Some Hints from Senior Acarya Diary

Date: 09 Feb 2010 08:28:08 -0000
From: “Ramashankar Suman”
To: am-global@earthlink.net
Subject: Some Hints from Senior Acarya Diary

Baba

“Pra’n'er a’loke toma’re peyechi, ha’ra’yechi mohe jar’ima’y…” (P.S. 836)

Purport:

Baba, I got You in my love, in the effulgence of my heart. But I lost You
in the attraction of worldly things and crudity. When I did not have so
much material attraction and attachment then You were always sitting in my
heart. But when I became infatuated with worldly things then I lost Your
proximity. Everyone is floating in Your divine ideation, infinite liila. By this
everyone’s agonies, sufferings, and darkness of staticity is floating away
into oblivion. Please come more close; please reside in my mind. And there
please play Your sweet flute– sound of silence. Make it full of nectar and
divine attraction. Please inundate everything with Your divine attraction.
Baba, I want You in my heart, please grace me…

== SOME HINTS FROM SENIOR ACARYA DIARY ==

Namaskar,
I raised the point with my family acarya in this crucial time when such a
negative environment has been created both inside AMPS and around the globe
in general society as well. If I look at the matter deeply and seriously
then I feel disturbed. Sometimes I could not sleep in the nightime thinking
about what is going to happen. And then surrendering to Baba I thought that
Baba will manage. That way I got some relief.

So when I think about the problems of the organisation and the problems of
the general society then I feel disturbance. I think how many are
suffering. But those who are selfish, they are indulged in their own petty,
personal matters only; their worries are limited up to themselves. But
those who have a broader mind, they think about the well-being of all.
With this aspiration, I asked, ‘What is the way I can help to resolve all
this?’

My senior family acarya told that, ‘In order to be able to help others it
needs that one should be properly educated. If you yourself are illiterate
then how you can teach others. And to help patients one should know the
medical science. Similarly to solve the problems of others a strong
personality is needed. And Baba has given a very good guideline– that is
why He is emphasizing about the importance of spiritual practice’.

‘So if one does sadhana then their personality gets uplifted and stronger.
In that situation such elevated people are capable to help others.
Otherwise those whose one’s own backbone is weak they cannot lift others.
And to build up a strong mental and spiritual force and make the mind
capable to serve others, then in one’s own individual life sadhana is
needed. That is why Baba says materialistic minded persons cannot solve any
problem.

So sadhana has utmost importance in each and everyone’s life.
Then I raised the point that theoretically I understand this, but most of
the time it is difficult to manage proper sadhana. So please guide me how I
can do better.

And then my family acarya asked: “Usually how many minutes sadhana do you do,
and what is the ratio of shuddhis?”

I told, “When I have time, then I do one and a half hours sadhana in the
morning. And shuddhis I do for a few minutes.”

Then he said “How many minutes of shuddhis do you do in one and a half
hours sadhana?”

I told “Sometimes maybe two minutes, sometimes three. Approximately.”

Then my family acarya further explained,

“This is not good. You may not be able to manage sadhana properly by this
way. According to Baba’s teachings in Senior Acarya Diary: suppose you are
doing sadhana for one hour. Then in that one hour, the duration of shuddhis
must be around 3/4 of the time – means around 45 minutes. And if you will
do 45 minutes shuddhis properly, then mind will be fully concentrated in
better way. And then the last 15 minutes quality of sadhana will be far
greater.”

“And if you do in different way. Suppose you do shuddhis for one minute,
and 59 minutes you just go on chanting your mantra on ista cakra. In other
words I can say, if shuddhis are done in one minute, and 59 minutes
sadhana, then you will not have good result. Because mind will not be fully
focused in this way of doing. And ideation also will be poor. And that,
because of lack of proper shuddhis.”

He continued,

“To do shuddhis in a better way, whether you are individually doing sadhana
or collectively, first you should recite some prabhat samgiita loudly. At
least that much loud that you can hear by your own ears. Singing mentally
will not suffice. Your mouth and vocal chord must be engaged. By this way,
engaging some organs in good pursuits, brings the mind in a positive
direction. So first, prabhat samgiita should be done in an audible way. And
after that, one should sing kiirtan as far as possible in proper lalita
marmika dance. At least minimum 5-6 minutes, if you cannot do longer. In
this way, this will be the first 10 minutes practice. And then you can
start your first lesson. Means, then you start shuddhis. And following
that, proceed furthermore.”

“Now, remember that in shuddhis, quickly reaching to ista cakra is not the
proper way. On the way, all the important places you must stay with proper
ideation for some time. And then in the last, when ultimately you reach
your ista cakra, then mantra should be repeated with proper ideation.
Without proper ideation and bhava, it will not bring proper vibration.”

Because of my unawareness, I was not practicing this process in the past.
So when I practiced, I felt it was better. And then I thought that this is
a very good thing. And if this will help others, those who are not aware,
then by this way Baba will be pleased. Keeping this feeling in my heart,
this above I wrote.

I am finishing my letter with these following guidelines of our Revered
Guru, Baba Shrii Shrii Anandamurtiiji.

Here Baba guides us that death can approach any time to anyone so sadhana
should not be avoided at any cost– rather it must be given an important
place in our life.

BABA says, “You have been wandering through the labyrinth of a myriad of
lives. You have been ever advancing toward this stage. Knowingly or
unknowing you are being drawn unto Him. This is the summum bonum of life.
As long as you have not realised Him there is no siddhi in your life.” (SS,
part 10)

BABA says,
“Whoever is born is bound to die and one is constantly approaching death,
not knowing when it will come. It is never certain if one will live to grow
old. Yet people reserve the most important work of practising sa’dhana’ for
the time when the body has become completely enfeebled and the fatuous mind
of old age has become entangled in the reactions of this life to such an
extent that it is afraid of starting anything new. Ordinarily it is fear of
one’s approaching death that makes one think of God in old age. One’s evil
deeds begin to haunt one, and one starts praying and imploring God to save
him or her from the consequences of one’s deeds. There is no value in
remembering God in old age, when it is not possible to concentrate the mind
due to the weakness and disease of the body and its preoccupation with the
reactions (sam’ska’ras) of the deeds of this life. The mind then is caught
up in the infirmities of the body, in the diseases of old age, impending
death, and most of all, in memories of past incidents, and it is impossible
to concentrate it. For these reasons one is incapable of intuitional
practice. There is an Indian saying that only a young bamboo can be bent,
and if you attempt to bend a mature one you will only break it. That is,
anything new should be started early in life, and so should intuitional
practice.” (AMEP)

Namaskar,
Ramashankar

******************************************

Here BABA is indirectly talking about Mohammed and Jesus Christ.
“‘I am the messenger of God, and what I say is the way. Those who follow me
are the blessed people, and others are the cursed people.’ Those who think
thus are not guided by the spirit of universalism, and it should be
understood that they can never attain the supreme Goal in life. They are
neither apostles nor prophets, nor are they realized souls. They themselves
are following a defective path – not a Neo-Humanistic path – and they also
explain things wrongly to others. People thus far have obeyed them out of
fear, but in fact they have merely confused others.” (NHNS-1, p. 54)

******************************************

Stand of AM: Ending Life Prematurely

Date: Mon, 08 Feb 2010 11:36:48 -0000 (GMT)
From: Singh_Manindra
Subject: Stand of AM: Ending Life Prematurely
To: AM-GLOBAL

Baba

“Jamiin a’sama’n tumha’ra’, tumha’ra’ jaha’n sa’ra’…” (P.S. 4335)

Purport:

Baba, this earth & this vast blue sky belongs to You. Not only that, but
this entire universe is Your property. You are the sole owner of
everything. I am Yours; You are mine. I want to move according to Your
direction. You are my everything.

You are the source of all energy. Whatever strength the sun has, it is
coming from You. Similarly whatever fragrance comes from the flower garden,
that is Your fragrance. You are the divine Entity which decorates
everyone’s heart.

Baba, You are always with everyone in sorrow as well as in happiness,
equally. You are always residing in my heart; in Your longing my eyes are
showering tears. Baba, You are the controller of everything. This entire
created world belongs to You. You are mine and I am Yours…

== STAND OF AM: ENDING LIFE PREMATURELY ==

Namaskar,
In our Ananda Marga, human life is regarded as something invaluable and
highly treasured. The gift of human life is not easily gotten and once
achieved it should be used to follow the path of bhagavata dharma. This we
all know and are doing.

So just as our Marga protects the rights of the baby and is against
abortion, similarly we support the idea that one’s life should not be
curtailed prematurely– without an ideal in mind.

Because sometimes human life gets prematurely curtailed due to extreme
circumstances. From time to time this happens and that is what is discussed
here below.

SELF-IMMOLATION VS SUICIDE

It is not uncommon that people get confused between the terms:
self-immolation and suicide. In AM though, self-immolation has a deeper
meaning; self-immolation is not achieved just by lighting oneself on fire.
That alone is not self-immolation according to our spiritual way of thinking.

The reasoning behind this is very simple and clear. The act of
self-immolation is intrinsically linked with one’s ideation and outlook. If
at the time when someone leaves their body they have true cosmic ideation,
then that person becomes one with Brahma. And with that ideation only does
it qualify as self-immolation.

If however that cosmic ideation is not present at the time of leaving the
body– and instead one is following a narrow-minded or dogmatic approach,
then that person will become the object of what they were thinking. Means
they will convert themselves into crudeness. So if one kills themselves
while in that distinctly lower state of mind, such a death is the sinful
act of suicide– not the higher ideal of self-immolation.

EXAMPLE FROM ANANDA MARGA

For example when our Dadas did self-immolation in the past during the
1970s, their mind was infused with Cosmic ideation. They did not have any
group, party, national, or any sectarian religious interest. Rather they
died exclusively for the great cause of Bhagavad Dharma. And because the
ideation of the Great was dominating in their mind, then they became one
with Parama Purusa.

Whereas if the thought of some narrow party or nation is flooding one’s
thought waves at the time of one’s demise, then that person will become
transformed directly into matter etc. Their approach is suicide and they
will become negative microvita. Because that action was devoid of ideation
on Parama Purusa.

CLEAR-CUT DIFFERENCE

Thus there is no question of dilemma or misunderstanding about the
difference between self-immolation and suicide. This point is crystal clear
point. If one’s ideation is supreme then the result is also supreme; and if
one’s way of thinking is narrow then the result is narrow, i.e. negative
microvita.

So it is quite clear that in the ongoing cases of self-destructive bombings
in the name of Islam or Judaism etc, then those dogmatic persons committed
suicide. And they became negative microvita.

Here following are various teachings & explanations which Baba has give
about this topic.

SUICIDE IS SAME AS HOMICIDE

First and foremost, according to Baba’s guideline, suicide itself is
condemnable. Because when Parama Purusa has given a human body, and because
of any reason if someone purposefully kills themself, then they are
inviting the same amount of sin as if they were killing another human being
(homicide).

The point is that when Parama Purusa has supplied this human body, nobody
has the right to destroy it by demolishing themselves. If anybody kills
oneself, it means in future they will not be graced by new human life.

For example, if you give a pen a paper to one very small 6 month old
infant, and then the baby tears up the paper and throws it away on the
ground, and chews the pen and throws it outside the window. Then his loving
parents will think that this baby is not yet ready for those things. Let it
grow more, then I will provide these materials.

Same way, Parama Purusa does not grant new human life to people after they
commit suicide. Rather, the died person will have to wait a very, very long
period. Even as long as millions of years. Because when someone has
committed suicide, it may take millions of years to wander as negative
microvita. So killing oneself is an abominable act.

BABA IS AGAINST SUICIDE

In His discourses Baba has clearly warned for people not to commit suicide.

Specifically in the book Microvita in a Nutshell, Baba addresses the topic of
disembodied souls. And there he has given a graphic explanation about the
negativity of suicide:

Baba says, “People who commit suicide due to humiliation, psychic distortion,
frustration or the overpowering influence of excessive attachment, anger,
greed, vanity, jealousy, etc. get the status of kabandha yoni after death.
Wherever these entities happen to see other human beings under the spell of
psychic derangement, they incite them to commit suicide.” (MVNS p.100)

So this Kabandha is one type of negative microvita. According Baba’s
teaching, such unholy acts like the miner’s suicide in Bolivia was done
under the spell of those ghastly microvita.

Even then some ignorant persons think that by destroying their existence
they will become historical or eternally famous. But I think this is one
type of psychic disease. Nothing more. And it is well known all around the
globe. In general as well as in Ananda Marg society. That, committing
suicide is not some type of glorified action. Rather it is a negative,
psychic disease. It is done by very weak, disturbed, tense, fragile
persons. Those who have strong mind, they never invite such negative
thoughts.

Anyhow, because of any reason if any person commits suicide then surely
they do not get human life again easily. By the story which Baba narrated
in Shabda Cayanika part 2, this picture is very clear. Where Baba is
describing that the British official officer “Sahib” killed himself. And so
many years passed, and his unembodied soul was living in that government
bungalow. And when Baba in his tour visited that bungalow, then because of
His divine compassion Baba blessed the Sahib. Otherwise the Sahib would
have been still under punishment. Even though he was feeling deep
repentance of the crime of suicide which he did.

STORY FROM SHABDA CAYANIKA

Here is that excerpt from Shabda Cayanika where the Sahib who committed
suicide is describing his terrible fate.

“Today I realize what a horrendous mistake I made. …This path of suicide
that I have taken to save my honour has crudified me so much that even
after such a long time I cannot find any deliverance. These days I am
utterly helpless. …Oh, what a painful bondage! Is there no path left open
to me to attain peace! Is there no ointment I can apply which will soothe
the burning of my bondage!” (SC-2 p.66)

Thus it is only Baba’s causeless grace that He granted him (the Sahib) a
better life.

SUICIDE IS TOTALLY NEGATIVE

So all these above Baba’s teachings clearly demonstrates that in a weak
moment, nobody should invite their own disaster by committing suicide. Not
only that, it is our duty as a true devotee of Baba to guide others when
they are feeling depressed or devastated or unsure of themselves. Thus we
hould be prepared and warn them that committing suicide invites long-term
rreparable damage. And that ‘long-term’ means thousands and thousands of
years of punishment. Because the life span of negative microvita is not
limited to ten, twenty, or one hundred years. But far longer than that.

So the entire act of committing suicide is meek and cowardly. Look in this
way. Nowadays all around, in general society, serious negativity is going
on. Their food habits, dogma, and communal rights, and innumerable
problems. And they do not have any proper ideology to move on in the right
direction. So in this situation, our duty is to guide them and bring on the
proper path.

LEAD OTHERS ONTO THE PATH OF LIFE (DHARMA)

So when we are seeing the very low standard of general society where so
many people are mentally imbalanced, then we must never encourage this type
of cowardice mentality. Rather with a full voice of courage and compassion
we should guide them in the proper direction.

Because the duty of sadvipras is to recognise and undergo the problem and
then gain victory. Because, in Ananda Sutram, Baba says “Badha’…laksye”.
Means obstacles are the helping force to reach to the Goal.

So suicide is one sinful act that goes against the essence of humanity and
it should never be confused with the higher ideal of self-immolation. (See
Note 3 and Note 4)

Of course since we have all adopted the sanctified path of AM, then our
success in all the spheres of life is guaranteed.

Baba says, “Ananda Marga is that path of progress, and that is why Ananda
Marga is the only alternative for the preservation of human existence and
civilization.” (PNS-6, p. 62)

Namaskar,
Manindra

Note 1: FOLLOWING STANDARD OF AM

In AM we have our own unique understanding of particular words. And
the surrounding society may have a different way of explaining the same
term. In this way a word can take on multiple definitions and usages. But
we should never indulge in those other interpretations.

For example, general society members may tell that self-immolation
is any form of self-induced death. But in our Marga we will never agree to
such a statement because our understanding of self-immolation is related
with our spiritual outlook. And like this there are many such examples
where words or phrases in the general society take on a vastly different
meaning than how we use the term in AM.

For instance: yajina. In Hindu society yajina means throwing rice
into the sacrificial fire whereas in AM yajina is a complete system of
serving the entire society– from plants to the great rishis. Here is
another example. Take the case of dharma. In AM dharma has the special
meaning of bhagavad dharma, related with vistara, rasa, seva and tadsthiti.

But the surrounding sectors of society have a different understanding where
all day long they are talking about Hindu dharma, or Musselman dharma, or
Christian dharma. So when we say dharma we are talking about a
universalistic approach based on spiritual values whereas the general
society in India uses dharma in accompaniment with any of the dogmatic
religions.

And like this the same type of differences can be pointed out for
so many terms such as shraddha, dharmacakra, puja, and so many others. So
in AM we have our understanding based on the sublime teachings of Taraka
Brahma and in the outside society they use the term according to local
social habits etc. The conclusive point is that when we use any term then
always it is based on the standard of AM. And in this letter that we are
following with respect to the term self-immolation.

Note 2: VARIES FROM COUNTRY TO COUNTRY

In various countries suicide is viewed differently. In Japan committing
suicide is not treated as a crime. But in India, it is a crime. Although if
the person has died, then that is over. But in Britain, if the person is
alive or dead then the person is responsible and it is a punishable
offense. But the overriding idea is that whatever the laws and social
viewpoints may be, according to cardinal human values suicide is sin.

Note 3: MICROVITA

There are seven types of microvita. Some are positive, some are negative.
But those who are very crude, negative, demonic type of people, those who
are engaged in harming others in their whole life, after their demise they
will become pretayoni. Very negative, nefarious type of microvita. They
inspire others to do very negative and dirty things. So this pretayoni is
one of the lowest categories of very negative microvita, which does not
come in even the ordinary negative type of microvita…Pretayoni means
“most detrimental one”. Kabandha is one of them, which inspires others to
commit suicide in their weak moment. For more information, please read the whole
article “Disembodied Souls and Microvita”.

********************************************
Think On This

Baba says, “Human Society is one and indivisible, don’t try to divide it.
Each and every individual should be looked upon as the manifestation of the
Cosmic Entity.” (Ananda Vanii, #21)

********************************************

Check Your Log Book

To: am-global@earthlink.net
From: wellsley29@markwebmail….
Subject: Check Your Log Book
Date: Sun, 07 Feb 2010 14:55:06 -0700 (PDT)

Baba

“Tumi na’ bale esechile, a’j na’ bale cale gele…” (P.S. 1327)

Purport:

Baba, without saying anything You came and appeared in my dhya’na, and
now today without telling You just left– disappeared. Baba, I was lying
in the dust on the path, but You just lifted me up and put me on Your
lap. It is Your grace, O’ Parama Purus’a.

Baba, my dwelling was old and tattered– broken down. And not only that,
I was also without intellect and conscience. Indeed, my condition was so
pitiful that I did not have even one morsel to put into my mouth. But, by
Your grace, You bestowed everything upon me and You taught me all the
things. Baba, I was not understanding the dharma of human life– what human
beings should do, what are the do’s and don’ts– about all these things I
was not at all aware. To get You I did not do any sadhana. But even then by
Your grace You have taught me sadhana and You have blessed me with
perfection to move ahead on the path.

O’ my dearmost Baba, previously in my life I was not even getting the
status of a human being. All the teachings I had been given were full of
dogma. Baba, by Your grace You have poured the sweetness and given me a
voice and lifted me onto Your Divine lap. Baba, You have done everything.
Secretly You came and secretly You left– even then You have arranged
everything for me. Baba, Your grace is unforgettable…

== CHECK YOUR LOG BOOK ==

Namaskar,
When a cab driver wants to know how his day went, he checks his log
book. Then he is able to review and see where he drove.

When a company needs to calculate their output, they view their log book
so they can understand their position.

In that way, each and every person or institution consults their log
book (electronic or otherwise) to find out their true status.

As sadhakas, our approach should not be any different. We too should
have our “log book” – be it a diary, journal, or psychic memory – so we
can understand our course in life.

Here below Baba guides us how to do it.

FROM BUGS TO BIRDS TO DOGS TO HUMANS

There are so many beings in this cosmological order and each has their
own manner of operation.

Small bugs, beetles, worms, crabs, and lizards just function by their
own instinct. They have no higher faculty of mind by which to direct
their life. Such beings just walk or slide along engrossed by their own
inborn desires.

Baba says, “In certain undeveloped creatures, instinct means only inborn
instincts, and in such creatures the psychic waves cannot move beyond
the arena of corporality.” (YP)

Then there are some higher animals like dogs, monkeys, cows, and horses
etc. They are guided by instinct as well as by psychic urge and emotion.
Such animals can be tamed and trained & by that way they develop bonding
relationships with their masters. Instinct does not totally dominate
their life, they also have higher functioning minds that allow them to
act according to their psychic or sentimental feeling.

For instance, your dog may not defend your neighbor from an intruder but
certainly if you are attacked then your dog will defend you with all its
might. That is because your dog is emotionally attached with you – it
has that psychic connection.

Likewise your horse or cattle will not respond to others but it will
obey your direction. All higher animals have that capacity or psychic
urge. They are not exclusively guided by instinct. They are a bit more
developed.

Baba says, “Animals who have developed themselves to some extent,
mentally, spiritually, just like monkeys, just like dogs, have got some
intellect. Although they are also guided by instinct, [but] because of
close association with human beings that intellect has been a bit
developed. A dog can carry a hurricane lantern like this, can carry a
stick like this. It can feel the pains and pleasures of its master.”
(AV-14)

So there is a world of difference between undeveloped and developed
creatures.

Finally we come to human beings. We have instinct, psychic urge
(sentiment and emotion) and ideology. However, we are only to be guided
by ideology, not by instinct or emotion. That is Baba’s strict directive.

Baba says, “Human life, unlike animal life, is an ideological flow.
Where there is no ideological flow, in that case, even if the physical
structure is just like a man, he is not a man, but is an animal. So each
and every human being must try his best to maintain the special status
of humans. It is our first duty. It is our fundamental duty. This
ideological flow must be maintained at any cost.”

MUST CONSULT OUR LOG BOOK

Thus it is our bounden duty to check our log book daily. This human body
is a machine. It was not designed for carnal pleasures or sentimental
delights. Ours is the path of ideology. Our minds are to be trained in
that way and our bodies are to be used for that course of movement – not
any other.

So we have to be vigilant and ensure that our every action is according
to AM ideology. Failing that we will be involved in misusing our bodies
and minds, in which case either in this life or the next, we will get a
body that is only usable for more crude pursuits. We will become an
animal or even worse.

The situation is serious and the best way to keep abreast of the matter
is to consult your log book and review your course of actions. With an
unbiased mind, one is to critically analyse their modus operendi in
life. We should ask ourselves: Was that action guided by ideology?

If the answer is a “no” or partial no, then that is the degree to which
we are going against our human dharma and becoming transformed into a
beast.

So multiple times through the course of every day we should consult our
log book and see how we are doing. When with co-workers, when with our
family, when making decisions, when at the dinner table, and throughout
all our movements in life, we should readily consult our logbook and
ensure we are heading in the right direction. Because if we are not,
then our fate it not good – we will become a beast.

That is the very serious matter at hand. That is one way to think of it.

CROSSING THE OCEAN TO PARAMA PURUSA

The other way to think of it is to view this life as an opportunity to
reach Parama Purusa. In the former manner we are trying to refrain from
being dragged into animality and in this outlook we clearly have our
sights set on divinity.

In this approach we are to wholeheartedly embrace ideology and cross the
ocean of maya. We are most fortunate to have such an opportunity. That
is the proper use of this human machine or human body.

Baba says, “Then who can get Him? They say it is very, very easy. What
to do? “O Lord, I am Your creation. I am Yours, I am at Your disposal.
This body is a machine. Utilize it.”” (AV-14)

By surrendering one’s mind to Him and using this body to do His work,
then one is sure to cross the ocean of maya and reach up to Him. That is
what happens when one leads a life based on ideology, by His grace.

That is the best use of this human life.

BABA’S MANILA DISCOURSE

Furthermore, in His discourse, “Utilize All Your Potentialities” (21
April 1969 morning, Manila) Baba clearly tells us that if we have a
tractor and a big lot of land then we are foolish and ignorant if we do
not use the tractor and just let the land become totally wild and
unusable. Our job is to use the tractor to make the land arable – that
is the proper use of the tractor. That is what that machine (i.e.
tractor) is for.

Similarly, this human body is a tool or a machine for attaining Him.

Yet all too often people misuse their bodies for other crude pursuits.
Some get diverted towards sex and others towards all kinds of emotional
cum sentimental attachments. In that case not only are they going to
degenerate, but they are losing out on a great opportunity to attain
godhood and sit on the divine lap of Parama Purusa.

So as sadhakas we should regularly review our code of conduct and ensure
we are moving on the path of ideology. We should be swift to use our
machine for attaining Him. Just sitting back and letting life go by is
not enough. We are to utilise this life for reaching His divine lap, by
His grace. And the way to do that is to check your log book. We are to
see how far our intentions and actions are ideological or not. Are we
doing what we should be doing or not. Then we can ensure our human
machine is being used properly – then we will reach the Goal (Baba).

BABA’S BLESSING

By Baba’s grace, He has blessed us with a wonderful opportunity. We
should not waste it and degrade back into animal life wherein we are
just goaded by crude instincts. Ours is a human life that is meant for
the expression of ideology. By consulting out log books on regular basis
we can keep ourselves on track. That is the best utilisation of this
human life. Then we will cross the noose of maya and get Him.

Baba says, “You have got a human body. Make the best utilization of it.
Forget everything of the past from this very moment…Go on working in
such a way that you give your proper worth to society, and you bring
about the actual evolution of humanity. Be a devotee of humanity as well
as a devotee of Parama Purus’a. Let victory be with you.” (YP)

Namaskar,
Jiivendra

Note: READ THIS RELATED LETTER

This below letter is related with the topic discussed above.

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2010/02/known-unknown-love.html

********************************************
Avoiding Junk

Baba says, “Now everywhere, in cent per cent of the cases, there is
wastage of human psychic potentiality. The psychic potentialities of
human beings are immense, but people do not utilize them because most of
their valuable time is wasted in undesirable thoughts, in psychic
extravaganza…wasted in petty or useless activities. How much time do
people really get to devote to worthwhile tasks?”

“This psychic extravaganza should be checked either by physical
approach, or psychic approach, or by spirituo-psychic approach…”

“I have already said that the scope of rationality and rationalization
should be increased more and more, and for this, unnecessary waves
should be removed from the plane of physicality. From the psychic sphere
also, unnecessary waves are to be removed. This will remove many burdens
from the mind. ‘I must not bother about petty things, because that will
waste my time’ — people should remember this. This removal or rather
withdrawal of unnecessary and undesirable thoughts emanated from the
mind will help you in rationalizing the major portion of your mental
faculty, so this must also be practised.” (YP, ‘91, p.134-35)

Note: This wastage of mental potential which Baba is describing above is
the common problem these days. Even contemporary researchers and
scientists have also come to realise this. That is why nowadays such
professionals advise people not to overburden the mind with mundane news
broadcasts etc since these programs only invite tension. Various studies
have been undertaken about the effect of the news media on people’s
mental well-being. And they’ve come to the conclusion that these news
broadcasts and movies just burden the mind– making people feel worried
and hopeless etc.

That is why such researchers and sociologists recommend that people take
a few days’ break from watching those various news broadcasts and
popular movies etc. Because these things create multiple problems in
people’s psyche. Not only are they not useful in our practical lives but
the scenes are horrifying and terrible. Just sensationalistic
reporting– nothing more.

Hence Baba’s above guideline is that we should think positive thoughts
and not indulge or expose our minds to that type of junk. If one can
avoid such things altogether then that is very good; that is the best
solution. Otherwise minimizing one’s exposure to those negative elements
will prove helpful. Along those lines, certainly do not waste those
delicate early morning hours exposed to such radio, TV, and crude
things. If one really wants to watch these programs then one should only
schedule a specific amount of time after noon and then watch with a
clear notion of when you will finish.

But of course better is to eliminate it totally and immerse oneself more
in Baba’s dharmic teachings like Ananda Vacanamrtam or Subhasita
Samgraha. His unique discourses will provide a soothing touch and fill
the mind with inspiration. So we should be extremely careful and wise
how we engage our psychic faculty as this has a profound effect on our
overall well-being and health– as well as how useful and purposeful our
lives become. On this topic all Marga brothers and sisters are
encouraged to share their views and experiences.

********************************************

Known & Unknown Love

From: “Karma Rasa”
To: AM-GLOBAL
Subject: Known & Unknown Love
Date: Sat 06 Feb 2010 13:24:09 +0000

Baba

“Vinati ja’i kare tava caran’ dhare…” (P.S. 3687)

Purport:

Baba with folded hands I go on requesting You again and again holding
Your lotus feet that: Please come to my home. Please grace me again and
again. Baba, You have countless abodes to go visit or stay that may be
according to Your liking; even then You should not forget that this
little hut of mine is Your creation. Baba I always dance in Your rhythm
and sing in Your melody, in Your tune. I feel that You are the tune,
melody, and lyrics– everything. I play Your viina.

I am Yours, and everyone is Yours. Your divine play is our world. What
way You play Your liila, that is my entire existence. I am always
ensconced in Your ideation, in Your dhyan. I always speak and sing Your
ideology, Your tales, Your teachings. I move accordingly by Your grace.

Baba, when You play Your flute, with that attraction You pull me close
to You. And that is my vital energy for forward movement. Baba You are
the base of everything. You are the quintessence. Your glory is
unfathomable which cannot be expressed. You are everyone’s soul–
everyone’s heart. Baba with my folded hands I do sastaunga pranam that
You please come to my little hut. Please grace me…

== KNOWN AND UNKNOWN LOVE ==

Namaskar,
Some people may think that only tried and true bhaktas have love for
Parama Purusa – but it is not like that. According to Baba, everyone has
love for Parama Purusa – only some realise it and some not.

Those who realise their longing for the Divine chase after Him; those
who don’t realise it chase after mundane allurements in hopes of
satisfying their unknown urge for the Divine.

IMPORTANT FOR US TO KNOW

For our own knowledge and awareness as well as for AM pracara
activities, we should actively understand the difference – as well as
the relationship – between a’sakti (mundane attraction) and bhakti
(divine love).

By this way, we can help others steer their course towards the Supreme,
by His grace. Because ultimately, all are seeking Him.

A’SAKTI VS. BHAKTI

In clear language, Baba lays down the difference between a’sakti and
bhakti.

Baba says, “In philosophical terms the attraction for finite objects is
called a’sakti and the attraction for the infinite is bhakti.” (SS-1)

Baba says, “Your attraction to the Supreme is called devotion [bhakti],
whereas attraction to any finite objectivity is called a’sakti.
Attraction to friends is a’sakti, attraction to God is bhakti. In the
case of a’sakti the object is limited, in the case of bhakti it is
unlimited.” (SS-24)

Running after the mundane or limited is a’sakti and running after the
Divine is bhakti.

But even then there is a link between the two as Baba Himself says that
a’sakti is nothing but misplaced or misdirected devotion. Please
continue reading.

THOSE ON THE PATH OF A’SAKTI

ARE CHASING AFTER THE DIVINE

Here Baba points out how all have love for Him – all long for Parama
Purusa.

Baba says, “Knowingly or unknowingly everyone is moving around Him.
Everyone is bound to move, otherwise they will lose their permanent
shelter, they will dissociate from their permanent nucleus. This
movement is a natural propensity born out of love for Parama Purus’a.
Love for the Supreme is a natural propensity.” (NKS)

So even those on the path of a’sakti, i.e. those running after mundane
allurements, have an inner hidden urge for Him.

Some may have trouble believing how this is so – but by the following
analogy it will all become quite clear.

BABY EXAMPLE: EATING PENS AND PAPER

We all know that babies are prone to putting all kinds of things in
their mouth: dirt, stones, pens, plastic, etc. Whatever they can get
their hands on, they will stick in their mouth. Is it because they like
that object? No. It is because they are in search of something. They are
in search of food. And the proof is that when the baby chews on that
paper it will cry, spit out the paper, and throw it away. Only when it
gets food will it be satisfied.

Naive people may think the the baby likes to eat pens and shoelaces etc,
as again it will reach for one of those things, but that is of course
not true. When that baby does get some proper food, then it will not
grab after all those other things – then it will not try and put plastic
and paper into its mouth.

Here the whole point is that the baby wants food but due to its own
unawareness it puts so many other things in its mouth.

Similarly, all jiivas desire Parama Purusa. He is the desired Entity of
everyone. But those who do not realise that they desire Him try to
satisfy their longing with so many mundane things. They may chase after
the opposite sex, or money, or name and fame, or so many things – all in
hopes of satisfying their innate yet unknown longing for Parama Purusa.

Invariably, a person tires of those worldly things – or even suffers
backlash from them. Their wife may beat them; their job may make them
stressed out; liquor and drugs will make them sick. All kinds of adverse
reactions will happen, sooner or later.

And in due course- either in this life or the next – they are bound to
understand those mundane things cannot permanently satisfy their inner
quench for the Supreme. Then they will come more directly onto the path
of devotion.

Till that time, they will continue to struggle with a’sakti, wrongly
thinking that this is where their happiness lies.

ALL DESIRE THE SUPREME

Here is another of Baba’s divine teachings that guides us how everyone
is in search of the Divine and it is only the Divine that can satisfy
that the unlimited desires of the jiivatma.

2-5. Tasminnupalabdhe parama’ trs’n'a’nivrttih.

Purport: There is in the living being a thirst for limitlessness. It is
not possible for limited objects to quench one’s thirst. Brahma is the
only limitless entity, and so establishment in Brahma’s bearing alone
puts an end to all thirsts or cravings. (A’nanda Sutram)

Those on the path of a’sakti may get temporary pleasure from crude
allurements like the opposite sex and shiny cars etc, but such mundane
allurements cannot satisfy them for long. Soon again, they will be on
the lookout for something else to satisfy them.

Until, by His grace, they come onto the path of bhakti and attain Him.
Then their desire for the limitless will be satisfied.

All along however, it is their desire and love for the Supreme that
keeps them in the hunt. If they really only wanted a sports car then
that sports car would satisfy them forever and ever. But that never
happens – one day they tire of that car, toss it aside, and look for a
new car or something else to satisfy their longing.

But what human beings desire, of course, is unlimited bliss, or Divine
Love.

Just people embark on the path of a’sakti in order to quench their
desire, as they are unaware that their true longing is for Parama
Purusa, not mundane things.

WHY WORLDLY THINGS ARE ALLURING

Why is then that even though everyone’s innate desire is for the Divine,
worldly attractions are quite alluring. The first reason is because
those things are, after all, part of God’s creation so they have some
temporary charm. Secondly, chasing after mundane things is easy to do.
And thirdly, in their ignorance, people think those things will satisfy
them.

They think, “I will be happy once I get a Mercedes-Benz”, or they think,
“I will be satisfied when I get a bigger house or a higher post” etc.
But none of those things can satisfy them for long.

They think it will give them bliss but all too often those things just
give them heart-ache and pain. Because their real longing is for the
Supreme – that is what is urging them on in their search.

UNKNOWN LOVE FOR THE DIVINE

STARTS IN ANIMAL LIFE

Even though many humans are on the path of a’sakti, it is their longing
for the Divine that is the driving force in their hunt for happiness.
And it is not just humans but developed animals also that have such an
urge.

Monkeys, dogs, elephants and others also have an unknown urge for Parama
Purusa. A dog’s desire to please his master is the seed form of love for
Parama Purusa. Same is true for a monkey’s desire to please his trainer.

Such animals are just on the cusp of human life and certainly they will
attain that in their next birth.

ONLY PARAMA PURUSA CAN QUENCH HUMAN LONGING

Because only the beginningless and endless Parama Brahma is infinite,
only He can satisfy all human longing.

Baba says, “Brahma is the only limitless entity, and so establishment in
Brahma’s bearing alone puts an end to all thirsts or cravings.” (Ananda
Sutram)

Once human beings understand that they are in love with Parama Purusa,
then they will chase after Him. It is then that they realise that their
travels on the path of a’sakti are fruitless and they have to properly
direct their devotion for Parama Purusa.

BABA’S BLESSING

By Baba’s grace, all love Him. This fact must be made common to all then
it will be easy to goad everyone toward that Divine Entity. We should
help everyone realise that they have innate love for Parama Purusa.

This is a great service as it will spare those on the path
of a’sakti so much trouble and torment. Because those worldly
things can never satisfy their innate longing for the Divine.

As sadhakas, in our pracara, we must help everyone to maximally utilise
their human life. The cycle of birth and death is endless. Only those
who develop samvit (spiritual awakening) can truly set their course
toward the Divine, and attain Him by His grace. We should do this in our
own lives and guide others as well. That is Baba’s order.

Baba says, “…It is the bounden duty to bring all to the path of bliss.
Verily is this a part and parcel of sadhana – to lead others along the
path of righteousness.” (Supreme Command)

Namaskar,
Karma Rasa

Watch Out For This

To: am-global@earthlink.net
Date: Fri, 05 Feb 2010 12:19:48 -0800
From: “Hank Tomasson”
Subject: Watch Out For This

Baba

“Adrira ma’jhe tumi himagiri, pus’per ma’jhe pa’rija’ta…” (P.S. 1685)

Purport:

Baba, You are the Greatest among the great, the Sweetest among the
sweet. Amongst all the mountains, Your status is like the towering
Himalayas. Amongst all the flowers, You are like the most brilliant
parijata flower.

Baba, with Your own hand You are touching and playing the strings of the
viina of my inner core– which is situated in the depths of my heart. With
Your soft, loving touch You are arousing the divine ecstasy in my mind.

Baba, You have brought me on this earth again and again. And You have
inspired me to love You in infinite ways. My whole existence has always
revolved around You; but even then I could never be satiated to my heart’s
full content.

Now You have brought me again on this earth. And by Your grace I have
brought a basketful of love for You. It is in my heart. O’ my Lord, please
remain along with me always– day and night, always.

Among all the things which are dear, You are the Dearest. You are my
Priyatama, the innermost One of my heart. Of all the things which I love,
You are the most dear. You always reside inside my heart.

Baba, what way You are, it is impossible to explain through language. I
do not have any words to express Your glory. So I do sastaunga pranam to
You– thousands of times, infinite times, again and again.

Baba, please keep me at Your lotus feet..

== WATCH OUT FOR THIS ==

Namaskar,
In each and every age the ruling class imposes its values on the entire
society such that the common people chase madly after those things. That’s
why in this present era of extreme capitalism the whole society is blindly
running after money and other materialistic prizes. Because the vaeshyans
are in power so crude things like money and automobiles etc spell “success”.

No doubt we Ananda Margiis are aware about the theory behind all this, even
then in our personal day to day affarirs we should be careful not to get
dragged into that flow.

That means as sadhakas we have to exercise great caution when comparing
ourselves with others. Or more precisely we must not fall into the trap of
comparing ourselves with others exclusively on the point of materialistic
gain.

Because our human personality is three-fold: physical, psychic, and
spiritual. But because the common mass is primarily submerged in
degenerated materialistic life, so naturally then they only chase after
crude physical wealth.

But as Ananda Margiis we know the special secret that we should gain
strength in the psycho-spiritual realm. So we should not compare ourselves
with others on the point of money, material gain, etc. Because that invites
the beginning of an inferiority complex, especially when comparing oneself
with a rich person.

For example, if we compare our own financial level with others’ economic
status then the tendency is to invite problems. One may even fall into the
depths that “except me, all others have a very successful life”. Because they
have better material gains such as their property, house, cars, clothes,
luxury items etc.

COMPARING BY AM STANDARDS

But if we compare ourselves on the point of human potentialities — that is
all one’s physical, psychic and spiritual development– then surely as an
Ananda Margii our lives are far better than those engaged in the ways of
general society, i.e. those eating tamasik foods etc, etc.

As Ananda Margiis we have far more mental purity than materialistic-minded,
crude people. Because our basic aim in life is service– service to Parama
Purusa and service to the society. And we always try to keep away from
dogma. So surely we are not lower than those common citizens in the mental
sphere.

And of course when comparing in the spiritual realm, then there is no
comparison. We are moving on the divine path of Tantra sadhana. Our Guru is
Shrii Shrii Anandamurtiji, the Taraka Brahma. When He graces anyone then He
accepts them as a disciple and He teaches them sadhana, in which case moksa
is guaranteed. So the spiritual life of each and every disciple of Shrii
Shrii Anandamurtiji is guaranteed success.

The sense is that common society is basically crude and dogmatic. Here I am
not boasting about our greatness– we should not develop a superiority
complex. Both superiority and inferiority complexes are bad.

MARGIIS HAVE NOBLE ATTRIBUTES

My sole point is that as Margiis we have all sorts of noble qualities, then
why should we feel inferior with others by seeing their money and property?
And why should we throw ourselves into their flow by competing with them in
the crude mundane sphere only?

Rather one should train the mind to think that ‘my path is not only in the
physical sphere, but all round, in the physical, psychic, and spiritual
spheres’. Then surely, one will not suffer from inferiority complex.
Because in the spiritual sphere, surely being Ananda Margiis we are more
developed than those materialistic, dogmatic people — those living in the
general society.

PSYCHIC DISEASES IN THE WEST

We also know that in so many discourses Baba says that Western society is
completely imbalanced. So much attention is placed exclusively on the
physical sphere while the psychic and spiritual spheres are completely
neglected. That’s why countless psychic diseases are there.

What to say about aged people, even small new-born babies start suffering
from psychic diseases. These days doctors are administering tranquilizing
medicines even to young children. The sense is that in Western society,
psychic diseases are rampant. And it is occupying childrens’ minds also.

From small babies to senior citizens, a higher percentage of people in the
materially developed than among poor countries are in big tension, terrible
condition. But the condition of margiis all around the globe is far better.
Our duty is to show others the right path. Not to fall into their pit.

If mindlessly we throw ourselves in the competition with crude society in
mundane sphere, then the consequences and resultant will be completely
negative– drowned in the desperate ocean of materialism. Which is why
common society is suffering from all kinds of psychic diseases. So by
throwing ourselves into that degenerated approach we will invite that
disaster.

NEGATIVE EXAMPLE PROPAGATED BY PSEUDO-CULTURE “STARS”

It is just like when some crude film star heroes use certain things like a
particular pseudo-culture dress style. Or, smoking in a special style. Like
those film heroes who release the smoke from their cigarette, and they
throw the smoke with their mouth toward the sky in such a round circled
way. Then teenagers get attracted towards that thinking it as a grand idea.

So without considering the matter, teenagers in their innocence blindly
follow those pseudoculture fashions. And those who are rational minded
people, think that what is this nonsense. In consequence good people never
engage in competing with others in pseudo-fashions.

Thus engaging oneself in comparing oneself with others only in the material
sphere is a sort of blindness. Because it is commonly known that those who
place too much importance on the physical sphere, one or another way in
their practical life, they neglect or lag far behind in psychic or
spiritual enhancement. And we know that human life devoid of spirituality
is just animal life.

So the basic idea is, that there should be competition but not only in
physical sphere. For healthy competition there should be physical, psychic,
and spiritual competition all together in a balanced way.

BALANCED WAY OF LIVING– NO FINANCIAL DEBT

If we follow the life of a true Ananda Margii, then there will not be any
need of incurring unnecessary loan for mundane requirements. Rather,
strictness on santosa will solve the problem. So if any margii or WT, if
anyone is incurring loan for their regular worldly needs, that should not
be appreciated. This type of action should be discouraged. Because
according to AM teachings, all margiis belong to one family. So it is our
duty to help others. We should not allow anyone to fall into the bottomless
pit of debt. And by that way we will save them from unnecessary hardship
and a tension filled life.

FORMULA FOR HAPPY LIFE

In His Shabda Cayanika discours Baba further guides us:

Divasasya’s’t'ame bha’ge sha’kam’ pacati yo narah
Anrn’ii aprava’sii ca sa va’ricarah modate

Baba says, “The person who is able to get some vegetables to eat at least
once a day, who incurs no debt and who has no need to leave home to earn a
living, is really happy.” (Shabda Cayanika – 1, Disc. 1)

The above teaching describes three causes for happiness. All are important
and among these three, one point is “Not remaining in debt”. So this gives
the idea that remaining in debt is highly detrimental. Incurring debt means
inviting negativity, restlessness of mind.

So the sense is that we should not blindly compare ourselves with the
common people on the point of material gain. Those who do so, many of them
end up taking loan– thus inviting terrible problems.

Please write your own experiences and advice on this topic.

Namaskar,
Hitendra

Note 1: If we see other Ananda Margiis taking loan and going into debt then
we should not remain passive. Rather out duty is to come forward and
address the issue. Taking loan unnecessarily and incurring debt is very
bad. So here Baba guides us not to allow such things to happen to other
Margiis.

Baba says, “Every Ananda Margi, when he sees any other Margii acting
against the principles of Yama-Niyama, will have to make him shun this
habit either by sweet words or by harsh words or by dealing even more
strictly; and thus will have to make the society strong.” (Guide to Human
Conduct, p.27)

Note 2: Some margiis in various units, are facing terrible economic
conditions. Mostly they were working in the Prout department. And some
senior Prout Dadas inspired them that “Take loan. The banks are all going
to collapse.” So without thinking deeply, some margiis did take a loan.
And now those margiis are facing a very critical conditions. The interest
has multiplied exponentially, and now those who took those loans are
feeling serious economic crisis and tension. Means tension has permeated
into every aspect of their life. So taking loan and developing anxiety on
the point of economic debt, ultimately this leads to the destruction of the
entire personality.

Note 3: MAIN CAUSE OF MENTAL DEPRESSION

In the west, running after materialistc values and forgetting one’s
inner self is one of the main causes of mental depression. This is the central
underlying factor. And all other factors are revolving around this main
cause. Hence they are subsidiary factors while the main cause is falling
prey to the materialistic way of living and comparing oneself with others
primarily on this negative basis. This externalised and defective outlook
leads to all kinds of complexes and psychic disorders including mental
depression.

Note 4: BEAUTY OF DEVOTION

Those who follow a devotional approach– i.e. who follow the path of Ananda
Marga– never fall prey to psychic diseases, and certainly not depression.
Because a devotional outlook wipes out all complexes and brings bliss into
the life.

**************************************
Capacity of A’tma

Baba says, “Till you have a human body go on doing great work. After death
in absence of the brain the mind cannot function in which case one cannot
do anything. But the unit consciousness (atma) can still work. It has the
capacity to work in subtle form.” (Delhi DMC 1984 Discourse)

**************************************

Harmful Art

From: “Will Chaucey”
To: am-global@earthlink.net
Subject: Harmful Art
Date: Thu, 04 Feb 2010 16:51:08 +1000

Baba

“Jyoti-ujjval pra’n'occhal tumi priyo…” (P.S. 2229)

Purport:

Baba, O’ Parama Purusa, You are the Divine Controller of this vast
universe. You are the brilliant effulgence– full of vitality & saturated
& with the love. Baba, You are my dearmost. By Your own glory You are glorified.
O’ Parama Purusa You are ever-adorable.

Baba, I do not have the strength to catch hold of You. With my little
strength and with whatever means I have, I try to catch You– but it is
impossible for me. Instead I remain engrossed in my own self– unit “I”.
This ‘unit I’ is preventing me from coming close to You. Baba, please
transform my ‘I-feeling’, make it Yours.

Baba, with my own strength I will not be able to get You. With the
thread of the spider’s net I will not be able to bind You and hold You.
Because of this, please by Your causeless grace, allow Yourself to get
held. This is my only request to You. Please keep this open for Your
consideration.

Baba, in my mind & in my heart, I have deep longing for You– to have
You close. Please grant me this by Your causeless grace. Baba please
come in my shravan, manan, niddidhyasan, & dhyana and make me Yours…

== HARMFUL ART ==

Namaskar,
One of the great guiding forces in society is artistic expression. If
used properly it can uplift an entire people. Unfortunately, it can also
work in the opposite direction. Seeing the degraded state of humanity
these days, one can easily infer that the art is also of a lowly nature
- spinning society awry. To truly serve humanity means the field of art
must be addressed.

BABA HAS GIVEN GREAT SUPPORT TO ARTISTS

As we all know, Baba Himself gives tremendous value to the role of
artists – setting mandates in both Caryacarya and Human Society to
ensure artists are properly compensated for their contributions. At the
same time, Baba adamantly defines what is art and who can be an artist.

WHAT IS HAPPENING TODAY

Tragically, today, much of what appears as art is nothing but an open
sore for humanity – dragging our society toward depravity. Certainly
what is happening outside AM is worse, but artistic expression within
our Marga is – sometimes – also sub-standard.

Within our human family, there has to be a call for a true renaissance
in the realm of artistic expression – certainly AM should lead the way.

THE NEAR TOTALITY OF HUMAN EXPRESSION

Before getting into the standards of good and bad art, let’s take a
moment to review the gamut of artistic expression. Because art does not
just mean painting a picture.

Art encompasses: Drawing, sculpture, poetry, short stories, lullabies,
drama, dance, narration, film, humor, digital art, novels, tragedy,
magazines, comedy, sketches, sound, pantomime, oration, television,
advertising, interviews, biographies, body painting, music, voice,
graphics, computer art, graffiti, street acts, podcasts, direction,
speeches, design, and much, much more.

Thus we come in contact with art throughout the day in so many ways and
forms; art nearly represents the totality of human expression.

WHAT USUALLY HAPPENS IN THE NAME OF ART

The main problem is that today’s art is not leading people toward
service and blessedness – per Baba’s guideline – but rather toward
sensual degradation and crude materialism.

Baba says, “[Art] is that which moves together with the society, which
leads society towards true fulfilment and welfare by providing the
inspiration for service. The statement “Art for art’s sake” is not
acceptable; rather it is better to say, “Art for service and
blessedness.” ” (AFPS-1)

Unfortunately, nowadays in the west, the slogan art for art’s sake is in
vogue. In the name of art, all kinds of vulgar acts are done. And the
east has mostly fallen into that trap as well.

When the mind is devoid of ideological understanding, then it will be
led by instinct and drawn toward the crude material plane. That is why
art and art history in the west is dominated by nudity, crudity,
sensuality, and the ways of the 5 senses and 5 motor organs. Art has
been limited to lowly expression motivated by baser propensities.

We see this everywhere: Billboards by the roadside, images on the
computer, bodies on the silver screen, even so-called classical art in
the museums, and in so many forms in our daily life. Tragically, this
pulls humanity down and still further down.

All businesses use lewd images in order to promote their products.
“Artists” then become purchased slaves for the capitalist enterprise.

In this way and more, art just becomes nothing but a tool to entrap one
in all the lower tendencies of mind – such that art merely ensnares one
in the sadripus (six enemies) and astapashas (eight bondages).

And in our Marga, we certainly see some signs of this happening as well
- wherein AM has been adversely influence by trends in the general society.

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2008/09/am-movie-still-on-silver-screen.html

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2008/09/more-about-am-movie.html

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2009/02/comparing-firefly-with-sun.html

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2004/09/painted-in-sensual-lesbian-colour.html

Thus inside and outside AM, we often see that art is but a degrading
tool. There are evidences of this in so many realms – I think we need
not review them all here. Suffice to say that such art does nothing for
the welfare of humanity.

Baba says, ” It is such [artists] who indulge in such utterances as “Art
for art’s sake.” A little examination will reveal the harmful influence
of this idea on human society.” (PNS-10)

So many of the crimes against humanity – rape, killing, theft, female
suppression etc – are present or even magnified in daily life by
so-called art forms that goad the human mind toward crudity. When human
beings get fed that idea they carry out those nefarious acts – it happens.

The more sex that is on TV and in films, the worse the problems arise in
society surrounding sexuality transmitted diseases, teenage pregnancy,
extra-marital affairs, the objectification of females etc. There is a
direct relationship between crudity in art and harm in society.

Just as when you see a grossly obese person you can understand what
their diet is, similarly, when you see the status of society, you can
understand the nature of their art. Society is a reflection of the art.

ART FOR SERVICE AND BLESSEDNESS;

WHAT DOES IT MEAN

Baba’s declaration is the art should be for service and blessedness. So
we have to ask ourselves what does that mean and what will that art look
like.

With regards to “art for service”, we can say art that depicts social
welfare and spiritual inclination. And “art for blessedness” refers to
guiding one towards supreme benevolence and divinity.

Thus, art might depict: Narayan seva’ (feeding the poor); someone doing
asanas or meditation or tandava; svadhyaya; or people rising up against
dogma and injustices such as slavery, economic exploitation or
otherwise; bhaktas singing kiirtan. And there are so many ways that the
varied expressions of art can lead people toward the subtle and the
sublime. In essence, proper art should bring the good works of good
people to life.

Some years ago in NYC, there was a brave gentleman who jumped down onto
the subway track in front of a running train in order to save someone
who had fallen. The train ran over both of them, yet they were saved
because the hero kept them beneath the level of the train. That scene
would also make for excellent art as it represents the spirit of human
sacrifice.

In the many lands there is a history of racism or casteism, whether it
be white-black or brahmin-harijan. Our art should not just highlight the
tortures done as that only incites further violence in society; that
just creates rifts and tension between people. Art should also highlight
the struggle, unity, and perseverance of the exploited group as they
rise up and reclaim their dignity. Art should also depict those whites
and brahmins who helped in that cause. It should inspire, unite, as well
as reveal the pain.

So art cannot be relegated to displaying the bleak or the impoverished.
The hope and struggle for victory is also a necessary element. Art as a
medium of history should inspire human to move forward in a unified
fashion and not incite people toward further rioting and bloodshed.
Merely recounting old wounds is not helpful. The message should also
project brotherhood and universal welfare.

In sum, our plays, music, speeches, and all art forms should reflect the
more benevolent side of humanity that goads one toward welfare
activities and spiritual realisation.

There are artists in AM who depicted those who sacrificed their lives
for great cause of dharma. One photographer or painter captured those
who performed self-immolation in order to uphold AM ideals. Others have
made pictures of srsti cakra (cycle of creation). And many more have
captured the essence of neo-humanism in their art. Those are wonderful
expressions of art.

And of course, Baba’s lengthy enterprise wherein He guided artists of
Bengal to create dioramas are ideal examples of artistic expression.

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2008/09/unique-gift-diorama.html

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2009/11/mystery-in-field-of-devotion.html

ART IS A POWERFUL TOOL

We must remember that art is a most powerful tool. Artists are most
often dynamic people who are highlighted in society. Naturally then our
youths are drawn to them. Yet if their art forms are degrading then that
will lead an entire generation of young people astray. We see that
happening now with many adolescents and youths in our society. They are
rushing headlong toward degradation and sensuality because that is what
their (pseudo) cultural heroes are doing.

Baba says, “The youth of a country are attracted to artists; it is
therefore the duty of society and the state to monitor these artists’
ideals and character. Otherwise they may exert a harmful influence on
young men and women who are the future hope of society. For this reason
it is essential for artists to have impeccable conduct, a healthy
lifestyle and strength of character. If those whom youths respect as
ideal men and women possess an ideal character, the characters of those
whom they influence will no doubt also be positively affected. In
addition, ideal artists and actors who have a strong character will be
able to express their artistic brilliance more sweetly and completely.
Characterless, drunken or greedy artists will be considered liabilities
by their fans and society.” (HS-1)

Thus artists cannot just be given the distinguished title based on their
artistic endeavour – they must also be proper in their all-round
behaviour as well.

BABA’S BLESSING

By Baba’s grace He has blessed us with clear-cut guidelines in the realm
of art. Without that society cannot progress. By propagating AM ideals,
all aspects of life – including art – will reflect great social
consciousness more more sublime realisation.

Baba says, “The only way to save oneself from this kind of psychological
degradation is to keep one’s mind constantly engaged in the thought of
the Great and to always look upon the world with sweet, benevolent
sentiments. Artists and actors must never forget this even for a moment
because they have a great responsibility to society and an immeasurable
influence over it.” (HS-1)

Namaskar,
Vinay

***************************************
Proper Method of Sas’t'aunga Pranam

Baba says, “Prostration is called sas’t'aunga pranama…Of the five sensory
organs (eyes, ears, nose, tongue, and skin), one, the skin, can be omitted,
and of the five motor organs (vocal chord, hands, legs, excretory and
genital organ), one, the vocal chord can be omitted. This leaves the eight
constituent parts. And the prostration made with these eight body-parts is
called sas’t'aunga pranama.” (APH-6, p. 398)

Note 1: As we all know, sas’t'aunga pranam is only done to Guru, not to
anyone else.

Note 2: Here following is the etymological meaning of the term sas’t'aunga.

sa + as’t'a + unga = sas’t'aunga
(with) (eight) (parts) = with eight parts

Thus, as Baba tells us in the above quote, “the prostration made with these
eight body-parts is called sas’t'aunga pranama.”

Note 3: In Baba’s small encyclopedia book known as Laghu Nirukta, on pages
337-38 Baba clearly defines that sastaunga pranam means to lie down in
front of Guru like a stick, completely straight. Specifically, when in the
lying posture, both the arms get extended straight over the head with the
palms together. Thus from the very tip of the middle finger down to the
bottom of the feet, one’s entire body will be one perfectly straight line.

Note 4: As a general rule, the amount of floor spaced needed to do
sas’t'aunga pranam is 2-3 feet more than the actual height of the person.

Note 5: In Laghu Nirukta, Baba also clarifies that the Personality to whom
you do sas’t'aung pranam does not derive any benefit per se. Rather those
doing this practice get 100% of the benefit in the psychic and spiritual
spheres. Hence this practice of sastaunga pranam is a scientific process
for acquiring greatness.

Note 6: For biological reasons, women should not do the mudra aspect of
this practice.

***************************************

Specialties about Guru Sakash

Date: Wed, 03 Feb 2010 11:18:42 -0000
To: am-global@earthlink.net
From: Mandal.Virendra@bharata.net…
Subject: Specialties about Guru Sakash

Baba

“A’ka’shabhara’ a’jake ta’ra’…” (P.S. 2523)

Purport:

Baba, the sky of this amavasya night is filled with the stars. The
sweet, nectar-like breeze is blowing mildly. The mind is floating in divine
ecstasy from the known to the unknown world– towards its final
destination. Baba, ensconced in Your ideation, my mind is getting lost in
Your divine bliss.

Baba, the lily flower is constantly looking towards the sky; the aroma
of flowers is emanating all around. They have forgotten themselves and lost
their awareness about their own unit existence. They restlessly move in the
attraction of one call.

Baba in Your longing I am sitting alone, counting the stars. I
understand that by Your grace I have lost myself in this beautiful
atmosphere and the attraction of Your love. Baba, You are ever-gracious and
You are always remaining by my side and guiding me. Baba, on this amavasya
night my heart is yearning and longing for You. Please grace me by coming
closer and still more close…

== SPECIALTIES ABOUT GURU SAKASH ==

Namaskar,
Every Ananda Margii has realised that Baba has blessed us with the most
complete sadhana practice– one that touches every sphere of existence. All
the lessons have their unique role and, when practiced sincerely, bring a
huge spiritual flow into the life of the sadhaka.

BABA’S BLESSING OF GURU SAKASH

Plus in June 1990, we are all aware that Baba has bestowed upon us a
special and distinct sadhana practice where we are blessed to receive His
shelter. This is known as: Gurusakash.

Baba says, “Gurusaka’sha means ‘near the Guru, under the Guru’s umbrella,
under the Guru’s wings, in the Guru’s shelter’.” (Yoga Psy. p.146)

TO BE DONE DAY & NIGHT

Of course all are aware that this especially devotional Guru Sakash
practice is to be done immediately upon waking up in the morning.
But what some sadhakas may not realise is that if one awakens during the
middle of the night then before going back to sleep one should pointedly
sit up and do Guru Sakash– visualizing Him in Guru Cakra.

Specifically one senior family acarya has given this advice:

‘In case, by any reason, you wake up in the middle of your sleep, then also
Guru Sakash has to be practised for a few minutes before again going to
sleep.’

WHOLE NIGHT WILL BE BLISSFUL

Just as many sadhakas have experienced that when Guru Sakash is done
properly in the morning then the whole day becomes charged with His bliss.
Similarly when Guru Sakash is done with a pointed mind at night, then one’s
entire sleep gets drenched in His ideation. That special feeling will carry
over through the whole night.

ALL ARE ENCOURAGED TO DO

So this approach of doing Guru Sakash whenever one awakens from sleep is a
practice for all sadhakas. Everyone is encouraged to try and see how this
benefits their existence– what sweetness this brings into the life.

STANDARD POINTS FOR DOING GURU SAKASH

When you wake, then immediately sit on your bed in an upright position. Then
place your finger on top of your head. And then you will have some touching
sensation there on the crown / top of your head. And then try to visualize
BABA there. Although Guru cakra is a little below. But when the mind will
start going from the lower cakras to the upper cakras, then at least the
mind will reach a little closer to Guru Cakra or at the Guru Cakra itself.
Otherwise it is not easy. And if for few seconds your mind reaches to the
Guru Cakra and there you will visualize Baba, then you will feel tremendous
bliss. And if the same Baba’s image you are seeing somewhere else in
another lower cakra, i.e. not in Guru Cakra, then you will not realize such
bliss. So by that way you can feel that if you felt extreme bliss on
certain point then you should consider that was Guru Cakra.

BABA’S DESCRIPTION OF GURU SAKASH

Baba says, ‘”Pra’tah shirasi shuukle’abje dvinetram’ dvibhujam’ gurum’…”

“Early in the morning one should meditate on the Guru in Vara’bhaya
Mudra with two hands and two eyes seated on a white lotus in Guru cakra,
and address Him with your most loving and affectionate epithet…”

“In what state does the Guru, endowed with two eyes and two hands exist?
In the Vara’bhaya Mudra (in the posture of holding out the boon of
fearlessness) He is your well-wisher, and as a matter of fact, the doer of
your good.”

“The epithet with which you address the Guru or silently speak during
your dhya’na or Gurudhya’na should also be used by you at the time of this
Gurudhya’na. Always address the Guru at a stretch. This is Gurusaka’sha.”
(10 June 1990)

COMING IN CONTACT WITH HIM

Baba says, “When you will come in close contact with the Supreme Entity you
will find that you have no other wealth superior to devotion. All other
worldly possessions will prove of no avail. Only devotion enables you to
come into close contact with Him. This is the goal of human life. This is
true process.”

“You have been wandering through the labyrinth of a myriad of lives. You
have been ever advancing toward this stage. Knowingly or unknowing you are
being drawn unto Him. This is the summum bonum of life. As long as you have
not realised Him there is no siddhi in your life.” (SS, part 10)

Namaskar
Virendra

Note: SHOULD ONE RECITE THE SHLOKA OR BABA’S NAME

There hasn been ongoing discussion about how to actually do Guru
Sakash – some mistakenly think that they should recite the shloka.

This below letter clarifies this issue

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2009/06/babas-guidline-calling-him.html

*********************************************
Religious Dogma and Females

Baba says, “In the past it was the practice in India that if a woman heard
the recitation of the Vedas even by accident, molten lead was poured into
her ears. This was done because if women were not suppressed they could not
be easily exploited and ordered about to do menial work, like maid
servants.” (PNS-16)

Note: Religions have always suppressed and exploited various sections of
society in order to impose their dogmatic ideas. Weaker, minority groups
always suffered terribly at the hands of religion. And always it was always
the all-powerful clergy who soaked up the benefits. That is, all the rules
and regulations were bent in favour of the dominant class, i.e. the male
clergy etc.

So since the birth of religion on this globe, various anti-social and
harmful activities have been done in the name any particular religion. In
that circumstance, in order to protect the downtrodden masses, the state or
government has had to intercede and declare those religious decrees to be
unlawful.

For instance, in the US, the state has stepped forward and opposed the
false rule that black and whites should not marry. Yet for years and years
the dominant white churches opposed these inter-racial marriages. But, in
the due course of things, the US government has declared such inter-racial
unions, i.e white-black marriages to be legal. Likewise in India the
government has come forward to make ordinances against the Hindu tradition
that the wife must burn herself to death by throwing herself on the
husband’s funeral pyre. Now this dogmatic religious tradition is basically
outlawed and not done anymore. Plus in the US, the government has declared
that polygamy is illegal– a man can no longer keep multiple wives. So the
Mormon religion and others like it in the US can no longer impose rule that
a man can have as many wives as he likes.

In all these circumstances when religion has imposed hateful and harmful
rules against the weaker sections of society, at some point the government
was forced to take a stand against those religious dogmas by declaring them
illegal. This we have witnessed in nearly every country around the globe.

So today when the various Muslim communities impose the idea that women
must wear a veil in public, then soon we are going to see this reversed by
various governments. Especially because, at present, radical Muslims use
the veil as a way to hide the face of their terrorist attackers. In that
case, it is the duty of the government to intercede and declare such veils
as illegal. Because in the present moment, in the name of wearing a veil,
both male and female Muslim terrorist bombers sneak into public places to
carry out their attacks. Because in many countries, male policeman are
prohibited to ask females to lift their veil. Then that veil becomes a
special tactic of Muslim religious radicals to sneak their attackers–
either male or female– into public events and carry out their destructive
plans. Because anyone can hide behind that veil and go where they like. All
because of their dogmatic religious rule that females must cover their face
with a veil in public.

Given this, states and governments have no other recourse than to outlaw
the dogmatic provision that females must always move in public wearing a
veil. And soon we will see this law come into effect. Because at present,
dogmatic Muslim leaders are imposing this illogical rule on females and
side by side using this as a means to carry out their heinous activities.

*********************************************

The Way Our Prout Treatise Got Altered

From: “Motilal Pandey”
To: am-global@earthlink.net
Date: Tue, 02 Feb 2010 06:28:34 +0500
Subject: The Way Our Prout Treatise Got Altered

Baba

Baba has given this following song to warn those who are demons in human
form, who by their nefarious work are destroying the peace by spreading
poison and bringing disaster.

“Manus’ manus’ ha’ra’ye hunsha kotha’y calecho tumi. A’ka’sh ba’ta’s
bis’iye diye narak kare marttyabhu’mi…” (PS 1190)

Purport:

Why have you lost your rational sense and started moving on the path of
annihilation and ruination. You made this golden earth poisonous with the
domination of your disastrous theories, i.e. the dogma of groupism etc. You
threw away the high ideals of spirituality and you forgot the eternal truth
that whatever strength you are getting, that is coming from Him…Parama
Purusa…Baba… He is the source. So you lost the sense and you do not
like to understand that, to pulverize your ego, the trident of Parama
Purusa is active…

== THE WAY OUR PROUT TREATISE GOT ALTERED ==

Namaskar,
Ours is a universal society aimed at projecting Baba’s ideals to one
and all. So we have to be vigilant when any impediment within the Marga
crops up and steers things in their own direction.

For all those who care about Prout – which is everyone – please read
the following with great care.

LOOK WHAT HAPPENED TO PNS 19 & 20

One group has worked hard to alter and distort Baba’s presentation and
teachings on Samaj.

Let me explain further. Specifically, two editions of the Prout in a
Nutshell series, i.e. parts 19 & 20, got completely coloured with
Bangalisation. Because in those two editions there are 8 full discourses
dedicated to Bengal. Giving the false impression as if the Amra Bengali
samaj is the only samaj on the planet or that Baba only gave importance to
that samaj. But this is not the case at all because on this planet there
are 241 samajas and Baba in His own unique way gave equal importance to
them all.

But after 1990 led by the heavy hand of Sarvatmananda, B group
stuffed the pages of our Prout books exclusively with discourses on Bengal
while the many other samajas of India were discarded entirely; or like
Bihar if they got place then very little space was given in comparison to
Bengal. And for overseas samajas, the condition is the same. Either they
were completely discarded or given very little place. So it is clear that
with a partial hand their intention was only to highlight the Bengalistan
area at the cost of other places.

BABA’S DIVINE APPROACH

Yet the spirit of Baba’s teachings and Baba’s practical approach is
completely different.

Whatever samajas Baba visited and even those places He did not physically
attend to, always Baba recognised the value of and encouraged the
development of all samajas. Toward this end He regularly gave dictations
about the plans and programs to execute in the various samajas. And
Proutists from all over the globe personally noted down and received these
guidelines from Baba.

So those aware know that Baba’s teachings were related with so many aspects
of the development of the various samajas on the topics such as
agriculture, industry, irrigation, trade, culture, history etc. And many
more things. And on those occasions, Baba spoke in great detail about
innumerable samajas. Huge time was allocated for this. But such important
guidelines of Baba did not get place in the Prout. Only Bangla samaj points
got place in the Prout books.

THEIR GROUPIST DESIRE

Due to B group’s deep seeded desire to impose their Bengali Raj, they
made sure that only Baba’s teachings related with Bengali areas got the
upper hand. Only their own samaj discourses were highlighted in the Prout
Nutshell books. And Baba’s talks about other samajas did not get the
place– they were neglected and rejected outright.

CHECK OUT PNS 19 & 20

Because if you look at the Prout 19 and 20 then you will get 8 discourses
which are exclusively related with samaj of Bengali area. And about South
Indian samaj or north or western India they were discarded from these Prout
books.

But similar planning Baba told to all those samaj leaders whom Baba used to
call to give special guidance. So due to B group’s interference that is why
only Bengali samaj plans, programs, and guidelines given by Baba have been
published in Prout.

Why were Mara’thi samaj, Tamil samajam, Kannada samajam, Chhattisgarhii
samaj, Dogari samaj, Nagpuria samaj, Maharlika samaj, Mauri samaj, and all
those several dozens of samajas discarded from the Prout books? I think now
the answer is becoming clear.

Because everyone knows that Baba’s guidelines for these aforesaid samajas
were given, but they were never allowed to have a place in the Prout books.
Only Bangla got the place. Reason being that those days in 1991-92 B group
was controlling and they wanted to create an inferiority complex in the
minds of Margi members of other samajas. By creating the false impression
that Baba has given special preference to Bengalistan. Thereby continuing
their group supremacy.

But the fact is that Baba guided equally to all the samajas.

Clearly then one type of deliberate distortion of Baba’s teachings has been
done. That only the Bangla area planning and programs of Baba’s teachings
got the place in Prout, and not other areas.

Till today B group does not have an iota of repentance for what they have
done. i.e. They changed the BP manual and altered the AM Revolution
chapter etc. In sum they wiped out Margi rights. But B group’s negative
dealings on this topic does not end here.

WHAT WAS DONE TO PROUTIST ECONOMICS

Here is another pertinent example how B group has altered Baba’s books and
manipulated His discourses on samaj.

A case in point: In the Proutist Economics book a total of 104 pages got
dedicated for the Bengali samaj, and only 18 pages were allotted for all
the five (5) samajas of Bihar. And Baba’s talks on innumerable other
samajas that were discarded entirely. By this manipulation, so many of Baba’s
teachings related with the development of samaj did not get place in Prout.

LONG TERM PLAN & DESTRUCTION

So all this gives proof that since long B group has been strategizing and
executing their plans of group dominance wherever and whenever they get any
little or big opportunity. So today’s raid of Ananda Nagar sits on top of a
whole heap of injustices carried out by B group. And furthermore what
alteration B group has done to the formation of Baba’s books and
manipulated the teachings on samaj. All this gives hardcore evidence to
their long term and on-going plan to rule Centre and wave their flag of
Bengali Raj.

Indeed their plan was so deep-rooted that even after their fall from
power, many of their distortions and dogmas still stand: Destruction of
BP Manual, Bangalisation of Baba’s Discourses, Fake Ananda Vaniis,
Distoration of AM Revolution & more. While the other groups wanted power
B group brought a whole other agenda to the table as well. And still
today we are dealing with the mess they created.

BABA’S BLESSING

So at the cost of the sanctity of Baba’s treatises on Prout and the welfare
of our Marga the crimes committed by B group must not be allowed to
continue. The day has come for all margiis to come forward waving the
banner of neo-humanism, doing away with narrow-minded, groupist traditions.

Baba says, “You must awaken those who do not realise the facts, and make
them aware. Let the ideals of neo-humanism reach their ears, and be
implanted in the core of their hearts. With their liberated intellects they
will throw all their illusions into the dustbin.” (NH-LOI)

Namaskar,
Motilal

Note 1: These are the eight (8) discourses in Prout Nutshell 19 & 20
dedicated to Bengal. PNS 19: ‘Bangladesh’, ‘Tripura’, ‘East Wet Theory’,
‘Talks on Bengal’; PNS 20: ‘Socio-Economic Potential of Bengal’,
‘Northeastern India’, ‘South Bengal’, ‘Contai Basin Planning’.

*************************************************
Allopathic Medicines Not Good

“When people take allopathic medicine to cure a disease, the medicine
disturbs the ecological balance of the body because more negative microvita
get concentrated at the point of the disease. Allopathic medicines do not
kill diseases — diseases die by their own natural death. Although the
medicine may check the disease, the increased concentration of negative
microvita can overcome the effect of the medicine. In fact, the increased
concentration of negative microvita caused by allopathic medicines creates
many new types of diseases, and due to this, two or three new diseases are
presently being created every decade. So what is the solution to this problem?
Our approach should be two fold — external and internal. Externally we should
take medicines to check diseases, but internally we should perform spiritual
practice.” (MVNS, p.136)

*************************************************

Crutch Is Not Needed

From: “Will Chaucey”
To: am-global@earthlink.net
Subject: Crutch Is Not Needed
Date: Mon, 01 Feb 2010 15:07:49 +1000

Baba

“Esechile Prabhu ghare…varas’a'y…” (P.S. 298)

Purport:

O’ Lord since ages this dry and barren earth has been waiting for Your
Divine arrival. And now in the form of the roaring of the clouds and the
pouring rain You have come. The heat-stricken earth has received You today
with new hope.

Baba, the wings of my mind go on dancing in hundreds of tunes and
melodies. The dumb have gotten the language to express themselves; and now
they are running towards divinity.

Baba, by getting You today, my heart is overflowing– all the directions
are swaying in Your divine effulgence. The ten directions are swaying with
the effulgence of Parama Purusa.

Baba, today for me there is nothing more to do. Becoming ensconced in
You, I go on seeing Your form. Baba the hunger of these three worlds, the
nectar of the three worlds, all these have mingled into one.

Baba it is Your grace, today You have come and showered devotion…

== CRUTCH IS NOT NEEDED ==

Namaskar,
Here in Ananda Marga we all know that Baba is the most Glorified One.
Certainly then any devotional book of Baba stories will reflect this sacred
truth, in all respects. However, one such publication has been on the
scene from NY sector that has added one other ingredient. Naturally
then we should see how far this thing is working and where it came from.
First though here is one Supreme Truth from our devotional scripture.

BABA IS THE SOURCE OF ALL EFFULGENCE

In numerous discourses Baba has revealed to us about the unique quality of
His divine existence.

“Na tatra suryo … tasya bhasa sarvamidam vibhati.”

Baba says, “He who illumines the external world, illumines all the stars
and planets also. Besides Parama Purusa, no other entity has light of its
own. The light of all other entities is the mere reflection of His
effulgence…All are lighted with His light; with His radiance, all others
are radiant, and in His effulgence all others become blessed.” (NSS, 95
Edn, p.244)

By this way anyone can understand that Baba Himself is Effulgent in His own
Glory. He stands in His own Magnificence. And it is only due to HIS divine
compassion and grace that all other entities progress.

Means there is no question of Baba being benefited by someone else’s
efforts etc. Because Baba Himself is effulgent in His own glory.

And all Ananda Margiis feel this way in their heart; nobody in our Marga
needs to be convinced of this. Because the very name ‘Ananda Margii’ means
that they have accepted Baba’s glory in the deep core of their heart.
Unfortunately one ingredient from the newly released story book from NY
sector has a different sort of way to it.

WHAT THEY DID TO THE

BABA STORIES BOOK FROM NY SECTOR

By even the most common glances of the book any sadhaka can recognise that
those in charge felt that some added extra was needed. As if Baba’s
effulgence, or the devotional phrase “Baba stories” was somehow not
sufficient– and therefore margiis might not be attracted. In this
concocted fashion they were thinking, or so it seems.

Because, in their eyes, to supplement the matter they brought in one type
of person to recommend the book and they pasted his words and
qualifications on the glossy cover as if by this way Baba’s status was
heightened, or as if it was needed to attempt to heighten it.

When in fact this little trick or ingredient was just like using one paltry
matchstick to illumine the Sun– or even less than that.

Because Baba is that effulgent Parama Purusa and all margiis know this and
surely they are enticed to read the intimate tales of His glory. But in
peculiar fashion the makers opted to employ one type someone on the back
cover to introduce the matter– as if the topic needed some justification.
As if Baba’s Supreme effulgence is not enough. As if Ananda Margiis are not
going to understand who is Shrii Shrii Anandamurtiji.

So like that the whole glossy back cover of the book is filled with this
one type of person’s didactic words, language, & logic. This ingredient, or
crutch, they added. When what is the need…

And on the top when their selected hero’s own character is of such a shady
variety.

THE FORCE BEHIND

The question also arises as to why or rather how did all this happen? And
by seeing the situation from multiple perspectives, it is obvious that
those who created this NY Sector story book, they got swayed by the
capitalist pseudo-culture of the west. Otherwise what can be the cause.

Because just see, it is commonly known that in the superficial view of
capitalism it is a “must” to have someone talk up the topic of the book on
the back cover. Means regardless of what your book says on the pages
inside, the most important point of prestige of any book is what is written
on the glossy back cover. Where people sing your song and preach your
glory. This is the way that capitalist publishing companies and book
selling agencies operate. And about this nonsense there are a million and
one horror stories that show how this ploy is mostly nothing but capitalist
negativity.

But whatever it may be, the main idea is that in this crude materialistic
society, this approach is the law of the land. Means anyone who publishes a
book does like this.

So those at the helm of publishing the NY sector Baba’s story book thought,
consciously or unconsciously that this is the way– to follow in the
footsteps of these superficial capitalist exploiters. Means they got
affected by the outside society.

Hence in their silly approach they brought in one misguided fellow to write
something as if this would glorify the scene. As if Baba’s Supreme Glory
would be heightened by this odd person’s words. Means like this the whole
thing seems to have happened.

CREATE MORE NEGATIVITY IN FUTURE

When in fact it is disastrous to do like this. Because according to this
trend, just see what will happen in the future. Tomorrow we will receive
the newest & latest edition of Baba’s holy books like Subhasita Samgraha,
or Ananda Vacanamrtam, or Ananda Sutram, etc and on the glossy back cover
there will be a first-rate photo of some lame-duck president from this or
that dogmatic state, or the photo of some crude drunkard type of author, or
who knows what– and they will be telling us that Lord Shrii Shrii
Anandamurtiji’s book is ok.

As if without the superficial words of such tinsel type of people on the
back cover, then we will not know that Baba’s words are pure and dharmic.
Or even worse they will invite some filmy heroes to adorn Baba’s books just
like they have done with our Prabhat Samgiita cassette covers where they
get filmy dancers and singers with lipstick etc to be on the cover of
Baba’s divine Prabhat Samgiita cassettes. Means now this nonsense will also
be going on with our Ananda Books. Where crude dancers & pop stars are
placed on the cover to attract more people.

Like this we can all see what type of black scenarios can and will occur in
the future– if we are not careful. Hence this negative trend should stop.

BABA’S PRISTINE EXAMPLE

Baba has written countless books and not on any single publication has He
ever done like this– i.e. what happened with the NY Sector Story book.
Means even from the very beginning in those early days when the book
“Ananda Marga Elementary Philosophy” was published and when “Carayacarya”
and “A Guide To Human Conduct” were initially printed, in all those cases
Baba never ever chose some xyz person– & not anyone at all– to appear on
the front or back cover as a so-called advocate or sponsor for AM books.
Never was this done.

So when Baba has graciously provided us with one pristine example then why
should we follow some negative path and jump into the mud bath of those
capitalist agencies that are full superficial maneuvers and hypocrisy. Why
should we adopt their negative trend.

ANANDA MARGIIS ARE THE VANGUARD

Baba has given us His blessing and declared that Ananda Margiis are the
vanguard of the society. Indeed by adhering to His 16 Points and dharmic
teachings, we will forge ahead and pave the pathway that others will
follow. About this fact we should not harbour any second thoughts and we
should not get stuck up by following someone else’s negative path. Rather
we should be firm in our resolve and move ahead, knowing that Baba’s divine
grace is with us.

SANCTITY OF ISTA– BABA

I do not know who exactly is responsible for designing the NY Sector
Baba stories book in this manner, but they should not have done like this.
Such type of negative crutch is not at all needed– rather it is harmful.
We should keep away from such types of dogma and always remember the fact
that Baba’s devotional story is effulgent in His own glory.
Baba says, “This Supreme Entity, this Parama Purusa… is the most
resplendent entity in all.” (NSS)

Hence we must not allow such blunders to occur in the future. Rather as His
disciples we are always to uphold the sanctity of Baba’s divine image.

Baba says, “Observe non-compromising strictness and faith regarding the
sanctity of Ista.” (Pt 10 of Sixteen Points)

I kindly request others to write their thoughts.

Namaskar,
Vinay

Note 1: If any devotional book is being written then some
xyz fellow should not come forward to appreciate the Divine Entity by
writing something on the back cover.

It is like one pig coming forward in support of a human being to say he is great.

Such ploys should not be done for devotional story books – for non-margii
books it is fine to do. After all everyone knows that Devashish’s character is
mixed up witha all kins of opposite sex issues etc.

This trend is not good otherwise tomorrow all Baba’s books will be “honored”
by some petty professor who writes on the back cover.

This trend we should not be allowed to continue.

Note 2: Those who managed the book like this, they did what they did. And now
anyone with devotion can see the matter for what it is. And in the future
when the standard is high, then people will easily see the status of those
who did like this concerning Baba’s magnanimity and glory.

Note 3: Here is one of the many places wherein Baba declares that all those
following the devotional cult of Ananda Marga are the vanguards for
ushering in a new era. So then why should we leave our dharma by following
negative capitalist strategies. Rather we should stick to the high ideals
of AM.

Baba says, “You are the torch-bearers of human civilization. You are the
pioneers of human march, and you are the vanguard of a new civilization.”
(AV-14)

********************************************
Deserts Needed

Baba says, “Ecologists claim that some deserts are essential for keeping
the global ecology in a balanced state. The high day temperatures and the
cold night temperatures that occur in desert regions create a useful
effect. The hot, dry desert air rises and creates a vacuum which sucks in
cool air, generating a chain reaction. Moist air is sucked in from the sea
and formed into clouds which then rain on the land. If deserts vanish
entirely, the overall rainfall will be reduced.” (PNS-16, p.37)

********************************************

Ca’rva’ka of Today

Date: 31 Jan 2010 22:36:04 +0530
To: AM-GLOBAL
From: “Pandit_Sudhakar”
Subject: Ca’rva’ka of Today

Intro to PS: This following song is unique in its own special way. Here
Baba, in disguised fashion, is talking to the devotee and asking him
various questions.

“Caran’e a’j kiser dvidha’, shayan keno ka’nt’a'-bhara’…” (PS 627)

Purport:

O’ devotee, for whom are you deeply yearning and longing for? In this
state of dilemma, even your walking has gotten affected. In these late
hours of midnight, you do not have sleep in your eyes– just you remain
crying on the bed in someone’s longing. It is as though your bed is
filled with thorns, one sleepless night after another.

In whose love do you have such intoxication; why are your eyes showering
tears. The One whom you love, has He forgotten you? Is that why you are
crying in longing. Because of this, all these devotional feelings have
saturated in your heart, is that why you are sleepless.

O’ sadhaka, your situation is like one person who is floating in tears
due to the loss of the most precious jewel of his heart. You should
understand that in love these feelings are quite natural. Go on serving
and immerse yourself completely in that very work which He desires. For
whom you love, go on acting according to His direction.

O’ devotee, in whose longing is your heart so restless, such that your
eyes cannot sleep on this lonely night. To whom you love, He cannot keep
Himself away– because true love is mutual. He has to come to you…

== CA’RVA’KA OF TODAY ==

Namaskar,
Many think that as Ca’rva’ka – an atheist philosopher – came on this
earth a long time ago then naturally his philosophy has since died. But
that is not so.

Actually, some of our brothers and sisters in our Marga are followers of
Ca’rva’ka, deliberately or unknowingly.

You, however, have clear eyes to see what is what because you are not
suffering from any narrow sentiment. Please try to help others on this
urgent topic. As a family we have to resolve this issue.

REPLY TO THOSE IN FAVOUR OF MPD DOGMA

Here is a point by point response to our dear brothers and sisters who
somehow got confused and unknowingly became the followers of Carvak:
They think that there should be an annual day of mahaprayan.

How does it work? Here following is the explanation.

Furthermore, some justify that since the “death” term has been used in
one of His discourses, then it “stands to reason that we should annually
observe the death of Taraka Brahma”. A few are confused in this way as
well.

So there is a lot of misunderstanding. Through it all, all are our
brothers and sisters and it is our bounden duty to help free them from
such dogmas.

BABA WAS NOT SHY ON THIS POINT

1. Everyone should know that Baba was not shy about talking of His
physical departure. I raise this point because some mistakenly think
that Baba was hesitant to talk on this issue – as if it was too
sensitive or too delicate and therefore He did not want to include it in
Caryacarya.

Hence, some people thought, “It is our duty to include the mahaprayan
program of annual remembrance in Caryacarya – because Baba did not want
to discuss this sensitive issue in front of devotees.”

This is the way some think. And then they give their further logic.

“Parama Purusa believes that devotees will not appreciate it if He talks
of His mahaprayan. So let it be done by His disciples themselves. After
all, all other occasions He Himself has given like His birthday ceremony
or spring festival. But with regards to mahaprayan, that He left for us
to do.”

This is the way they think.

And indeed, with this false logic, that is exactly what Sarvatmananda
did. He invented mahaprayan and glued it into Caryacarya Part 1 as the
appendix.

But all this is totally wrong. Baba has discussed His physical departure
in various places such as in Senior Acarya Diary (Guru Puja section) and
in other places as well.

So He deliberately did not put mahaprayan into Caryacarya – it is not
that He was too shy or too hesitant to put it in the book. Rather it is
not part of AM ideology and it was sinful to add this because how can we
Baba say that Parama Purusa is gone or no longer present. Rather He told
the opposite. In thousands of discourses, Baba has said He can’t leave.
His relation with us is beyond time and space – He is always with us.

MISNOMER DID NOT WANT TO TALK ABOUT IT

2. The inventors of mahaprayan thought that just as worldly family
members do not wish to discuss their death with their family, then
Parama Purusa will also not like to discuss this. Remember though that
Baba is not just our family member, He is Guru and more than that -
practically He revealed everything that needed to be told. So there is
no question that He was concerned or hesitant about putting this in His
book. Rather it was His full intention to purposely leave it out.

ALL AM FESTIVALS ARE UPLIFTING

3. In our Ananda Marga, there is no such thing as a festival or annual
program that is sad or sorrowful in nature. All our festivals are full
of joy and bliss. Yet the dogmatic mahaprayan program has been described
as “a solemn occasion” when certain leaders wrongly added the mahaprayan
appendix to Caryacarya Part 1. Thus, the notion of observing mahaprayan
goes against the very essence of our AM festivals.

LIKE FROGS IN A WELL

4. This type of talk about observing mahaprayan annually or observing it
using another name is just one narrow minded idea. Such persons are like
frogs in a well. Frogs think that the entire universe is within their
small, petty well. Likewise, with their confused mind, a few of our
respected brothers and sisters think that their tiny mental outlook is
the entire universal approach.

Such persons should come out from beyond the limited boundaries of their
narrow-minded dogma of geo-sentiment (please read Neo-humanism). Parama
Purusa is not a particular physical body and we must not think that He
has gone. The truth is that Parama Purusa is an eternal Entity and Baba
remains in our heart – always.

Can you really think that Baba has gone? Are you an Ananda Margii? If so
then restart or reboot yourself. You have some type of software problem.
In AM, Parama Purusa always lives with us, we are nothing but His
thought projection. We do not think that Parama Purusa has gone etc.
This is not the Hindu religion or Christianity where god lives somewhere
else and you cannot communicate with Him. In AM, God lives everywhere -
in each and every iota of your mind. This is what Baba has proved in
Personal Contact and so many demonstrations. He is our nearest and
dearest One who watches over us constantly and remains with us each and
every moment.

SHRADDHANJALI

5. The Indian dogma of Shraddhanjali is that a tomb is made for all
deceased leaders – political, religious etc – and every year on the
anniversary of their death a big function is held. That is named
shraddhanjali. So on the anniversary of the death, each year, thousands
or more reach to that tomb to pay their respect. That is Hindu dogma and
now it has become widepread in India. The classic example is that of Mrs
Indira Gandhi. In that way all such leaders have their own tomb. And now
today some started to doing the same thing for Baba. Some have dragged
the shraddhanjali dogma into AM.

WE DO NOT USE THE DISRESPECTFUL WORD DEATH

NOR OBSERVE IT YEAR AFTER YEAR

6. Whether the word “death” was used in one of His discourses or not, as
His disciples we do not wish to use such a disrespectful term like
“death” that is used commonly for bugs, birds, lizards, pigs, dogs and
ants etc. Any respectful word can be used to indicate the day, but
certainly we are not going to engage in repeated observations of that
day – year after year, regardless of what it is called. Best is not to
even remember that day at all.

DU’RA’T SUDU’RE

7. Here are a few more points why it is to our disadvantage to remember
and observe the physical death of Taraka Brahma each and every year.

Let us remind ourselves that AM teachings are complete. Baba
deliberately avoided marking mahaprayan as a festival day in AM. Our
scriptures are complete by His grace and He purposely did not include
the dogma of mahaprayan in Caryacarya.

Plus in countless discourses Baba has guided us not to think that Parama
Purusa is distant or far from us. Otherwise we will invite our extreme
degeneration and follow the path of negative pratisaincara.

It is just like some horrible scene of your life – such as when your
baby drowned etc – that you do not want to remember again and again-
otherwise it will steal away all your happiness. Baba avoided
degenerating programs like mahaprayan because AM is the path of bliss -
not the path of extreme sorrow or sadness.

Thinking that Parama Purusa is gone is most terribly detrimental, will
crudify one to stone and dirt. Our mantras all give the same idea:
Parama Purusa is with us. Only avidya maya, viks’epta shatkti, says that
Parama Purusa is far.

Du’ra’t Sudu’re…

Baba says, “If someone continually thinks, “Parama Purus’a is far from
me”, then He will seem to be truly far from him…If in their ignorance
people think that Parama Purus’a is far from them, then He may indeed
remain for from them – so far that in future, even if one cries oneself
hoarse, one’s cries will never reach Him… Some people think, “No,
Parama Purus’a is not far from me. He is quite near. He is everywhere.””
(SS-12)

It is our duty to always remember and cultivate the supreme truth that
He is always with us.

His presence is our sadhana and this creation is His thought projection.
He is the nucleus, He cannot be missing, thus it is philosophically and
emotionally wrong to have a program like mahaprayan that dictates that
Baba is gone.

THE POWER OF AVIDYA MAYA

HIDDEN REASON WHY SOME ARE ATTACHED TO DOGMA

8. Why are some people in AM in favor of observing the death or
mahaprayan? Because when the human mind is overpowered by avidya maya
then it plunges into dogma.

Those who started the mahaprayan are so involved in their own crude
geo-sentiment. That is one of the main problems. They want to highlight
that day to wrongly heighten the prestige of their land.

As true Ananda Margiis, we should put our mind beyond all narrow
barriers and think rationally. We must not not try and satisfy the
individual ego but try to satisfy the Guru Lord Shrii Shrii
Anandamurtiji, who is within us.

Remember that this petty ego will not remain. Nothing of this world will
remain. Kings too become one with the dust. So we should only surrender
to Parama Purusa and let His will be established. Concocting fake
programs like mahaprayan is not the way.

JUST LIKE CANCER

9. When any irrational idea or dogma is left unhindered, it grows like
cancerous wounds and swallows everything.

In the past one decade, this mahaprayan dogma has created off-shoots.
Recently it has became the trend that when any family margii member dies
then every year they observe this day. Those involved wrongly conclude
that as it is happening with Guru in the form of mahaprayan, so I to
should make a yearly day of remembrance for teh death of my laukik
father, or mother etc. This is the new dogma that has cropped up.

So, we should all think. Do we want to be part of problem or the
solution? What do you want? Think carefully, otherwise the whole of AMPS
will be infested with more and more dogmas.

BABA’S BLESSING

To those who worship the mahaprayan dogma and follow in the steps of
Ca’rva’ka by thinking that Parama Purusa is gone, there is this last reply.

Baba says, “He is with you, always He is with you to help you. You are
never alone.” (AV-34)

Namaskar,
Sudhakar

Note 1: HERE IS THE QUOTE THAT SOME ARE CONFUSED ABOUT

Baba says, “Now when Parama Purus’a directly or physically comes in
contact with these factors, what happens? Parama Purus’a is beyond the
periphery of the tempus, but when He comes in contact or comes within
the jurisdiction of the tempus, what happens? Do we get something new
then? Parama Purus’a is beyond temporal and spatial and personal
boundaries. But when He comes within their jurisdictions, what happens?
Or what may happen? Under such circumstances, we say Parama Purus’a has
become Ta’raka Brahma. Under such circumstances He comes here on a
particular date, leaves this earth also on a particular date, takes the
birth of His quinquelemental body, the death of His quinquelemental
body.” (The Coming of Ta’raka Brahma” in A’nanda Vacana’mrtam Part 12)

It is a silly idea to think that just because the “death” term is
mentioned in a discourse therefore one should observe that day each and
every year. In this chapter or paragraph Baba does not say to observe
this is the form of “mahaprayan”. The word “death” then it does not mean
we should celebrate it every year – that comes from geo-sentiment, not
dharma.

Please write your valued opinion.

Note 2: MORE LETTERS ABOUT MAHAPRAYAN DOGMA

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2009/10/story-conversation-with-baba.html

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2009/09/he-has-covered-all-points.html

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2009/08/avidya-maya-mpd.html

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2009/07/cannot-resuscitate.html

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2009/03/who-cant-give-up-fake-mahaprayan.html

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2008/10/innocent-margiis-sucked-into-dogma.html

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2008/09/propagators-of-dogma-or-dharma.html

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2008/08/mpd-below-all-six-stages.html

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2008/03/going-going-gone.html

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2008/10/one-last-ride.html

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2008/10/crying-in-front-of-mic.html

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2008/09/positive-remembrance.html

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2008/08/mpd-extinct-like-dinosaurs.html

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2008/10/story-participants-of-dogmatic-mpd.html

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2009/02/story-baba-has-gone-in-your-heart.html

***************************************************
PROPER THINKING

Baba says, “Sadhakas should always maintain the spirit of prapatti
(surrender) and they will never develop any sort of pride in their
minds…’Whatever qualities I possess is all due to the His grace.
Parama Purusa is the Lord of everything; He is the machineman and I am
simply a machine’.” (31/05/87, AN-DMC)

***************************************************

Mahaprayan of Dr Ramesh Sinha

Date: 30 Jan 2010 18:24:10 -0000
From: “Gurucharan Yadav”
To: AM-GLOBAL
Subject: Mahaprayan of Dr Ramesh Sinha

Baba

== MAHAPRAYAN OF DR RAMESH SINHA ==

Namaskar,
It is with deep sadness and respect that we share the news of the
mahaprayan* of respected margii, Dr Ramesh Sinha of Ranchi. Our esteemed
elder brother underwent his mahaprayan on Jan 29 13:30 IST.

Dr Ramesh was well known for his social service activities in the
medical field as well as for being president of the Abha Memorial Trust.
He was selected by Baba to head this trust which would bring all the
medical pathys under one roof. In addition, Dr Ramesh was an active
leader in AMURT activities and he faithfully served as one of Baba’s
personal doctors.

Given his many contributions and devotional approach, it is totally
disrespectful to say he died – when the higher, more respectful term of
mahaprayan is available. Of course Parama Purusa is eternal and never
dies so there is no question of using the mahaprayan term with Him. But
in the case of Ananda Margiis like Dr Ramesh it is totally appropriate
and deserved to use the term mahaprayan.

Tragically, for the last three years he suffered from dementia and was
mostly restricted to bedridden existence.

With his mahaprayan, we pray that our dear brother Dr Ramesh has found
eternal peace on Baba’s lap.

Namaskar,
Gurucharan

* Mahaprayan: Many are aware that mahaprayan is the common term used in
India and especially in Bengal to describe the death of an honoured or
even ordinary person. In that way the newspapers of Bengal are regularly
citing the mahaprayan of respected persons of society who died or passed
away.

Some may get confused and wrongly think that the word ‘mahaprayan’ is
one extraordinarily devotional term to be used in association with
Parama Purusa. But that is not at all the case. Rather to do so is only
to undermine the eternal presence of Parama Purusa. That is why no
devotees ever use the word ‘mahaprayan’ in reference to Lord Shiva or
Lord Krsna. Because Lord Shiva and Lord Krsna exist eternally. Then
there is no question of Their mahaprayan.

And for those who need still more technical proof then all this can be
clarified quite readily by referencing the dictionary. Specifically in
the Samsad Bengali-English dictionary on page 742. Checking there it
will be confirmed that the word ‘mahaprayan’ means death of a respected
person.

I Also Have Ego

Date: Sat, 30 Jan 2010 16:12:54 -0000
To: am-global@earthlink.net
From:
Subject: I Also Have Ego

Baba

“Shun’echi tumi dayalu, ka’je keno anya dekhi…” (P.S. 2125)

Purport:

O’ Parama Purusa, I have heard that You are the merciful one– why
then by Your work and by Your action do I see something different.
For You my eyes are showering; my days are passing in calling and
longing for You.

Baba You know that I love You. Although I am meagre but even then
I am Your atom. The pain of the unit is the pain of the Universal;
the pain of the atom is the pain of the Cosmic. Don’t You understand
this simple truth.

O’ Dearmost, please go on doing according to Your desire. Only my
request is that You keep me along with You. The pain and grief of my
heart cannot be covered. The suffering of my heart will not listen to
Your various justifications and excuses; it cannot be appeased by the
mere jugglery of words. Baba, I want Your proximity and closeness.

Baba, in the scriptures and by seeing Your glory, I heard from other
devotees that You are love personified and merciful. And that You are
caring for others. So many good attributions You have. But when dealing
with me I see something totally different. Here I am crying in longing,
and You do not care. Why like this? Please grace me and come close…

== I ALSO HAVE EGO ==

Namaskar,
This letter briefly details some of the phases of my sadhaka life and
how I always thought I was ego-free, and then how I gradually came to
realise that I was quite dominated by my crude ego. I am writing this to
help cure my problem and because I thought this might be a useful tool
for others.

IN THE PAST I THOUGHT: ‘I AM EGO-LESS’

For years and years I was always thinking I do not have any ego– or I
was thinking that my ego was just something ‘minuscule’, if not
‘non-existent’. In a superficial way I thought that, ‘I do not care
about my own greatness, I am not like those kings and monarchs who
always tout themselves. I am just a regular person’. And in that way–
in that skin-deep approach– I was foolishly believing that I was
completely ego-less. That was how I was thinking about myself, and this
went on for years and years– for most of my life as a sadhaka.

HOW IT DAWNED ON ME THAT I HAVE A BIG EGO

However, after reading Baba’s various discourses about ego (ahamkara)
and vanity (mada), then slowly, slowly it dawned on me what ego is. I
realised that one need not be a king or queen to have an inflated ego.

Unfortunately, having an over-inflated ego is quite a common ailment on
most any street– it is the ailment of the common man, though in some
lands more than others. But, previously I was blind about this, so I
thought I was ‘ego-free’. Until Baba’s discourses slowly shined the
light on me and I began to understand.

I really came how when discussing Baba’s discourses & teachings with
good sadhakas. Then I became more aware about what ego is, and how it
expresses. By this point, it really began to dawn on me that indeed I do
have an inflated ego.

DANGER XXX!! ~ DANGER XXX!!

And the danger about it all is that when one has an inflated ego then
one cannot do proper sadhana– and that was my problem.

COMMON SIGNS OF AN INFLATED EGO

Here then are some common signs and signals about whether one has a
bigger type of ego or not. Everyone can read these criteria and decide
for themselves if they suffer from this malady or not. ‘Do I have an
inflated ego?’, that is the question of the hour.

(A) When I did anything, then I used to have an underlying feeling that
others should recognise, praise, or appreciate my efforts. This was my
inner urge. I was thinking that I had done some great things and I
wanted to hear a ‘thank you’ or some words of praise. And if this did
not happen, then I would become disappointed, dejected, slightly
depressed, or even furious. To the degree one suffers from this, it
means they have ego. And that ego will impede one’s sadhana.

Of course, Baba is the real Doer– He inspires us to act and graces us
to be able to do something– so really there is nothing for us to be
egotistical about. It is all Him. But even then the unit ego likes to
relish in the idea that ‘I am great’. And I had / have this problem.

Now here is another situation that helps determine if one has a big ego
or not.

(B) When walking into a room or arriving at a place or when meeting
someone, I would always think that the next person should greet me
first. I was thinking that others should serve me– either they should
take my coat, or bring me my food, or something. This was my
expectation. So that was all the disease of my own ego, nothing else. I
was thinking that due to my talents or seniority or for any reason, that
others should greet me first and pay their salutations and honor me.
They did not have to garland me– I was not that obvious– but I was
feeling that something big or small should be done to distinguish my
standing from theirs. That was my cheap anticipation and expectation.
And if it did not happen then I would feel uncomfortable, sad, or even
miserable. So this was all the expression or disease of my inflated ego.

This is another way to recognise if one has an over-active ego like I
had / have.

When in truth one should be unconcerned & unaffected about how one is
received by others. Rather one should be ever-ready to greet others
first, which leads us to the next situation.

(C) The next expression of ego is if one does not like to give respect
or recognition to others. That is another sure sign that one’s own ego
is too big. I was thinking that their presence or their actions pale in
comparison to mine– in that case why should I recognise them, rather
they should appreciate me. This also was or is my problem.

Of course the answer is that we must see all as the expression of Parama
Purusa and one must not think that ‘I am I and the next person is Joe or
Shyam’. Rather we are to think that all are Parama Purusa. That is the
only cure. Then one will be anxious and ready to greet each and every
entity in this manifested universe.

But my habit was not to do like this. I was constantly measuring myself
up to others and calculating if I was better than them or not, in which
case I would not recognise them but would wait for them to recognise me.
This led to so many complexes– like superiority or inferiority etc. All
of which is a result of having too much ego. So this was / is also my
problem.

(D) Then in this next scenario– this may have been the worst of all
because it was all happening internally. Listen to this: Even when I was
all alone, when I performed any action, or did something ‘good’, then I
was reassuring myself and thinking that I am the doer of many great
works. I was petting my own ego that I did a particular work etc. In
fact, this was how I made it through all my days. I would constantly
stroke or pet my own ego– subtlety telling myself that I was great. It
was all happening within. And that type of harmful disease made my
second lesson non-existent– along with all my other lessons. I could
not see Baba in anything because my own ego was always dominating. And
when sitting in sadhana, it was even worse. This was my horrible problem
and still I am addressing this fault.

The real answer, which we all know, is that in reality He gives us all
our energy and our duty is to serve Him. That is how we are to view our
actions in this world. But because of my defective egoistic thinking, I
could never ideate in this way and my practice of brahmacarya was gone.

(E) So the above are ways in which ego expresses itself. And it is not
always so blatant or glaring. It can be done in a small or almost
unreognisable, so one has to be careful and perfectly honest with
oneself. Otherwise you will not be able to identify the problem, yet it
will hamper your sadhana. So one must never harbour any type of feeling
that others are low, or that I did this or that, or that I am better, or
that others should recognise me. These are all crude expressions of
one’s own unit and petty ego.

So indeed, I was and remain a victim of my own ego– and worst of all it
impedes my sadhana.

Though now, by Baba’s grace on my good days, I feel that He is allowing
and enabling me to do everything. And I try to cultivate this idea more
and more. Sometimes it comes naturally and on other days I have to
impose it.

THE GREAT IRONY OF IT ALL

As one Dada once told me, the ironic thing about the ego is that most
think that they have no ego. That’s because people do not understand
what are the manifestations of having an ego. When in fact having a big
ego is one of the most common maladies on this earth. One need not be a
king, sports hero, president, or movie star to have a big ego. Many have
this problem and it deteriorates their well-being.

Because of the dominance of one’s ego, people get sad or depressed,
suffer from inferiority or superiority complex, and cannot do proper
sadhana.

Because in sadhana their mind just spins around their own unit existence
and cannot swim in the vast ocean of cosmic consciousness. If one thinks
all day about their own unit glories then they cannot do sadhana. And
that happened to me.

But in that predicament, one cannot overtly recognise why they cannot do
sadhana. One will just think that sadhana is impossible or that Baba is
not gracing me. One will not think that their own ego is the stumbling
block– the real impediment.

In that case, the only way out is to do honest introspection and really
ask yourself if any of the above egotistical situations apply to you. Do
I expect praise from others; do I have feelings that I did something; do
I want others to recognise me etc etc. One must be totally honest in
this regard. That is way back onto the path of sadhana.

Even then that will not cure the problem entirely; that is only the
beginning. Ultimately, one must cultivate the idea that Baba is doing
everything. To gain success in this, we must surrender unto Him and ask
for His divine compassion, otherwise we are a sinking ship– drowned by
our own ego.

That is how it has been explained to me and I agree with that
assessment. And that is why I am sharing this with all of you today.

BABA’S SPECIAL TEACHING

Here is also one teaching from our Beloved Guru that is especially
helpful for curing an over-sized ego like I had.

Baba says, “Bear in mind that you have a duty towards – indeed, you owe
a debt to – every creature of this universe, but towards you, no one has
any duty; from others, nothing is due.” (CC-2, chapter 1, point #3)

By Baba’s grace, this type of teaching is enough to get one going onto
the right path of ego-less service. But saying it is not enough, it must
become embedded deep within one’s psyche. And this can happen by
sadhana, as we have all experienced. Because only sadhana transforms and
cleanses the mind deep inside.

BE AWARE!! DO NOT GO AWAY FROM PARAMA PURUSA

The greatest tragedy of a big ego is that one will go away from Parama
Purusa. Because when ideating on one’s own unit self or ego, then cannot
even think about Parama Purusa– let alone feel His presence. Rather one
will just be involved in their own name, fame, and prestige, and then
that mind will not flow towards Parama Purusa. That is why the ego is
very bad and can destroy one’s life as a sadhaka. This is my personal
experience.

BABA’S BLESSING

By Baba’s grace, He has given us the best way to overcome the bindings
of the unit ego. In various Prabhat Samgiitas, Baba has given us this
golden teaching– this beautiful way to think.

‘O my Lord, due to the trappings of my own ego and unit existence and I
cannot get close to You. That is the painful truth of my life. So Baba I
request You to please grace me and remove my ego. On my own I cannot
solve the problem. So please shower me with Your divine compassion such
that I should never ideate on my own unit things, but rather always
focus on Your lotus feet. O’ Baba, please be gracious. I am completely
depending on You. You are my Savoir and You have have accepted me as
Your disciple and if I remain dirty then it will not be Your glory. In
this way, take mercy on me– on this poor and helpless soul– and
cleanse me of all egoistic feelings and make me Yours. O’ my Baba,
please be gracious…’

Namaskar,
Mukunda

Note 1: TWO FLOWS OF MIND

The physical body flows in one direction– each and every day it grows
older and moves closer to one’s death.

But the mental body flows in two directions. It can go up or down. Like
a river, it is easiest for the mind to flow downstream– into the depths
of hell. But with sadhana, the mind can also flow upstream to the top of
the mountain– to the height of human glory. But to reach that divine
stance it takes energy and effort.

And what is that effort? Sadhana. Only by this way can one overcome
petty feelings of their own self and make the mind bigger and bigger.

Here the point is that human life is most often like a river flowing
downstream in that the unit ego will just involve in itself because that
is easy– yet ultimately making the mind smaller and smaller.

But, by His grace, when doing sadhana, then the mind will grow in
magnitude and become God-centered. Then and only then can the mind flow
upstream and reach that divine abode. So we must put forth effort and
then by His grace the mind will magically flow in this direction until
we attain Him.

This is Baba’s special teaching.

Svarshastra III

From: “Seshagiri Das”
Subject: Svarshastra III
Date: Fri, 29 Jan 2010 07:46:16 +0000
To: am-global@earthlink.net

Baba

“Adrira ma’jhe tumi himagiri, pus’per ma’jhe pa’rija’ta…” (P.S. 1685)

Purport:

Baba, You are the Greatest among the great, the Sweetest among the
sweet. Amongst all the mountains, Your status is like the towering
Himalayas. Amongst all the flowers, You are like the most brilliant
parijata flower.

Baba, with Your own hand You are touching and playing the strings of the
viina of my inner core– which is situated in the depths of my heart. With
Your soft, loving touch You are arousing the divine ecstasy in my mind.

Baba, by Your grace You have brought me on this earth again and again.
And You have inspired me to love You in infinite ways. My whole existence
has always revolved around You; but even then I could never be satiated to
my heart’s full content.

Now You have brought me again on this earth. And by Your grace I have
brought a basketful of love for You. It is in my heart. O’ my Lord, please
remain along with me always– day and night, always.

Among all the things which are dear, You are the Dearest. You are my
Priyatama, the innermost One of my heart. Of all the things which I love,
You are the most dear. You always reside inside my heart.

Baba, the way You are, it is impossible to explain through language. I
do not have any words to express Your glory. So I do sastaunga pranam to
You– thousands of times, infinite times, again and again.

Baba, please keep me at Your lotus feet..

== SVARSHASTRA III ==

Namaskar,
It is well known all around that in order to live and maintain a healthy
existence then at minimum proper air, clean water, and sufficient food is
needed. And in that order also. Because one can survive for days even weeks
without food. And one can live for a couple days without water. But without
air, one can hardly live a few minutes. Hence air is an indispensable
feature of human life. And in the general society each and every community
and civilization readily accepts this fact.

And for them the main response is to live where the air is clean. Or not to
pollute the air where they are living. How far they are successful in this
endeavour is another matter, but they believe and understand that that air
quality of their local living environment is important. That goes without
question.

What they are not aware about though is the most effective or proper way
that air should be exchanged between the human body and the outside
environment. They do not know which orifice to draw in air or which nasal
passage way to use for which activity. Nor do they understand the
significance of air flow within the body. These things are all a mystery to
them.

TANTRA AND THE SCIENCE OF BREATHING

In our approach of Tantra, however, all this is a well-documented science
and clearly understood. Indeed it was first propounded 7000 years ago by
Lord Shiva and titled as svarshastra– the science of breath control. That
time Lord Shiva put down numerous guidelines about breathing. Such as which
nostril to use when and how to lift heavy items etc. And Baba has added
many new points which relate to our everyday practices from sadhana and
asanas to eating & more. Hence by being aware about this science, the human
body and mind can develop exponentially in all the realms of life:
physically, mentally, and spiritually.

Baba says, “The number of such inhalations and exhalations – on an average,
from 21,000 to 25,000 per day – varies from person to person. The process
of breathing has a great influence on the human mind and self, or soul.”
(NSS)

SOME THINGS WHICH OTHERS HAVE TOLD ALREADY

In the last few weeks others have written about numerous aspects of this
science of breath control known as svarshastra. So a some of those points
may be reviewed in this email plus there are some new points to share with
our general Marga society.

As we know, the flow of air through the right nostril should be dominant
for physical types of activities like playing sports, involving in manual
labor, and also eating.

And the left nostril is for psychic pursuits and psycho-spiritual practices
like sadhana.

And when both nostrils are open then that is also quite good for sadhana.
And of course for lessons like pranayama it is absolutely necessary.

SOME NEW POINTS ABOUT EATING

Specifically with regards to eating, if one normally eats dinner at 7:00 pm
then by 6:30 p.m. the right nostril should be the dominant nostril. And all
through the course of eating dinner and then for minimum one hour after
dinner the right nostril must be the dominant nostril and the left should
basically be closed. Hence if one finishes their meal at 8:00 p.m. then the
right nostril must be dominant at least until 9:00 p.m. otherwise one’s
digestion and the system on the whole will be imbalanced– thus inviting
constipation and an uneasy stomach.

A NEW POINT ABOUT DIGESTION

Similarly in the morning it is imperative for the right nostril to be open
in order to properly clean the stomach and clear the bowels. Without having
the right nostril open in the morning then surely one will suffer from
constipation. This is a common ailment all around the globe. And if this
happens to any of us, then in that case one will have to activate the right
nostril by using one of the techniques listed in the note section.

In addition there are some asanas to help with the clearing of the
digestive system. One asana that is particularly helpful is bhastrikasana
(bellows pose). That can be done in the morning before attending one’s
personal duties. So this will help.

NOT TO WORRY, IT’S PART OF THE NATURAL WAY OF DOING

Of course one need not feel overwhelmed thinking how are they going to live
their life, manage their duties, care for their family, and– on the top–
take time to ensure that the correct nostril is always working. One need
not worry excessively about this because in most cases, the human body
naturally switches dominance between the nostrils, based on one’s daily
routine and what activity one is doing.

Yet at the same time if the body is out of adjustment we should be ready to
intercede– yet to do so takes some awareness.

And as we were beginning to talk about asanas and how some help in aiding
digestion, then we should also be familiar with and remind ourselves about
Baba’s guidelines on this point.

ASANAS AND BREATH CONTROL

Here are some of Baba’s important guidelines with respect to the science of
svarshastra and the practice of asanas.

The sense is that most of the general asanas and certainly the advanced
asanas can only be if the left nostril is dominating or working in
cooperation with the right nostril.

Baba says, “Practise Asanas only while breath is flowing through the left
nostril or both nostrils; do not practise Asanas when the breath flows only
through the right nostril.” (CC-3, Asana Chapter)

However Baba has listed that certain asanas do not apply to this rule.

Baba says, “There is no restriction of nostrils for the following Asanas:
Padmasana (lotus posture), Siddhasana (Siddha posture), Ardhasiddhasana
(half Siddha posture), Bhojanasana (‘cross-legged sitting posture’),
Viirasana (Viira posture), Diirgha Pranama (long bowing posture), Yogasana
(Yoga posture) and Bhujaungasana (cobra posture).” (CC-3, Asana Chapter)

TAKE A MOMENT HERE & THERE TO CHECK

As sadhakas we should develop the basic habit of checking to see which
nostril is dominating or working exclusively– because checking only takes
a second or two. Simply when breathing the places the fingers underneath
the nostrils and feel which nostril is releasing more air. So checking is
easy to do and can be done anywhere, anytime.

Plus it helps give that special boost in life because how we breath has a
tremendous effect on how we feel and how deeply we are able to engage in
sadhana and how much energy we have for our daily pursuits.\

BABA’S BLESSING

Baba says, “You are the blessed travelers on that effulgent path. Let the
unique blending of your profound wisdom and intense urge for action rend
asunder the mists…” (Ananda Vanii #71)

Namaskar,
Seshagiri

Here are the other postings in this series

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2009/11/svarshastra-ii.html

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2009/11/svarshastra.html

Note 1: HERE BELOW ARE SOME OF LORD SHIVA’S TEACHINGS

ON BREATHING AND HOW TO LIFT HEAVY ITEMS

Baba says, “When doing a heavy job while breathing normally, a person might
have serious difficulties – perhaps one’s limbs might be broken – but in a
state of baddha kumbhaka or purna kumbhaka (with the lungs full), one can
easily do the same work. While doing some over-strenuous activity in a
state of shunya kumbhaka (with the lungs empty) one might even die.” (NSS)

Baba says, “Suppose you are climbing to a high place or lifting a very
heavy load. If you do not follow the system of breathing while lifting the
load, your hands may become painful or your bones dislocated. If you do the
same work in a state of shunya kumbhaka (lungs empty), you will have great
difficulty – you may even collapse. If on the contrary, you perform any
strenuous activity in purna kumbhaka, taking a deep breath, you can easily
do it. All this comes within the scope of that svaravijinana.” (NSS)

Baba says, “You might have read in the Ramayana that Hanuman, by taking a
deep breath, made his body swell and lifted a whole mountain. Although it
is a mythological story, it refers to the science of svaravijinana.” (NSS)

Note 2: THE ESSENCE OF SVARSHASTRA

Baba says, “The process of breathing, depending upon whether the breath is
flowing through the right nostril or the left nostril or both nostrils,
influences people in various ways. It was Shiva who determined what kind of
activity should be performed, depending on which nostril the breath was
flowing through, and depending on whether the ida or piungala or susumna
channel was active. He set down specific rules and regulations as to when
one should undertake physical, psychic or spiritual activities. He further
instructed when and in what circumstances one should do asanas, pranayama,
dharana, dhyana, etc. This science, which Shiva invented and developed, was
known as svarashastra or svarodaya (science of breath control).” (NSS, 95
Edn, p.25-6)

Note 3: HOW TO SWITCH THE NOSTRILS:

CLOSING ONE AND OPENING THE OTHER

Basically there are two techniques for switching over the nostril.
First Technique: If one wants to open the right nostril then first lie down
on the left side of your body. Then gently extend the left arm straight
along the floor past the head. And then bend the left elbow such that the
left hand can be used to prop up the head off the ground. By remaining in
this lying position for a few minutes the right nostril will open and
become the dominant nostril. Similarly the left nostril can be activated by
lying down on the right side.

Second Technique: If there is no room on the floor or if one prefers not to
lie down then this next technique is helpful. First sit down on the floor
with the legs extended and bend the left leg such that the left foot is
flat on the ground and the left knee is pointed up toward the sky. Then
lean the upper body forward and place the left armpit on top left knee and
apply pressure by pressing down on the left shoulder with the right hand.
By this technique of touching the left armpit onto the left knee and
applying pressure, then the right nostril will surely open and become the
dominant nostril. One of the keys to this is to remember that by applying
pressure to one of the armpits in this manner will then open up the nostril
of the opposite side of the body.

***************************************
Treatment For Hunch-Back and Stiffness

Baba says:
“When calcium builds up and gets deposited in the back it becomes hard.
That is why when people are very young then their backbone is quite
flexible but due to an accumulation of calcium over just a few years then
by the time they are teen-agers already their spinal column has become
stiff and rigid.” (SC-8)

“Doing noakasana, utkata paschimottanasana, and shalabasana etc eliminates
the possibility of developing a hunched back. So those doing hard manual
labor that demands bending the back for extended periods of time should do
these aforementioned asanas on a regular basis. That will prevent them from
suffering from hunch-back in the future.” (SC-8)

***************************************

Naive People: Issue of Establishing Prout

Subject: Naive People: Issue of Establishing Prout
Date: Thu, 28 Jan 2010 07:55:28
From: “Gaurishankar Agrawal”
To: AM-GLOBAL

Baba

“Tumi esecho, bha’lo besecho, mana jine niyecho…” (PS #1516)

Purport:

O’ my Baba, by Your grace You have come. You are so charming and
attractive. I am completely lost in Your bliss and divine love. Your
presence is so divinely intoxicating; how magnificent it is that You
Yourself have come in melody and dance.

Baba, before this I was unaware, just I was surrounded by my own
hopelessness. But now, by Your grace, my entire existence is radiating in
Your divine light & filled with Your endless bliss. Baba, You are so
magnificent. By Your causeless grace You have come and
showered Your love on me. Baba, how gorgeous & beautiful You are. You are
mine and mine alone. Now and forever, You are always with me…

== NAIVE PEOPLE: ISSUE OF ESTABLISHING PROUT ==

Namaskar,
Lately, a few misguided souls have fallen into the fold of one impostor
and they are declaring in their silly manner that this impostor is going
to magically establish Prout on this earth by merely through his
so-called declaration.

Whenever a margii, new or old, is unaware about Baba’s teachings, then
they are prone to fall into such type of confusion – i.e. they can be
easily duped. They will mistakenly believe such things. All because they
lack the requisite knowledge and proper understanding of Baba’s
guidelines, i.e. Ananda Marga ideology.

A few days ago a letter was posted on the need for knowledge of AM
teachings and that without it people fall into problem and confusion:

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2010/01/naive-people-create-problems-for.html

The same theme rings true here. Some naive people have gotten caught up
following an impostor thinking that with the wave of his hand and
issuing of a proclamation for so called “dharma yudh”, Prout will
magically take root on this earth.

Of course, no rational Ananda Margii will fall prey to this type of
misplaced belief.

BABA’S GUIDELINE ON ESTABLISHING PROUT

Baba’s teachings are cent-per-cent practical, rational and logical. Ours
is not the path of magic, illusion, and false dreams of grandeur.
Whatever, we do in our Marga begins from the ground up – brick by brick
- through the practical application of Baba’s teachings.

This applies to the establishment of Prout as well.

Baba says, “Those ks’atriya- or vipra-minded shu’dras who are the
pioneers of revolution will have to learn to be disciplined, take proper
revolutionary training, build their character, be moralists; in a word,
they will have to become what I call sadvipras.” (HS-2)

And indeed it is such sadvipras who will establish Prout on this earth.
But as Baba says, it will not happen overnight, nor without effort, nor
through some silly proclamation as one impostor claims.

Rather Prout is going to get established from the ground up through:
proper conduct, consciousness raising, intense effort, public education,
and so much more.

In His historic discourse, Nuclear Revolution, Baba clearly discusses
many of the ingredients needed for the revolutionary approach that will
establish Prout.

Baba says, “PROUT advocates another type of revolution called “nuclear
revolution”. In nuclear revolution, every aspect of collective life –
social, economic, political, cultural, psychic and spiritual – is
completely transformed. New moral and spiritual values arise in society
which provide the impetus for accelerated social progress. The old era
is replaced by a new era – one collective psychology is replaced by
another. This type of revolution results in all-round development and
social progress.” (PNS-21)

Baba says, “Nuclear revolution can only be brought about by sadvipras
who reside in the nucleus of the social cycle. Through their concerted
effort, moral and spiritual power and all-round endeavour, they mobilize
the exploited sections of society to overthrow the ruling class – the
exploiters. This very struggle for mass upheaval liberates society from
exploitation and ushers in a new era of peace and prosperity.” (PNS-21)

By the review of Baba’s above teachings – and by being familiar with
Baba’s many discourses on Prout – anyone can certainly understand that
Prout will result from a distinct and concerted effort led by sadvipras.

Prout will not magically arrive through one impostor’s day dream or tall
talks. Any right thinking margii understands that.

THE FALSE CLAIM

Now see the ridiculous proclamation of this impostor Chakradhar.

“To establish Prout I am going to declare dharma maha yudh…After these
2 months I am going to declare dharma maha yudh on 01.01.2010 at
00:00hrs.” – Chakradhar

Such is the hue and cry created by Chakradhar – as if by his silly
say-so Prout will be established. One or two naive margiis may have
gotten befooled. But those proper margiis who do sadhana and read Baba’s
discourses can never be duped by such an impostor.

Baba Himself makes a joke about the false proclamations of impostors
like Chakradhar.

Baba says, “It is very easy to talk big about revolution. Audiences may
be awestruck and applaud, but to actually bring about a revolution is
not at all easy.” (PNS-6)

CANNOT MAKE GOLD PALACE OUT OF MUD

Let’s just think of it this way. The impostor Chakradhar is saying that
he will magically bring about Prout through his own proclamation.

However, just as a gold palace cannot be built out of mud – one must
have gold. Similarly, this impostor Chakradhar cannot establish Prout
with the quacks who follow him – one must have sadvipras.

That is why all rational margiis are just laughing at the tall talks of
Chakradhar. This impostor just makes one false claim after another so
those with the practical understanding of AM ideology can easily see
that Chakradhar’s teachings are nothing but hot air – period.

“QUICK FIX”

The people who are most prone to fall into Chakradhar’s fold are those
looking for a “quick fix” in life. In every sphere they are looking for
a shortcut. Instead of working hard and following 16 Points and studying
Prout and educating the masses, they easily get duped into hailing the
words of this impostor because it is the easy thing to do. It is just
one “quick fix” type of approach.

Such persons are the same ones who sit for 2 minutes in sadhana, do not
fast, and skimp over all of Baba’s guidelines. Following dharma is too
difficult for them so they are looking for some other “quick fix”. Just
as dogmatic people embark on pilgrimmages to some holy land thinking
that by this easy way they will attain salvation, those with Chakradhar
are think by this short-cut method they can establish Prout.

BABA’S BLESSING

By Baba’s grace He has given all the guidelines and teachings to build
up a bright new humanity through the establishment of Prout. That is the
only way. Various impostors like Chakradhar will come on and go from
this earth. Along the way they may dupe a few people, but in the end all
their tall talks and proclamations will come up empty. Only by Baba’s
practical methodology can Prout be established.

Baba says, “We are waiting for the rising sun with crimson rays. Even
now the crimson rays are a bit visible. These crimson rays are the rays
of PROUT.” (PNS-17)

Namaskar,
Gaurishankar

Note 1: MORE ABOUT THE PRACTICAL APPROACH OF ESTABLISHING PROUT

Baba says, “Before the revolutionary organization gives the clarion call
for revolution, there must be intensive preparation. In spite of the
presence of all the conditions for revolution, revolution may not take
place unless the exploited masses are psychologically prepared for
revolution. If the people do not support revolution, the clarion call
for revolution will not be heeded. Ideologically educated revolutionary
workers will have to channelize the psychology of the common mass
towards revolution and inspire them to undertake revolutionary struggle!
Such workers must adopt a rational approach inspired by the positive
philosophy, have a well-developed socio-economico-political
consciousness, and be dedicated to uplifting the standard of the common
people. The duty of these workers is to inspire the frustrated masses
along the path of revolution. Through their dedication and dynamism,
they will be able to bring the collective psychology in their favour.”
(PNS-21)

*************************************************
Truth Behind Mesmerism

Baba says, “This sort of treatment by hypnotic spell, people say, was
started by Dr. Mesmer of France, and so this system is known as
“mesmerism.” But prior to Dr. Mesmer, this system was known to Indians. In
India it was named “raksasii vidya.” In ancient India (by ancient India I
mean the non-Aryans, the natives of India) there was a non-Aryan lady
doctor, Karkatii Raksasii. This raksasii was very famous for her mesmeric
treatment. This sort of treatment should therefore not have been known as
“mesmerism” — it should have been known as something different.”
“Hence we find that in the Mahabharata age, there was surgery, ayurveda,
vaedyaka shastra, visa cikitsa, and homeopathy ; and people were not
unacquainted with mesmeric treatment either. This proves that medical
science was not underdeveloped.” (MHB, p.25)

*************************************************

Missed the Point on Devotion

Date: Wed, 27 Jan 2010 12:46:41 -0000
To: am-global@earthlink.net
From: Tapan Prabhu
Subject: Missed the Point on Devotion

Baba

“Toma’r tare, jiivane bhare, sedhe gechi jato ga’n…” (P.S. 3747)

Purport:

Baba, by Your grace throughout my entire life I have been singing Your
blissful songs of divine love– Prabhat Samgiita– in order to satisfy
You. O’ Prabhu, now, however, I do not know which particular song to sing
in order to please & satiate You.

Baba, all the time– from the middle of the night up to the morning
dawn– I go on practicing and singing those tunes and melodies according to
Your direction with deep longing in my heart, hoping to bring You close.
And I have also sung Prabhat Samgiita in the scorching heat and in the tune
of the evening sunset. All the time I sing for You, with only one motive to
please You and bring You in my close proximity– O’ my dearmost.

Baba, when I sing for You and repeat Your name in Your divine ideation
then by Your grace a very special feeling comes in my heart, and tears roll
down in love for You. Baba, that intense love I am unable to express in
words, You know. Those blissful feelings cannot be conveyed by language.
Because of that blissful feeling for You, my mind always longs to sing the
song to call You.

And also I have sung the song in the spring season along with the
flowers and sweet breeze of the effulgent purnima night. Baba, with the
strong feeling of yearning in my heart, I have also sung Your songs in the
terrible whirlwind of the hurricane of the pitch dark amavasya night. Baba,
by Your grace You have made me understand that everything is Your divine
blessing and I go on singing Your song, irrespective of the time, season,
hours, and days.

Baba, by Your grace I have only one longing in life: To satisfy You and
bring You close. Baba, please be gracious on me…

== MISSED THE POINT ON DEVOTION ==

Namaskar,
As we all know on the spiritual path, devotion is one precious gem. And in
so many discourses & in various ways Baba beautifully outlines the
speciality of different stages of bhakti. And it is this unique quality of
bhakti that established devotees in the Supreme rank. Unfortunately one or
two are taking the matter in their own way Here first are some of Baba’s
guidelines.

Baba teaches us that in lower devotion, a particular complex remains within
the mind of the devotee. This complex is termed as: ‘Mahimnajinana’. And
that means, the devotee thinks that Parama Purusa is too great to be
attained. In this stage the devotee feels ‘How I can go close to Him? I am
full of imperfections and He is so high.’ This feeling of lowliness is
Mahimnabodha.

MAHIMNABODHA CANNOT CO-EXIST WITH PARABHAKTI

Baba is further then explaining that when one attains the higher devotional
state of Parabhakti or absolute devotion, then there is no chance of
degeneration. Furthermore Baba guides us that Mahimnabodha cannot exist
once Parabhakti is reached.

Means Baba outrightly states that when one is established in higher devotion
or Parabhakti, then the devotee does not feel any kind of inferiority
complex. Thus when one comes within the close proximity of Parama Purusa
and the devotee is established in the realm of parabhakti, then all
feelings of lowliness & inferiority completely disappear. This is all
explained quite clearly in the discourse, “The Path of Salvation”,
(Reference Subhasita Samgraha Part-11, page 39).

Plus in a separate discourse Baba makes the point perfectly clear.

Baba says, “Those who possess parabhakti or kevala’bhakti are free
from Mahimajinana– the notion that God is too perfect to be attained
by a mere mortal.” (AMIWL-7)

The fundamental point is that Baba pointedly tells us in this discourse that
the negative complex of Mahimnajinana cannot exist side by side with
Parabhakti. If the feeling of mahimnajinana or lowliness exists in the mind
of devotees, then it is clear that they are not established in the highest
level of devotion– Parabhakti. Likewise, Baba guides that those who have
reached the status of Parabhakti cannot feel mahimnajinana.

ONE DADA IS CONFUSED: HIS BOOK IS WRONG

However one respected Dada is explaining this matter quite differently from
Baba. Means he has given his own version that is not consistent with Baba’s
teaching.

Specifically in his book “Glimpses of a Mystery” (p. 87), this Dada writes:
“When Parabhakti (absolute devotion) is granted, there is a risk that the
devotee can suffer from a special ideation called Mahimnabodha. This causes
the aspirant to feel so petty, so small, so insignificant that he or she
feels unworthy of the endless, vast, incomprehensible…Brahma.” — end of
quote from Dadaji’s book.

So here above this Dada is telling that when sadhakas reach to the highest
realm of devotion, then still they feel that that they are inferior and
low. Hence what his “preaching” goes directly opposite to Baba’s eternal
guideline.

Means Baba’s 100% perfect spiritual guideline is that when parabhakti
(absolute devotion) is reached then there is not any iota of scope for
mahimnabodha to remain. So this Dada’s published writing is going against
Baba’s teaching and is misguiding the situation by writing the direct
opposite. Means Dadaji is telling that mahimnabodha does remain with
Parabhakti.

By comparing Baba’s pure guideline on the one side and then seeing
Dadaji’s explanation, it becomes apparent that the latter has gone off the
track. Means that he has gone awry.

VERY IMPORTANT MATTER

So the whole matter is quite serious and demands our attention– because
nowadays there is so much fake yoga floating around and what distinguishes
Ananda Marga from these other so-called paths is the uniquely devotional
approach given by Baba. So devotion is one special point in AM but when our
own Dada’s undermine the speciality of all this by misunderstanding this
essential point of devotion, then that will bring question and confusion in
the minds of readers and new people. And they will question what is so
great about AM’s devotional approach when in the top stage still one
suffers from basic weaknesses. So all these types of doubts are cast due to
Dadaji’s misunderstanding.

Here following are some deeply inspiring words from our Beloved Baba on the
point of Parabhakti.

Baba says, “Para’bhakti (pure devotion) liberates spiritual aspirants from
the bondage of ‘I’- feeling permanently. One should bear in mind that
Parabhakti is not a state of inaction; rather a tremendous vital faculty
lies behind Parabhakti.” (AMIWL)

Baba says, “One who has attained Para’bhakti will be a great worker. The
strength of their devotion will establish them in action, and this will
benefit the world.” (Karma-Sannyasa)

Baba says, “Spiritual aspirants with developed parabhakti can proclaim that
the universe is all Brahma – that Brahma alone is the Supreme desideratumof all microcosms.” (AMIWL-7)

Namaskar,
Tapan

Note 1: Central to this entire topic discussed in this letter is this
following guideline of Baba.

BABA says, “The scriptures should always be interpreted by qualified
scholars, competent philosophers, and penetrating thinkers. If one tries to
interpret a profound scripture with superficial knowledge, the interpreter
appears ridiculous and the audience is confused.”

“There are some people who are neither scholars, nor philosophers,
nor penetrating thinkers, but merely wander about interpreting scriptures
as a means of livelihood. They utterly fail to present the proper matter in
the correct perspective before the audience…[and] do more harm than good
to the society.”

“[They] interpret the scriptures just to exhibit their intellect–to
procure for themselves a certificate of erudition. They remain far from the
living spirit of the scriptures.” (NSS)

Note 2: I think all are aware that Dada Bhaskaranandji is the author of
“Glimpses of a Mystery”– so he is the one who is confused about
Parabhakti, or at least he was at the time of writing. If his understanding
has indeed changed then best is for him to issue a statement so readers can
correct their books. Beyond that everyone should be careful when reading
Dadaji’s book because when he has made such a fundamental error about the
all-important point of devotion, then there may be numerous other problems
in the book as well. Others should also come forward and share their
insights about this. Indeed there are other errors.

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2003/11/secrets-behind-philosophy-of-neo.html

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2004/05/example-of-unpointed-devotion.html

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2008/04/which-dadas-book-to-read.html

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2008/02/fake-remedy-by-dada.html

***************************************
Margiis’ Status

Baba says, “Most people spend their lives on this planet eating and
drinking. Sometimes they contract diseases, their stomachs become
distended, and they die. But there are certain exceptional people who say,
‘No, we have not come to eat, drink and make merry.’ Those who lead
licentious lives foolishly get involved in brawls and fights, but the
exceptional people say, ‘No, we don’t want to live such a life, we have to
lead an ideological life on the path of “A’tmamoks’a'rtham’
jagaddhita’ya ca.”

“Those people who are society’s exceptions are extraordinary people.
They alone will build human history. Others cannot and will not do it.”

“These exceptional people are sometimes seen as lunatics by the naive
public, but the fact is that these exceptional people do something new and
constructive for society.”

“You should also know that you are exceptions. You too will do something
great, will build up something historical.” (9th January ‘79)

Note: The life of each and every good margii is looked upon as something
peculiar in the eyes of the common people. The reason is A-grade margiis
are not involved in the religious dogma or materialistic ways of common
people; plus all margiis are practicing yoga, kiirtan, sadhana, eating only
sentient food, and following progressive ideas. So margiis’ thinking and
living and socializing are quite different from the common public. That is
why the common public thinks margiis are peculiar people. But sincere
margiis are not worried about this; rather they know that this is one
merit. Such margiis are great exceptions and they are also the vanguards of
the entire society. All sincere margiis are making the path which the
common public will tread in the very near future.

***************************************

The Brahmana

From: “Ramlal Sharma”
To: am-global@earthlink.net
Subject: The Brahmana
Date: Tue, 26 Jan 2010 10:32:28

Baba

“A’lo jhariye madhu ks’ariye a’ndha’r sa’riye tumi esecho…” (P.S. 1233)

Purport:

Baba, You have come and by Your divine advent You are showering
effulgence, exuding nectar, and wiping away all darkness. Baba, You have
come– making the flowers blossom & graciously spreading happiness and
bliss to one and all. Baba, by Your august arrival everyone’s hopes and
longings have been fulfilled.

Baba, living beings were awakened by the deep yearning and pain of
longing in their heart. And with this feeling, in the anticipation &
hope of Your coming, they were awake, watching for Your arrival–
constantly looking towards Your path. Baba, this pain and longing of
devotees resonated in Your heart and You could no longer remain distant.
Baba, You have come and You are graciously pouring the basket of love–
satisfying everyone’s heart. The sleeping humanity has gotten new life
by Your grace.

Baba– that river which dried up and evaporated, and that song which
was lost in the oblivion– the current of that very river and the tune
of those songs You have graciously brought along with You.*

Baba due to Your august advent You have inundated each and every heart
with the nectar of devotion. This is Your causeless grace…

* The inner idea is that when Parama Purusa comes and He saturates the
heart with deep devotion, then all those feelings of love and which had
dried up start to blossom. In the above song, the river signifies the
flow of devotion and the song and melody refers to that subtler
expression of devotional feeling.

== THE BRAHAMANA ==

Namaskar,
Here is one story which contains one important teaching for
all sadhakas.

STORY: VILLAGER IN SEARCH OF HIS HORSE

One sunny day a man left his house in search of his horse. His mind was
totally filled and burdened with thoughts about his missing horse. In
his long & arduous effort the man searched far and wide as he crossed
many villages, hills, rivers, streams and valleys– all in search of his
horse. Along the way there were countless wonderful and fascinating
sights, yet in his mind’s eye all he could see was his horse– nothing
else. His mind was consumed with that notion.

When the man finally returned home from his tiring journey his close
friends were amazed by how far he had traveled; and they asked him
numerous questions about what he saw on his fabled and remarkable
journey. They wanted to hear his observations about the vastness of the
earth and the beauty of the sky, as well as all the various other sights
he saw along the way. Yet the man could not comment on any of that; all
he could reply was, ‘I could not find my horse’.

MORAL OF THE STORY

As, we can all see, the man in the story got caught up in his own little
burdens. His mind became totally fused with thoughts about his horse to
such an extent that he could not even begin to conceive of anything
else. His whole reality was sunk in that.

Being sadhakas, we must never allow such things to happen to us.

MISSING THE BOAT

In life so many things happen so if one is not careful then the mind
will just get caught up in that whirlpool of those events. Indeed it is
the common malady that step by step people burden themselves and allow
theirs minds to get preoccupied with family problems, job issues,
financial matters, health concerns etc. But in that troubled state of
mind one cannot move ahead.

The mind will just get burdened and one will be walking around carrying
a heavy load of thoughts or concerns. In which case– just like in the
above story– one will not be able to function. The real charm and
beauty of life will pass one by.

NO BURDEN OF THE PAST, PRESENT, OR FUTURE

That is why Baba guides us that we should make it our strict policy to
keep our mind free from any burdens. We must not carry any burden of the
past, nor any burden of the future, nor any burden of the present. Our
minds must be totally free from these three burdens. That is Baba’s
directive.

Yassa pure ca paccha ca majjhe ca natthi kincanam’;
Akincanam’ ana’da’nam’ tamaham’ vru’mi Bra’hman’am’.

Baba says, “I will call that person a Brahman whose mind does not run
after any colour, who is neither obsessed by colour-laden thoughts of
the past nor influenced by such thoughts of the present…One must free
the mind from the influence of all colours.” (NKS, Disc #24)

In His above teaching Baba directs us to keep the mind cleansed of all
past, present, and future problems. That is the first half of his
teaching and the culminating idea of the shloka is that one must only
focus on the Goal– on Him. Then one will be able to do great things.
This is Baba’s eternal guideline.

KEEP THE MIND LIGHT

So as sadhakas, our duty is to keep the mind light– to keep our mind
focused on Parama Purusa.

Baba says, “When you are to move fast, your mind should be light; if the
mind is heavy it will not be able to move fast.” (AV-31)

So Baba’s guideline is to keep the mind free, empty, and light. And the
only way to do that is to remember Parama Purusa.

Baba says, “You must always think of the goal. Always look to your
ideal.” (AV-1)

TRAINING THE MIND

Thus in our day to day practical life one must take up the task to keep
the mind fixed on Him– and not entertain the three burdens of the past,
present, and future.

Baba guides us that if one is careful in this endeavour then little by
little the mind will always wipe away any burdens and move towards Him.
With practice this will become one’s habit until finally it becomes one
nature.

But if one does not take proper care then things will go in the opposite
direction and the mind will always be burdened.

So in our busy lives whenever we can, during each and every moment, we
should clean the mind. That means we must not get drowned by past,
present, or future events but rather must ensconce oneself in the Goal–
in the thought of the Great. And, amazingly enough, the more we attempt
this grand endeavour the easier it becomes until finally it is just
automatic, and always we feel His divine presence.

By such training and practice, our minds will always be clean, empty,
and free– i.e. fully absorbed in His thought, in His ideation.

ASSETS OF SOCIETY

So Baba’s grace and by our careful approach our mind will be unburdened
and free. And in that state one will surely become a tremendous asset of
the society– one will do something great.

Hence, as sadhakas, we should make it our regular habit to routinely
check and cleanse the mind by thinking exclusively about Him. May we
make this our regular endeavour as this is the inner secret for becoming
great.

Baba says, “People who command reverence from society…admit: ‘We know
nothing. We only think upon Parama Purus’a and work by His grace’.”
(NKS, Disc #23)

Namaskar,
Parashram

Note 1: MUST NOT HAVE TOO MANY PROGRAMS OPEN

Keeping the burdens of the past, present, and future in one’s mind
causes their entire existence to malfunction. One loses one’s own
abilities because of being overrun by too many useless thoughts and
worries.

It is just like when too many programs on a computer are open then the
computer can no longer function at even a basic level. The computer just
gets totally stuck and cross-wired by all those electrical impulses
running in different directions.

Similarly we should never allow such things to happen to us. Always may
we remain focused on the Goal. That is the quality of a real sadhaka.

****************************************
Not Easy To Bring Into Practice

Baba says, “While helping the poor people your vanity may increase. You
may think: ‘I have done this, I have done that. I am not an ordinary man.’
This is a psychic disease. Actually, vanity is a psychic disease, a psychic
ailment. But if, while helping a man, a poor man, or a diseased person, you
ascribe Godhood to him, that is, if you think, ‘I am not helping a man, I am
helping God in human structure,’ then vanity will not be encouraged. What
will be the reaction within the person? ‘This body, this mind, this wealth
has been given to me by Parama Purus’a, and Parama Purus’a has come before
me, God has come before me, as a suffering person, and I am paying back
that thing to Him. That is, the actual owner of this body, the actual
owner of this mind is He, and His wealth I am paying back to Him.’ So
there will be no vanity.” (DKG, p.197-98)

Note: Despite that fact that we are all aware about Baba’s above
teaching, nonetheless it is the common human weakness that we forget
about this point. Yet we all know His above guideline has great and
eternal benefits. For that reason we need to be reminded about this
divine guideline again and again. Adherence to this principle helps
establish one in the stance of divinity & immortality.

****************************************

Dhruvanandji

Date: 25 Jan 2010 13:17:19 -0000
From:
To: am-global@earthlink.net
Subject: Dhruvanandji

Baba

== DHRUVANANDJI ==

Namaskar,
All are aware that Dada Dhruvanandji has been ill for some time. That is
why he has not been able to fulfill his duty as GS. However, in the
recent days, things have taken a turn for the worse. He now no longer
even leaves his bed for natural call. So the situation is indeed grave.
Our best wishes with Dhruvanandji at this critical hour.

Sincerely,
Mahesh

Naive People Create Problems for Themselves

From: “Shantatma Kerketta”
To: am-global@earthlink.net
Subject: Naive People Create Problems for Themselves
Date: Mon, 25 Jan 2010 14:10:35 +0530

Baba

“Toma’ya a’mi bhla’loba’si, a’mi toma’ra a’jina’ka’ri…” P.S. 4589

Purport:

Baba, I love You. I feel fortunate when obeying or carrying out Your order.
By Your grace, I pass my whole days always involved in shravan, manan, and
nidhidhyasana. I am always engaged in Your ideation.

In true sense I do not know whether I love You or not. I do not even want
to know whether I am loving You or not. Please be gracious and
compassionate. And bless me with devotion. This is my only thing I want–
to remain at Your lotus feet.

With my whole existence– my body, my heart, & my mind, I do sastaunga
pranam at Your lotus feet. Baba, please grant me devotion…

== NAIVE PEOPLE CREATE PROBLEMS FOR THEMSELVES ==

Namaskar,
There is a myth in our AM society that jinana is useless and there is no
need to read Baba’s books. This letter addresses the issue.

We all have to consider the matter: If really reading Baba’s books is
not needed, then what was the reason for Him to deliver thousands and
thousands of discourses and emphasize the seminar system, svadhyaya, and
study etc.

WE MUST REFLECT: DO WE REVIEW HIS TEACHINGS?

In AM, we have our distinct path. Baba has given all the necessary
guidelines: When we follow them, life flows properly; when we disregard
them, difficulties arise. This happens both in personal and in
collective life.

At present, we all know that groupism has reared its head in our Marga
society. But it did not come out of nowhere. There are some tell-tale
signs and reasons behind it.

We should all be more aware about AM philosophy, Baba’s articles /
books, and reflect and honestly ask ourselves: “Am I part of the problem
- even in the smallest way? How often do I read Baba’s guidelines and
discourses and ensure I am following His tenets.”

Kindly consider the following analysis and share your thoughts.

DEVOTION DOES NOT MEAN A LACK OF KNOWLEDGE

In our Marga, all want to be devotees. In countless discourses, Baba has
clearly defined bhakti as being the best path, far better than the other
paths, i.e. karma and jinana. Jinana or knowledge is the worst.

So all are eager to become devotees.

Unfortunately, some have (mis)understood this to mean that one need not
read AM discourses or study Baba’s guidelines. They think that is the
lowly path of jinana. Indeed there is a prevailing myth in our AM family
that knowledge is not needed.

But Baba’s main intention behind His criticism of jinana lies in having
vanity of knowledge whereby people just read books and overlook sadhana.
In contrast, knowledge of Baba’s books is needed.

In AM, some people mix this up. That is their misconception. So all
should be cent-per-cent clear that reading Baba’s discourses and doing
sadhana comes under that path of devotion. One must read the books, do
sadhana and follow accordingly, otherwise they will go in the wrong
direction.

We must know Baba’s teachings. That is our compass of life. Just as the
explorers of old used celestial navigation or a compass to plot their
course, Baba’s teachings are our compass to stay on the right path. Thus
we must study and know His guidelines.

Baba says, “To liberate society from this unbearable situation,
consciousness will have to be aroused among the people; their eyes will
have to be opened by knowledge. Let them understand the what’s, the
why’s and the where’s. Thus study is essential, very essential.”
(NH-LOI, Disc: 7)

If His teachings were not needed, then He would have just sat up on the
dais and given varabhaya mudra for 2 hours straight. But He did not do
that.

Most certainly He blessed us, but in addition He gave us distinct
guidelines to abide by so that we may (a) progress, (b) know what to do
and not to do, and (c) reach the Goal. If one does not read the books
they will not know the do’s and don’ts and they will follow the wrong
path and go in the wrong direction. That is what we see happening now.

If due to our naiveté or ignorance, we are not aware of Baba’s
guidelines, then problems will arise. That is how groupism came about
and finds support still today from good, well-intentioned margiis. Why
because they lack the requisite knowledge.

Confirmed group leaders are aware what they are doing – they are
deliberate sinners. But countless other wts and margiis wish to serve
the best interest of the Marga but innocently get caught up in the
whirlpool of groupism. Because some are not fully aware of Baba’s
teachings and instead rely on certain Dadas for advice and guidance.
When in reality, we should only rely on Baba. He is our Supreme Guide.

So we should all be critically aware about His divine guidelines and let
those teachings determine the course of our lives.

Let’s consider the matter further.

COMMON THEME

Many in AM think that, “Yes, I am following Baba in all respects”. Who
does not think like this – everyone does. We all think we are abiding by
the ways of neo-humanism etc. All think that by their actions they are
serving and pleasing Guru.

However, upon closer examination, it is often found that many are
unknowingly part of the problem. Unwittingly they are supporting
groupism: Either by financial donations, reading Fake Ananda Vaniis,
attending factional functions, accepting the Fake BP Manual, following
Bangalisation or the Mahaprayan dogma, accepting scriptural distortions,
the splitting of jagrtis, witnessing punishment postings and so many
other ways. They do not mean to do it; it simply happens because some
naive margiis / wts are not aware of Baba’s teachings.

See for yourself. We should all ask ourselves, “Did I review a discourse
from neo-humanism this month? Have I read an entire discourse from
Subhasita Samgraha this week? Do I regularly refer to Caryacarya?”. This
is the type of self-analysis that must be done.

When one has Baba’s ideas in mind, then one will not innocently become a
puppet or supporter of groupist activities. That will save you from
harsh consequences.

Because those innocent people who unknowingly follow groupists agendas
will have to face the facts and undergo the reactions.

It is just like if one unknowingly touches fire, then that fire will not
spare you. Similarly, going against bhagavad dharma is dangerous. On
this point, no one can save you. One will have to face the consequences.

Thus by not knowing Baba’s guidelines and actively applying them in
life, one is inviting all sorts of problems.

ASTRONAUT ANALOGY

Most margiis are quite intelligent and more aware than the general
public, so many may think that they are not prone to falling away from
Baba’s teachings. But if one has a weak spot for a certain Dada or
group, then it can easily happen.

Just think, most astronauts are extremely well-trained in the sciences
and all kinds of technical aspects of life, yet still they may prescribe
to the dogma of heaven. They know about outer space but they stillthink
they will go to heaven. Because of their kinship with a particular
religion etc, they may not critically evaluate their beliefs whereas in
other arenas of life they are quite sharp.

Many read discourses yet because of their friendship with certain Dadas
they support groupism unknowingly, and hence fall into dogma like the
astronauts.

So those inclined toward a particular group of Dadas may automatically
conclude that those group leaders are grounded in neo-humanism. When in
truth those wts may just be involved in forming one group and thus
violating the facets of neo-humanism. But the margii cannot understand
that because they have lost the capacity to see; they have no vivek due
to their factional allegiances.

That is how people naively get trapped in the net of groupism, despite
their best intentions to follow Baba.

BABA’S BLESSING & SOLUTIONS

There is more to this topic and a follow-up letter should be written.

We should all know that through study, satsaunga, sadhana, and
introspection, we can bring Baba’s teachings into our practical life and
avoid the awful reactions that stem from a lack of basic knowledge of AM
teachings.

Remember, whatever one does – right or wrong – one has to face the
consequences. If one goes against the fundamental teachings of AM, then
prakti will not spare them.

As margiis we should adhere to Baba’s principles strictly, read His
discourses on neo-humanism and engage in introspection.

Baba says, “There is another meaning of the word ideology. It means a
mirror. When we look at it, we can observe ourselves. Similarly is our
ideology. Every human being should follow his ideology. Human life is an
ideological flow. Those people who have no ideology in life are not
human beings. One can recognize other men to the extent that he follows
his ideology. The life of man devoid of ideology is like an animal
life.” (SS-20)

Namaskar,
Shantatma

****************************************
- Marriage Condition -

BABA says, “I have stated that at the time of marriage the bride and
bridegroom should not have any direct relationship three generations above
and three generations below. If this condition is not met, the marriage
should not be solemnized.” (AV-7, p.57)

Note: Those not following this their moral standard is questionable. Top
grade margiis are very strict about this Baba’s teaching.

****************************************

Fake Gurus Cannot Last Long

From: “Jorge Santana”
To: am-global@earthlink.net
Subject: Fake Gurus Cannot Last Long
Date: Sun, 24 Jan 2010 13:52:48 +0100

Baba

“Bha’loba’so jadi tave eso priyatama diiner e kut’iire…” (P.S. 2619)

Purport:

O’ my dearmost Baba, if You really love me then please come to the hut
of this lowly person. I want to make You listen to my love songs up to Your
full heart’s content; that’s why in my mental viina I have practiced many
tunes and melodies for You.

Baba, I do not have any knowledge or intellect. Nor do I have any
virtue, name & fame, or the weight of those things. I have only one thing:
Love for You in my mind. My whole heart is completely filled with love for
You. And by offering that love I will satisfy You, by Your grace.

Baba, I do not have any prestige nor do I get any respect or honor. None
of these do I have. Nor do I have such devotion that I feel my ego getting
wounded by Your not coming. Baba, I have only gratitude in my heart for all
those things which You have graciously bestowed upon me. Please shower me
in Your ahetuki krpa.

Baba, I know in my heart that You love me, but if You really love me
then please come close in my heart. For You I have prepared and decorated
my mind in Guru cakra. Baba, please come close and grace me…

== FAKE GURUS CANNOT LAST LONG ==

Namaskar,
Nowadays as yoga is gaining more and more popular support pseudo-gurus are
popping like weeds all around. In the mass society this is rampant.

Unfortunately from time to time this has turned into a a recurring theme on
the wavelengths of our Marga internet. Because 1 or 2 persons like to again
& again promote the ways of one or another pseudo-gurus.

But we all know that Lord Shrii Shrii Anandamurtiji is the Sadguru who has
graciously come to lovingly guide the whole humanity unto the path of
dharma sadhana and divine salvation.

And that it is He Who has beautifully given us the path of Ananda Marga–
the Path of Bliss–whereby all progress towards that Divine Goal.

Whereas it is commonly understood that such pseudo-gurus are nothing but
exploiters and the proponents of dogma.

WHAT WAY THESE PSEUDO-GURUS DO

There in India, since ages & ages the deceptive and cheating ways of such
dogmatic gurus is well known. Here following are some of the ploys that
they do:

1. First off such pseudo-gurus share very little of what they know. Of
course what they know is not much and mostly it is dogma, but even then
they keep such “knowledge” to themselves. So the disciples– hungry to get
something– undergo many, many years of arduous work doing all the
cleaning, cooking, repairing and all sorts of dogmatic things– including
getting the so-called guru’s hukka ready for tobacco & hashish smoking. Or
such a guru will use a chilam which is hand-held pipe tool for smoking
hashish. And the disciples work like slaves preparing all these things.

2. The disciples also must wash all the clothes and be obedient at all
times. Failing perfect obedience they will get senselessly abused,
insulted, and beaten by getting hit w/ burning wood. All this the gurus do
to see how far the disciples are qualified and to see how much they can
tolerate. But no blessing is ever given, only beatings.

3. Plus such dogmatic gurus use one nasty trick– the trick of allurement
to get their slave disciples to stay longer and longer. To do this the
gurus do not teach anything at all to those disciples. And just the
disciples hang on hoping that one day they will get some knowledge– sweet
nectar. But that day never comes.

4. When the disciple sees what garbage the guru is teaching then they will
leave in an instant. For that reason those gurus do not tell anything at
all; Because telling something means exposing oneself. And by not telling
they can keep their saintly status and prestige. And by that way their
disciples will not desert them.

5. Altogether it is just like how Gandhi kept mum whenever an important
decision had to be made.

6. So the disciples are just left to continue on and on with their mundane
duties such as doing oil massage for the guru plus they are in charge of
milking and taming the cows. This disciples must do– so they move in the
jungle all day with the cows and then return back in the evening time. But
for their long efforts they never get not even a single drop of that sweet,
butter milk.

7. These pseudo-gurus also place themselves on one pedestal by giving the
dogmatic definition of brahmacarya as celibacy. And in that way they create
inferiority complexes in the minds of family people and young disciples by
showing themselves to be great spiritualists– when in fact they themselves
do not follow the anything about celibacy what to speak of following the
true teachings of Brahmacarya.

9. And above all the main thing is they do not tell any dharmic guidelines.
And not only that but they themselves do not know any such things.

10. Up till now this is a problem in the society that teachers are pseudo;
they do not do anything. Just they became guru and they themselves do not
do sadhana. So they do not know anything just they want blind obedience.

11. And in that way the disciples work is only to do engage in crude,
mundane tasks.

12. If anyone visits any of the hundreds of dogmatic ashrams in India you
will find these things going on throughout the land. And no longer just in
India, these pseudo-ashrams are popping up like mushrooms all aroung the
globe.

So posting any such negative stories to one of our Marga e-mail forums means
supporting dogma. Because those gurus want to forcibly impose such dogma
and exploit the common mass.

ANANDA MARGA IMPARTS DHARMIC TEACHINGS TO ALL

Our AM is different. In our Marga first sadhana is taught and made
available to one and all. Plus, as we all know, in AM the dharmic codes of
morality– yama and niyama– are also taught. And like that from phase to
phase, step to step, our AM proves itself as one sadhaka making mission.
But in other dogmatic places it is not like that; that is why as a warning
Baba strongly exposed and condemns the dealings of such dogmatic gurus.

HOW BABA EXPOSES SUCH DOGMATIC GURUS

IN HIS GHOST STORY

Baba is telling in dramatic way the facts about such present and recent
past dogmatic gurus. Here following are excerpts from his short story–
“Under the Fathomless Depths of the Deep Blue Sea”– whereby using the
allegory of ghost Baba reveals the cheating methods used by those negative
gurus.

(A) Here in general Baba is exposing the hypocrisy of the ghost guru–
Bhutananda Maharaja. And also Baba is exposing the formula how this nasty
guru side-steps difficult questions.

Baba says, “The next day, at the crack of dawn, Bhutananda Maharaja was
sitting in the middle of a group of disciples. The holy fire was burning in
front of him. Crowds of followers were coming from nearby villages. They
brought thousands of varieties of fruits, nuts and other delicacies as well
as various narcotics such as marijuana, opium and hashish. Bhutanandaji was
chanting the ‘bhuta’ mantra with closed eyes which he half opened from time
to time to study the sumptuous fruits and delicacies. He always observed a
vow of silence during the day in case a disciple would ask him a difficult
question. In this way he avoided embarrassing situations.” (Under
Fathomless Depths

(B) And here below Baba is pointing out how such pseudo-gurus are fully
immersed in negative political dealings.

“Shrii Shrii Paramahansa Bhutananda Maharaja Paribrajakacarya!!!!!!!
Or, ‘Bhutananda Maharaja’, for short.”

“Bhutanandaji advised, “Look here, don’t upset them [the rich people] in
any way this time because they are your main hope. Don’t put too much
pressure on them to pay unpaid bills, income-tax, sales-tax and other
taxes. Oh, one more thing, have you given them ample scope for black
marketeering?”

“Yes, Your Holiness,” replied the ministers. “We have made the seven-year
plans in such a way that they, as contractors, will be able to extract the
lion’s share of the money invested by the government. Moreover, we have not
put the responsibility for these projects in the hands of the learned
experts, but have given it to people selected by ourselves whether they
know anything about planning or not.”

Bhutanandaji said, “Very good, very good.”

(C) Here below Baba is showing how such a negative ghost guru gets his own
disciples involved in all kinds of fringe political dealings and immoral
activities.

Baba says, “That evening, after the crowd of followers had dispersed, he
[His Holiness] called two of his most trusted disciples, Swami
Shriiga’la’nanda18 and Swami Markatananda, and said, “Listen…..Mr.
Jutiram Dawala Chad Thakthakia or Abakanagar and Mr. Besharam Lal
Ghushkila’o Phatphatia from Ajabnagar have amassed huge amounts of money by
black marketeering. Instead of increasing their bank balance or investing
in more property, they have chosen to make ornaments in pure gold. We must
lay our hands on those ornaments by any means.”

“His Holiness said, “Listen…..Take some pure gold and go and visit the
Thakthakiyas and Phatphatias. Tell them you know the magic word for
doubling gold. You can be assured that they will give you a small amount of
gold just to test you. You should mix that gold with your gold and show
that it has doubled in size. If you do this a number of times they will
begin to have faith in you. You should always remember that such deceitful
businessmen generally become very greedy and stupid. Within a few days they
will be fully convinced and will lay all their ornaments in front of you.
Then, simply run away with the bounty.”

The disciples asked, “Where shall we go with the gold?”

His Holiness, the Maharaja said, “Tell me, where do you think you should go?”

“We shall come here,” they replied, “and place all the ornaments at your
holy feet.”

Said His Holiness, “Have you gone mad? If you do that the police will also
demand a share. Once you get the gold you must go straight to Mr. Batparam
Bankelal Gujgujia’s shop. Sell him the ornaments at a price less than
their market value. Then, take the money — don’t accept a cheque — and
come back here immediately.”

The disciples said, “As you command, Your Holiness.”

(D) Here is another colorful excerpt highlighting the exploits of those
dogmatic gurus. More can be said about this but by reading everyone will
surely understand the beautiful way in which Baba unfolds the story & how
such dogmatic gurus prove themselves to be totally negative creatures.

Baba says, “That day some of the devotees gave His Holiness a number of
malpo sweets made of condensed milk [rice-flour and sugar]. To prevent his
disciples from casting greedy glances at the sweets, Bhutanandaji had kept
them hidden behind him.

“Your Holiness,” said the householder disciple, “you are truly a great
ghost. It’s no ordinary matter to remain without food for days together.”

Bhutanandaji’s face beamed with joy. Another disciple looked at the
householder and said, “Do you think His Holiness is like any ordinary ghost
and will simply waste his time eating? He spends his whole time in
spiritual meditation. He may give up his life and go to Hell any day; an
excellent garden house has already been reserved for him there. The other
day the God of Death himself appeared and entreated His Holiness to
accompany him. However, His Holiness declined the invitation saying that he
has no time to go and rest in Hell. Rather, he wishes to continue
selflessly serving us ghosts for some time more.”

The family devotee exclaimed, “Yes, it is only due to His Holinesses grace
that we are able to survive. Could His Holiness find joy in Hell, leaving
us here on Earth?”

He continued, “There are so many wild fruits and roots and other edible
things here. Won’t His Holiness even eat those?”

“No,” replied the disciples. “His Holiness only eats air. Today is a
fasting day so he won’t even eat that. He observes a waterless fast and
that’s why he won’t even take air.”

After some time, the householder devotee left.

Then His Holiness turned around in search of the malpo sweets. He was
amazed to see that there was nothing there. The sweets were missing.

His Holiness was beside himself with anger. “Hey you fellows, who ate the
malpos? Don’t you know they were meant for me? Who ate them? Vomit them out
immediately. I won’t spare you until I’ve eaten those malpos!!!”

The disciples said, trembling, “Believe us, Your Holiness, we didn’t eat
them. We swear by touching bones, we promise by touching cow-dung, we
pledge by touching dead bodies that neither did we eat them nor did we
allow a cow ghost or a cat ghost or even an ant ghost to touch them. It is
really a strange thing, Your Holiness.”

His Holiness roared, “I don’t want to hear these things; I know you have
eaten them. Vomit them out! I shall eat them.”

There ensued a big scuffle between His Holiness and his disciples. An
initial shouting match became a bloody battle.

—

So by all this entire manner, one can understand what ploys pseudo-gurus in
India do to cheat and exploit their disciples and secondly Baba’s colorful
short story provides ample insight into the nasty dealings of those
dogmatic gurus.

May be we all pay strict vigilance to ensure that our e-forums, seminars,
retreats, and programs are filled with the divine spirit of Baba’s supreme
teachings which lead to the fulfillment of human existence, and not the
tall talks of any pseudo-guru.

GURU’S DIVINE BLESSING

Baba says, “You are the children of the great Cosmic Entity.” (AFPS-6)

Baba says, “Ananda Margiis should always inspire people along the path of
spirituality by encouraging selfless service, sacrifice, good conduct,
spiritual practices, the development of all-round knowledge etc. Ananda
Marga is a comprehensive mode of living based on spirituality.” (Prout-16,
p.67)

Namaskar,
Jagadiish

Note 1: In perfect fashion in His ghost short story, Baba speaks indirectly
about such pseudo-gurus so as not to offend anyone. So He reveals the fact
about them by employing this unique allegory or story so there would not be
any objections.

********************************************
Origin of Few Musical Instruments

Baba says, “”Our tabla is a metamorphosed form of this mrdaunga. Some
people believe that the tabla came from Persia but this is not the case;
the tabla originated in this country. From Persia we have gotten the sitar
and the gazal. Although the viin’ originated in this country and has been
here since the time of Shiva, we have gotten its descendant, the violin,
from Italy.” (SC-2, p.128)

********************************************

Are You Worried About Your Teenager

From: “Virendra Mandal”
To: am-global@earthlink.net
Subject: Are You Worried About Your Teenager
Date: Sat, 24 Jan 2010 22:41:44 +0530

Baba

“Tiirthe tiirthe ghuriya’ kla’nt haye esechi dva’re…” (4112)

Purport:

Baba in search of You, after wandering around the globe in various holy
lands, I am completely tired; and in that state now I have reached to Your
alter. Baba, be gracious, please do not turn Your face away; and please do
not become unhappy, angry, or furious on me. Please open the door and
allow me to come inside.

Baba, look towards me; my whole body is completely tired and exhausted. My
feet are full of dust. Wandering around in the sun my whole body is
sweating. I am completely tired and exhausted.

By Your grace now I feel in my heart and repent how my whole life got
wasted. I was tied up in the noose of dogma. Just I was performing various
rituals, wandering in holy lands, moving from one tiirtha to another
tiirtha, from one Baba’s Quarter to another Baba’s Quarter, in search of
You. By Your grace now I understand that You are hiding sitting in my
heart– smiling.

Baba, I am surrendering to You. Please accept me as Yours. Do not leave
me to wander to this and that dogma– involved in one or another ritual.
The path which I was crossing through, that path is dark & full of
hopelessness. I wasted a lot of money, time, and energy but nothing was
gained. And now I am too tired. I want Your divine direction.

In spite of moving on the negative path, by Your grace in the garden of
my mind some flowers have bloomed for You. I want to offer those flowers at
Your lotus feet. Now the creepers of hope are swinging and the feeling is
coming that You will allow me.

By Your grace, Baba You have already given me the longing for You in my
heart. So now please allow me to come close to You to touch Your feet.
Baba, I am Yours and You are mine. I am surrendering everything to You.
Please accept me…

== ARE YOU WORRIED ABOUT YOUR TEENAGER ==

Namaskar,
In many sectors we see that the children of senior margiis are not very
involved in our AM way of life. There are so many examples- especially
with our teenagers. Yet Baba has given us a very great tool for
reversing this negative trend so that we can successfully raise our
children as margiis.

And in general, in this world, all want to get success. And even more
than that, everyone wants their children to become successful.

Yet, it is not so easily done, especially in this day and age when there
are countless challenges, struggles, distractions and obstacles.

This letter addresses the matter of success – both inside and outside of
Ananda Marga – and how we can help our children attain it. In
particular, the points raised apply to our youths and teenagers, i.e.
kids aged 9 – 19.

BABA’S SPECIAL RECIPE

In a number of discourses, Baba has graciously given the special
guidelines for attaining success: Namely, the seven secrets of success.

In the past, various letters have discussed different aspects of the
seven secrets. Here are a few for your review.

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2009/03/bliss-comes-in-life-when.html

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2009/04/who-does-not-want.html

This letters focuses primarily on point #2: Dvitiiyam’ shraddhaya’
yuktam’. Specifically what does it mean to have “reverence for the goal”
and how does it manifest in daily life.

NOT THE USUAL USE

Generally when we use the word goal, we mean it with a capital “G” and
the Goal refers to Ista or Parama Purusa. That is the purely spiritual
meaning.

But in one of His many discourses on the seven secrets of success, that
is not Baba’s central meaning with regards to the word “goal”. He has a
different intention. As we know Baba often explains the same shloka in
different ways. With regards to, Dvitiiyam’ shraddhaya’ yuktam’, He
refers to it being a spiritual goal in some discourses and sometimes He
talks about it in mundane ways. So this point is applicable in both
manners: mundane and spiritual.

In one such discourse, Baba is using the word goal to refer to one’s
endeavors in life – whether they be work, school, research, sports,
repair, or almost anything at all. In all these circumstances if one has
reverence and regard for what they are doing then they will feel linked
with their work – and that brings success.

APPLYING THIS PRINCIPLE TO DAILY LIFE

Let’s say a person is involved in their studies – perhaps mathematics or
literature. If that student feels that this subject is silly and of no
value, then no matter how long they study, they will not gain mastery of
the topic. What to say mastery – they will hardly learn anything at all.
Because they are unable to fully embrace the subject.

In contrast, if a student has great interest and regard for a particular
topic and they have the strong feeling that, “This topic is of great
importance and I must learn this”, then it is certain that they will get
success. They will become quite adept in that subject.

It follows then that if a father desperately wants his son to be doctor
and the son is more interested in Sanskrit or mathematics, then the
child will not succeed in the study of medicine no matter how much
pressure the father places on his child. Because the child does not have
the requisite reverence for that topic – he does not want to study to be
a doctor.

Likewise if one only “learns” because of the pressure of an upcoming
examination or because they will be punished if they don’t study, then
whatever they “learn” will be forgotten very quickly. That knowledge
will not stick.

Shraddha’, or the 2nd point of the seven secrets, relates to when one
has great interest in the topic at hand.

This sense of shraddha’, or deep reverence, for all endeavours in life
is one special ingredient for achieving success. And it is especially
useful for teenagers for a few reasons. First, they are in a great stage
of development in life – they have to learn many things: School,
friendship, summer jobs, and other responsibilities. Second, if they
develop this sense of shraddha’ now, they it will be a lifelong tool for
them. Then they will always know what type of mind-set is needed to get
success.

Shraddha’ indicates that one feels that a particular action is the right
and ideal thing to do. Such is their mental feeling. Thus it is not just
respect or reverence in a general sort of way.

For these reasons and more, as margii parents we should all be keen to
help our teens cultivate a strong sense of shraddha’ for all pursuits in
life.

Very importantly, it will also carry over into how our children approach
Ananda Marga. We must logically convince our children of the value of AM
teaching so they feel ready to embrace them.

Teenagers are in a very important phase of spiritual development – for
the first time ever their glands and minds are duly awakened and they
can easily conceive of higher aspirations and grand ideals.

Baba says, “The dream of the future first crystallizes in the mind of
the adolescent. So adolescents should be taught, without indulging in
narrow-mindedness, through the medium of idealism.” (HS-1)

Naturally then, if that sense of shraddha’ – deep link with their work
- is instilled in the minds of any teenager, then their journey into
our AM way of life will be fruitful.

HOW TO INCULCATE

The next critical matter is how to inculcate that sense of shraddha’ or
deep link and feeling for one’s endeavour.

Firstly, as parents we must convince our children of the importance of a
given task through logic and reasoning. Our children must know why it is
important; then they will get convinced. Then they will embrace the
point internally.

If our children thoroughly understand the benefits of a vegetarian diet
then they will follow sincerely it and not be swayed when they see
others, especially their classmates, eating meat. That is the way to
instill the point of shraddha’ – through logica and reasoning. Then the
mind will be set in its endeavour. We should all do this with our
children regarding all facets of AM ideology.

Unfortunately it can happen both in AM and certainly in the general
society that parents just tell their kids what to do but do not convince
and educate them on the importance of the point. Without that, the
children feel forced to follow it but in their hearts they are not
convinced. In that case there is no shraddha’ and they will not gain
success. In that case such parents do a disservice to their children.

THE SITUATION IN AM VS THE VARIOUS RELIGIONS

Now comes the next step. Why is it so important for us to convince our
margii children through logic and reasoning when so many of the various
religions need not take this approach.

The answer lies in numbers and popularity.

So many of our margii children are not involved in AM, whereas so many
Muslim and Christian children are involved in their religions.

Those Muslim and Christian children are growing up in areas where all
their friends in school also follow that religion. In that case they
believe their religion is is good simply because of the sheer popularity
of it. They do need logic and reasoning to be convinced to follow those
tenets. They just do it because everyone else is doing it.

Whereas in AM most margii kids are not around any other margii children.
They are alone. Without any peer support, they need maximum logic and
reasoning. They will have to be internally convinced that AM is the way
to go. Because when none of their friends are following AM then they
will be prone to think that our AM way of life is silly or stupid.
Because none of their friends are involved in this way of life; AM is
not popular. To overcome this, logic and reasoning is needed. If our
children are taught the real value of AM ideals, then they will follow
them – even if it is not popular in their school – even if their way of
living is different from all their peers.

THE KEY POINT

The key point behind it all is that one must value what they are doing.
If even one of our revered Wts is given work by his superior that he
feels is useless, then he will not be able to do that work properly. And
that project or job will just be half-baked. It can happen.

So regardless of one’s stature in life, the point of shraddha’ applies
universally to all. It is a quality of mind and outlook and is not
achieved by post, power, or social stature etc.

And that sense of shraddha’ – of maximum respect and reverence for the
task at hand – will generate tremendous mental force. It will give one
the stamina to overcome obstacles and difficulties and achieve great
things in life.

Thus inside or outside of AM – in the general society – in all kinds of
communities and endeavors, regardless of the nature of one’s goal (i.e.
work or study etc), if one has shraddha’ then they will get success in
that activity.

That is Baba’s distinct guideline.

Whereas the moment one thinks that “This work is stupid” or “This job is
meaningless” then one’s efforts are doomed. If one is a President or a
street-sweeper, the moment they think in that defective manner then they
will never get success.

BABA’S BLESSING

By Baba’s grace He has endowed us the way to get success in all our
pursuits in life. We should share this great teaching with our children.
The moment they understand the value and importance of an endeavour and
cultivate deep regard for their work, then they will get success in
every sphere of life – now and in the future also.

Namaskar,
Virendra

Note 1: IMPORTANT LETTER ON RAISING MARGII CHILDREN

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2009/12/do-you-want-your-child-to-be-non-margii.html