direction of the desire that diverts the mental flow. That is why in the Gita as well as in all scriptural text, sathwic (pure) food is recommended for the upward-seeking individual. [(Sathya Sai Speaks 7, p. 436) (Sourced from Pathways To God Volume II, p. 202)] Q: Is the desire for liberation selfish?
16 A: The choice of merging or of rebirth upon the dawn of freedom rests with the wish. There is no selfishness in the wish to merge with God. It is not contraction, it is expansion. [(Conversations, p. 10) (Sourced from Pathways To God, Volume II, p. 254)] Good people face more obstacles in life For good work and good people, it is natural that there are many types of obstructions and obstacles. With courage, strength, and happiness, we must make an attempt to meet these obstacles, bear and overcome them. A tree which has plenty of fruits cannot escape the blows of the stones. Nobody will throw a stone at a tree which has no fruits. When good people meet with obstacles, it becomes amply clear and evident that the tree-like good person has very tasty and good fruits which are sought after. It is only pure gold that is put in fire and faces hammer strokes. It is only a pure diamond which gets cut with so many facets. If it is not precious diamond, it will not be cut into so many different ways and its value will also be less. In the same manner, good people, noble men and people who are born with a higher purpose in this world face a number of obstacles but they should meet those obstacles and overcome them with courage and achieve their goal without leaving the sacred path of truth and forbearance. Therefore, irrespective of what others say and irrespective of how others ridicule, how many ever obstacles you may encounter, without leaving the sacred path, one should engage in good actions, without losing courage, with forbearance, one should achieve success. (Divine Discourse, Nov 20, 1978)
17 KARMA BHAKTI & JNANA - WHICH PATH SHOULD I USE? (By Bro. Aravind Balasubramanya) Which Is The Best Way To God? Man is on a quest to get the best for himself. Whether it is selecting a pen for writing or a life- partner to share a relationship with, the person seeks the best. The term ‘best’ has different meanings for different people. The ‘best’ pen could mean either the smoothest writing one, the longest lasting one or the cheapest one available depending on the person who is defining that term. So it becomes very difficult to answer the question, “Which is the best pen?” In spirituality too, when one asks, “Which is the best way to God/fulfillment?”, it becomes a tough question to answer because it is difficult to answer what ‘best’ means. Does it mean the fastest way; or the easiest way; or the simplest way? Traditionally, it has been said that there are three ways to God: 1. The Bhakti Marga (Path of devotion) - Bhakti Yoga is the path of devotion, emotion, love, compassion and service to God. All actions are done in the context of remembering the Divine. It involves singing the Lord’s glories, hearing about them, talking about them, Japam etc. 2. The Karma Marga (Path of action) - Karma Yoga is the path of action where one does an action without being attached to the fruits of the action. Therefore, at a practical level, it comprises selfless actions, service to others, mindfulness, and remembering the levels of our being while fulfilling our actions or karma in the world. It involves engaging in serving the needy, helping the less-fortunate etc. 3. The Jnana Marga (Path of knowledge) - Jnana Yoga is the path of knowledge, wisdom, introspection and contemplation. It involves deep discovery of the nature of our being by systematically exploring and setting aside false identities. There is also another path called the Raja Marga. But I shall not go into that simply because I have not heard my Swami speak much about it. Also, it is of a later historical origin, possibly in 400 CE and was evolved by sage Patanjali. Therefore, we shall leave it out of this discussion. Even when the three ways have been presented, the question arises, “Three ways are fine for classification; which one among them is the best?”
18 Cause For Doubt This doubt arises because of ‘indigestion in the head’ as Swami puts it. Swami has spoken a lot about the power of love and devotion. When one hears it, it feels like the best path. But He has also spoken about service and how it is supreme - hands that help are holier than lips that pray. Again, there have been discourses where He has categorically stated that no amount of service or prayer is of any use if one does not realise that everything is the manifestation of the divine. It appears as though each path is supreme when Swami speaks about it. Two analogies from Swami throw a lot of light on this doubt. I have not ‘heard’ these directly from Swami but from elders for whom Swami clarified the same. The first analogy drives home a beautiful point. It says, “Do not ask which is the best path. Instead, ask - ‘Which is the best path for me?’ “ The Three-Wheeler Analogy The journey to God or one’s Self is made through a three-wheeler. Each wheel represents the Bhakti Marga, the Karma Marga and the Jnana Marga. Based on one’s inclination and aptitude, one can place either of them as the front wheel. But the other two wheels are important too. So, one can choose to sing bhajans and do namasmarana. That does not exempt one from doing service and inquiring into the Reality of the Self. The same holds good for one engaged in service or meditation - no exemption from the other two. This is because all the three are necessary if one has to proceed towards one’s goal - oneself or God. The corollary to this analogy is that if a person of the path of devotion says that he does not care about serving others or realising his reality, then, he is actually not on any path! The same way, one cannot lock oneself up in the room saying, “I will serve none nor worship none. I shall realise the divine within.” Adi Shankaracharya, the greatest exponent of the Advaita philosophy (non-dualism) is universally regarded to have followed the Jnana Marga. But, he is the composer of many hymns in praise of the Lord - including the Ganesha Pancharatnam which is just a description of the beauty and glory of Lord Ganesha! The Clock Analogy The second analogy is very beautiful and powerful. It lays all doubts to rest and shows the harmony that exists between each of these ‘paths’. Swami told this on the 03rd June 1990, during the Summer Course in Indian Culture and Spirituality. He has mentioned it on many other occasions as well. This is how Swami put it. In this connection, let us consider the example of the wall-clock over there. It has three hands to indicate seconds, minutes, and hours respectively. There are sixty points, and twelve hours marked along the circumference of the clock. When the second-hand moves across all the sixty points, the minute-hand moves by only one point. When the minute hand moves over sixty points or the full circumference, the hour-hand moves by only one hour-mark or one-twelfth of the
19 circumference. Now, the second-hand may be compared to our actions. If a large number of good actions are done, the minute-hand, which represents chitta suddhi (the purity of mind), will move by one point. Chitta suddhi is the stage of upasana when one engages himself in loving God and worshipping Him in various ways over a period of time, leading to Atma viswaasam (Self-confidence), which represents the hour-hand. The perceptible movements of the second-hand and the minute-hand should bring about the imperceptibly slow movement of the hour-hand. Otherwise, no purpose is served by the second-hand and minute-hand. So also, unless your good actions, worship and love of God, lead to Atmaviswas or Self-confidence, the former two will be futile. So, all the three - action, devotion and knowledge are a must. One cannot move without the other and one loses meaning without the other! Swami further adds that because the second- hand and the minute-hand travel relatively fast, we are able to see their motions. The hour-hand travels slowly, we are not able to see its movement. But as long as we do good and get good feelings, we should know that we are progressing. I felt convinced of one thing, I can never say that I will not serve because I like only singing bhajans. Nor can I say that I shall not attend bhajans because it is enough if I sit in my inner room and meditate. When one is on The Path, one finds joy in all the three - Karma, Bhakti and Jnana - and does all the three too! And then, I got confirmation through the above beautiful illustration of the term ‘SAI’. SAI stands for Service, Adoration and Illumination - the Karma, Bhakti and Jnana Margas respectively! Concluding Thoughts There was once an exhibition put up by the students in the Higher Secondary School premises at Puttaparthi and Bhagawan Baba had arrived to inaugurate it. Moving around the different exhibits, He came to a display of the three paths - Karma, Bhakti and Jnana. The exhibit showed a bullock cart, a car and an aeroplane. Swami asked the student who had made the exhibit to explain it. \"Swami, on the path of Karma, the aspirant moves very slowly. That is represented by the bullock cart. The path of Bhakti is relatively faster and is shown by the car. The fastest path is that of Jnana and is represented by the aeroplane.\" Swami smiled at the boy and his enthusiasm. However, before moving on, He made a quick comment, \"But remember, if one falls out from an aeroplane, there is no getting up at all!\" He then walked to the next exhibit. Wow! What a revelation! The path of action may appear slow but it is the safest. The path of knowledge is the fastest but is fraught with great danger. The path of devotion seems to be a happy blend of speed and safety.
20 ABOUT PRASANTHI NILAYAM MEANING OF PRASANTHI NILAYAM “This Nilayam (abode) is ‘Prasanthi’ (superior peace). It is the abode of the highest form of Shanti (peace), Prasanthi. In fact, each one of you is the Nilayam of Prasanthi. That is why I very often address you as ‘Shanti-swarupa Laara’ (embodiments of peace). My object is to remind you that your real nature is Shanti, equanimity, peace, un-ruffledness, non-attachment. Shanti must be there, deep down, as the very core of your being. It is the ripeness of the fruit, the sweetness filling the ripened fruit.” Sai Baba, SSS, Vol.II, edition: 1981, pp. 217 & 218 KASTURI’S COMMENTS “What a fine name for the dwelling of the Lord! What a cool breeze and quiet solitude does this name invoke! The mountains that stand in a ring round the Nilayam look like hoary sages lost in contemplation. The broad sky inspires vast boundless musings. Rocks on the top of the hills invite the Sadhaka for meditation. Baba has planted a Thapovana on the side of the hill, behind the Nilayam and in that Vana (forest) there grows a Banyan tree which is bound to become the holiest of such trees, at least, so far as the seekers of spiritual uplift are concerned.
21 The Banyan tree, known as Nyagrodha and Vatavriksha is famous in Indian sacred literature and history. Mahavishnu is said to sleep on a Vatapatra, or a Banyan leaf, when Pralaya (deluge) overpowers the world and the flood waters pervade the entire earth. Dakshinamurthi, or Shiva in the form of the Guru is described as sitting under a Banyan Tree, and expounding by His silence all knowledge to His disciples, just as Mahavishnu, by His Yoga-nidra is vigilantly guarding the three worlds. This tree may be said to symbolise Sanathana Dharma, for its branches reach out in all directions and draw sustenance from every type of faith and every spiritual striving. It is also called Bahupada in Sanskrit, for the series of roots that its branches send down towards the earth strike the ground and seek food therein and make branches independent even of the parent trunk. The tree is therefore immortal and there are in India, Banyan trees that have been worshipped for over thousands of years, like the one at Triveni at Prayaga or the one called Akshaya-vata at Gaya. The Vata that is growing in the Thapovanam has a peculiar sanctity of it own. In April, 1959, while talking one evening on the sands of the Chitravathi River to a gathering, Baba spoke of the Buddha and the Bodhi Tree and of Sadhakas (spiritual aspirants) seeking some specially favourable spots for their Tapas (penance). Even as He was speaking thus, He ‘took’ out from the sands a thick copper plate, about 15 inches by 10 inches, containing mystic markings and letters of many known and unknown alphabets. He said that such Sasanas are planted under the trees where Sadhakas do Tapas, so that they may be helped to develop concentration of mind and control of the senses. He announced that He would be placing that Sasana under a Banyan tree that He proposed to plant in the Thapovana. This was actually done on 29 June, 1959, and Baba declared that Yogis when they reach a certain stage of Tapas (penance) will automatically come to know about this Tree and this Sasana and they will be drawn by a mysterious force towards the Thapovanam, which will then be fully justifying its name. The Prasanthi Nilayam was inaugurated on 23 November, 1950, the 25th Birthday of Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba. It took about two years to build. Baba can be said to be the architect and engineer who directed the entire work of construction. His suggestions were accepted by the engineers, for they found them much better than their own. They found Baba had a greater sense of perspective, a nicer aesthetic point of view than they had.” Prof N. Kasturi, “Sathyam Sivam Sundaram”, Part 1, edition: 1989, p. 73 & 74
22 BOUNDARIES OF PRASANTHI NILAYAM “You are not like an earnest Sadhaka (spiritual aspirant) just to please Me. It is a duty you owe to yourselves. So you must adhere to the rules wherever you are, not merely within the confines of Prasanthi Nilayam. You will notice that Prasanthi Nilayam is not limited by any boundaries. It speaks and spreads until it envelopes the entire universe.” Sai Baba. SS, 12/98, last back page SYMBOLIC MEANING OF THREE GATES OF PRASANTHI NILAYAM This Prasanthi Nilayam has no walls around it, since like the heart, it is an expanse. But it has three gates: the outer one, representing Tamas (through which people enter with waywardness, doubt, despondency, etc.); the second one, representing Rajas, crossing of which means they are attracted by Drishyananda, Netrananda, and Mano-ananda, the sights that please the eyes and the mind, and the third one leading to the Prayer Hall where people develop the rarer, purer qualities, called Satwic.” Sai Baba, SSS, Vol. V, edition: 1981, p. 46 SYMBOLIC MEANING OF THE CIRCLE This (erstwhile) circle summarises the progress of the Sadhaka towards realisation, from the dreary sands of desire, through the wild bushy patches of anger and hate, on to the green lawn of Prema (love) and gaining the broad region of Ananda (bliss). He sits in Yogic contemplation, and the Kundalini Shakti (spiritual energy) is awakened, until the lotus of the heart blooms and Supreme Flame is kindled, scattering darkness of Ajnana (ignorance). Like the pictures in children’s books, this Circle, with concrete representation of the symbol of the flag, will serve to remind you and teach you the lesson I am emphasising.” Sai Baba, SSS, Vol. V, p. 46, edition: 1981 TRIP TO PRASANTHI NILAYAM IS A DIVINE BLESSING “To partake of Swami’s love, you have to spend nothing except the cost of travel. But even that expense is a sacred offering. Regard the expenses of your Puttaparthi trip not as expense but a blessing
23 (Praapti). Without that blessing, you cannot get this grace. We have no right to get anything without giving something. Likewise, unless you make small sacrifice you cannot have the blissful experience you get here. The Lord’s love for the devotee is mutual – giving and receiving love.” Sai Baba, SS, 12/87, pp. 322 & 323 IT IS GOOD FORTUNE TO BE IN PRASANTHI NILAYAM “It is difficult for anyone to get an opportunity like this (to be in Prasanthi Nilayam). Among the billions of people in the world, how many can come here (Prasanthi Nilayam) to experience the Divine? You are among the blessed and fortunate few. Make the best use of this supreme good fortune and transform yourselves into godly persons and help to transform others. This is true spirituality.” Sai Baba, SS, 3/89, p. 64 Judy Warner was waiting for Darshan with the typed script of her book in hand for Swami's blessings. Bhagawan came and stood before her. When she showed the manuscript He touched the same and enquired 'What is the name of the book?'. She replied 'Transformation of the heart'. 'Transformation of the spiritual heart or physical heart?' Swami asked. 'Swami, Spiritual Heart' she said. 'Good. The only change for the other heart is Bypass surgery'. Source: Sai Humor
24 3 Types of Actions “Sai Baba Gita - The Way to Self-Realization and Liberation in this Age” American Edition by Al Drucker of Crestone, Colorado, U.S.A. Quoting Al Drucker: “I would like to give you, dear reader, some background on how this book came about. In August and September of 1984, there were extensive riots in South India. There were shootings not far from Sai Baba’s ashram and the ashram gates were locked. Armed soldiers were patrolling outside and escorting the college students into the ashram for the evening meetings. For 34 days during the height of the tension, Sai Baba spoke in daily discourses to the students on the Gita. He spoke in Telugu, his native language. These talks form the chapters of this book” – unquote. The chapter below, “The Three Types of Actions” was taken from this book which was the result of the edited translations of Baba’s talks. In this chapter, Swami tells us what perpetuates the cycle of birth and death and how to conquer it. Here it is: The Three Types of Actions There are three types of activities emerging from different aspects of this flame of life. There are the ordinary actions which lead to ordinary results, which in turn, lead to more actions in an endless cycle. This is like a flame that burns steadily one moment and sputters the next, or burns in various hues and at various temperatures. Then there are the good actions, those which always bring good results. These good actions are like an unchanging flame which is ever steady. This second type of activity applies to performing your worldly duties in a righteous manner, being active in good causes, engaging in devotional practices, etc. These are all good actions but along with them, there will still be a clear interest in the results. The Vedas have declared that even the best and the most beneficial actions performed with interests in the results can only take you as far as heaven. You should not be under the impression that heaven endows you with immortality; when the merits of the actions have been consumed, you have to come back down to earth. So, this second type of action, also perpetuates the cycle of birth and death. Lastly, there are actions which are not related to the attributes of the flame. This third type of activity is associated with the pure radiance, the effulgence of the atmic light. For such actions, interest in the fruit is not relevant, at all. Such actions emerge out of your inner nature, your deepest truth, which is divine. You perform all your actions as an offering to the divinity, knowing that the one divinity is in everyone. Such sacred acts can be called yoga, for then you are engaged in karma yoga. This is purity in action where there is no attachment to the outcome. Realise that when you are interested in the fruits,
25 they soon become exhausted, and new actions have to be undertaken again and again, in an endless cycle. Take, for example, a member of the legislative assembly who runs for election. If he achieves victory in the election, he can go to the assembly for five years. As time passes, his term of office runs out and at the end of five years he has to return home. Similarly, all the merits which you earn through your activities may be compared to this kind of limited term which lasts for a number of years. At the end of the period, you have to come back into birth again. As long as your merits last you enjoy heaven, but as soon as they get exhausted you must again descend into birth. Therefore, while describing the doctrine of karma to Arjuna, Krishna said, “Instead of aspiring for the temporary result of an action, which keeps you bound to the cycle of birth and death, aspire to realize the supreme divinity which is your own true self. When you know that the one divinity is the immortal self of all and act from that knowledge, then your actions are aligned with the divine will and they will be sacred. Then you will never have to come back into birth again. But, if instead your actions are motivated by the results, which in turn, leads you into life after life and you are perpetually coming and going, then how will you ever be able to reach your permanent goal?” There is a small story to illustrate this. Aspire For the Supreme And Never Come Back An inveterate thief was caught in the act of stealing and was put into prison. It was decreed in court that he be imprisoned for six months. The six-month period soon passed and the day arrived when he was to be released. The jailer came and told the thief, “Well, by tomorrow evening your term will be completed and you will have served your punishment. You can make your preparations to go. Collect all the personal possessions that we are holding for you, and be ready to leave.” The thief was not overly happy to hear this, but he was not unhappy either. He was just indifferent, for he knew what was to happen. “Let the articles remain here,” he said. The jailer asked him, “Why, don’t you want to take these things with you?” The thief replied, “There is no point in taking them with me. In a day or two, I will be back. Soon enough, you will see me again in this same jail. Since it will be just a few days, why should I bother with them?” So, this thief knew that he was going to indulge in stealing again, that he would be caught and punished again and, undoubtedly, he would land right back in this same prison. In the same way, your actions may be compared to this coming and going of the thief. You perform actions in your life here on earth. In time, you are motivated to make all your actions good actions and they produce good results. Afterwards you go to heaven. When your term there has expired, you come back again to earth. Krishna said, “This process of going up and coming down is not good.” At this point, Krishna gave Arjuna the sacred teachings. He directed Arjuna to seek out the place of eternal truth and abide there. Once you are established in that permanent place, abiding in your immortal self, actions can no longer bind you. Then there will be no need to ever come back again, for you will be established in the permanent bliss of the atma. Compared with this exalted state, earthly and heavenly joys are like mere atoms in the infinite universe.
26 A Peek into Bro. Aravind Balasubramanya’s blog The importance of loyalty to the Guru (Tuesday, 10 April 2018) The vacuum of the Omnipresence compared to the Presence What happened on the 24th of April, 2011 when Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba left the physical frame is inexplicable for anyone who considered Him as Guru or God, Master or Mentor, parent or pal. All devotees were heart-struck at this act of their Swami. And the question that arose in all was, “What next now?” The Bharatiya scriptures have always accorded a very special place for the Guru. It is said that the mother points out the father to the child. The father points out the Guru and the Guru points out the Lord. The term ‘Guru’ is loosely translated as the ‘preceptor’ for want of a better word just as the term ‘Bharatiya’ is often loosely translated as ‘Indian’ for want of a better word. Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba says that the term ‘Bharatiya’ is made up of two Sanskrit roots - Bha meaning God and Rathi meaning lover. A person who has love for God is a Bharatiya and the land in which such people reside is Bharat. Since India has been the birthplace of many religions, prophets, men of God and the incarnations of the Lord, it is referred to as Bharat. Thus, when Swami refers to the glorious Bharatiyas in His discourses, He is referring to the people who love God and not exactly to those that reside in the geographical boundaries of India. In similar vein, Baba says that Guru is made up of two Sanskrit roots - Gu which stands for Gunateeta (beyond attributes) and Ru which stands for Rupavarjita (beyond form). A famous Sanskrit verse says, “Acharya Devo Bhava” which translates into, “The Guru is God”, because the Guru shows the way to God. In this scenario, one can only imagine the good fortune of having the Lord Himself come as one’s Guru as I strongly believe happened with the advent of Bhagawan Baba. But having a Master / Lord / Guru in human form has a big disadvantage too as I learned on that fateful day in April. The physical human frame is temporary in its nature and has to go one day even when it is occupied by the Supreme Being. And when that happens, the devotees and followers are totally at a loss as to what to do. The form that they love and adore has departed and they are drowned in sorrow. And while some decided to wait for Him to take up the promised form as Prema Sai Baba, some decided to seek Him within. Some, in their desperation, began to seek Him in other Gurus, in other objects of faith (like the house of some particular devotee which is ‘specially blessed’ with manifestations of Grace like vibhuti) or in the company of people through whom they believed their Swami 'talks’. The special blessing and a very significant lesson
27 I am honestly not waiting for Prema Sai. I am trying to connect with Swami in the form that my heart loves and longs for. This divine hide and seek is a game and I shall not change whom I am seeking simply because He has managed to hide well! My heart races back to an episode during the Ashadi Ekadasi celebrations in 2009, the 4th of July to be precise. The children of the Bal Vikas programme from Mumbai had put up a drama on the life of a saint, Gajanan Maharaj. Swami was very happy with their performance and as the drama concluded, He decided to move down the stage and grant them group photos with Him. I was seated on the stage, behind Swami, from where I was photographing the drama. As He was wheeled down the stage, He looked at me and said something. I could not make out what He was saying and so I went close to Him. He was pointing to something behind me. I turned and saw that He was pointing to a cutout which had been placed on the stage. It was a large wooden frame on which there was a collage of all the saints from the land of Maharashtra. The frame had been placed on the main stage as part of the Ashadi Ekadasi decorations. As He pointed to the frame, Swami asked me, “Are you sitting along with your Gurus?” (The collage of the various 'Gurus' which had been placed on the stage for Ashadi Ekadasi.) I turned around, saw the wooden frame with the many masters painted on it and smiled. I almost nodded my head to say, “Yes” for were these not great men of God; masters who had shown the way to God? But in a fraction of a second before I could nod, I realized what I was about to say and changed my words. I told Him, “No Swami. They are saints but not my Gurus. Only you are my Guru.” He smiled and He seemed happy with the answer which He Himself had inspired from within me. The bond between an aspirant and his/her Guru is very unique. It is made when the Supreme Soul decides that the time is now ripe for the ‘ignorant soul’ to gain wisdom and decides to make contact. That contact leads to a contract for evolution! Just like the tsa'haylu (connection) that Jake makes with his Ikran (the mountain vehicle) in the 2009 Hollywood blockbuster movie, Avatar, this is a bonding for life in the case of the Sai Avatar too! Swami showed that He appreciated that answer in His own unique and sweet manner.
28 It was the 7th of July 2009. There was a programme scheduled in the Sai Kulwant Hall to felicitate four senior devotees who had served in Swami’s institutions for more than two decades. After the whole programme (which lasted about an hour), Swami asked for the sweets to be brought to be distributed as Prasadam. It was laddoos on that day. He blessed the sweets in the trays as they were taken up to Him. Then, looking in my direction, He threw one laddoo. Since I was in the second row, the boy in the first row went up to Him and took the sweet. He repeated the act and another boy from the first row went up to Him and took the sweet. Now, He looked straight at me and told me that I should take the laddoo. Then, He threw the third sweet. When I went up to Him and took the sweet, He told me to take padanamaskar. I did so happily. Even as I was returning to my place, I realized with goosebumps on my skin “Today is Guru Poornima!” I immediately connected what had happened three days back where I told Him that He was my only Guru and this special blessing on Guru Poornima day. It was as if Swami was pleased with my 'loyalty' to Him and He was expressing that on the day when one worshiped one's Guru. Why loyalty? A second episode in this context happened on the day of Ramzan in 2006. We were all ready to put up a cultural programme in His presence. Before we did that, Swami decided to speak to us in the bhajan hall. During the course of the interaction, He looked at me and asked, “What is your name?” “Swami, Aravind...” “What is your father’s name?” “Swami, Balasubramanya...” “...and your mother’s name?” “Hema, Swami...” “Then, you are a Hindu. Why do you wear the costume of a Muslim?” Here, in my excitement, I began to discourse Swami Himself! I said, “Swami, I believe in the brotherhood of man and fatherhood of God. I am ready to wear Muslim costume for a Muslim festival, Christian costume for a Christian festival and Hindu costume for a Hindu festival.” His reply was simple and straight, “That is correct. But try and follow the code of at least any one of the costumes!” He smiled and I sat back embarrassed. Swami was conveying something very deep. He was urging me to hold steady to a single path with determination. He was trying to tell me that while digging the earth for water, it is better to dig one deep well rather than a dozen shallow ones. So too, when digging through the layers of ego (body-consciousness), it is better to do so via a single ‘form of the Lord/Guru' rather than hold on to different forms with different depths.
29 Basing on this comparison, a question arises in the monkey mind. \"Okay! I shall dig deep in a single spot as you say. But what if, after all my digging, I do not strike water at the end as it happens with some wells?\" The answer from the heart is spontaneous, \"Don't worry. The Lord is pleased by efforts. If, in spite of all your efforts you do not get water from below, the Lord will shower rains from above!\" (Source:https://aravindb1982.blogspot.com/2018/04/the-importance-of-loyalty-to- guru.html#more) Fun With Sai Posted October 1, 2001 Consumed I will recount a delightful little story which Professor Kasturi told me and my late husband when he did us the honor of spending a couple of hours with us in our Bangalore hotel in 1980. Many years ago he was with Baba at Benares and was consumed by the desire to receive a mantra [sacred verbal formula] from Swami. Having mentioned this to Baba, he bathed himself in the sacred waters of the Ganges and fasted all morning in order to receive it. But the morning hours passed. Noon came. But no mantra! He confessed that by this time he shed tears of disappointment. Then, horror of horrors, lunchtime came, and he was seated right next to Swami. “Kasturi, why aren’t you eating?” asked Baba, assuming innocence. “The mantra…” began the miserable Kasturi, swallowing a sob. “What is the purpose of a mantra?” Swami asked. “To get closer to the Lord,” Kasturi replied. Baba looked down at Kasturi’s arm and then at his own. They were almost touching. “Well,” He smiled in His divinely down-to–earth way, “How much closer do you want to get?” Source: Sai Humor, p. 8
30 赛华人组线上学习圈 一场突如其来的疫情，给社会生活造成了巨大的影响， 赛中心许多活动，包括学习圈在内，几乎都停顿了。为了持续 华裔信徒们的赛法修学，全国赛华人组决定逢每月第二个周二 晚上8:30举办线上学习圈。首场学习圈于2022年4月12日成功展 开，近20位同修在线上欢喜相见。主持者杜勇作赛兄分享文稿 过后，大家一起进行问题的思考讨论，并提出自己的看法和意见，大家在融合的氛围 中快乐学习。此线上学习圈也每月进行至今。 学习圈的基本目标是帮助我们了解如何过一个灵性、更接近神的生活。身为赛 信徒，我们要遵循九大行为准则，而参加学习圈是履行第六项行为准则（经常研读经 典尤其是赛教导）的其中一种方法。学习圈的一个重要目标是让参与者从中将一项启 示在未来一月内付诸实践。正如世尊赛峇峇在一讲道中所说的，重要的不只是阅读和 理解，而是将所学付诸行动。学习圈不仅仅只是知识的传递，更要促进参与者的转变 。学习圈并不是一个人呈现的演示文稿，最好让所有与会者都能参与。 参与学习圈让我们可以更深入学习峇峇的教义，了解峇峇的教义对他人的影响 。这可以激励我们，帮助消除我们的疑惑，给予我们更坚定的信念。学习圈是一个团 体活动，让每一个参与者分享经验，学会表达自己的想法，克服害羞的心理，培养在 众人面前说话的信心。当我们产生不同意别人的观点的时候，也能学会如何去处理， 找到自己的问题的答案。 在此，全国赛华人组欢迎各位赛信徒参与以上线上学习圈，欲知详情可联络杜 勇作赛兄（017-6858033）。就让大家在修行道上互相扶持，一起体验共修的乐趣。 杜勇作赛兄 东甲赛中心，灵修组组长 “Man’s distance from Divinity is the same as his distance from himself.” (- Baba – 08 Aug. ’86)
31 SCA Online Study Circle The COVID-19 pandemic has had a huge impact on our social life, and activities in the Sai Centres, including study circle, came to a standstill. The SCA wing decided to hold an online study circle on the second Tuesday of every month starting at 8:30 pm, for the benefit of Chinese speaking devotees. The first online session was successfully launched on April 12, 2022, with 20 participants. After the facilitator shared a synopsis of the topic of discussion, participants were invited to discuss and put forward their views and insights in response to the questions posed by the facilitator. The discussions were lively and productive. The online study circle has since been conducted regularly on a monthly basis. The basic goal of a Study Circle is to help us understand how better to lead a spiritual life, to come closer to God. As Sai devotees, we are required to follow the Nine Codes of Conduct, and attending the Study Circle is one of the ways to fulfil the Sixth Code of Conduct, which is to study the scriptures often, especially the teachings of Sri Sathya Sai Baba. An important objective of the Study Circle is for participants to put a learning into practice in the forthcoming month. As Sri Sathya Sai Baba says in one discourse, it is important not simply to read and understand but to put what you have learned into practice. The Study Circle is not only about the transfer of knowledge, but also the transformation of the participants. It is not an individual presentation, it is about the active participation of all attendees. Participating in a Study Circle enables us to learn more deeply about Baba's teachings and the impact of His teachings on others. This will motivate us, help dispel our doubt and further affirm our faith. The Study Circle is a group activity where each participant shares his experiences, learns to express his ideas, overcomes shyness and develops the confidence to speak in public. We learn how to deal with disagreements with others, and find answers to our own questions. The SCA wing is pleased to invite all Chinese speaking devotees to attend our monthly online study circle. For more information, kindly contact Bro. Toh Weng Po at 017-6858033. Let’s support each other on the spiritual path and experience the joy of spiritual practice. Bro. Toh Weng Po Spiritual Coordinator, Sathya Sai Baba Centre of Tangkak. “Through satsang you develop freedom from delusion, then you develop faith in truth and thus attain liberation itself.” (SSS Vol. X, p. 151)
32 共享大爱 每一天我们几乎都有101件事要做，我们要对不少人与不少事操心，同时也会不时的给一些事一些人吓 到了，在这个时候，也就只有 Sai Baba 可以让我们倚靠着。 认识 Sai Baba 真好。 Sai Baba 说他会庇护我们，就好像眼蓋保护眼睛一样。 试想一旦有风沙扑面而来，眼蓋第一时间内，立马关眨了，眼睛就不伤不盲了。 我们须要的~不就是这个承诺与归依吗？ 但也会有人不相信，甚至会说 Sai Baba 只疼爱也只照顾有钱有料(学问)的人。 真的是如此吗？ 请你拉一张长沙发来，听听我述说，我会列举出长长的名单与实在例子。 Sai Baba 说他似一个太阳，照耀着每个人。 有人会怀疑，说 Sai Baba 只是会看顾他的信徒呗！ 哪会看顾我? 但 Sai Baba曾经如此举例说明： ‘’每个人就像铁粉 iron filing 一样，我就是那一块磁铁，你若不是离磁铁太远了，就是你生锈了，致使磁 铁吸不到你了。‘’ 自从我认识了 Sai Baba, 进而明白了他的教义与教导，我最初只把他当个圣人，贤人，导师，进而把他 当成我心里的神明，再再推进把他当成一个好友。 我整个人与整个生活都放松了，放下了，放开了，自在快乐。 偶尔我也会遭遇到困扰心烦，躁恼起来，但我一当感觉到 Sai Baba 的 ‘’无所不在，无所不知，无所不 能‘’，我就全然臣服投降于他了。 人事不达时，我都转向 Sai Baba 求救求助，我就有好果子吃。 对 Sai Baba 所作的安排，我深信不疑。 祈愿大家共修共享 Sai Baba 的大爱。 SAI RAM. 蔡圆美 （16／9／2022 ）
33 Immersing in Sai Love Every day we have almost 101 matters to attend to, we have in our mind a few persons and a few things to worry about, at times we even have some incidents or some people who have inflicted fear unto us, it is at this occasion, we reckon only Sai Baba shall be our utmost shelter. It is so good to come to know Sai Baba. Sai Baba said: \" I will protect you as the eyelids protect the eyes.\" Just imagine whence there is a sand breeze hitting directly at your face, the eyelids shut at that very instant, thence the eyes shall not get hurt or turned blind. This is exactly what we need ~ a promise and a shelter that we seek? However, there is still some people who won't believe, some even said Sai Baba will only love and care for the rich and the persons who have knowledge. Was this true? You may please pull a long sofa over here, let me narrate you a long list of names and specific examples of people experiencing Sai's love. Sai Baba described He was just like the Sun, shining upon each and every individual. But still there are people who are suspicious, claiming that Sai Baba only takes care of His devotees. He won't care a bit about me? Regarding this Sai Baba had put up an example to illustrate: \" Everyone is just like iron filings. I am that piece of a magnet, it was either you are too far away from the magnet, or you have turned rusty, hence such the magnet was unable to attract you.\" Ever since I came to know Sai Baba, l learnt about His teachings and His guidance. Initially I regarded Him as a saint and a teacher, then I proceeded to install Him in my heart as the avatar, thereafter I treat Him as my very best friend ever. Myself and my life become so relaxed thereto, I would let go and won't hold tight to any. I am now a free child, and I am so happy. On some occasions when I met up with difficult moments, I too would feel disturbed and upset, but once I realised the omnipresence, omniscience and omnipotence of Sai Baba that nothing He was incapable of, I would just choose to bow down and have a complete surrender to His will. Anything after all human concerted efforts were expended to no avail, I would just turn to Sai Baba seeking for guidance and assistance, LOL, I have the tastiest fruits ever given by Him. For whatever outcome or arrangement Sai Baba made for me, I have complete faith and confidence in Him. I pray that all of us shall come together and to enjoy immersing in His love. SAI RAM Sister Chuah Huan Bee (16/9/2022)
34 中文组赛心灵教育线上课程 SCA Sai Spiritual Education (SSE) Online Classes 1. 赛心灵教育的理念 三重伙伴关系 (Triple Partnership) 赛教育理念是促进学生，父母和老师三方面形成良好的三重伙伴关系，即以学生实 践，家长监督，老师教导，再以沙迪亚赛人类价值教育作为根基，以培育学生的优 良品格。 什么是心育（SSE）呢？ ‘心育’ （SSE: SAI SPIRITUAL EDUCATION） 指的是发掘潜藏在人内心里的人类价值 （真理, 正义, 和平, 爱和非暴力），并诱发它显现然后化为行动。人类价值隐藏于每一 个人的内心里, 是与生俱来的 ，不必向外求。简单来说，心育注重的是身、心、灵的 整体发展。 现今社会日新月异，物质丰富，科技进步神速。然而，人们的精神在快速的发展中却 隐藏着严重的道德缺失问题并形成巨大的社会隐患，造成道德滑坡，价值沦丧，行为 扭曲等现象。如今社会问题层出不穷，从近期的国际事故，如:俄乌战争，缅甸KK园 卖猪仔，台湾地铁内砍人事件，一海之隔的新加坡名校学生在校园携带斧头砍死同学 的事件等。这些社会新闻，追根究底都与人们的道德价值观息息相关。现今科技迅速 发展，许多孩子在成长的过程中经常接收到错误的讯息或资讯，还有来自朋友的压力 和欺骗，零零总总，使得他们困惑，迷茫，难以分辨是非、区分事情的对与错，以致 于无法在生活或工作上做出正确的决定。因此，从小的道德指引，人格塑养对于孩子 们来说是极其重要的。
35 2. 缘起 / 课程简介 疫情期间，由于实体的赛人类价值教育班都无法进行，所以在纪木英赛姐的领导下， 中文组于2021年3月6日开办了赛心灵教育线上课程。每两个星期一次（星期六），下 午4点至5.30（一个半小时）。 赛心灵教育线上课程以沙迪亚赛人类价值教育作为基础，再通过五种技巧进行教学， 包括（i）静坐 （ii）祈祷/语录 （iii）合唱 （iv）讲故事 （v）群体活动。 课程纲要涵盖 (i) 沙迪亚峇峇：生平故事、教导和恩赐 (ii) 舍地赛峇峇：生平事迹和教 导 (iii)佛陀的生平事迹和教诲 (iv) Ganesha、观世音、耶稣、孔子等精神导师和伟大圣 贤的故事和教诲。借由这些导师、圣贤的故事，让学生开阔视野、培育宽阔胸怀、吸 取经验、提升智慧、懂得取舍、是非分明。此外，课程也融入华族传统节日，如春节 、清明、中元节、端午节等，以让学生更加了解中华传统文化的精髓。 3. 迄今取得的进展 2021年度各班级的资料：（2021年3月6日 – 2021年12月4日） 2021年度 第1组 第2组 第3组 年龄 6至8岁 9至11岁 12至17岁 学生人数 21 24 28 老师人数 2 3 2 课程总数 课外活动 21 21 21 1. SSE (SCA) Guru Poornima 2021导师节持名祈祷会 （24/7/2021） 2. 峇峇96岁诞辰的奉献: Walking In His Loving Footsteps（画 画、演讲、短剧表演） 3. 峇峇诞辰持名念诵 4. 2 位学生代表SCA在线上以英语演说（ Avatar Day） 5. 家长教师线上联谊会（17-7-2021）
36 2022年度各班级的资料：（2022年2月12日开课） 2022年度 第1组 第2组 第 3A 组 第 3B 组 第4组 年龄 6至8岁 9至11岁 12至14岁 12至14岁 15至17岁 学生人数 9 23 10 11 6 老师人数 2 2 2 2 2 预计课程总数 课外活动 21 21 21 21 21 1. 线上持名（念诵圣名）： i） 24-04-2022 世尊纪念日 ii） 30-7-2022 中元节持名念诵 2. Aradhana Mahotsavam世尊纪念日：我给峇峇的奉献（为期 21天）- 培养一个好习惯。 3. 线上亲子讲座 - 峇峇给父母的叮咛（16-7-2022） 2022 年度，中文组心育班也派遣5位新老师参加由马来西亚赛组织（教育组）SSIOM 所主办的教师训练营。 赛心育班学生的出席证书与毕业证书 赛心育课程于每年的最后一堂课颁发2种证书予完成课程的学生，分别是（i）出席证 书 （ii）完成年度课程证书 学生需符合以下的条件/标准： ➢ 出席证书：50% 以上的上课出席率。 ➢ 完成年度课程证书： 80%以上的上课出席率。 在2021年底赛心育课程（中文组）总共颁发了58张证书给予符合课程出席率的学生。 2022年的出席证书和完成年度课程证书也会在即将来临的12月颁发。 4. 展望 从2021年开课至今，我们完成了第一部分有关沙迪亚赛峇峇的生平事迹、祂的工作 和恩赐的课程。明年赛心育的课程将涵盖舍地赛峇峇、其他导师、圣贤的生平故事 和教导。我们希望明年有更多的老师和学生可以踊跃参与赛心育课程， 一起传承并 发扬赛峇峇所倡导的人类五大价值，以期达到教育的终极目标- 塑造下一代的优良 品格。 Jai Sai Ram. Sis. Tan Su Hooi 陈思慧
37
38
39 My visits to the prisons and the story of Kalpagiri (Translated by Sis. Nalini Arumugam) My ‘imprisonment’ means an invitation from Sri Sathya Sai Baba to be constantly involved in Sai service at prisons! I have been serving this way since the year 2007 along with my other Centre members. We mainly serve at the Simpang Rengam/Kluang prison and also the Kampung Gajah prison. Both are in the State of Johor, Malaysia. We visit the inmates once every week from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm. With the help and cooperation of the prison officers, we are able to meet the inmates. On every occasion, before leaving for the service, I pray and take the blessings from Sri Sathya Sai Baba and ask Him for His guidance. We are not allowed to take along anything into the prison. All our needs are met by the prison officers. Sometimes, they even assist us with cash. On our regular visits, we meet up with around sixty to seventy inmates, all gathered in a room. We conduct spiritual classes for them and the teachings shared are Swami’s. On special occasions like Deepavali and Ponggal, about 250 to 300 inmates will be present. We conduct the classes based on how a SSEHV class is conducted by starting with Silent Sitting, followed by Meditation, Prayers and Bhajans. We also teach them basic mantras like Ganapathi Mantra and Guru Mantra. Bhajan sessions usually take about one hour. Whenever a bhajan session is in progress, I notice that the inmates become emotional. Apart from these activities, I also tell them stories with good moral values and share with them miracles performed by Swami. There was once I shared a true story with them involving this person called Kalpagiri who was sentenced to life imprisonment in India. Kalpagiri had the opportunity of receiving vibuthi from Swami as prasadam. Other inmates too communicated with Swami through letters and prayers. Kalpagiri made a promise to be good if freed, and in the year 1960, the then President of India pardoned Kalpagiri and a few others. Since then, Kalpagiri has been at Prasanthi Nilayam serving as a Sevadal. During my classes, I insist that the inmates must lead a good, moral life through the values of Sathya, Dharma, Santhi, Prema, and Ahimsa, and that God is the only Saviour. According to an official data from Kajang Prison released by a Tamil Daily, about 85 percent of prisoners released from prison do not return to prison again after their release. They have gone through some self-transformation and have chosen to lead a good, moral life. During such visits, I often feel that I have been chosen to carry out such a seva. I am blessed that Swami has given me this opportunity to serve and I will continue to serve these prison inmates. Jai Sai Ram. P. Subramani Coordinator, Sri Sathya Sai Baba Bhajan Unit Chaah, Johor
40 (by: Sis Shassie, Muar Centre)
41 Sing Praises to the Lord!
42 Be a Vegetarian……. If you have to be happy, today, as an offering to Swami, give up meat eating, consuming liquor and smoking. By renouncing these three, you will benefit yourselves as well as society and the nation. Swami's sole aim is to promote the welfare of the family, the society and the nation. If you wish to follow and carry out Swami's wish, renounce from this moment itself these three bad practices. Do not put if off to tomorrow. Why? If you go on saying next, next and then it becomes test and then it becomes taste. No. Right now, take the resolve from this moment. This is what Bhagawan is expecting from you today. Therefore, being the embodiments of love I expect that you will certainly follow this; give joy to Swami thereby promote the wellbeing of your family and the nation, I bless you all and bring the discourse to a close. (Discourse on 23rd November 1994.)
43 Vegetarian Recipes
44 Vegetarian Stir-fried Beehoon (rice vermicelli) Ingredients (adjust the amounts to your liking) Beehoon - soak in water until partially soft. Drain in a colander Chinese cabbage cut into thin strips Carrots peeled and cut into thin strips Spring onions cut into short lengths Shitake mushrooms - soak in hot water until soft. Remove stem & cut into strips Shallots, thinly sliced Garlic, finely chopped Light soya sauce and pepper for seasoning Cooking oil Method: 1. Add some cooking oil to kwali. Saute the shallots until they are golden brown. Dish them out and keep aside for later use. 2. Using the same shallot oil, saute the garlic until golden brown. 3. Add in the shitake mushrooms. Stir fry for half a minute. 4. Add in the cabbage and carrot strips. Stir fry until they are slightly softened. 5. Add some water to it (not too much as beehoon should not be soggy). 7. Next, add in the spring onions and stir evenly. 8. Add in the soaked beehoon. With the ladle and a pair of chopsticks, stir the whole lot thoroughly. At this stage, add in enough light soya sauce for saltiness and colour. If you prefer your beehoon to be softer, you may add in a little more water at this stage. 9. Finally, sprinkle lots of pepper on it and add in the fried shallots. Give it a final toss and it’s ready. (nice, if accompanied by some cut red chillies.) (Tip: for stir-frying any type of noodles, use a pair of chopsticks to help prevent noodles from breaking into short strands)
45 GREAT WORDS OF GREAT MASTERS “To work with God’s happiness bubbling in the soul is to carry a portable paradise within you wherever you go.” Paramahansa Yogananada “Whatever is destined not to happen will not happen, try as you may. Whatever is destined to happen will happen, do what you may to prevent it. This is certain. The best course, therefore, is to remain silent.” Ramana Maharshi “Be content with what you have; rejoice in the way things are. When you realize there is nothing lacking, the whole world belongs to you.” Lao Tzu – Tao Te Ching “You are not a drop in the ocean. You are the entire ocean, in a drop.” Rumi “If you cannot tolerate infliction of pain on your body or mind by others’ words and actions, what right have you to do the same to others through your words and deeds?” Lord Mahavira “He who knows all the answers has not been asked all the questions.” Confucius “If you think you are too small to make a difference, try sleeping with a mosquito.” The Dalai Lama “The most beautiful moments in life are moments when you are expressing your joy, not when you are seeking it.” Sadguru Jaggi Vasudev “God never tires of forgiving us; we are the ones who tire of seeking His mercy.” Pope Francis
46 GREAT WORDS OF GREAT MASTERS “Realize deeply that the present moment is all you have. Make the NOW the primary focus of your life.” Eckhart Tolle “People have a hard time letting go of their suffering. Out of a fear of the unknown, they prefer suffering that is familiar.” Thich Nhat Hanh “Being a Christian is more than just an instantaneous conversion – it is a daily process whereby you grow to be more and more like Christ.” Billy Graham “The will is not free – it is a phenomenon bound by cause and effect – but there is something behind the will which is free.” Swami Vivekananda “Nothing in the world can bother you as much as your own mind, I tell you. In fact, others seem to be bothering you, but it is not other, it is your own mind.” Sri Sri Ravi Shankar “People like to say that the conflict is between good and evil. The real conflict is between truth and lies.” Don Miguel Ruiz “You cannot be lonely if you like the person you’re alone with.” Wayne Dyer “We have lost contact with reality, the simplicity of life.” Paulo Coelho “Always think before you speak, because before speaking, the words are under your control, but after speaking, you are under the control of those words.” BK Shivani
47 Questions to ponder in your leisure… 1. What do you expect from undertaking spiritual practice? 2. What do you understand of Swami’s Mahavakya of “Be, Do, Tell”? 3. What motivates you to do selfless service (seva)? 4. What do you understand of: “Duty without love is deplorable; duty with love is desirable; love without duty is divine”? 5. How do you apply Swami’s “Ceiling on Desires” to your daily life? 6. How does your mind affect your body and vice versa? 7. How does prayer purify food? 8. Is money really an obstacle on the spiritual path? 9. What is the difference between divine will and human will? 10. What effects does food have on your thoughts? 11. Where does divinity exist in Man? 12. How does ego obstruct the spiritual progress? 13. What does Surrender really mean? 14. How can our lives reflect Swami’s message? 15. What should we do so that we may not forget God? (Questions sourced from various Sai literature)
48 My Baba Teaches Me At times when I am all alone I hear Baba asking me - Have you thought of self-transformation, Yes, YOU, my devotee? Oh, but what's self-transformation? What is required of me? Do I change the way I talk And think ... the very ways I see? Then, in my quietest moments I hear Baba teaching me: To change myself from inwards Is to be better constantly. My Baba says, do daily meditation If I want to look within To find the God He says I am Hidden in the Atma therein. My Baba teaches me not to gossip, And neither to tell lies But to speak truthfully and lovingly No matter what the price. My Baba teaches me compassion, To help ever and hurt never. He says this is good for my transformation As I climb my spiritual ladder. My Baba teaches me to put A ceiling on my desires, To not waste precious time or money And to be of use to others. When I practise these, dear Baba, Will they help me to rise To a love that I've been seeking, Ever since You entered my life? Continue to strengthen me, Lord With values dear to You And to practise all things good That keeps me near to You. As for self-transformation I've got my answers now - It's to walk the path You've shown us Through Your message so profound. So thank you, thank you, Mother Sai For You had me start wondering How to rise to your precious Love With my heart and my whole being! (By: Jeanie Boo)
Search
