Feeds:
Posts
Comments

Archive for July, 2011

Date: Sun, 31 Jul 2011 20:57:22 -0600
To: AM-GLOBAL
From: “Punya’tman Deva”
Subject: Idiot Orator Ruined Prout Conference

Baba

== IDIOT ORATOR RUINED PROUT CONFERENCE ==

Namaskar,
Here is a critical example of why our Prout philosophy is not being effectively propagated to the masses in this present era.

Specifically, at the recent Prout conference in Lucknow, one of the heralded speakers refused to pay respect to our Revered Guru, Lord Shrii Shrii Anandamurtiji, the Propounder of Prout. In that case how could such a speaker properly put forth the ideals and aims of Prout – indeed, he could not.

Thus there was a double-loss. Firstly, the audience witnessed that the chief orator did not have respect for Baba, in which case they wondered why should they have respect for Baba; secondly, the audience listened as the chief orator spoke against Prout by putting forth his own philosophy, in which case they wondered why should they have interest in Prout. Hence it was a double loss.

Please read more about this fateful incident and review what we can do differently to ensure such a blunder never happens again.

COMMON HUMAN PSYCHOLOGY

It is the common human psychology that if you want to learn something or if you think a particular idea or book is good, then you will have respect for the teacher, thinker, or author. That is the way it works.

This is not a religious edict or a dogmatic sermon, but rather an expression of human feeling. Just see these example from popular culture:

a) Michael Jackson: He had fans all over the globe who enjoyed his music that is why at the time of his passing 2 years ago, his memorial service exceeded 2.5 billion viewers via the internet, and 31.1. million people watched it live. Because they like his music they continue to adore him to this very day as hoards of people from all over the world just recently congregated to honour the 2nd anniversary of his death.

b) Harry Potter: The Harry Potter book series and movies have become legendary in the general society. The recently released movie passed the 1 billion dollar mark in just two weeks. All the characters are stars. Because people are so captivated by these books and movies, they totally adore the author JK Rowling. They hold her in the highest regard.

c) Lady Gaga & U2: Both Lady Gaga and U2 are extremely celebrated in the pop music industry. Their tours attract hundreds of millions of dollars. The people really like their music. And indeed if Lady Gaga or the the member of U2 go out in public, then immediately huge crowds of people want to see and touch them.

Here the entire point is that when people like your body of work, then they will revere you as well. That is the very common human tendency. Here are more examples.

d) Michael Jordan: Everyone wanted to see him play basketball and still today he remains a world-famous celebrity. People want to take his picture and shake his hand wherever he goes.

e) Amy Winehouse: The 27 year-old British singer died last week and a huge crowd gathered outside her house and were singing in her courtyard. Because they liked her music they adored her as well.

This is not to say that I appreciate the pop music or books created by these icons etc. Just it is important to emphasize that when people appreciate someone’s work or contributions, then they will adore that person as well. That is the rule.

Thus if you appreciate crude things then you will adore crude people and if you appreciate sentient things then you will adore good people. That is the human way. This happens in all fields of life: Pop music, sports, academics, politics, and more.

If anyone admires the work, teachings, or achievements of a particular artist or athlete etc, then they must have respect and adoration for that person as well. Because of this well-known and proven formula, advertisers pay huge money and use those famous people to sell their wares. The common people revere them so much that they will buy products endorsed by those famous pop icons as well.

This formula works in every sphere of life: If a person likes the design of an automobile, then they will have regard for that automotive engineer. If a person likes a particular film, they will have regard for the producer. And if a person has regard for a physics experiment, they will have respect for the physicist. That is the common human tendency.

How does all this relate with the recent Prout conference? Well, one of the chosen speakers did not have respect for Baba and would not offer Baba a flower, thus it is clear that this same speaker did not have appreciation for Baba’s Prout teachings. For if he liked the teachings of Prout he would have adored Baba as well.

SECRETS OF SUCCESS

We must also keep in mind Baba’s teachings on the “Seven Secrets of Success”. In the second and third principles – shraddha’ & guru pujanam – Baba emphasizes the importance of having the highest regard and reverence for the teacher or Preceptor – on all levels of life.

If one is a student getting a university degree then they must have regard for their professors otherwise they will not be able to learn. If one is an athlete on a team then they must have regard for their coach, otherwise they will not be able to develop as a player. And if one is a sadhaka, then one must have utmost reverence for their Guru, otherwise they will never be able to progress on the path.

In any and all spheres of life, to gain success there must be deep reverence for the teacher or propounder.

In contrast, if there is a blatant lack of respect, then one cannot learn or advance in that arena – whether it be law school, basketball, engineering, or sadhana.

WHAT HAPPENED IN LUCKNOW

At a recent Prout conference in Lucknow, one of the invited speakers refused to offer a flower to Baba during the opening ceremony. All of the other esteemed orators gladly garlanded Baba’s photo, but this particular orator refused. Yet here he was to speak on the point of Prout to one and all – and Baba Himself is the Propounder of Prout – so it was only natural to pay respect to Baba. But this idiot orator refused.

Here it should be pointed out that in India’s tantric tradition, offering a flower or garland to a revered person or host is very common. This is not a radical gesture. It is as common as offering a handshake in the west or offering applause by clapping. So it was not like the conference organisers were asking that orator to do sastaunga pranam and accept Baba as Parama Purusa incarnate. All that was requested was a very ordinary gesture of respect or appreciation – nothing more. And that idiot speaker refused.

That should have been enough of a clue to the organisers (i.e. our Dadas etc) that this so-called orator was unfit to speak on the platform of Prout. Because if he does not respect Baba then certainly he cannot appreciate Prout. Or we can say, if he liked the teachings of Prout then certainly he would have had admiration for Baba and would have offered a flower.

But he refused.

Unfortunately the organisers let him speak, and the whole affair became even more sour as this idiot orator propagated his own philosophy at our own Prout conference.

If a similar sort of scene had unfolded in any other host’s meeting whether it be the Catholic church, the Divine Life Society, or the Republican party (USA), then the organisers would have yanked that person off of the stage – immediately. Unfortunately, that did not happen during the recent Prout conference in Lucknow. The idiot orator was allowed to remain on stage lecture, thereby insulting Baba, and going against Prout. The whole affair was ugly.

When such events take place, it should come as no surprise that our Prout movement is in state of stagnancy. Or we can say if our Prout conferences were up to the proper standard, then our Proutist Universal movement would be growing far more quickly.

Suffice to say here that the invited orator is an idiot and those organisers who allowed him to remain on the stage and speak are also idiots.

Note: For more about what transpired see the eye-witness account posted below in note 1.

PROPER CRITERIA NEEDED

Here we should set down clear-cut guidelines for who is entitled to speak publicly on the platform of Prout. In essence, there are two fundamental criteria:

1. The speaker should be an active proponent of Prout;
2. The speaker should have deep regard for Baba as a great social thinker. (Note: This reverence should come from within the core of their heart and not just be imposed externally.)

These are the two minimum requirements for anyone to be allowed to speak publicly on the stage for Prout. And indeed these two points are inter-linked. Those who propagate Prout will naturally have respect for Baba; and those who revere Baba will naturally embrace His teachings like Prout. We should ensure that those speaking on behalf of Prout have both of these qualities. Then certainly every Prout conference will be a success.

And if for some reason we cannot find a good candidate from the general society, then let any Ananda Margii prepare a talk and come up and speak. That is also proper.

One other point to keep in mind. The speaker need not be famous; rather they should know Prout and have regard for Baba. Inviting a famous person who is not an advocate of Prout will undermine our entire Prout conference.

REMEMBER THOSE JUBILEES

Indeed back in the 1990’s (1991 – 1999) when the various groups were regularly hosting “Jubilees” then this same nonsense was going on. They were inviting famous professors and orators up on the stage without properly considering their background.

All those groupists were looking for was fame & popularity, not whether the speakers had interest in Prout and AM ideals nor whether those speakers had respect for Baba. Needless to say, those groupist jubilees became a total mess. The “honoured guests” would get up on stage and say all kinds things that were contrary to Baba’s teachings and in the process they would insult Baba as well. This was the common trend.

But because those groupists were infatuated with selecting famous scholars who in truth had no feeling or interest for AM, this jubilee program was going on. We can all breathe a sigh of relief that such Jubilees have since been discontinued. If you know of one going on please let us know.

No one should forget the history of this jubliee program. Those who are 25 years-old and strong margiis today should also be aware of this fact.

Tragically, it seems that the organisers of the Lucknow Prout conference did not learn their lesson from these awful jubilee programs.

JUST LIKE STIRRING YOUR FOOD WITH POISON OAK

Bringing an idiot orator who has no interest in Prout and no respect for Baba onto the Prout platform is akin to going camping and using a twig of poison oak to stir your dinner. The meal will get totally spoiled. And that is exactly happened with the Prout conference in Lucknow by using an idiot orator. The conference was ruined. Really those who invited such an orator are also idiots.

Who will such organisers invite next time to speak about Prout – the ghost of Stalin? Best will be if all learn their lesson now and keep the stage of our Prout conferences proper.

The point being that when embarking on any endeavour one should know have proper knowledge and move in the right direction.

BABA’S BLESSING

By selecting persons, who truly revere Baba and have interest in Prout, to speak at our Prout conferences, the propagation of Prout will rapidly increase. So we should all be vigilant on this point.

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.” (Prout Nutshell – 17, Suppression, Repression and Oppression)

Namaskar,
Punya’tman

Note 1: EYEWITNESS ACCOUNT OF THE LUCKNOW PROUT CONFERENCE

Here is the eye-witness report of the events which transpired at the Prout conference in Lucknow – June 26, 2011 – when that idiot was invited to be a guest speaker.

Recently, one PROUT seminar was organized at Lucknow on 26th June where Shri SARPV Chaturvedi Swamy (Trustee Shri Ramanuj mission) was invited as Chief Orator on PROUT. He – along with a few eminent guests – was invited to be on the dais. In the beginning of seminar, all guests (sitting on dais) were requested to come and offer flowers to Baba.

When Shri Chaturvedi was requested to offer a flower to Baba, he did not move and ignored the request. He was once again requested. Shri Chaturvedi Swamy ignored the third request as well. The offer was meant as just formality for guests – they were not requested to do sastaunga pranam and accept Baba as the Sadguru. Just they were requested to offer a flower to Baba. This is the common tradition here in India. It is no different from clapping or standing up to greet a person in other regions. At every conference or convention – regardless of the organisation hosting the event – it is the norm for the invited speakers to pay their respects to the propounder or founder.

But Shri Chaturvedi did not offer a flower to Baba. He refused and remained seated. The audience clearly understood the intention of Shri Swamy. It was the height of humiliation. Shri Chaturvedi Swamy then delivered a lecture which was against PROUT. He propagated his own strategy and termed his philosophy as being better than PROUT.

Note: We should never let such a debacle occur at one of our Prout conferences or at any Ananda Marga function ever again.

Read Full Post »

Date: 31 Jul 2011 20:57:22 -0600
To: AM-GLOBAL
From: “Punya’tman Deva”
Subject: Idiot Orator Ruined Prout Conference

Baba

== IDIOT ORATOR RUINED PROUT CONFERENCE ==

Namaskar,
Here is a critical example of why our Prout philosophy is not being effectively propagated to the masses in this present era.

Specifically, at the recent Prout conference in Lucknow, one of the heralded speakers refused to pay respect to our Revered Guru, Lord Shrii Shrii Anandamurtiji, the Propounder of Prout. In that case how could such a speaker properly put forth the ideals and aims of Prout – indeed, he could not.

Thus there was a double-loss. Firstly, the audience witnessed that the chief orator did not have respect for Baba, in which case they wondered why should they have respect for Baba; secondly, the audience listened as the chief orator spoke against Prout by putting forth his own philosophy, in which case they wondered why should they have interest in Prout. Hence it was a double loss.

Please read more about this fateful incident and review what we can do differently to ensure such a blunder never happens again.

COMMON HUMAN PSYCHOLOGY

It is the common human psychology that if you want to learn something or if you think a particular idea or book is good, then you will have respect for the teacher, thinker, or author. That is the way it works.

This is not a religious edict or a dogmatic sermon, but rather an expression of human feeling. Just see these example from popular culture:

a) Michael Jackson: He had fans all over the globe who enjoyed his music that is why at the time of his passing 2 years ago, his memorial service exceeded 2.5 billion viewers via the internet, and 31.1. million people watched it live. Because they like his music they continue to adore him to this very day as hoards of people from all over the world just recently congregated to honour the 2nd anniversary of his death.

b) Harry Potter: The Harry Potter book series and movies have become legendary in the general society. The recently released movie passed the 1 billion dollar mark in just two weeks. All the characters are stars. Because people are so captivated by these books and movies, they totally adore the author JK Rowling. They hold her in the highest regard.

c) Lady Gaga & U2: Both Lady Gaga and U2 are extremely celebrated in the pop music industry. Their tours attract hundreds of millions of dollars. The people really like their music. And indeed if Lady Gaga or the the member of U2 go out in public, then immediately huge crowds of people want to see and touch them.

Here the entire point is that when people like your body of work, then they will revere you as well. That is the very common human tendency. Here are more examples.

d) Michael Jordan: Everyone wanted to see him play basketball and still today he remains a world-famous celebrity. People want to take his picture and shake his hand wherever he goes.

e) Amy Winehouse: The 27 year-old British singer died last week and a huge crowd gathered outside her house and were singing in her courtyard. Because they liked her music they adored her as well.

This is not to say that I appreciate the pop music or books created by these icons etc. Just it is important to emphasize that when people appreciate someone’s work or contributions, then they will adore that person as well. That is the rule.

Thus if you appreciate crude things then you will adore crude people and if you appreciate sentient things then you will adore good people. That is the human way. This happens in all fields of life: Pop music, sports, academics, politics, and more.

If anyone admires the work, teachings, or achievements of a particular artist or athlete etc, then they must have respect and adoration for that person as well. Because of this well-known and proven formula, advertisers pay huge money and use those famous people to sell their wares. The common people revere them so much that they will buy products endorsed by those famous pop icons as well.

This formula works in every sphere of life: If a person likes the design of an automobile, then they will have regard for that automotive engineer. If a person likes a particular film, they will have regard for the producer. And if a person has regard for a physics experiment, they will have respect for the physicist. That is the common human tendency.

How does all this relate with the recent Prout conference? Well, one of the chosen speakers did not have respect for Baba and would not offer Baba a flower, thus it is clear that this same speaker did not have appreciation for Baba’s Prout teachings. For if he liked the teachings of Prout he would have adored Baba as well.

SECRETS OF SUCCESS

We must also keep in mind Baba’s teachings on the “Seven Secrets of Success”. In the second and third principles – shraddha’ & guru pujanam – Baba emphasizes the importance of having the highest regard and reverence for the teacher or Preceptor – on all levels of life.

If one is a student getting a university degree then they must have regard for their professors otherwise they will not be able to learn. If one is an athlete on a team then they must have regard for their coach, otherwise they will not be able to develop as a player. And if one is a sadhaka, then one must have utmost reverence for their Guru, otherwise they will never be able to progress on the path.

In any and all spheres of life, to gain success there must be deep reverence for the teacher or propounder.

In contrast, if there is a blatant lack of respect, then one cannot learn or advance in that arena – whether it be law school, basketball, engineering, or sadhana.

WHAT HAPPENED IN LUCKNOW

At a recent Prout conference in Lucknow, one of the invited speakers refused to offer a flower to Baba during the opening ceremony. All of the other esteemed orators gladly garlanded Baba’s photo, but this particular orator refused. Yet here he was to speak on the point of Prout to one and all – and Baba Himself is the Propounder of Prout – so it was only natural to pay respect to Baba. But this idiot orator refused.

Here it should be pointed out that in India’s tantric tradition, offering a flower or garland to a revered person or host is very common. This is not a radical gesture. It is as common as offering a handshake in the west or offering applause by clapping. So it was not like the conference organisers were asking that orator to do sastaunga pranam and accept Baba as Parama Purusa incarnate. All that was requested was a very ordinary gesture of respect or appreciation – nothing more. And that idiot speaker refused.

That should have been enough of a clue to the organisers (i.e. our Dadas etc) that this so-called orator was unfit to speak on the platform of Prout. Because if he does not respect Baba then certainly he cannot appreciate Prout. Or we can say, if he liked the teachings of Prout then certainly he would have had admiration for Baba and would have offered a flower.

But he refused.

Unfortunately the organisers let him speak, and the whole affair became even more sour as this idiot orator propagated his own philosophy at our own Prout conference.

If a similar sort of scene had unfolded in any other host’s meeting whether it be the Catholic church, the Divine Life Society, or the Republican party (USA), then the organisers would have yanked that person off of the stage – immediately. Unfortunately, that did not happen during the recent Prout conference in Lucknow. The idiot orator was allowed to remain on stage lecture, thereby insulting Baba, and going against Prout. The whole affair was ugly.

When such events take place, it should come as no surprise that our Prout movement is in state of stagnancy. Or we can say if our Prout conferences were up to the proper standard, then our Proutist Universal movement would be growing far more quickly.

Suffice to say here that the invited orator is an idiot and those organisers who allowed him to remain on the stage and speak are also idiots.

Note: For more about what transpired see the eye-witness account posted below in note 1.

PROPER CRITERIA NEEDED

Here we should set down clear-cut guidelines for who is entitled to speak publicly on the platform of Prout. In essence, there are two fundamental criteria:

1. The speaker should be an active proponent of Prout;
2. The speaker should have deep regard for Baba as a great social thinker. (Note: This reverence should come from within the core of their heart and not just be imposed externally.)

These are the two minimum requirements for anyone to be allowed to speak publicly on the stage for Prout. And indeed these two points are inter-linked. Those who propagate Prout will naturally have respect for Baba; and those who revere Baba will naturally embrace His teachings like Prout. We should ensure that those speaking on behalf of Prout have both of these qualities. Then certainly every Prout conference will be a success.

And if for some reason we cannot find a good candidate from the general society, then let any Ananda Margii prepare a talk and come up and speak. That is also proper.

One other point to keep in mind. The speaker need not be famous; rather they should know Prout and have regard for Baba. Inviting a famous person who is not an advocate of Prout will undermine our entire Prout conference.

REMEMBER THOSE JUBILEES

Indeed back in the 1990’s (1991 – 1999) when the various groups were regularly hosting “Jubilees” then this same nonsense was going on. They were inviting famous professors and orators up on the stage without properly considering their background.

All those groupists were looking for was fame & popularity, not whether the speakers had interest in Prout and AM ideals nor whether those speakers had respect for Baba. Needless to say, those groupist jubilees became a total mess. The “honoured guests” would get up on stage and say all kinds things that were contrary to Baba’s teachings and in the process they would insult Baba as well. This was the common trend.

But because those groupists were infatuated with selecting famous scholars who in truth had no feeling or interest for AM, this jubilee program was going on. We can all breathe a sigh of relief that such Jubilees have since been discontinued. If you know of one going on please let us know.

No one should forget the history of this jubliee program. Those who are 25 years-old and strong margiis today should also be aware of this fact.

Tragically, it seems that the organisers of the Lucknow Prout conference did not learn their lesson from these awful jubilee programs.

JUST LIKE STIRRING YOUR FOOD WITH POISON OAK

Bringing an idiot orator who has no interest in Prout and no respect for Baba onto the Prout platform is akin to going camping and using a twig of poison oak to stir your dinner. The meal will get totally spoiled. And that is exactly happened with the Prout conference in Lucknow by using an idiot orator. The conference was ruined. Really those who invited such an orator are also idiots.

Who will such organisers invite next time to speak about Prout – the ghost of Stalin? Best will be if all learn their lesson now and keep the stage of our Prout conferences proper.

The point being that when embarking on any endeavour one should know have proper knowledge and move in the right direction.

BABA’S BLESSING

By selecting persons, who truly revere Baba and have interest in Prout, to speak at our Prout conferences, the propagation of Prout will rapidly increase. So we should all be vigilant on this point.

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.” (Prout Nutshell – 17, Suppression, Repression and Oppression)

Namaskar,
Punya’tman

Note 1: EYEWITNESS ACCOUNT OF THE LUCKNOW PROUT CONFERENCE

Here is the eye-witness report of the events which transpired at the Prout conference in Lucknow – June 26, 2011 – when that idiot was invited to be a guest speaker.

Recently, one PROUT seminar was organized at Lucknow on 26th June where Shri SARPV Chaturvedi Swamy (Trustee Shri Ramanuj mission) was invited as Chief Orator on PROUT. He – along with a few eminent guests – was invited to be on the dais. In the beginning of seminar, all guests (sitting on dais) were requested to come and offer flowers to Baba.

When Shri Chaturvedi was requested to offer a flower to Baba, he did not move and ignored the request. He was once again requested. Shri Chaturvedi Swamy ignored the third request as well. The offer was meant as just formality for guests – they were not requested to do sastaunga pranam and accept Baba as the Sadguru. Just they were requested to offer a flower to Baba. This is the common tradition here in India. It is no different from clapping or standing up to greet a person in other regions. At every conference or convention – regardless of the organisation hosting the event – it is the norm for the invited speakers to pay their respects to the propounder or founder.

But Shri Chaturvedi did not offer a flower to Baba. He refused and remained seated. The audience clearly understood the intention of Shri Swamy. It was the height of humiliation. Shri Chaturvedi Swamy then delivered a lecture which was against PROUT. He propagated his own strategy and termed his philosophy as being better than PROUT.

Note: We should never let such a debacle occur at one of our Prout conferences or at any Ananda Marga function ever again.

Read Full Post »

From: “Girish Deva”
To: am-global@earthlink.net
Subject: What Should Be Done First
Date: Sun, 31 Jul 2011 08:31:48 +0530

Baba

“Ka’nt’a’y ya’r’a’ bhariyechilo, ka’nt’a’r gha’ye ta’ra’i gelo.
Naetikata’ ha’riye phele jar’er pu’ja karechilo…” (PS 4756)

Purport:

Those immoralists who were worshippers of crude materialism, in their
wicked way, such anti-social elements have spread thorns all around to harm
& destroy others. They intentionally wanted to hurt innocent people. But
these same anti-social elements have gotten wounded and annihilated by
their very own thorns*.
Such sinners were only infatuated with dogma; they did not have love and
affection for anyone. They wanted to establish crude materialism at the
cost of millions of lives– but everything went into vain. Their hellish
plan totally crumbled.
The natural tendency of the human mind is to oppose sin; and the innate
feeling of the human mind is to be free. In their attempt to pulverise
these two unique human qualities, the sinful demons used a steamroller to
try and crush the human spirit. But ultimately those immoralist themselves
got destroyed by those very blows. And the victory of humanity and dharma
got established, by the grace of Parama Purusa. The golden dawn arrived by
Baba’s grace…

Note: In this first line of the above Prabhat Samgiita, “Ka’nt’a’y ya’r’a’
bhariyechilo ka’nt’a’r gha’ye ta’ra’i gelo”, Baba Himself shows how the
immoralists have destroyed themselves– by their own very blows. One
boomerang effect happened. Likewise in His below discourse, Baba is
directly referring to the downfall of communism & stating how the communist
leaders will meet this same dark fate. In 1982 Baba delivered this
following passage and within a decade all the main communist leaders were
wiped away from the face of the earth.

Baba says, “The wickedness, the deceit, that pollutes human society first
moves along a crooked path like its masters, and finally ends up by
annihilating its masters themselves. The wicked persons at the helm of
affairs, who are now out to liquidate others, will one day themselves be
liquidated and erased from history by their own followers. Sinful persons,
by following the crooked path, contaminate the atmosphere of the universe,
but ultimately that sinful conduct, in a similar crooked way, will recoil
like a boomerang on the sinners themselves.” (NSS, Shivokti 10)

Note 2: In the above song, Baba employs two English words: dogma and
steamroller. Thus even though the entire song is in Bangla, the above two
words are used in the lyrics and printed using Bengali script. After being
transliterated into Roman Sanskrit, the words are written as: d’agama’ &
s’t’iimarola’r.

== WHAT SHOULD BE DONE FIRST TO BEST BRING WELFARE TO SOCIETY ==

~ BABA’S MANDATE ~

Namaskar,
Baba has clearly stated in various discourses that, in general, people want
to do something to help and improve the society. Most have a genuine desire
to do something good. But the main hurdle in this process is that they do
not know how to proceed; they do not know what to do.

Because bringing about real social welfare and the upliftment of humanity
is not an easy job. Therefore, in their confusion, people often end up
doing the wrong thing at the wrong time, or they do something which
produces an undesirable result etc.

So in order to best serve the society and ensure that really we are
bringing welfare to the humanity, we should pay heed to Baba’s below
directives. Because only His crystal clear tenants stand as the guiding
light for bringing positive changes and prosperity to the world.

‘I WILL DO SOME CONSTRUCTIVE WORK’

One of the most common things people think to do in their attempt to improve
society is to immediately engage in some constructive work. They mistakenly
think by this way they can bring about a good result. But as Baba warns us
this does not always work.

Baba says, “It may not be possible to bring about social welfare through
constructive programmes.” (NKS, ’97, p.233)

For example, nowadays in our Marga, people have gotten frustrated by the
way the organisation is running so in their naive way of thinking they
decide that by hook or by crook they should engage in some ‘constructive
work’. Because in their limited view they think this is the only way to
serve the society.

Following this pathway, they may go off on their own and start their own
Master Unit, or they may form their own service project, or even they may
even start their own social service organisation etc. Or they may resort to
other ways in order to do something concrete for the world. But Baba warns
us that such faulty approaches will not work.

Because ultimately we have to form one unified human society. And by
dividing the organisation or breaking away on one’s own just because it
seems easier to do some ‘constructive programme’ that way, this will not
bring about a beneficial result. Initially from a narrow-minded perspective
it may look like the project is really great; and by this way people may
get ego-satisfaction. But ultimately such efforts will go in vain. Because
where is the guarantee that their project will not undergo some difficulty.
In that case what will they do? Run away and start yet another new
programme or organisation etc.

So those who blindly think that doing constructive work is the first and
foremost means to serve the world cannot bring true welfare to society.
Rather, they end up creating more divisions and factionalism or some other
wayward result. This we have seen in the past and this we will see in the
future also.

That is why Baba has issued His strict warning against this way of doing.

Baba says, “It may not be possible to bring about social welfare through
constructive programmes.” (NKS, ’97, p.233)

‘I WILL FIGHT AGAINST INJUSTICE’

Secondly, people often think that at any at all cost they must wage a war
against injustice. They think that by this way the world will become
better. But here again Baba directly warns us that this approach also will
not work.

Baba says, “It may not be possible to bring about social welfare
through…the struggle against injustice alone.” (NKS, ’97, p.233)

For example, in the hoary past, when slavery was at its peak either in the
US, Egypt, or wherever, then merely waging a war against those slave-owners
did not work. Because those slaves were being fed and housed by those
slave-owners and many of the slaves were thinking that everything was
alright. Their masters were providing them with heart and home so those slaves
were not thinking that anything was wrong. And they did not want to see anyone
opposing and fighting their masters. In that case fighting against those
injustices will not be fruitful.

Similarly today, if with the full banner of struggle one attempts to stand
up against the ruling vaeshyas, then many people amongst the common mass
will not support that fight. Because those people think that they get their
bread and butter from those capitalist business leaders. And if those
capitalists are torn down then the people think they will be without food
and water. Or they simply feel obliged and indebted to those ruling
capitalists. Although, it has to be admitted that which each passing down
the commmon people are having less and less faith in the vaeshyan leaders.

Whatever the case may be, in both the above circumstances, with regards to
those ruthless slave owners and the blood-sucking capitalists, even though
there is the presence of massive exploitation, fighting outrightly against
that injustice will not bring about true social change because the people
are not ready to support that stand.

About this Baba has given His clear-cut guideline.

Baba says, “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.” (PNS-21)

For this reason Baba warns us that merely fighting against injustice cannot
bring welfare to the world.

Baba says, “It may not be possible to bring about social welfare
through…the struggle against injustice alone.” (NKS, ’97, p.233)

SOCIAL CONSCIOUSNESS NEEDED

So in order to bring about real positive changes to the world, another key
ingredient is needed. Something more is needed. And that special
requirements is social consciousness. This is Baba’s expressed teaching.

Baba says, “Without arousing social consciousness, it is next to impossible
to bring about social welfare.” (PNS-21, p.63)

Thus to really uplift the humanity there must be wide-spread education
amongst the common people until their eyes are open and their mind is
awake. So arousing social consciousness is the first and most important
step towards bringing lasting positive changes to the world.

Here again in His below teaching Baba furthermore emphasizes the need to
arouse social consciousness amongst the people.

Baba says, “In order to save humanity from economic exploitation (whether
politico-economic or psycho-economic), you must raise the people’s
consciousness, otherwise they will never be able to successfully resist
psycho-economic or politico-economic exploitation.” (NH-LOI, ‘Exploitation
& Pseudo-Culture’)

Thus whether in our Marga or in the general society, one key point for
doing real service and creating that wave of positive change is heightened
awareness about the conditions of the day. Once the people are awakened to
the fact that something needs to be done and that there is exploitation
rampant in every corner, then in a united away they will rise up and
support the call for progressive social change.

BABA’S BLESSING

By Baba’s grace He has blessed us with His Proutistic vision for bringing
about social change– where the minds of the people get awakened and
aroused and people develop a heightened social consciousness. By this way
truly positive changes are made and society can advance.

Baba says, “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, p.60)

Namaskar,
Girish

Note 1: RECENT HISTORY IN OUR MARGA

In our own AMPS it was just a few 3, 5, or 7 years ago that some margiis were
not commonly aware that groupism was rampant the Marga. In that case people
were not ready to hear or listen to any plans or ideas about fixing the
problems. But now that social consciousness has gradually spread amongst
each and every margii, all are becoming aware about the lustful ways of the
various groupist leaders. People feel there is a distinct need for everyone
including those at the helm to follow Baba’s teachings. On this foundation
of understanding, step by step we are getting in prime position to bring
about all the changes needed to create that seamless AMPS organisation that
is firmly rooted in Baba’s ideological teachings. Ours will soon be that
AMPS which will lead the whole humanity from darkness into light.

********************************************
Most Precious Jewel

Baba says, “When one suddenly finds any jewel– any rare and costly jewel–
then immediately they pick it up and keep it close to their breast–
leaving everything else behind, forgetting all other things, not even
caring about their prestige. As far as possible one then keeps it hidden
from others. Among all the jewels, the most precious is Parama Purusa.”
(SC-10)
********************************************

Read Full Post »

Date: 30 Jun 2011 22:11:30 -0400
From: Donald_G
To: am-global@earthlink.net
Subject: Chanakya & Pitiful Situation of USA

BABA

“Ma’nus’ yeno ma’nus’er tare sab kichu kare ya’y…” (P.S. 2192)

Purport:

Great persons– proper human beings– do everything in their life for
the upliftment of other human beings. In their mind they also never forget
that animals, birds, and plants also belong in their vast family. For such
sadhakas, no one is alien because in their heart they understand
that each and every being wants to survive & live a happy life.
Why do human beings remain crying, feeling isolated in their own
suffering after losing their path in the Cimmerian darkness. Our love and
care will bring everyone close to us; nobody will be left behind– crying
and suffering in frustration. On this auspicious crimson occasion we will
save everyone and provide them shelter from the burning flame of
illiteracy, starvation, and all kinds of troubles. Elevated human beings
come on this earth to serve everyone, all humanity plus the birds,
animals, plants, flora and fauna, & animate and inanimate objects– the
entire creation…

== CHANAKYA AND PITIFUL SITUATION OF USA ==

Namaskar,
Baba guides us that 2300 years ago a minister clearly warned his kingdom
of the ills of capitalism and gave the solution.

Now, in this modern era, the so-called greatest power on earth suffers
terribly from those very ills pointed out 2300 years ago.

The name of that sagacious minister was Chanakya of the Maurya dynasty.
The name of the county suffering today is the United States of America.

So the very seeds of destruction that now severely threaten to ruin the
seemingly once indomitable force of the USA were well understood by the
keen philosopher-sage Chanakya more then two thousand years ago.

In His Prout discourses, Baba highlights the accuracy and importance of
what Chanakya said, and side by side Baba has given us all the practical
answers for solving the woes of capitalism by establishing the era of
Prout.

BABA’S REIVEW OF CHANAKYA NITI

The famed pundit Chanakya put forth his views on political ethics &
economy in his nitishastra. He warned how the greed of capitalism will
strangle society and bring any kingdom to its knees.

Baba says, “Chanakya said that a business person who becomes extremely
rich is harmful to the state. If a king finds that somebody has become
extremely wealthy, he should reduce the person’s wealth and property by
imposing direct and indirect taxes on them. If he does not do this, the
vaeshyas may destroy the structure of the government unless they can
make it the tool of their exploitation.” (HS-1)

Chanakya predicted that if the greedy capitalists remain unchecked then
they will take over the political arena in order to exploit the masses
and hoard more wealth.

And is that not exactly what we see happening today in the USA. The top
capitalist forces have lobbied for and put into legislation all they
need in order to accumulate huge piles of money, thereby strangling the
remaining 99.9% of society.

The common people in the US cannot get health care, unemployment is
rising, poverty is skyrocketing, housing is in crisis, education is
unaffordable – indeed each and every fundamental aspect of society is
spiraling out of the control. The common people can no longer survive,
yet still the capitalists are strategizing how to get even more money.
Such is the state of affairs in the US and that is the very hell that
Chanakya warned about ,long ago.

Chanakya’s initial solution was to tax the wealthy. Yet we see that the
top vaeshyas in the USA have millions of tax loopholes, thus they are
able to evade taxes through fancy paperwork etc.

But that was not the only solution which Chanakya offered. See here
below what he says must be done if the capitalists escape the tax
structure.

Baba says, “Chanakya also said that if the imposition of taxes fails to
stop or control extremely wealthy vaeshyas, the king should poison them
to death through a secret agent.” (HS-1)

So Chanakya mandated that those capitalists should be secretly killed if
they can’t be stopped and continue to exercise their unbridled greed.

Before we pass judgment on Chanakya’s words, let us see what Baba has
said in the very next sentence of His discourse.

Baba says, “These are indeed strong recommendations, but in that age of
social darkness there was no alternative.” (HS-1)

Hence, Baba agrees that in certain circumstances such extreme action is
needed against those rapacious capitalists. Of course, in the present
age, we know that Baba has given Prout – that is our weapon for
combating capitalism. Our approach is not to kill capitalists but
rather root out the disease of capitalism.

Please reference:
http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2009/01/how-to-deal-with-capitalists.html

Fortunately back in the day, 2300 years ago, the capitalists heeded
Chanaky’s guidelines and understood they were to give back to the people
– for the cause of social welfare.

Baba says, “[During the time of Chanakya] Vaeshyas received the good
advice that their responsibility was to earn money and undertake
charity, not to hoard wealth.” (HS-1)

Thus, in those days of old those capitalists learned their lesson and
averted disaster. However, such is not the case today.

Baba says, “The vaeshyas of other times and other countries were unable
to fulfil the duties connected with their nature. Because the ignorant
people of ancient times were more religious, the vaeshyas used to
undertake a little charity in the hope of deriving some benefit in their
next life. But today in this age of materialism, vaeshyas are not the
slightest bit interested in undertaking charitable work in this life in
the hope of gaining some benefit in their next life.” (HS-1)

HORRORS OF CAPITALISM IN THE USA

As Baba points out above, today’s vaeshyas have no conscience – neither
in the social nor religious spheres. Due to their purely materialistic
outlook, they only focus on gaining more and more wealth and do not show
the least bit concern about redeeming themselves for the future.

That is why complete hell is mounting in the USA. None should think that
America is the land of glory and freedom.

With each and every passing day, the common people become more and more
shackled by ills of capitalism. They are losing their houses, losing
their jobs, losing their land, losing their savings, and losing each and
every bit of peace and tranquility

Take a look for yourself:

– “About 39.8 million Americans were living in poverty, up from 37.3
million in 2007. The Census Bureau said the poverty rate — the
percentage of people living in poverty — jumped to 13.2 percent, the
highest level since 1997, from 12.5 percent in 2007. ”

As high as the poverty level is, these numbers are deceiving because
even people “above poverty level” suffer from severe financial woes and
pressures. Right now, the systemic issue is that everyone in the US is
worried about money and scared about the future. All are fighting for
survival – there are no safety nets to protect anyone from falling into
the dark chasm of misfortune.

– “The Census Bureau also said 46.3 million Americans were without
health insurance last year compared to 45.7 million in 2007.”

Clearly the US is not the place to get sick. One in every 5 or 6 people
do not have insurance, and then of those who do hold insurance, often it
is poorly suited to their needs, i.e. it does not cover basic health
issues, certain procedures, or it is so expensive that they have to
struggle hard to pay for it.

Verily, each and every aspect of daily life is becoming more difficult
to manage in the United States – and the problem is only growing. All
these material woes – housing, health care, employment, education etc –
then create a whole new series of issues.

People in the US cannot find mental peace:

– “An estimated 26.2 percent of Americans ages 18 and older — about one
in four adults — suffer from a diagnosable mental disorder in a given
year…Major Depressive Disorder is the leading cause of disability in
the U.S. for ages 15-44.”

-“A national survey has found that more than 8 million adults in the
United States seriously considered suicide last year.”

Thus the horrors of capitalism do not just begin and end in the material
realm – it takes a huge toll on people mentally. At present, the US
population is being crushed: Mental stress, anxiety, worry, depression,
and other psychic ailments are pervasive throughout the land.

Today then we are seeing the grim reality of what Chanakya warned about
– and things are only getting worse.

THE SITUATION OF THE USA:

WHY ONLY GETTING WORSE

There are two basic reasons why things are still turning for the worse
in the United States.

Firstly, the common people do not yet understand that capitalism is bad.
Still people hold the top vaeshyas as being veritable heroes. People
like Bill Gates & Warren Buffet continue to be worshiped and honoured
like sages. Still people want to grow up and become like them. So that
is one problem: People do not know that capitalists are the agents of
hell; the general people in society defend the edicts of capitalism.

The second reason why things are only getting worse in the US is that
the greed of such capitalists knows no end. They are not content merely
to pile up more money than they can use – they want every single penny
until everyone else is totally destitute, nay completely ravaged.

Baba says, “Regarding earning money and hoarding wealth, most vaeshyas
today are pisha’cavats [ghouls]. In Sanskrit pisha’ca means “one who
breaks the neck of an animal and then sucks out all the blood, leaving
only the flesh and bones”.” (HS-1)

So the warnings of Chanakya long ago hold true still today. That is why
in His Prout teachings Baba recognises the work of Charnakya.

At the same time, only Baba has given the expansive teachings of Prout
which can address & solve each and every problem and issue in society.

Our duty is to propagate those ideas in every way possible. People
need to hear the name Prout and learn what it is about. That is the
main aim at present.

BABA’S BLESSING:

PROUT IS THE SOLUTION

By His grace, Baba’s hundreds of Prout discourses show the pathway
toward social equality and economic justice. Baba has given perfect
solutions and that is the only way for the US and other capitalistic
nations to escape the noose of the vaeshyan era as first warned about by
Chanakya.

Baba says, “PROUT is the panacea for the integrated progress of human
society. It aims to bring about equilibrium and equipoise in all aspects
of socio-economic life through totally restructuring economics. Without
PROUT, socio-economic emancipation will remain a utopian dream. Only
PROUT can save the world from depression.”

“Furthermore, only PROUT is free from the inherent and exherent
staticity. In capitalism there is exherent and inherent staticity. In
communism there is extensive and intensive innate staticity. People
suffer from the ailments of staticity. These ailments will destroy all
forms of “isms” in the very near future. Wise people should utilize this
moment.”

“We are near the last stage of the Vaeshya Era. If an impact is created,
it will help the suffering humanity. It is the most opportune moment for
creating an all-round revolution. This is a new sub-theory under
Proutistic theory and may be called gati vijina’na – the science of
dynamics in PROUT.”

Namaskar,
Divyajyoti

Note 1: CAPITALISM DESTROYS THE HUMAN PERSONALITY

One other thing that cannot be overlooked about capitalism is that it
utterly destroys the human personality. People become worse than
animals. Even animals care for one another in their herd, flock, or
group. They all move together. They have their inherent feeling for one
another. Whereas in extreme capitalism this is not the case. Due to
extreme greed, people will cheat even their neighbors, nay their family
members.

One clear-cut and graphic example is this. Animal mothers will always
keep their babies in sight – sleeping together – breast feeding – and
being around them all the time. In contrast, in the top capitalist
nations, a basic trend is that females (we cannot even call them
mothers) are more concerned about their own sex appeal than their
child’s welfare, hence they do not breast feed their children and they
do not keep their children nearby when sleeping. Rather those females
fashion themselves as sex tools for males, and the baby comes as an
after thought. Of course, this does not apply to absolutely everyone,
but it certainly is a pervasive trend in capitalist countries. Some
females have even drowned their own babies if they felt their male lover
would be happier if she did not have babies.

Really the situation of people in the capitalist era is worse than that
of animals in many respects.

Thus in so many ways, the integrity of society gets completely washed
away by the excessive desires, ills, and distorted values of capitalism
/ materialism.

**************************************
Definition of “Real Discipline”

Lord says, “And what is discipline? The Sam’skrta term for `discipline’ is
`anusha’sanam’. And what is anusha’sanam? `Hita’rthe sha’sanam ityarthe
anusha’sanam.’ When the code of discipline is imposed with the spirit of
welfare, with the spirit of development, it is called `anusha’sanam’ in
Sam’skrta. There is no corresponding English word.” (AV-3 p.30)
**************************************

Read Full Post »

Date: 30 Jun 2011 22:11:30 -0400
From: Donald_G
To: am-global@earthlink.net
Subject: Chanakya & Pitiful Situation of USA

BABA

“Ma’nus’ yeno ma’nus’er tare sab kichu kare ya’y…” (P.S. 2192)

Purport:

Great persons– proper human beings– do everything in their life for
the upliftment of other human beings. In their mind they also never forget
that animals, birds, and plants also belong in their vast family. For such
sadhakas, no one is alien because in their heart they understand
that each and every being wants to survive & live a happy life.
Why do human beings remain crying, feeling isolated in their own
suffering after losing their path in the Cimmerian darkness. Our love and
care will bring everyone close to us; nobody will be left behind– crying
and suffering in frustration. On this auspicious crimson occasion we will
save everyone and provide them shelter from the burning flame of
illiteracy, starvation, and all kinds of troubles. Elevated human beings
come on this earth to serve everyone, all humanity plus the birds,
animals, plants, flora and fauna, & animate and inanimate objects– the
entire creation…

== CHANAKYA AND PITIFUL SITUATION OF USA ==

Namaskar,
Baba guides us that 2300 years ago a minister clearly warned his kingdom
of the ills of capitalism and gave the solution.

Now, in this modern era, the so-called greatest power on earth suffers
terribly from those very ills pointed out 2300 years ago.

The name of that sagacious minister was Chanakya of the Maurya dynasty.
The name of the county suffering today is the United States of America.

So the very seeds of destruction that now severely threaten to ruin the
seemingly once indomitable force of the USA were well understood by the
keen philosopher-sage Chanakya more then two thousand years ago.

In His Prout discourses, Baba highlights the accuracy and importance of
what Chanakya said, and side by side Baba has given us all the practical
answers for solving the woes of capitalism by establishing the era of
Prout.

BABA’S REIVEW OF CHANAKYA NITI

The famed pundit Chanakya put forth his views on political ethics &
economy in his nitishastra. He warned how the greed of capitalism will
strangle society and bring any kingdom to its knees.

Baba says, “Chanakya said that a business person who becomes extremely
rich is harmful to the state. If a king finds that somebody has become
extremely wealthy, he should reduce the person’s wealth and property by
imposing direct and indirect taxes on them. If he does not do this, the
vaeshyas may destroy the structure of the government unless they can
make it the tool of their exploitation.” (HS-1)

Chanakya predicted that if the greedy capitalists remain unchecked then
they will take over the political arena in order to exploit the masses
and hoard more wealth.

And is that not exactly what we see happening today in the USA. The top
capitalist forces have lobbied for and put into legislation all they
need in order to accumulate huge piles of money, thereby strangling the
remaining 99.9% of society.

The common people in the US cannot get health care, unemployment is
rising, poverty is skyrocketing, housing is in crisis, education is
unaffordable – indeed each and every fundamental aspect of society is
spiraling out of the control. The common people can no longer survive,
yet still the capitalists are strategizing how to get even more money.
Such is the state of affairs in the US and that is the very hell that
Chanakya warned about ,long ago.

Chanakya’s initial solution was to tax the wealthy. Yet we see that the
top vaeshyas in the USA have millions of tax loopholes, thus they are
able to evade taxes through fancy paperwork etc.

But that was not the only solution which Chanakya offered. See here
below what he says must be done if the capitalists escape the tax
structure.

Baba says, “Chanakya also said that if the imposition of taxes fails to
stop or control extremely wealthy vaeshyas, the king should poison them
to death through a secret agent.” (HS-1)

So Chanakya mandated that those capitalists should be secretly killed if
they can’t be stopped and continue to exercise their unbridled greed.

Before we pass judgment on Chanakya’s words, let us see what Baba has
said in the very next sentence of His discourse.

Baba says, “These are indeed strong recommendations, but in that age of
social darkness there was no alternative.” (HS-1)

Hence, Baba agrees that in certain circumstances such extreme action is
needed against those rapacious capitalists. Of course, in the present
age, we know that Baba has given Prout – that is our weapon for
combating capitalism. Our approach is not to kill capitalists per but
rather root out the disease of capitalism.

Please reference:
http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2009/01/how-to-deal-with-capitalists.html

Fortunately back in the day, 2300 years ago, the capitalists heeded
Chanaky’s guidelines and understood they were to give back to the people
– for the cause of social welfare.

Baba says, “[During the time of Chanakya] Vaeshyas received the good
advice that their responsibility was to earn money and undertake
charity, not to hoard wealth.” (HS-1)

Thus, in those days of old those capitalists learned their lesson and
averted disaster. However, such is not the case today.

Baba says, “The vaeshyas of other times and other countries were unable
to fulfil the duties connected with their nature. Because the ignorant
people of ancient times were more religious, the vaeshyas used to
undertake a little charity in the hope of deriving some benefit in their
next life. But today in this age of materialism, vaeshyas are not the
slightest bit interested in undertaking charitable work in this life in
the hope of gaining some benefit in their next life.” (HS-1)

HORRORS OF CAPITALISM IN THE USA

As Baba points out above, today’s vaeshyas have no conscience – neither
in the social nor religious spheres. Due to their purely materialistic
outlook, they only focus on gaining more and more wealth and do not show
the least bit concern about redeeming themselves for the future.

That is why complete hell is mounting in the USA. None should think that
America is the land of glory and freedom.

With each and every passing day, the common people become more and more
shackled by ills of capitalism. They are losing their houses, losing
their jobs, losing their land, losing their savings, and losing each and
every bit of peace and tranquility

Take a look for yourself:

– “About 39.8 million Americans were living in poverty, up from 37.3
million in 2007. The Census Bureau said the poverty rate — the
percentage of people living in poverty — jumped to 13.2 percent, the
highest level since 1997, from 12.5 percent in 2007. ”

As high as the poverty level is, these numbers are deceiving because
even people “above poverty level” suffer from severe financial woes and
pressures. Right now, the systemic issue is that everyone in the US is
worried about money and scared about the future. All are fighting for
survival – there are no safety nets to protect anyone from falling into
the dark chasm of misfortune.

– “The Census Bureau also said 46.3 million Americans were without
health insurance last year compared to 45.7 million in 2007.”

Clearly the US is not the place to get sick. One in every 5 or 6 people
do not have insurance, and then of those who do hold insurance, often it
is poorly suited to their needs, i.e. it does not cover basic health
issues, certain procedures, or it is so expensive that they have to
struggle hard to pay for it.

Verily, each and every aspect of daily life is becoming more difficult
to manage in the United States – and the problem is only growing. All
these material woes – housing, health care, employment, education etc –
then create a whole new series of issues.

People in the US cannot find mental peace:

– “An estimated 26.2 percent of Americans ages 18 and older — about one
in four adults — suffer from a diagnosable mental disorder in a given
year…Major Depressive Disorder is the leading cause of disability in
the U.S. for ages 15-44.”

-“A national survey has found that more than 8 million adults in the
United States seriously considered suicide last year.”

Thus the horrors of capitalism do not just begin and end in the material
realm – it takes a huge toll on people mentally. At present, the US
population is being crushed: Mental stress, anxiety, worry, depression,
and other psychic ailments are pervasive throughout the land.

Today then we are seeing the grim reality of what Chanakya warned about
– and things are only getting worse.

THE SITUATION OF THE USA:

WHY ONLY GETTING WORSE

There are two basic reasons why things are still turning for the worse
in the United States.

Firstly, the common people do not yet understand that capitalism is bad.
Still people hold the top vaeshyas as being veritable heroes. People
like Bill Gates & Warren Buffet continue to be worshiped and honoured
like sages. Still people want to grow up and become like them. So that
is one problem: People do not know that capitalists are the agents of
hell; the general people in society defend the edicts of capitalism.

The second reason why things are only getting worse in the US is that
the greed of such capitalists knows no end. They are not content merely
to pile up more money than they can use – they want every single penny
until everyone else is totally destitute, nay completely ravaged.

Baba says, “Regarding earning money and hoarding wealth, most vaeshyas
today are pisha’cavats [ghouls]. In Sanskrit pisha’ca means “one who
breaks the neck of an animal and then sucks out all the blood, leaving
only the flesh and bones”.” (HS-1)

So the warnings of Chanakya long ago hold true still today. That is why
in His Prout teachings Baba recognises the work of Charnakya.

At the same time, only Baba has given the expansive teachings of Prout
which can address & solve each and every problem and issue in society.

Our duty is to propagate those ideas in every way possible. People
need to hear the name Prout and learn what it is about. That is the
main aim at present.

BABA’S BLESSING:

PROUT IS THE SOLUTION

By His grace, Baba’s hundreds of Prout discourses show the pathway
toward social equality and economic justice. Baba has given perfect
solutions and that is the only way for the US and other capitalistic
nations to escape the noose of the vaeshyan era as first warned about by
Chanakya.

Baba says, “PROUT is the panacea for the integrated progress of human
society. It aims to bring about equilibrium and equipoise in all aspects
of socio-economic life through totally restructuring economics. Without
PROUT, socio-economic emancipation will remain a utopian dream. Only
PROUT can save the world from depression.”

“Furthermore, only PROUT is free from the inherent and exherent
staticity. In capitalism there is exherent and inherent staticity. In
communism there is extensive and intensive innate staticity. People
suffer from the ailments of staticity. These ailments will destroy all
forms of “isms” in the very near future. Wise people should utilize this
moment.”

“We are near the last stage of the Vaeshya Era. If an impact is created,
it will help the suffering humanity. It is the most opportune moment for
creating an all-round revolution. This is a new sub-theory under
Proutistic theory and may be called gati vijina’na – the science of
dynamics in PROUT.”

Namaskar,
Divyajyoti

Note 1: CAPITALISM DESTROYS THE HUMAN PERSONALITY

One other thing that cannot be overlooked about capitalism is that it
utterly destroys the human personality. People become worse than
animals. Even animals care for one another in their herd, flock, or
group. They all move together. They have their inherent feeling for one
another. Whereas in extreme capitalism this is not the case. Due to
extreme greed, people will cheat even their neighbors, nay their family
members.

One clear-cut and graphic example is this. Animal mothers will always
keep their babies in sight – sleeping together – breast feeding – and
being around them all the time. In contrast, in the top capitalist
nations, a basic trend is that females (we cannot even call them
mothers) are more concerned about their own sex appeal than their
child’s welfare, hence they do not breast feed their children and they
do not keep their children nearby when sleeping. Rather those females
fashion themselves as sex tools for males, and the baby comes as an
after thought. Of course, this does not apply to absolutely everyone,
but it certainly is a pervasive trend in capitalist countries. Some
females have even drowned their own babies if they felt their male lover
would be happier if she did not have babies.

Really the situation of people in the capitalist era is worse than that
of animals in many respects.

Thus in so many ways, the integrity of society gets completely washed
away by the excessive desires, ills, and distorted values of capitalism
/ materialism.

**************************************
Definition of “Real Discipline”

Lord says, “And what is discipline? The Sam’skrta term for `discipline’ is
`anusha’sanam’. And what is anusha’sanam? `Hita’rthe sha’sanam ityarthe
anusha’sanam.’ When the code of discipline is imposed with the spirit of
welfare, with the spirit of development, it is called `anusha’sanam’ in
Sam’skrta. There is no corresponding English word.” (AV-3 p.30)
**************************************

Read Full Post »

To: AM-GLOBAL
From: Purusottama Deva
Subject: Re: Ananda Marga & Embryonic Stem Cell
Date: Sat, 30 Jul 2011 15:25:38 -0400

Baba

== ANANDA MARGA & EMBRYONIC STEM CELL ==

~ Part 2 ~

Namaskar,
Agreed – this is an important topic. As Ananda Margiis, we are to honor human life, not destroy it. Just as we do not believe in abortion, similarly with good conscience we cannot support embryonic stem cell research whereby that human embryo is wantonly destroyed.

In this letter are more of Baba’s critical teachings that are highly relevant to embryonic stem cell research. Baba has specifically differentiated between utility value and existential value. And that sheds tremendous light on this issue.

OVERVIEW OF IN-VITRO FERTILISATION

As we know when a man and a woman cannot produce a baby naturally, then they may turn towards in-vitro fertilisation. In that process which occurs in a laboratory, the male sperm is used to fertilise the female’s egg, thus forming a human embryo. In fact, those doctors generally collect 3 embryos – sometimes more – and artificially inseminate the mother so she may carry the pregnancy.

EMBRYONIC STEM CELL:

UTILITY VALUE VS EXISTENTIAL VALUE

There often remains unused, left-over human embryos. Certain scientists and theorists subscribe to the utility value of those embryos. They reason: “Those embryos are going to die anyway, so we might as well use them for research.” This is their justification – all based on the utility value of those left-over embryos.

But Baba says, “No.”

Each and every living being has both utility value and existential value. And everyone’s existential value must be honoured. Those undeveloped human embryos are living beings and no one has the right to destroy them purely for their utility value, i.e. scientific research. The life form of those embryos should be respected. In Ananda Marga, we believe in the existential value of every being.

For all these reasons and more, we cannot support embryonic stem cell research wherein the embryo (living being) is destroyed for its so-called utility value.

BABA’S DIRECT TEACHING

Please read Baba’s below teaching:

Baba says, “Each and every living entity, whether plant or animal, has two types of value: one, its utility value, and the other, its existential value.”

“Human beings usually preserve those creatures which have an immediate utility value for them: for example, cows. Human beings protect them for their own benefit, because cows have some utility. Nowadays horses have lost their utility value, thus horses are rarely found in large numbers in the streets these days; you don’t see many horses around at all. After some time people will have to go to the zoo to catch a glimpse of a horse – they will not be found anywhere else. Since horses no longer serve human needs and their utility value is nil, human beings are not eager to preserve them.”

“Similarly, when people are able to prepare synthetic milk by chemical process, they will also stop breeding cattle. That day people will either kill the cows by starving them, or they will themselves eat the cows. This is the situation.”

“Who says that those creatures who have lost their immediate utility value have no right to exist? No one has the moral right to say this. No one can dare to say that only human beings have the right to live, and not non-humans. All are the children of Mother Earth; all are the offspring of the Supreme Consciousness. Most creatures have existential value, although they may not be valuable to human beings, or we may not be aware that their existence has some significance. This existential value is sometimes individual and sometimes collective, sometimes both. Oftentimes we cannot know the utility value, or the collective existential value, of a creature; we wrongly think that it has no existential value. This is the height of foolishness. Because human beings have not advanced very far in the field of knowledge, they are prone to this sort of error.”

“Even those creatures which have no utility value for human beings, or whose utility value has ceased; which have no existential value for human beings, or whose existential value has ceased; still have the right to live. Even those animals which have negative utility value, instead of positive, and negative entitative [existential] value, instead of positive – human beings will have to try to preserve even those animals by creating a congenial environment for them instead of destroying them. And they will also have to provide adequate safeguards so that those creatures may not prove injurious. If, in the absence of proper safeguards, those undeveloped creatures do harm to humans, the fault does not lie with those creatures but with the human beings. Human beings are endowed with developed intellect – why do they not make adequate arrangements to protect themselves?”

“One more thing must be said – that non-human creatures have the same existential value to themselves as human beings have to themselves. Perhaps human beings can understand the value of their existence, while other living beings cannot: this is the only difference. Even so, no one has conferred any authority on human beings to kill those unfortunate creatures…human beings have completely forgotten the utility value and entitative value of other creatures.” (Neo-Humanism: Liberation of Intellect. Discourse: Pseudo-Humanism)

In this above quote Baba is not just talking about humans, but animals and plants as well. Everything has it own existential value.

Namaskar,
Purusottama

Note: LINK TO FIRST LETTER OF THIS SERIES

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2011/07/ananda-marga-stem-cell.html

Read Full Post »

Date: Thu, 28 Jul 2011 21:46:22 -0000
From: “Motilal Deva”
Subject: History of Key Darshan Shastra of AM
To: am-global@earthlink.net

Baba

“Dakhin’a’ va’ta’se malay suba’se mrdu, hese hese esechile…” (PS 358)

Purport:

Baba, You have graced me by coming in the deep core of my heart with a
gentle smile– in the refreshing fragrance of a sweet, southern breeze.
Baba, You are the most divine One; I cannot forget You and I do not want
to forget You. By Your grace, by pouring my sweet love, I shall keep
Your divine memory ever alive in my mind– in my heart. O’ Supreme
Entity, O’ my Lord, O’ the Beloved of my mind, O’ the most adorable One
of my mind, I will do puja to You in my inner sanctum of my mind and
spread Your nectar of devotion across this vast, expansive universe.
Baba, in Your sweet fragrance of Your divine liila, please be merciful
and eternally reside in my mind– graciously intoxicate me with Your
divine flow. O’ Lord of divinity, please take me to Your great abode–
the land of divinity– by holding my hand, by holding my mind. Baba, by
Your grace after forgetting all fear and shyness and after remembering
You and keeping You in my heart I am at Your lotus feet, remembering
You. Baba, please do not forget me I am Yours…

== HISTORY OF KEY DARHSAN SHASTRA IN AM ==

Namaskar,
Those who love Ananda Marga want to know more and more about our various
shastras – including darshan shastra – in order to follow those divine
precepts and teach others.

Naturally, they want to see our AM shastras printed in their true and
original form and gain access to all related discourses.

As many know, Ananda Sutram is the key book of our dharshan shastra,
i.e. philosophical treatise.

Baba says, “The recognized book on Ananda Marga Philosophy is A’nanda
Su’tram.” (APH-4)

Baba says, “A’nanda Su’tram is our philosophical treatise.” (CC-1,
‘Svadhyaya’)

What many may not know is that Baba delivered an entire series of DMC
discourses across India, primarily in Hindi speaking areas, from 1962 –
1968 that offer further insight and explanation about each and every
sutra from Ananda Sutram.

Tragically, none of these discourses have been printed, nor are they
available on cassette to common margiis and wts.

Raising this point of awareness may help us start to recover and reclaim
these historic and mostly unknown discourses on Ananda Sutram.

Let us also keep in mind that now in this age of science many are
leaving or losing interest in the various dogmatic religions and are
looking for a more logical path. Our dharshan shastra provides rational
explanations that will appeal to such people. Thus another reason for
recapturing all those discourses from the 1960’s on Ananda Sutram.

MORE OF THAT EARLY HISTORY OF ANANDA SUTRAM

Many in AM are aware about Ananda Sutram. Baba dictated this back in the
Jamalpur days, 1961, and bhaktas like PK Chatterjee took down the
dictation at the Tiger’s Grace. Baba gave the sutras themselves in
Sanskrit and the purports in Bengali. The book was first published in 1962.

Then over the course of the next six years or so, Baba Himself delivered
many DMC discourses wherein He would focus and expound upon 2 or 3 or 4
sutras. These discourses would offer great insight into the subtle
meaning of our dharshan shastra, but they are not in print. Nor do those
at the helm seem to have much interest in sharing the audio files or
publishing the discourses. Rather they say they are gone or ruined
during Emergency. But many older margiis say those original DMC
discourses explaining Ananda Sutram still exist.

I have talked to many senior margiis about the series of DMC discourses
about Ananda Sutram and here is a summary of what they have reported.

(Note: Certainly some of the below information is cent-per-cent accurate
and confirmed, yet some of the below information needs further checking
and review.)

NUMBER OF DISCOURSES: From the years 1962- 1968, they estimate that Baba
delivered somewhere between 25 – 45 DMC discourses focused on specific
sutras from Ananda Sutram. We have to remember that in those days, Baba
was doing many DMC all over India, perhaps 20 – 50 DMC’s annually.

LANGUAGE: Hindi (mostly), Bengali (some). It all depends on the area.
But more of these DMCs were given in Hindi areas.

PLACE: Raipur (MP), Birpur (Bihar), Bhagalpur, Lucknow, Gazipur (UP),
Arrah (Bihar), Bettiah, Jabalpur (MP), Patna (Bihar), Munghyr (Bihar),
Muzzafarpur, Sambalpur, Tatanagar, Ranchi (Jharkhand), Delhi, Barrakpur
(WB), Varanasi, Allahbad, Kolkata, Chaibasa (Jharkhand), and perhaps so
many other places.

Again, further research is needed so the above is a general picture of
when and where Baba delivered those historic DMC discourses in Ananda
Sutram.

In those discourse Baba would methodically explain a particular sutra
from the standpoint of grammar, language, philosophical meaning, and
general explanation.

It would be most advantageous for our Marga society to have these
discourses in their original form.

FOUR WAYS TO MOVE AHEAD

Today, some are making valiant efforts to bring Ananda Sutram to light.
Yet, without the aforementioned discourses, the work will have to be
considered as incomplete, to some or more degree.

In short there are 4 ways to move ahead: Two of which are acceptable and
two of which are unacceptable. Unfortunately, thus far only the
unacceptable ways have been attempted.

#1 THE BEST WAY

The top and absolute best way is to apply the necessary pressure on
those in-charges and have those original discourses from the 1960’s on
Ananda Sutram printed in their entirety.

This approach demands courage and is not for the meek or faint at heart.

#2: REASONABLE APPROACH

If #1 cannot be done right away, then the next best approach is to
provide an elaboration of Ananda Sutram using what is available of
Baba’s printed discourses. However, whatever materials we use must be
checked with the original audio recording. Because so many of Baba’s
discourses have been wrongly printed and we should not, nay must not,
continue this wrong pattern. So checking the original audio cassettes is
needed in this scenario also.

#3: UNACCEPTABLE APPROACH

The first unacceptable approach is to create a summary or reference of
Ananda Sutram using the existing batch of printed discourses without
comparing or correcting them with the original audio cassette. This is
not good as it only perpetuates the wrongs that have been made and
further validates those tainted publications. Unfortunately this is the
tactic that has been used in the past as well as the one which some are
considering at present. But it is a faulty move, not just incomplete but
harmful. Because the more times those distorted or incomplete discourses
are reprinted the harder it is to undo all that mess.

#4: UNACCEPTABLE AND TOTALLY DOGMATIC

This is the absolute worst approach. In this way, the writer uses
references, stories, and scripture from the dogmatic religions to
justify and explain Ananda Sutram. This totally denigrates Baba’s
historic work. Baba’s teachings are totally unique.

Baba says, “The trend of thinking and the spiritual practices prescribed
in our Ananda Marga are not only new but something quite different from
the established ideas and practices in these spheres of life.” (PNS-11)

So the ideas and concepts are totally new and revolutionary, yet
so-called writers like one particular Didi have used all kinds of
dogmatic rituals from the defective religions as a means to give
commentary on Ananda Sutram. This is a horrible thing to do as it drives
the divine teachings of AM directly into the mud.

I think we all know which Didi did this. Here are some references for
your review.

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2008/06/harmful-book.html

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2007/05/real-commentary-on-ananda-sutram-ii.html

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2007/05/real-commentary-on-ananda-sutram.html

MUST SELECT PROPER PATH

So we must select the proper path when working on the publication of
Baba’s dharmic discourses like Ananda Sutram or any other aspect of our
AM shastra.

Reprinting wrong things over and over again (point #3 from above)
creates a scar. Thus we should not scour through AM Publications and
reprint those faulty discourses in multiple ways and places.

For instance, nearly all the published discourses in the English edition
of Ananda Vacanamrtam Part 1 are missing huge chunks of material. 80%-
90% of the discourse is missing entirely. To reprint those discourses
again and again would only further validate those wrong things.

Thus when reprinting any Baba discourse for any reason, such as for a
commentary on Ananda Sutram, then it is an absolute must to get the
original cassette. Some courage and sacrifice are needed, but this is
the way to go.

Because we must must overhaul all existing discourses and ensure they
are transcribed and translated properly.

Any small or big contribution in this regard is highly commendable. Our
approach should be to do good work and not create more dogmas.

Many good people want to help make our AM shastras published in a better
way, but those with the original cassettes are not helping. Thus more
force and pressure is needed.

With regards to our dharhsan shastra, i.e. Ananda Sutram, the best
approach is to recover those audio files from Baba’s DMC discourses from
the 1960’s. This will be a true gift to humanity.

BABA’S BLESSING

By Baba’s grace, with a concerted effort we will recover those original
DMC discourses that neatly explain Ananda Sutram, sutra by sutra. Then
our dharshan shastra will be truly complete.

Baba says, “In the scripture of the psychic world, generally called
darshana sha’stra, there should not be the least sprinkling of dogmas,
because this sort of philosophically-oriented dogma cumulatively
increases the distortions in the psychic world. These dogmas enter the
human mind like fine needles and come out like iron ploughs. If one
tries to cast them out, then the whole psychic structure is demolished.
” (NSS, Disc: 14)

Baba says, “The scriptures containing spiritual injunctions must be
totally flawless.” (NSS, Disc: 14)

Namaskar,
Motilal

Note 1: SPECIALTY OF AM SHASTRA & RELEVANCE TO TODAY’S WORLD

The shastra of Ananda Marga is perfect in all respects. It is logical,
rational, practical, and complete.

In contrast, most of the religions rely on myth and tales to put forth
their theology etc. That is why educated people in this present age are
rejecting the dogmatic religious doctrines. Because those stale
teachings do not satisfy them.

Those those who have given up their dogmatic religions are searching
something more. In result, they either become atheists, or nature
worshipers, or even worship their Hollywood icons like Michael Jackson.
Because people want something or someone to believe in.

Thus when the dharshan shastra of AM is 100% logical and can stand up to
the scrutiny of people in this age of advanced science, then this is the
perfect time to present it to the people. Because they are looking for
something – they are thirsty.

That is why we should study and know our dharshan shastra and and bring
it to the public in proper shape. We cannot just print and reprint
poorly done discourses as if this is the way to explain our Ananda
Sutram. Some with basically benign intentions wish to do like this.

But we should not give in to such tendencies. Rather we should unitedly
& courageously stand up and demand that Baba’s original DMC discourses
from the 1960’s that explain the sutras of Ananda Sutram be given to
responsible Dadas and margiis for transcription and publication.

All should know that those discourses were given, that they exist
somewhere, and now it is up to us to create the needed pressure to force
those in-charges to release those original audio cassettes. Failing
that, we will always be missing much of what Baba had to say about
Ananda Sutram – the key publication of our darshan shastra.

********************************************
Sarva’unga’sana and Vipariitakarani Mudra

“Question: What is the difference between sarva’unga’sana and
vipariitakarani mudra?”

“Answer: In sarva’unga’sana we have to fix the mind at the point of the
toes, whereas in vipariitakarani mudra we have to fix the citta or mind
stuff at the tip of the nose or at the navel point.” (YP, p.117-18)

Note: Sarva’unga’sana and vipariitakarani are very similar– they are
almost the same thing. Just a few little differences are there:

(1) In sarva’unga’sana the mind and eyes are fixed on the center point
between the two big toes while in vipariitakarani mudra the mind focuses
on the navel or the tip of the nose.

(2) When the body is very straight and it does not have to exert a
continuous effort to maintain that position– rather it is easy and
comfortable to hold that posture– then it is sarva’unga’sana. Whereas
mudras, such as vipariitakarani mudra, demand a constant and ongoing
effort to maintain the posture. Asanas, on the other hand require a
little effort to enter into the position and thereafter it is
comfortable and easy to maintain.

(3) In sarva’unga’sana and vipariitakarani mudra, although the postures
look the same but the effort exerted and way of approach are a little
different as explained earlier. And in addition they effect the body in
different ways. Sarva’unga’sana affects the glands & cakras, and the
secretion of the hormone; while mudras give strength to the muscles and
nerves. These ideas have been given by Baba in His various discourses.

(4) In WT reporting sessions, Baba used to sometimes give atonement by
demanding that some or all do vipariitakaranai for a long time.
Sometimes for 1/2 hr, 1 hour, 2 hrs, at a stretch. Naturally that qas
quite enjoyable for everyone to do. And the underlying reason behind
this was that the majority of WT had acidity problems and this
Vipariitakarani mudra was the cure. So in the name of doing atonement it
was actually Baba’s blessing.
********************************************

Read Full Post »

I Also Have Ego

Date: Wed, 27 Jul 2011 19:45:36 -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.

Read Full Post »

To: AM-GLOBAL
From: Cinmay Deva
Subject: Re: Unique Disease Growing in USA
Date: Wed, 27 Jul 2011 12:08:17 -0400

Baba

== RE: UNIQUE DISEASE GROWING IN USA ==

~ Part 3 ~

Namaskar,
With great interest I have been following this thread about hoarding. I see this a lot in my area.

As we all know from the earlier letters on this topic, hoarding is a disease of the materialist, i.e. those trying to derive unlimited happiness from finite objects. We should help cure such people with proper spiritual practice & Baba’s teachings.

That said, here is one trick employed by the business community in cahoots with doctors in order to ensure that people keep on purchasing new products. They try to stigmatize “hoarders” so consumers will throw away old items and purchase new ones.
See how the entire cycle works.

1. At the outset, companies pay huge money to create advertisements that encourage common people to purchase more and more of their products – promising that this will bring satiation and contentment. In turn, those common people buy the products.

2. At the same time those big business executives know that if the people buy and buy and accumulate more and more then the people will not have space to purchase new products.

Now see the trick that those corporations do.

3. Those companies give psychologists and doctors large sums of money (i.e. payoffs) to research and conclude that those who keep all their old things are diseased – they are “hoarders”. The companies do this to stigmatize such persons – then people will be less inclined to keep older products, in which case they will have more space in their house for purchasing new items. This is the trick that is played.

4. Drug companies also get involved in this scam. Their aim is to name or create a new diseases for those who “suffer from the over-accumulation of products”, i.e. hoarding. The drug companies want doctors to formally label this as a disease so then they (the pharmaceutical companies) can sell drugs for this disease and make a profit. Is it any wonder then that each and so many “new mental illnesses and diseases” are discovered and identified each year. One report mentioned that 250 new psychiatric illnesses were identified last year – some or more of which are related with hoarding.

When in fact we know that the real disease behind hoarding is materialism itself. With a proper mental outlook people will not purchase so many things which they can never even use in this lifetime like 400 pairs of pants, 75 pairs of sandals, etc.

5. So see the irony or cheating tactic: Those wealthy people who purchase new products and throw away their old ones are deemed as being fine and ok by the medical world. They do not suffer from any psychic disease – so say the doctors and the psychologists. Why? Because they have space to buy more products.

In comparison, those less wealthy people, who accumulate and hold onto their old products, are termed as “hoarders” and are labeled as mentally ill. Why? Because they do not have space to purchase more products. For this reason companies do not like them. So such poorer people are branded as being “diseased” by the medical field. When in fact their mental condition is no different from those who are purchasing new items and throwing old ones. The only superficial difference is that the business corporations want to glorify those who have space to buy new items and stigmatize those who hold onto old items and do not have space for new ones.

6. So the whole thing is one big scam to stigmatize hoarders and convince others to purchase new and throw away old. Those who purchase new and throw away old are “OK”. Psychologists do not have any problem with the ultra wealthy for buying more than they can use, whether it be 500 shoes, 2000 sariis, 100 cars, etc. So long as they are buying and supporting those capitalist companeis, they do not suffer from any disease.

7. Of course we all know that anyone looking for peace in the external plane by constantly buying new things is a hoarder. The root cause of their problem is materialism, not how messy or organised their house is, nor how often they throw things away. Buying more products than one can use in order to satisfy mental longing is the definition of a hoarder, and their disease is materialism. Until we show such persons the path of santosa, aparigraha and sadhana, they will continue to try to fulfill their infinite desires by mundane avenues like accumulating material possessions. But their approach will be futile and they will suffer.

8. Below is Baba’s wonderfully humorous and satirical story that is related with this entire topic of hoarding. That is followed by links to the earlier postings on this topic.

Namaskar,
Cinmay

Note 1: BABA’S STORY ABOUT WEALTHY HOARDERS

In Baba’s remarkable story – from “In the Land of Hattamala” – He is grossly pointing out the disease and crude ways of the hoarder / materialist. The villain of the story is one witch who just wastes her money and time accumulating things. She is a real hoarder who collects saris and other items for her so-called psychic satisfaction. You can say that Baba’s below story is a hilarious satire on hoarding / materialism.

[In this story the witch has a stutter or stammer so when she says her servants name, she says, Bo-Bo-Bo-Bodha, when in fact the name is simply Bodha.]

Here then is Baba’s story:

The witch said to Bo-Bo-Bo-Bodha Mukherjee: “Today, I’m going to Dhaka. I shall board the plane wearing my sky-blue, saffron and violet coloured sari. When I get off the plane I shall wear my cream, green and red coloured sari. Bo-Bo-Bo-Bodha Mukherjee, is it clear?”

Bo-Bo-Bo-Bodha Mukherjee said, “M’Lady, as soon as I got word of your intended trip to Dhaka, I went and purchased 700 different types of sari from the boutique. Your 7,32,432 saris in the cupboard will remain untouched.”

Madhumita listened in utter amazement. One person needs so many saris? She asked Bo-Bo-Bo-Bodha Mukherjee: “Hey, brother, how can someone possibly need such a large quantity of saris? Where do they all come from?”

Bo-Bo-Bo-Bodha Mukherjee said: “Every year 20 million rupees are budgeted for purchasing saris.

“There are muslin saris from Bishnupur, grey-coloured saris from Burdwan; close knit, wide red bordered saris from Contai; finely woven saris from Antpur; finely striped saris from Phorashdanga; 500 kinds of old-fashioned saris from Dhonekhali made of cotton interwoven with silk; cotton saris from Santipur with wide silver and golden coloured borders; 100 kinds of Santipur saris for casual wear; fully embroidered saris from Murshidabad with traditional multi-patterned designs; the Baluchor varieties of heavy silk saris, all kinds of saris from Dhaka, saris from Bajitpur, 2000 kinds of saris from Tangail. Besides all these there are pure silk saris from Murshidabad; coloured, pure silk saris from the loom; saris with very bright borders from Boshoa-Bishnupur; the best kind of silk sari from Bankura-Bishnupur; raw silk saris from Tatipara. And besides all these there are the most modern saris which earthly beings have yet to see.”

Madhumita asked Bo-Bo-Bo-Bodha Mukherjee: “What sorts of saris are those, brother?”

Bo-Bo-Bo-Bodha Mukherjee said: “For example, one sort is Ding-Dong sari? Do you know what it is?”

Madhumita replied: “Of course I don’t.”

Bo-Bo-Bo-Bodha Mukherjee said: “That sari, when worn by the witch, makes a ‘ding… dong…’ sound just as if someone is striking a bell. There are also cymbal saris which when worn, sound just as if someone is playing the cymbals in accompaniment to a kiirtan 34 song. And there are also sitar saris, asraj saris, tampura 35 saris, and so many more I could tell you about! ”

Madhumita listened in astonishment. Bo-Bo-Bo-Bodha Mukherjee further added: “The latest discovery of them all is the cricket sari. We bought one only yesterday. While this sari is worn the musical sound as that produced by crickets is constantly heard.”

Madhumita asked: “Where are all those saris kept, brother.”

Bo-Bo-Bo-Bodha Mukherjee said: “In a huge cupboard whose top scrapes the very sky itself.”

Madhumita asked: “What do you do when you want to take a sari out of the cupboard?

Bo-Bo-Bo-Bodha Mukherjee said: “We use a ladder. We have 3 or 4 mile-long ladders for the purpose.”

Madhumita asked: “Doesn’t the witch ever give a sari to anyone as a gift?”

Bo-Bo-Bo-Bodha Mukheriee said “If anyone goes to ask her for one, the old witch screams out ‘Kak… kak… kak…’ just like a jackal. She says: ‘I need every single sari. Some for wearing when I go to Dhaka, others for wearing to London, some for wearing during my evening strolls, and some for wearing when I go down to Hell to give a lecture.’ If anyone comes to get a sari from her she says: ‘Since you don’t possess any saris and come from a poor family why don’t you go and drown yourself in the River Ganges? These days there’s plenty of water in the Ganges at Calcutta.’”

(From “In the Land of Hattamala”, Part 1)

Note 2: EARLIER POSTINGS ON THIS TOPIC

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2011/07/unique-disease-growing-in-usa.html

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2011/07/re-unique-disease-growing-in-usa.html

Read Full Post »

Date: 26 Jul 2011 21:33:18 -0000
From: “Divyacaksu Deva”
To: am-global@earthlink.net
Subject: Mystery Behind Suicide

BABA

== MYSTERY BEHIND SUICIDE ==

Namaskar,
The main reason why people commit suicide is that they hope to find a better life after their death.

First of all, it should be understood that ultimately everyone wants to live – nobody wants to die. That is Baba’s teaching in so many discourses. Actually it is only when one feels their current life is not as good as their future life, then they contemplate finishing this life and joining the next. Only then do they consider suicide.

This type of tendency is prevalent both in the dogmatic religions and among atheists.

Followers of the dogmatic religions believe that they will reach heaven and join their family and friends. Atheists think that they will enter into a state of oblivion where they will feel no pain.

By this way we see nobody really wants to die, but rather escape from the problems of this world and live a better life somewhere else. Truly speaking, the main culprit behind suicide is the dogma-centered philosophy that preaches that after this life there is heaven.

MUST FACE YOUR SAMSKARA

According to Ananda Marga philosophy, you must face your consequences (samskaras) as there is no heaven or hell; everything is before you – you to face your reactive momenta. There is no other way. If you kill yourself then you are not going to get human life again very easily because you already destroyed it once. You will instead get the life of a lower creature like a bug, earthworm or some other animal.

Baba furthermore offers the below warning about committing suicide in His teachings on negative microvita.

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 [negative microvita] after death. Wherever these entities happen to see other human beings under the spell of psychic derangement, they incite them to commit suicide.” (Microvita Nutshell, Disembodied Souls and Microvita)

After living in this state for millions of years they are reborn in animal form. Such is their plight.

NO SCOPE FOR SUICIDE IN AM

Those who understand our samskara theory and AM philosophy do not have any attraction or allurement to get rid of any problem by committing suicide.

Top of all those who are sincere margiis never feel depressed.

The conclusion is that nobody wants to die. It only looks like they want to die. In reality their desire is to find a better place to live. Where those religions preach their dogma, there is a lot of suicide cases.

To resolve this issue, we should wholeheartedly propagate the rational teachings of Ananda Marga.

Namaskar,
Divyacaksu

NOTE 1: SUICIDES PER 100,000 PEOPLE PER YEAR

Position Country Male Female Total Year
1 Lithuania 58.5 8.8 31.5 2009
2 South Korea[4] N/A N/A 31.0 2009
3 Kazakhstan 46.2 9.0 26.9 2007
4 Belarus[5][6] N/A N/A 25.3 2010
5 Japan 35.8 13.7 24.4 2007
6 Russia[7] N/A N/A 23.5 2010
7 Guyana 33.8 11.6 22.9 2005
8 Ukraine[8] 40.9 7.0 22.6 2005
9 Hungary[9] 37.1 8.8 21.8 2009
10 Sri Lanka[10] N/A N/A 21.6 1996

PRABHAT SAMGIITA

“A’gun la’giye dile pha’gune e madhuma’se…” (P.S. 1904)

Purport:

In the grand & stunning beauty of this spring season, You have sparked a
fire deep inside my heart. Baba, I am longing for You and crying in pain,
desperately wondering why You are not coming. Baba, You have suddenly
broken the slumber of my sleeping heart– and I yearn for You all the 24 hrs.

Baba, the thin threads of crudity were keeping me in a state of deep
slumber and drowsiness. But, You broke that staticity with the warmth of
Your divine love. By Your karuna I am awake and I live in the hope of
receiving Your grace.

O’ my dearmost Bandhu*, in this universe You are incomparable. You are
beyond space and time. You are cida’ka’she; You are in my mental plate.
Baba, in this spring season, when the whole atmosphere is drenched in
the sweet aroma of flowers, You are not coming. Baba, please grace by
eternally remaining along with me…

*Bandhu = Baba says, ” ‘Atyago sahano bandhu’. The person with whom you
cannot tolerate separation is known as ‘bandhu’. When the tie of love is so
great that a person cannot tolerate any separation from you, he is called
your bandhu. The tie is called bandhanam in Samskrta. It is so strong that
the person cannot remain away from you, cannot tolerate separation from
you….Thus in this world, only Parama Purusa can be bandhu…He is your
everything. You cannot do without Him.” (AV-4)

********************************************
Where to Spend Money

Baba says, “If by building big temples and large rest houses for pilgrims, they think they are showing their love for God, they are false, vain, and hypocritical.” (Ananda Vacanamrtam-7, p.12)

Note: The best utilisation of money is spent in the service of the downtrodden humanity, the common mass. However these days, a few ignorant people are busy erecting Memorials and Mahasamadhi type of buildings and they think they are doing virtuous work. In true sense though there is hardly any difference between making dogmatic temples for Lord Krsna and erecting Mahasamadhi buildings in AM.
********************************************

Read Full Post »

To: AM-GLOBAL
Subject: It is Not a Joke
Date: Mon 25 Jul 2011 13:37:49 +0500 (IST)
From: Ram Sahay Deva

Baba

Introduction to Prabhat Samgiita #3007:

In this song, Baba explains how even though some sadhakas are aware
about sadhana, the do’s and don’ts of life, and the disciplined system
of practice, they can’t follow the cult properly because of the various
pashas [bondages] and ripus [internal enemies]. However, by Baba’s
grace, if in the corner of their heart there is devotion, then they will
feel in their heart that the Lord will help them reach the final Goal.

In this song, Baba has come to the sadhaka and the sadhaka is
communicating with Him. During the first few minutes, i.e. the first
stanza, the sadhaka is speaking indirectly to Him and telling: You
promised me in dhyana that You would come, and now You have come so
please grace me.

Prabhat Samgiita #3007:

Ke jeno a’sia’ marme pashiya’,
Bolilo- madhu ma’se a’sibe-

Mor jata dos’a mane ca’pa’ ros’a,
S’amiya’- karun’a’- karibe-,
Bolilo- madhu ma’se a’sibe-

Path dekha’yecho path bujhiya’chi
A’—————————–a’
Path dekha’yecho path bujhiya’chi
A’lasye upeks’a’ karechi—
Jene shune bhu’l pathe caliya’chi
Bharosa’- holo smita ha’sibe-,
Bolilo- madhu ma’se a’sibe-

Ja’ni mor bolite- kichu na’i,
A’————————-a’
Ja’ni mor bolite- kichu na’i,
Toma’r jinise mor bole ja’i
E moha chalana’ shra’nti ya’tana’
Bolo nirasan karibe- kabe,
Bolilo- madhu ma’se a’sibe-

Ke jeno a’sia’ marme pashiya’,
Bolilo- madhu ma’se a’sibe-

Purport:

(Note: Here the sadhaka is indirectly addressing Parama Purusa as He,
but the sadhaka is talking to Parama Purusa.)

Someone came, entered my heart, and said He would come in the vernal
month. He also told that He would forgive me for my suppressed
frustration and all my shortcomings, and shower His karuna’.

(Note: Now in their conversation the sadhaka is directly addressing
Parama Purusa as You.)

You showed me the path, and by Your grace I understood Your guideline;
yet because of my lethargy, I neglected to follow that path. Knowingly,
I treaded the wrong path; but because of Your love, I felt in my heart
that You would gently smile [1] when You come.

I know I have nothing to call my own, nothing belongs to me, even then I
think of Your objects as mine. [2] This infatuative deception, this
agony of illusion, O my Lord, please tell me when You will dispel it.

Baba, I do not have strength to follow your path, now You have come by
Your causeless grace pull me towards You on my Lord…

END NOTES FOR PRABHAT SAMGIITA #3007:

[1]: When you have deep, deep love for someone, then you know in your
heart that when you see them, they will not think about your past
mistakes but will instead express their kindness and affection. It is
just like how a small child never thinks: “My mother will only calculate
about my wrongdoings when she sees me after school. Instead, with her
love my mom will warmly embrace me and serve me something sweet to eat.”
In stark contrast, in the case of the judge and a convict, that never
happens: The judge will always look upon the convict with consternation.
Whereas in the loving relation between Parama Purusa and the sadhaka,
when they meet He always showers His grace and kindness because at that
time both feel truly happy just by seeing one another.

[2]: Commonly human beings think that the material possessions that they
have are their own and they brag about that to others. People think, “I
have this property and this mansion and this prestige etc.” But they do
not know that what they think is theirs does not actually belong to
them. The real owner is Parama Purusa. What to say about one’s property,
their first shelter,. i.e. their body, also belongs to Him.

Baba says, “This body, this mind, this wealth has been given to me by
Parama Purus’a…That is, the actual owner of this body, the actual
owner of this mind is He.” (Ananda Vacanamrtam-14)

== IT IS NOT A JOKE ==

Namaskar,
By Baba’s grace, He has blessed us with all the practices and ways to
build up a healthy human society. One unique facet of this is our baby
naming ceremony, ja’takarma.

None should think then that our AM baby naming ceremony is just a casual
afternoon affair. It is not just a time to eat, drink and be merry.

Rather the occasion of ja’takarma is an integral and revolutionary part
of how we are to create a single universal family based on love,
affection and mutual respect. As we know, it demands our lifelong
commitment and dedication.

As a refresher, let’s take a closer look then at this program of
ja’takarma and examine just exactly what it entails.

HOW MANY HAVE YOU ATTENDED

Before beginning, we might ask ourselves: In my life, how many baby
naming ceremonies have I attended – either as a margii, acarya, mother,
father etc? Have I attended 1, 6, 25 or more? How many?

We should take a moment to reflect on each and every one.

After all, in our AM units and at our regional and sectorial retreats,
baby naming ceremonies are commonly held. Over the years, we might have
attended dozens of such programs.

NOT JUST A RITUAL

The first and foremost point to keep in mind is that our AM baby naming
ceremony is not just a ritual. It is not just a token celebration.
Everyone who participates – i.e. each and every attendee – is taking an
oath to be an active force in the proper development and growth of that
child.

Baba says, “The mantra of ja’takarma is the first step of human approach
in rousing the sense of responsibility and affection in man. Those, who
will be present on the occasion of the child’s ja’takarma, must also
indirectly have to bear the responsibility of bringing up the child. In
other words it will not do to sit inactive saying that the direct
responsibility in this connection is on its parents.” (Tattvika Diipika-4)

Thus all participants – all attendees – of the baby naming ceremony are
bound under oath to take an active role in ensuring the welfare of that
child – from its first feeding up till adulthood and beyond.

We must also remember that oaths are taken extremely seriously in AM and
like all our oaths, the oath taken by every attendee present at the
ja’takarma program is done in the name of Gurudeva. So it is a most
serious commitment and not something to be taken lightly.

So long as we are living on this earth we must consider and fulfill this
responsibility. Indeed, as Baba says, this is part of our sadhana.

Baba says, “The oath taken on the occasion of ja’takarma will reawaken
the sense of that duty again and again. Any grown-up person or any
father shall not forget his duty when he has once looked at the helpless
face of the child. It does not end here. In pursuance of the mantra of
ja’takarma in A’nanda Ma’rga, a child has not simply been regarded as a
child only but also a manifestation of Brahma in the child. So, serving
the child, shall be a part of sa’dhana’ (Brahma-Sa’dhana’) to him.”
(Tattvika Diipika-4)

Hence our oath to watch for the welfare of the newborn is not just a
commitment to a particular person, but an oath to watch over that baby
as a manifestation of Brahma. Thus our oath is to Parama Purusa and
comes within the scope of our dharma sadhana.

WHAT PEOPLE COMMONLY THINK

People in the general society commonly think that when a married couple
has a newborn then that child is the sole responsibility of the parents.
Most of the communities and countries of the world function under this
paradigm. Because of this, some in AM may also be thinking in this manner.

A person, even a new margii, might think that it is solely the duty of
the parents to bathe, clothe, feed, educate and look after the newborn
up to adulthood.

But in AM this is not our approach. Nowadays society is suffering
terribly and one of the reasons is that parents are overwhelmed and
challenged socially, economically, spiritually and in so many ways.
Under such pressure, they cannot raise children by themselves.
Especially those who suffer economic hardship, which is most of the
society these days. To eradicate all such problems and bring relief to
those parents in need, Baba has given this special system of ja’takarma.

Here again is Baba’s passage.

Baba says, “It will not do to sit inactive saying that the direct
responsibility in this connection is on its parents.” (Tattvika Diipika-4)

Rather in our unique system, that child is society’s responsibility and
in particular those in attendance at the ja’takarma ceremony are taking
an oath to care for and ensure the proper growth of that babe.

A few may be thinking: “Oh my, already my life is too busy – I will
never attend a ja’takarma program ever again.” But it is not like that.
As we all know, bearing the responsibility and taking oaths are part of
our debt and service to Guru. We are most fortunate to have been graced
with such an opportunity.

Baba says, “…The best you can do is only to serve. Remember, you are
to serve bearing in mind that every creature is verily the living
manifestation of the Supreme Consciousness. Remember also that the
credit of service is not yours; it is due to the Supreme and the Supreme
alone, whose ideation has inspired you to acquire the capability of
rendering service.” (A’nanda Va’nii #23)

Thus we should all be eager to attend the baby naming ceremonies in our
Marga and ready to fulfill our moral, social and spiritual duties with
regards to the raising of that child. And by taking an active role and
attending to our oath in a serious manner, then Baba will surely grace
us with the energy, understanding, and ability to be successful.

THE MANTRA OF JA’TAKARMA

Now, let us take a closer look at the baby naming ceremony itself as
well as the oaths involved.

Baba says, “When an infant is six months old (or any time between six
months and one year of age), at least five members of Ananda Marga will
gather together on a convenient day, and the infant will be laid before
them.” (Caryacarya-1)

In Caryacarya Baba further guides us about the program and also presents
the oaths to be taken by all attendees – i.e. all A’nanda Margiis
attending the program.

First we are under oath to watch for the physical well being of the child.

“O gracious Brahma, may we unitedly be able to arrange for the upkeep,
medical care and physical growth of this infant who has entered our
society today.”

Thereafter we take an oath to ensure the proper psychic growth of the
newborn.

“O gracious Brahma, may we be able to provide adequate education for the
mental development of this infant who has entered our society today.”

Then we take an oath to care for the spiritual development of the child.

“O gracious Brahma, may we succeed, through proper education, in
effecting the spiritual elevation of this infant who has entered our
society today.”

Finally, we take the oath to always remember that the child is but a
manifestation of the Supreme.

“O gracious Brahma, may we be able to see Your pervasive manifestation
in this infant, in the form of which You have appeared to us today. We
collectively give this baby the name . . . . . . .”

Upon the completion of this oath the new born is given its Sanskrit name.

NOT JUST SOME MUNDANE OATH

By all respects then, the oaths administered in the ja’takarma program
are most comprehensive and serious. It is verily a strict commitment by
every Ananda Margii present. To go against any of the oaths is to break
our vow to Guru.

Thus we should all take particular attention as to how we are to fulfill
this oath. We must not sit back and watch the parents struggle to raise
the child on their own. No one should be so slack in their oath to Guru.

Rather by taking the oath seriously, Baba will surely gives us the
courage, ability, insight, and opportunity to properly fulfill that
oath. Certainly He will bless us in this way. First, however, we must
each sincerely consider and internalise the oath, then He will provide
us the way.

Of course, many in our Marga are aware about all this and have taken
(in)direct responsibility for many newborns and babes in our Marga
society. And for others, perhaps there is scope for improvement.

Whatever the case may be, let’s us take this as a moment to re-evaluate
the content and responsibility associated with our jata’kjarma ceremony.

In the mundane society, thieves, politicians, lawyers, and all kinds of
people take oaths, only to soon break those oaths in a matter of days or
weeks. Our system – wherein each member of society must strive to become
a sadvipra – is not like that. An oath means a strict commitment to
Guru; it is a lifelong responsibility.

GREAT BENEFIT FOR SOCIETY

Here Baba neatly describes how the ja’takarma program helps create a
human society based on love and fraternity.

Baba says, ‘In this occasion no covering of the child has been
prescribed so that such a fine picture of the occasion may be stamped in
the minds of those present in the ceremony, as will not fade even when
the child will be full-grown. In later years, when the child will come
to him dressed as a gentleman, he will look on him as the self-same
child of the past ja’takarma ceremony and not as a gentleman of the
present day and will express signs of tenderness and responsibility in
his dealings. The fact that he had taken oath regarding the child will
rise afresh in his mind. When the child also, thus dressed as a
gentleman, will learn that he is one among those who took part in his
ja’takarma ceremony, he will respect and regard him as a father and this
will result in a sweet social relation.” (Tattvika Diipika-4)

Thus we must must carry this forward; by this way so many good results
will occur in the society. Through this unique ja’takarma system, no one
will feel isolated – all will feel cared for – no one will be left
behind. Gradually the whole society will purified. Through these oaths,
all are seen as family members and those elders rightly earn the respect
of the youths. Indeed, when the baby grows then there is a sweet and
blissful relation amongst all. That is Baba’s teaching.

BABA’S BLESSING

By Baba’s grace He has blessed us with a most unique baby-naming
ceremony. Such a system is not present anywhere else.

It is our bounden duty to take this seriously – we must keep our oaths,
otherwise we will just be hypocrites and doing an injustice to Guru.

In our sadvipra led society, we must all aim for that high ideal and
carry out all oaths accordingly. It is not just a joke. By properly
fulfilling the oaths related with ja’takarma, a great new society will
flourish on this earth, by His grace.

Baba says, “Society must ensure that proper care is taken of human
babies who are totally dependent on the care and protection of their
parents for their existence. These helpless children can only convey
their pain and discomfort through tears. To raise children from infancy
to maturity is an immensely important task. I have said before that the
members of society must advance in unison. The newborn babe is another
traveller on the path. To adopt a child as our companion, as one
included in the society, is called the “ja’takarma” of the child.”
(A Few Problems Solved-6)

Namaskar,
Ram Sahay

******************************************
To Those Who Can’t Concentrate

Baba says, “Most people are well acquainted with the fourth state of
mind (eka’gra). In this state the human mind sometimes becomes exalted
with divine sweetness; and sometimes becomes as debased as an infernal
creature. Sometimes it keeps company with good people and takes a
resolve never to tell lies, accept bribes, get intoxicated, or become
characterless; and sometimes it thinks that honesty and virtue are sheer
folly, for happiness lies in falsehood, taking bribes, stealing,
promiscuity, and the like. The mind is continuously tossed between good
and bad. But when the practice of sa’dhana’ inspires one to accept
shreya (path of benevolence) as one’s ideology, one attains the true
state of eka’gra bhu’mi. In this state waves upon waves of citta emerge.”

Sha’ntaditao tulyapratyayao cittasyaeka’girata’parin’a’ma

“Every newcomer to the path of sa’dhana’ suffers from a lack of
concentration of mind. After repeating the is’t’a mantra a couple of
times hundreds of undesirable thoughts flood the mind. The newcomer
thinks, “I am unable to attain the One on whom I meditate, and instead
am pestered by those objects I do not want.” The hand counts the beads,
the lips mutter the name of the is’t’a, but the mind roams in the filth
of hell. When all the undesirable waves are removed from the mind, one
blissful wave begins to flow, and the sa’dhaka attains the state of
eka’gra bhu’mi.” (AMIWL-9)

Note: If in your sadhana you are not one pointed (eka’gra means “one
pointed”) it means you are not repeating your mantra in a proper manner
– it means you are lacking sincerity and regularity of practice.
******************************************

Read Full Post »

From: “Arisudan Deva”
To: am-global@earthlink.net
Subject: Re: Unique Disease Growing in USA
Date: Sun, 24 Jul 2011 18:39:01 +0000

Baba

== RE: UNIQUE DISEASE GROWING IN USA ==

Namaskar,
Here below are two key articles related with this important topic of “hoarding” – which as described in the earlier letter is basically a psychic disease related with materialism.

If people goad their mind toward Parama Purusa they will not senselessly chase after and collect material products. Thus inculcation of a spiritual ideal will eliminate hoarding.

We should also keep in mind that hoarding is not exclusively the disease of the wealthy or the poor; it is the disease of the materialist. Anyone who tries to find psychic satisfaction in the physical sphere by gross accumulation of particular objects is a hoarder – regardless of their financial state or the condition of their house.

Once again, the cure is to introduce people to Baba’s teachings on santosa and aparigraha and ultimately introduce them to the path of sadhana.

Please do write in with your thoughts after reading the below articles.

Namsakar,
Arisudan

The danger of hoarding
By Joyce Cohen

http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2004-02-18-hoarding-usat_x.htm

For 25 years, a difficult-neighbor problem plagued Curtis and Elaine Colvin of Seattle. The neighbor’s home and lawn resembled a junkyard.

Finally, last spring, the elderly man was taken out of state by relatives. Konstantinos Apostolou bought the house — and sent in five men to clear the floor-to-ceiling junk.

“It was the most disgusting thing I’ve ever seen in my life,” says his son, George Apostolou.

There was nowhere to walk, except for a narrow “goat path” connecting the rooms. The men hauled out seven Dumpsters’ worth of clothes, books, magazines, cabinets of unopened packaged food [which he could never eat], firewood, car parts, tires, bank statements and 50-year-old tax records.

“I feel bad for the guy,” says Apostolou. “I’m sure he was ill.”

Just how ill is still little understood. The man was a classic hoarder — a condition usually considered freakish and laughable, or dismissed with cutesy terms like “pack rat” and “junkaholic.” Only now is hoarding garnering serious attention.

Within the past six years, about 10 municipalities have formed task forces so that public services can collaborate in cleaning up the property and helping the hoarder. And researchers are studying how hoarding differs from seemingly related conditions. Hoarding is currently considered one of the symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

Hoarders don’t just save stuff, but constantly acquire new stuff — to such a remarkable degree that it interferes with functioning and safety.

It’s unclear how widespread hoarding is, since the problem often surfaces only after a neighbor’s complaint or a medical emergency. Randy Frost, a psychology professor at Smith College in Northampton, Mass., estimates that 2% to 3% of the population has OCD, and up to a third of those exhibit hoarding behavior.

Real danger can lurk in homes overflowing with stuff. Floors buckle from the weight. People get buried under piles. Insects and rodents feast on rotting food. Combustibles ignite, endangering both occupants and firefighters.

Fairfax County, Va., formed one of the first task forces in 1998 after squatters settled in a house vacated by a hoarder, lit a fire in the fireplace and died in the ensuing blaze.

Behavioral peculiarities among hoarders come as no surprise to researchers…

In Pittsfield, Mass., fire chief Stephen Duffy tells of one elderly widow whose house had “debris piled higher than the bed, with one spot where she curled up on the mattress to sleep.”

Hoarding behavior
http://www.squalorsurvivors.com/squalor/hoarding.shtml
Randy Frost, a psychology professor at Smith College in Northampton, Mass., estimates that 2% to 3% of the population has OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder), and up to a third of those exhibit hoarding behavior (Cohen, 2004).
3-part definition of clinical hoarding :
The acquisition of, and failure to discard, a large number of possessions that appear to be useless or of limited value (Frost and Gross, 1993).
Living spaces are cluttered enough that they can’t be used for the activities for which they were designed (Frost and Hartl, 1996).
Significant distress or impairment in functioning caused by the hoarding.
Hoarding has [these] components:
Acquiring possessions compulsively – compulsive buying, or collecting free things.
Saving all these possessions and never discarding…
People who hoard keep things for the same reasons as anyone else:
For sentimental value – emotional attachment or to remember an important life event.
For utility value – the item is, or could be, useful.
For aesthetic value – the item is considered to be attractive or beautiful.
Frost and Gross’s 1993 study of hoarders found that the most likely justification for keeping an item was future need (“I might need this someday”), followed by lack of wear or damage (“This is too good to throw away”), sentimental saving (“This means too much to me to throw away”), and lastly potential value (“This may be worth something someday”). The difference between people who hoard and people who don’t, is that hoarders apply these values to a far larger number of items.
A hoarder will also be very concerned about maintaining control over their possessions. Well-meaning family members who try to help by sorting and purging the clutter on the hoarder’s behalf are likely to find their good deed has an unanticipated result: an increased effort on the part of the hoarder to protect their stuff from “unauthorized touching”. (Frost, Hartl, Christian and Williams, 1995)
If you hoard, you probably have problems organizing and maintaining all your possessions. First of all, there are so many of them! A hoarder can have problems categorizing – necessary for organizing – seeing each item as unique. The result is chaos and clutter that causes stress and isolation.
Part of the problem for hoarders is that they find it hard to make decisions about what to do with their possessions – e.g. whether to keep something or throw it away. A hoarder may feel that something bad will happen if they discard an item or it may feel like a part of their identity will be lost. If a hoarder has a past experience of throwing something out and regretting it later, this is likely to increase their distress (Warren, Ostrom, and Rosenfeld, 1988).
To avoid these uncomfortable feelings, or distress, a hoarder is likely to choose the “safe” option – postponing the decision, or saving everything (Frost and Gross, 1993). However, by never discarding, the doom and gloom theories are never disproved. Some hoarders find recycling to be less difficult than discarding.
Hoarding is a public health and safety risk. Hoarding increases the risk of fire because piles of newspapers, magazines, and clothing provide a plentiful supply of combustible material. At the same time, the piles make it more difficult to escape from a fire by blocking possible exits, as well as making it harder for rescue workers to reach you.
Hoarding also increases the risk of structural damage to the building, a consequence of the sheer weight of the hoarded items.

Read Full Post »

From: “Arisudan Deva”
To: am-global@earthlink.net
Subject: Unique Disease Growing in USA
Date: Sun, 24 Jul 2011 13:24:52 +0000

Baba

== UNIQUE DISEASE GROWING IN USA ==

Namaskar,
Hoarding – or over-accumulation of physical objects – is a distinct problem in the west. Whether it be new products from stores, memorabilia, or money, the problem of over-accumulation is quite pervasive.

A SMALL PICTURE OF WHAT IS GOING ON

So that everyone can gain a better understanding of what we are talking about, let’s paint a picture.

The typical, common American owns 15 – 20 pairs of shoes, 75 shirts, 30 sweaters and jackets, 50 pairs of pants, and numerous other clothing articles. This is normal; this is standard, maybe even below average. Such persons are not considered to be hoarders. Everybody in the US does like this.

However, according to studies, 10% of the US population qualifies as being a “hoarder”. They buy and collect so many things such that there literally is no space in the house to put it all. A “hoarder” might own 500 shirts, 50 pairs of shoes, 200 pairs of pants, and so much more. They personally have enough clothing to outfit an entire Indian or African village for years and years.

They purchase & accumulate more and more new items, and never give away or donate their old things. Until finally their house becomes so over-crowded with stuff that they literally have no place to walk. They have to push aside boxes to get to the bathroom / toilet; plus they have to move piles just to find a place to sleep.

Indeed, their house is so full of stuff that the doors can only open partially. They have to walk sideways through the door frame. Such is a description of a hoarder. And there is a growing number of people like this in the USA.

The problem is not that the size of the house is so small. Houses in the USA are big; even a small or normal size house is 1,800 sq feet of livable space not including the garage, driveway, porch, basement, and attic etc. The problem comes when the entire house is too full – all due to a hoarder’s tendency to collect and accumulate so many things which they can never use in their lifetime.

HOW THE WEST IS TREATING THIS PROBLEM

But the way western psychologists define and treat this condition is quite misguided. In fact, they miss the point entirely.

So we should first review Baba’s dharmic teachings and then do a critical analysis of contemporary theories and approaches.

WHY DO PEOPLE ACCUMULATE SO MUCH STUFF

THAT THEY CANNOT EVER USE IN THEIR OWN LIFETIME

Baba clearly guides us that when anyone lacks a higher ideal then they are bound to engage in the fruitless chase after matter in search of happiness and contentment. People might collect cars, paintings, clothing, food and kitchen supplies, antiques, or thousands of books – all done to an inordinate degree. Why is that search or collection fruitless? Because human longing is infinite and material things are finite. One can never be satisfied by worldly objects.

Here the point is that when human beings do not realise that their longing is of an infinite nature, then in that ignorance they fail to understand that no matter how many worldly possessions they accumulate, they will never be satisfied. So they blindly collect and collect and collect.

When that collection of household materials reaches such a critical mass that it interferes with one’s daily functioning, then modern-day psychologists identify that person as being mentally ill, or diseased. And they prescribe all kinds of drugs, medications and therapies to cure that person of their illness. But that is the entirely wrong assessment and treatment.

Another key problem here is that drug companies pay for healthcare research to prove and diagnose such collectors as being mentally ill, so that they (the drug companies) can gain permanent customers for their medicine & hence more profit.

In Ananda Marga, our viewpoint is totally different. Rather than diagnosing that person as being mentally ill, those individuals should be taught how to divert the mind towards Parama Purusa. Then one will not have the misdirected urge to collect material things for which they have no use. They should also be taught about the principles of santosa and aparigraha. But today’s psychologists are unaware of this formula based on psycho-spiritual ideals. Those psychologists themselves are rooted in materialism that is why they wrongly identify the problem and give the wrong response.

MATERIAL OUTLOOK VS SPIRITUAL OUTLOOK

People collect things because they think that material possession are their security blanket and that those items will solve all their problems. This is the classic outlook of a materialist. They take shelter in matter.

Of course in Ananda Marga, we take shelter in Parama Purusa and know that regardless of what happens He will be there to save us. Thus we have no need to collect material things to an inordinate degree – neither money, nor magazines, nor cars, nor shirts. Our focus is towards Baba so we will not misdirect our innate and infinite human longing towards finite objects.

As you will see however, in the below articles, modern day therapists and psychologists totally miss this point. They too are in the dark.

THE IRONY OF IT ALL

See the ironical and self-contradictory way in which today’s psychologists and medical professionals make their assessments.

If people are wealthy and can keep their possessions – 30 cars, thousands of pieces of artwork worth millions of dollars, and multiple mansions – in an organised way then they are given a high social status and called an “aficionado”, “scholar”, “curator”, or “enthusiast” etc; and if one is relatively poor and that collection turns their house into a mess then they are deemed as being mentally ill.

In true sense, both rich and poor suffer from the same psychic disease – not brain disease – of accumulating more stuff which they can use in their lifetime. And the solution is to direct the mind towards spirituality.

But again today’s doctors and health professionals do not address the problem this way. They see Bill Gates collecting an inordinate amount of wealth – far beyond which he will ever need or use – and they call him a respected member of society. In contrast, they see a regular person collecting clothes, cd’s books, and other equipment which they will never be able to use in their lifetime because they have so much, and they call him “mentally ill”. All because that individual cannot organise their house. In true sense however, both are “hoarders” and suffer from the same problem: Over-accumulation of physical pabulum in hopes of finding happiness.

Indeed some wealthy people buy and collect all kinds of items and products in search of happiness and then get rid of them all in haste only to start a new collection of something entirely different. Because of their riches they can proceed in this way. Whereas a poorer person may collect the same kinds of things for years and years without every getting rid of their collection. In either case, the mind-set is the same.

Finally let us not neglect to mention that in today’s capitalist environment, it is companies and advertisers that entice, convince and tempt people to buy and collect all kinds of products which they will never need in this lifetime.

For more about this problem and Baba’s solution read His chapters on santosa and aparigraha in “A Guide to Human Conduct” and read Baba’s discourse – Three Causes of Sin – which describes the phenomena of over-accumulation of physical pablum.

BABA’S TEACHINGS

Here are but a few of Baba’s teachings on this topic of hoarding, materialism and spiritual outlook.

[1] In this first teaching Baba describes how collective material items does not bring lasting happiness or contentment, i.e. santosa.

Baba says, “Contentment is not at all possible if the individual is running after carnal pleasures like a beast. As a result of extroversial analysis, the objects of enjoyments go on increasing both in number and abstraction and that is why one’s mental flow never gets any rest. Under such circumstances how can one attain perfect peace of mind? Achieving the desired objects may give one pleasure for an hour or so, but that will not last long. The mind will again run in pursuit of new objects, leaving behind the objects already tasted – the long-cherished objects will lose their importance. This is the rule; this is the law of nature.” (A Guide to Human Conduct, Santosa)

[2] In this next teaching Baba guides us to critically evaluate what we need as well as what we do not need to lead a healthy life on this earth.

Baba says, “Non-indulgence in the enjoyment of such amenities and comforts of life as are superfluous for the preservation of life is aparigraha…Aparigraha is an endless fight to reduce one’s own objects of comforts out of sympathy for the common people, after ensuring that individuals are able to maintain solidarity in their physical, mental and spiritual lives for themselves and their families.” (A Guide to Human Conduct, Aparigraha)

[3] In this final teaching Baba outlines how over-accumulation of physical wealth leads to a debased mental state and mean-minded dealing.

Baba says, “Where there is over-accumulation of physical wealth several problems occur. Human beings do not have many needs. Primarily they need satisfying meals and clothing, according to their necessities. Most people do not even want many things. The desire to accumulate money is actually a mental disease. The accumulators do not accumulate to fulfil their basic needs as human needs are few. For instance, if a person has a mango grove which yields 500 mangoes and a family of five [with no option to sell them], what will he do with so many mangoes? In cases of over-accumulation there is very little chance of utilization. Hence, if the sadvipras are not vigilant, where there is over-accumulation non-utilization will occur. Moreover, where there is over-accumulation people tend to misutilize wealth by indulging in their baser propensities rather than their finer ones. Therefore you will mark, as I am making it crystal-clear to you, that most of the kings and Nawabs of ancient times were, and most of the aristocrats and wealthy people of today who have nothing to do are generally wicked and mean-minded. In addition, you will see that government officers who do not have psychic and spiritual interests also become mean-minded. When we have to judge, we must be frank. It can be observed that it is natural for people to move towards sin if over-accumulated physical and psychic pabula is not utilized. If people have developed intellects which are not properly directed, and there is no administration of the Sadvipras, people become polished satans and inflict sufferings on others.” (A Few Problems Solved – 6, The Three Causes of Sin)

And indeed we see such debased mentalities in wealthy people like Rupert Murdoch and Bernie Madoff. In order to increase his wealth, Murdoch indulged in all kinds of unethical and immoral schemes like phone hacking; side by side, Madoff cheated people of tens of billions of dollars with his infamous Ponzi scheme.

Most rich people are sinners; we may see their sin after some time as it may not be apparent now. After all – before they were caught – who knew that Murdoch and Madoff were involved in such unscrupulous and heinous dealings for so long.

By above proof it is very clear that accumulation turns a person towards wicked and satanic behavior.

Namaskar,
Arisudan

Note: ARTICLES COMING

Under separate cover I will send published articles about this problem of hoarding. These articles describe and analyse real-life accounts of hoarding.

PRABHAT SAMGIITA

“Tumi a’ma’r a’hva’ne sa’r’a’ diyecho…” (P.S. 1265)

Purport:

Baba, You are so gracious You have paid heed to my call of longing.
After remaining quiet for a long time, in the end You have finally listened
to the cry of my heart.
Such a long span of time has passed. The tender leaves of spring have
become yellow and fallen down. The green vegetation in the mountains also
underwent huge change; I saw they did not remain the same. Such a long span
of time has passed.
In the end, ultimately I received the showering of Your grace. My heart
is inundated with the bliss of having You. You have filled my life with
ecstasy.
Baba, You know so many liilas, divine plays, which I do not understand.
In this situation, I go on only searching You– feeling spellbound,
astonished, & amazed.
Only You know the glory of Your divine play. Baba, You have filled and
satiated my heart and mind with the showering of Your causeless grace.
Baba, You have heard the cry of my longing….

***************************************
Reason Behind our Kiirtan Mantra

Baba says, “The kulakundalinii rises upward in eight jumps or phases, so with two syllables in a siddha mantra, the kundalinii will jump four times. But a general, or publicly-given, siddha mantra will make the kulakundalinii jump eight times or in eight phases. That is why such a siddha mantra has eight syllables. So you should understand that a proper kiirtana must have eight syllables, never seven or nine syllables.” (Discourses on Krsna and the Giita, p. 23)

Note 1: Everyone knows there are eight syllables in our Baba Nam Kevalam mantra.

Note 2: The reason why the kundalinii jumps eight times is because it moves from the muladhara cakra all the way to sahasrara cakra– all the while passing through one after another cakras until it reaches that final point. So after it reaches the Guru cakra then one final jump is made to the sahasrara cakra. In total then 8 jumps are made–one for each syllable.
***************************************

Read Full Post »

From: “Manindra Singh”
To: am-global@earthlink.net
Date: 23 Jul 2011 20:57:29 -0000
Subject: Story: Useful & Useless Request

Baba

“Sukhe ele na’ko, shoke sa’ntvana’ dite ele…” (PS 3091)

Purport:

Baba, when I was feeling happy and content that time You did not come. Those days I was so enamoured with myself and I was so involved in my own glory that I did not even think to call You. So You did not come. But when I lost all that happiness and when I become drowned in my sorrows of self pity and when I was suffering and overwhelmed by various problems, then by Your grace You immediately came and consoled me. Baba in that desperate moment You graciously relieved me of my grief.

Baba, I did not ever feel that You are mine. In this life I was always suffering from the vanity and ego of my own I-feeling. Those days I was thinking that ‘I am everything’. Due to my ego I did not accept You as the Supreme One– as my Goal. I did not take You as that most loving One who can solve all my problems; I did not surrender at Your feet. Baba, even then by Your grace You have taken advent deep inside my heart and became mine. And now I understand that You are ever helpful and that You remain with me always.

Baba, those days when I was overwhelmed by that severe suffering, I did not outrightly tell You about my problems. I did not openly say anything. I did not express my pain to You. But because You are ever-present in my heart and because You are my eternal shelter, with Your infinite compassion You fully understood the desperate state of my mind– You understood my sorrow. And by Your grace You instantly poured Your eternal sweetness and love. By Your grace You filled my whole existence with Your divine bliss.

Baba, due to my ego and vanity I could not recognise you. You were showering huge grace on me but I could not recognise that. I thought that due to my own qualities everything was happening. In those happy times I could not recognise You. Only did I begin to recognise You in my sorrow. Baba, in my state of terrible suffering, when the mountain of misery started falling on my head, then all my friends left me. I was all alone. When I was happy then they were along with me but when I became sunk in misery all those friends disappeared. Baba, You are the exact opposite. When I was sunk in woe then by Your grace You immediately came and removed all my pains and troubles. Baba You bathed me in Your infinite love. Filling my I-feeling with Your bliss, You surrounded me each and every second. Baba, You showered Your grace and saturated my heart.

Baba, You are so gracious. You are love Personified. You have done everything for me. Baba, I surrender at Your alter…

== STORY: USEFUL AND USELESS REQUEST ==

Namaskar,
This story teaches us that when people have the opportunity to ask for something then some ask for something useful and some ask for something useless. It all depends upon their mental colour.

We have all seen similar scenes in front of Lord Shrii Shrii Anandamurtiji also. When sadhakas reached in front of Baba, then He would graciously ask, “What do you want?”.

In reply, margiis and workers responded in all kinds of ways – according to their own psychic standard. Sometimes sadhakas responded to Baba’s query by mentally asking for something and other times sadhakas spoke their desire out loud. The common thread among all was that they had got their wish granted.

Many margiis have seen this and we know that most requests were like that of Kátyáyanii. Some rare persons made a request like Maetreyii and they were fortunate. Still today this is happening: Baba satisfies everyone’s request – regardless of one asks like Ka’tya’yanii or Maetreyii.

BABA STORY OF KA’TYA’YANII & MAETREYII

Read the following story told by Baba on 27 December 1978:

“One day, Yájiṋávalkya fell seriously ill. His two wives, Maetreyii and Kátyáyanii, attended on him with due care and affection. It is a fact that some men are ordinary and some are extraordinary. Similarly, some women are ordinary and others are extraordinary. After recovering from his illness, Yájiṋávalkya said to Kátyáyanii, “I would like to give you a present. What would you like?””

“His wife replied, “Let me see I’d like some new clothes, some new jewellery, in fact, so many things.” And she made a long list of all the things she wanted.”

“Yájiṋávalkya bought everything she asked for and then asked Maetreyii, “What would you like? Clothes, jewellery, or any other valuable thing?””

“Maetreyii remained silent.”

“Yájiṋávalkya continued, “Just a little while ago, Katyáyánii said she would like some new clothes, jewellery, and so many other things. What would you like?””

“Maetreyii replied, Yenáhaḿ námrtasyáḿ tenáhaḿ kim kuryám.”

““What will I do with things which will not remain with me permanently? Of what use are the objects which will not establish me in immortality? The expensive clothes I wear today will be torn in a few days. The jewellery I wear today will no longer be fashionable tomorrow as the designs change from age to age. A certain design was fashionable in my grandmother’s day, another one in my mother’s day and yet another in the present day. No design is permanent forever. It’s nice of you to offer me such things, but none of them will remain with me. I will have to leave them all behind when I depart from this world; so what use are they, and why should you tempt me with them?””

“Yájiṋávalkya then asked, “Please tell me what you would really like.””

““If you can,” she replied, “please give me that thing which will remain with me permanently, which I’ll be able to preserve forever, which will establish me in immortality. I don’t want anything else.””

“Then Yájiṋávalkya gave her a number of instructions, upon which a major part of Rájá Yoga is based.”

(Ananda Vacanamrtam, Part 7)

After reading the above story, it is quite clear that we should follow Maetreyii’s example, not Ka’tya’yanii’s.

REFLECTION:

EXAMPLES OF SADHAKAS MAKING REQUESTS TO BABA

I have seen sadhakas ask for not only useless things from Parama Purusa but harmful things as well.

For example, one person once asked Baba for a particular spouse. What they wished for they got and soon they were married. Within a very short time that marital relation became very sour. The husband and wife even became violent and inimical towards one another. They attacked each other and even the police were called to get involved. Both husband and wife were arrested and put in jail. The marriage became that bad. All along the parents tried to save the marriage but they could not get success. And ultimately that marriage ended in an ugly and bitter divorce. The irony of it all is that this is the marriage they had requested from Parama Purusa.

Here is another key point to keep in mind.

One time Baba left to go on a fieldwalk and two margiis were sitting in the car with Him. One of the margiis started thinking how Baba should help in the marriage of his daughter. Baba immediately scolded and rebuked him and said, “You spoiled the whole vibration. Why are you thinking like that.”

Here the lesson is that Guru does not want His disciples to think of mundane things when in His contact. Because Baba is taking care of everything so without the margiis’ awareness, Baba resolves each and every issue. So sadhakas should not waste their time in mundane matter but rather think of their devotional love for Parama Purusa. One should think of their spiritual ideal and and not of worldly, transient things that are here today and gone tomorrow.

When the margii returned back his home area then in a few weeks tie his daughter’s marriage was perfectly resolved and since then he never did such mistakes.

BABA’S BLESSING

The central idea is that people do not know what to ask for so best is not to ask for anything at all. One should only ask for parabhakti (“intense love for Parama Purusa”).

Baba says, “Suppose Parama Puruśa appears before you and says, “O my boy, do you want something from Me?” then what should be your reply? Your reply will be, “What I require and what I do not require is best known to You. You know better than I do. So You do according to my requirements. I won’t say anything.” But if even then He says, “O my boy, say something, try to get something. Ask something, say something. I want that you yourself say, ‘O Parama Puruśa, I want this thing or that thing’” – in that case you should say, “O Parama Puruśa, give me parábhakti.”” (Subhasita Samgraha – 24, Bhakti, Mukti and Parama Puruśa)

Namaskar,
Manindra

Note 1: PARA’BHAKTI NOT APARA’BHAKTI

Here Baba gives a very pointed definition and example of the highest form of devotion known as parabhakti; plus He also shows us what not to ask for.

Baba says, “If they are told to ask for anything, they will ask only for parábhakti and nothing else. One who asks for parábhakti gets everything. I deliberately used the word parábhakti because there is another type of devotion called aparábhakti. When people beseech the Lord to fulfill all their selfish desires, this is called aparábhakti. “Oh Lord, I am your devotee, help me to pass my examination… Oh Lord, my daughter has attained marriageable age – help me to find a worthy suitor… Let the bridegroom be ideal, let me not spend much on the wedding…” This type of showy devotion that simply asks for mundane objects, is no devotion at all, because it demands everything except Parama Puruśa. Such devotees never say, “Oh Lord, be mine… I want You and only You.” They always say, “I want this, I want that.” In fact this is no devotion at all. When one asks only for Parama Puruśa, this is the true devotion, parábhakti.” (Ananda Marga Ideology and Way of Life, Taking the Opposite Stance in Battle)

Read Full Post »

Date: 22 Jul 2011 21:33:52 -0000
From: “Satyanarayan Deva”
To: am-global@earthlink.net
Subject: Oh Really – Not Part of Prout?

Baba

PS Intro: This is one special type of song where Parama Purusa explains to
the devotees what He does– how He carries out His liila.

“A’gun jva’la’te a’si niko a’mi, diipa’valii jva’li man ma’jhe…” (P.S. 421)

Purport:

I, Baba, do not come to light a burning fire in the heart. I come to
light the lamp of devotion in the heart– for that I come. I fill the mind
with divine effulgence– devotion, not fire*.
Even on the rough & jagged path I pour divine sweetness– I make even
the dry heart full of devotion. Even in those trees where flowers do not
come, those places also I decorate with flowers. I change the crude
personality into a divine one. I decorate them with the beauty of devotion.
To the dry heart I bring the warmth of love and devotion. And I give
them inspiration to move towards divinity. This way I bless.
Through the melody and rhythm of song and dance, silently I fill the
remote corner of the heart with love. Indeed I fill the entire universe
with devotion with the medium of song, dance and music– Prabhat Samgiita.
I do not come to ignite the heart with yearning; rather I fill the heart
with devotion.
To those hearts which are frustrated, sunken, and lost, I give them the
strength for their forward movement. I fill up the heart with the bliss so
they can forget their pain and misery and get ensconced in divinity.
I remain with everyone through the ota and prota yoga. I make everyone
aware of this thing by all my actions. I tell this thing in all my work so
that human beings can realise that Parama Purus’a is with them.
I advent of this earth to fill up the heart with devotion…

*Fire= Here fire means that devotees always lovingly accuse Parama Purusa
that ‘I am crying for You yet You just set my heart on fire, with no relief
in sight’. But Parama Purus’a explains that it is not like that; rather He
comes with the explicit motive to fill the mind with devotion…

== OH REALLY – NOT PART OF PROUT ==

~ AND OTHER IMPORTANT ASPECTS OF BABA’S SAMAJ THEORY ~

Namaskar,
Time and again there is confusion on the point of Baba’s samaj system – which
as we all know is a universal and dharmic approach to uplift all peoples
and create a healthy, dharmic society.

Unfortunately:
– Some use samaj as a euphemism for groupism;
– Some think that samaj is not in line with the principles of Prout;
– Some think that they can create a samaj based on their own
narrow-minded tendencies.
– Some think that samajas are formed strictly on the point of language;
– And there are various other misnomers regarding Baba’s divine samaj
theory.

There is no need to identify who specifically falls in the aforementioned
categories, they know who they are. Plus every Ananda Margii has sufficient
viveka to recognise them as well.

This letter presents some of these matters and presents and a few of the key
points of samaj.

SAMAJ THEORY IS AN INHERENT POINT OF PROUT

We all know that Baba first propounded Prout in a condensed form
in the last two chapters of His book Idea and Ideology (1959). Then in
1961 Baba delivered the discourses for Ananda Sutram– of which the 5th and
final chapter gives further summary of Prout. In total, 16 sutras or
aphorisms are in that chapter.

After that, gradually Baba has elaborated upon His Proutistic
guidelines and formed the vast Prout philosophy, around 200 discourses
directly. And many indirect references Baba has given about Prout in
several hundred other discourses.

For example if you see the book Namah Shivaya Shantaya, there also Baba
talks about Prout. (Reference: Discourse 10, section ‘Shivokti 5’) This
stands as but one of the many, many places where Baba makes indirect
reference to Prout in this book and in the rest of His scriptures.

And of course the direct discourses on Prout are collected in
His Prout in a Nutshell series.

And in Prout part #13, the chapter ‘Socio-Economic Groupifications’ is
dedicated for the samaj movement. As we know, the central idea of samaj theory
is based on socio-economic movements; and that is exactly what is discussed
in the chapter ‘Socio-Economic Groupifications’.

In that discourse Baba discusses:
(a) the fundamentals of samaj,
(b) the basis upon which samajas are formed,
(c) the foundational requirements of samajas,
(d) and other key and critical points.

Anyone can easily understand that the guidelines of samaj have been
given in one chapter of Prout, and that it is part and parcel of our social
philosophy and perfectly consistent with all the teachings and theories of
Ananda Marga.

JUST THEIR FOOLISHNESS

So if any imbalanced person is telling that samaj is something different from
Prout or Baba’s essential teachings, then it is similar to if any ignorant
person foolishly says that a sentient diet and vegetarian food are not part of Ananda
Marga ideology.

Without going into more detail here I am quoting from Baba. In this
following teaching Baba is talking about samaj.

Baba says, “PROUT based socio-economic movements are popular movements
which will fight against all forms of exploitation and for the local
demands and sentiments of the people.” (PNS-13, p. 21)

By reading this above Baba’s simple teaching, anybody can easily understand:
(1) What is samaj; (2) That samaj is according to Prout principles; and,
(3) That the function of samaj is to fight against all types of
exploitation– for the growth of the local population of one particular area.

So certainly it is clear then that Baba’s samaj theory lies squarely within
the jurisdiction and teachings of Prout.

SAMAJ NOT GROUPIST AGENDA

Some confused people think that samaj means some groupist agenda or a
movement which is based on narrow sentiments and ideas. But in reality,
samaj is something universal in nature and dharmic.

By reading the chapter ‘Socio-Economic Groupifications’ anyone will get the
clear-cut picture how Baba beautifully with logic and reasoning clarifies
to the audience that His samaj system is based on neo-humanism. And really
the point is quite clear.

Baba says, “The socio-economic movements advocated by PROUT are founded on
the ideological base of Neo-humanism.” (Prout-13, p. 23)

But some in the name of samaj are preaching their own small-minded beliefs
or dogmas.

So again it is unfortunate that a few Dadas are confused on the point
of samaj movement. Such selfish individuals or groups are obsessed with
materialistic gain, for which form groupism. To justify this, they try to
confuse common margiis by preaching, ‘No, no, no, this is not groupism,
this is samaj movement’. But we must be very careful to understand that
samaj movement and group propaganda / groupism are not the same thing.

And indeed no rational Ananda Margii thinks in this way. Everyone clearly
understands that Baba’s rational teachings on samaj are part and parcel of and
perfectly consistent with Prout and neo-humanism.

Those who are thinking that samaj is just one form of groupism, they are in
dreamland. Please see what Baba says:

Baba says “The multi-colored garland of humanity will be enriched if
varying human groups blend together from a position of strength and
independence out of a genuine love for their brothers and sisters.”
(Prout-13, p. 20)

Baba says, “Those sentiments which are conducive to human unity should be
encouraged, rejecting the sentiments which create a rift in human society.
This is the approach adopted by PROUT’s socio-economic groups.” (Prout, p. 21)

By the above quotes it is clear then that samaj theory is based on
broad-minded, universal thinking that leads to the development of one human
society.

Nowadays the whole society is moving ahead. Even the common citizens have a
better understanding than in the past. Slowly but surely they are embracing
universalistic ideals. Ananda Margiis are certainly advancing on a faster
track. We can easily understand how the development and implementation of
self-sufficent socio-economic units piece together to form one wholesome
human society free from exploitation and dogma.

BABA’S BLESSING

Here following is Baba’s blessing:

Baba says, “You are the very child of Parama Purus’a…Keeping the Supreme
Entity fixed in your mind, proceed to the Supreme Goal with the utmost
devotion, and you are destined to attain the greatest fulfillment.” (APH-4,
p.299)

Namaskar,
Satyanarayan

Note 1: ONE MAJOR REASON BEHIND THE SAMAJ MOVEMENT

Having a few affluent countries when rest of the world is facing
serious crisis on different fronts does not represent the glory of human society.
The undeniable truth is that those so-called affluent countries became
affluent by sucking the vital juice of so-called poor countries. To root
out this malady Baba wants that in each and every area, local people should
rally around & fight against exploitation, and become self-sufficient in
all respects. To give practical shape to this idea Baba has formulated the
Samaj movement which is, as noted above, well-discussed in Prout-13, 4th
chapter.

Note 2: 5 CRITERIA FOR FORMING A SAMAJ

Baba says, “While forming socio-economic units, several factors should
be considered. These include same economic problems; uniform economic
potentialities; ethnic similarities; the sentimental legacy of the people;
and similar geographical features.” (PNS-13)

Note 3: 4 CRITERIA FOR MERGING TWO SAMAJAS

Baba says, “Where there is economic parity, cultural mixing, communication facilities
and administrative efficiency, it will be easy and natural for two or more
adjoining units to cooperate, because they will have attained a high degree
of socio-economic uniformity. In such cases they should merge to form a single
larger unit. This will further the welfare of their respective citizens and
enhance their socio-economic interests.” (PNS-13)

Note 4: OTHER IMPORTANT POSTINGS ON POINTS OF SAMAJ

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2009/06/bangla-and-bangalii.html

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2009/06/prout-antidote-to-todays-economics.html

http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2009/03/it-is-babas-book-not.html

********************************************
Be Careful in Desiring

Baba says, “Human beings attain Parama Purusa in whichever way they want.
Their desires to attain Him are fulfilled according to their expectations.
Suppose someone has a desire to eat delicious food. Parama Purusa will
grant that wish and the person may be reborn in the next life as a wolf or
wild boar to eat to his heart’s content. A woman who wishes to adorn
herself with ornaments may be reborn as a colorfully marked peacock. One
day, however, a hunter may shoot the beautiful peacock with an arrow. As
one desires, so one attains. Similarly, human beings attain Parama Purusa
according to their inner desire. So, before wishing to attain Him, one must
be extra cautious. Suppose a man wants to be a king. In the next life he
may be born into the household of a poor man whose surname is `Raja’
(king). He wanted to be a ra’ja’ (king) and he became one! One must be very
cautious before wishing for anything.” (AV-4, p. 62)
********************************************

Read Full Post »

Date: Thu, 21 Jul 2011 11:09:28 -0000
Subject: Myth About AM
To: am-global@earthlink.net
From: Ram

Baba

“Toma’ke cine ut’ha’ da’y
Otaprotabha’ve tha’kileo dhara’ na’hi ja’y…” (PS 3291)

Purport:

O’ my dearmost, I long for You but alas You could not be held. Baba, in
spite of that fact, You are ever-present with me always through Your
ota-prota yoga*; even then it is not easy to realise You. Baba, Your
sublime divinity remains beyond my reach. I could not get You. Baba,
please be gracious and allow me to embrace You with all my heart.
Baba, You are beyond time and space– You everywhere and within
everyone. By Your grace You remain in the supreme effulgence as well as
in the cimmerian darkness. There is no place that You are not. In each
and every moment, You are ensconced and divinely intoxicated in the
tune, rhythm, melody, and bathed in the fragrance of my mental garden.
O’ gracious One, according to Your desire You make me cry or laugh.
Baba, by Your grace You make me float like the deep blueness in the
vast, expansive sky. Baba with Your mystical liila, You make me dance
whatever way You like.
Baba, I surrender at Your alter, please grace me by keeping me in Your
shelter…

ASTERISK NOTES (*):

*Ota-prota Yoga= In 1984 Gwalior DMC, Baba has graciously told what the
meaning of ota and prota yoga is in English. Ota yoga is “individual
tactuality” between Parama Purusa and the unit entity; and, prota yoga
is “collective tactuality” between Parama Purusa and all the entities,
simultaneously. So in the above definitions, Baba is exclusively
describing the intimate relation between Parama Purusa and His jiivas
through His ota & prota yoga. Baba expresses this same devotional
concept using slightly different language in the following discourse.

Baba says, “What is ota-yoga? He as the Cosmic Father has a direct
relationship with each and every entity of this world…All are His
affectionate children. This is His ota-yoga. Each and every entity,
animate or inanimate, has a direct link with Him. Just as ota yoga means
the Cosmic Father’s relationship with each entity individually, prota
yoga means His relationship with all collectively.” (AV-6)

== MYTH ABOUT ANANDA MARGA ==

Namaskar,
There is one prevailing myth that floats in and around our AM circles –
this letter addresses it. Please add your own thoughts and experiences.

WHAT THE VARIOUS RELIGIONS DO

Many are aware that the practice of ekadashii and the shloka of
samgacchadhvam have been around for ages and are related with Hinduism.
Plus Buddha’s teaching of cakuna samvaro (control over the senses) and
the eight fold path are well known.

Then of course there is the Christian doctrine which preaches service
and doing good to others. And finally, Muslims think of one another as
brother & sister and oppose dogmas like idol worship.

THE MYTH ITSELF

Seeing these elements in the various religions may lead one to conclude
that AM is just a mix of the various religions – as if Baba gathered the
cream of all the religious teachings and combined them to form Ananda
Marga.

Some in AM (& outside AM) may think like that.

However, that conclusion is totally false – it is just one myth.

As Ananda Margiis we should be totally clear on this point and
understand fully how AM is totally new and vastly different from the
existing religions.

ONLY AM HAS GIVEN A SOCIO-ECONOMIC THEORY

Perhaps the most striking point that differentiates AM from every
religion is that only Ananda Marga has given a socio-economic theory.
Only Baba knew that for dharma and spirituality to rise, there must be
economic justice and social equality. For that reason He has given Prout.

In contrast, some of the other religions have slowly become the stooges
of capitalism; while Shankaracarya’s Hinduism overlooked the material
world entirely; and in general most religions have no clear-cut teaching
for addressing socio-economic issues.

In contrast, Ananda Marga has Prout: A comprehensive outlook delineating
plans and programs across the entire socio-economic spectrum.

Our overall approach is subjective approach through objective
adjustment. And Prout is the ultimate tool for bridging the divide
between a God-centered spiritual outlook and living in this material world.

If nothing else then, Baba’s Prout theory is perfect evidence that AM is
totally new and revolutionary, and not a mix of the various religions.

SOME GET CONFUSED THROUGH SELF-HYPNOSIS

How is it then that some have gotten confused and fallen prey to the
myth that AM is just a mix of the various religions.

Firstly, those who are not fully aware of Baba’s teachings may have
taken this myth to heart just out of their ignorance or laziness. That
can happen.

There is also another phenomenon at work.

In order to do AM pracara in any region or place, one must make a link
with the local people. The best way to make that link is through service
– that is Baba’s recommendation. Side by side however, often that link
is made by pointing out similarities between AM and the local
traditions, customs and beliefs.

For instance, acaryas or margiis in India, might point to the many
similarities (diet, language, yama & niyama, Shiva & Krsna) and shared
history of yoga and Hinduism in order to convince people that AM is not
something foreign but actually very close to their religion.

Likewise in the Islamic world, an acarya or margii may point to the
shared monotheistic approach. Both Islam and AM believe in the existence
of one God. And by saying this again and again, that margii or acarya
may really begin to believe in their heart that AM’s doctrine of a
single God really is just like Islam.

And in every land such techniques are used, whether it be highlighting
the similarities between AM & Christianity in the west or AM and
Buddhism in the far east. In all such places, in order to do pracara,
acaryas and margiis convince the locals that AM is very close to or
nearly identical to their religion.

Unknowingly, through this pracara technique, some of those margiis and
acaryas may end up convincing themselves that really AM did stem from
those religions. It is a type of self-hypnosis. That can happen and
indeed it has happened.

So that is one reason why this myth is alive in AM that really our Marga
is nothing but a mix of the various religions.

When in reality, AM is totally new and absolutely none of the teachings
of the various dogmatic religions were brought into AM. That will become
more clear by reading more of this letter.

THE TRUTH IS ALWAYS ONE

The thing we have to keep in mind is that the truth is always one.

For example 2 + 2 = 4. Just because a math teacher is preaching this
fact does not mean that he borrowed it or stole it from another math
class or teacher. Rather it just happens to be a fact or truthhood. So
it is bound to be taught wherever logic and rationality are in vogue.

Same is the case with Ananda Marga. Ours is the path of truth and
dharma. And we may share certain principles like brotherhood, service,
montheism with the various religions, but that does not mean that AM
borrowed or stole those points from the religions. It just means that
the truth is propagated in many avenues.

Even then we have to be careful in admitting such a statement. Because
the religions have turned the above points of brotherhood, service, and
monotheism etc into veritable dogmatic practices, wheres in AM those
principles take dharmic expression.

MORE DOGMA THAN ANYTHING ELSE

The various religions preach dogma more than anything else. Thus
although they may share certain points with AM – our presentation of
that teaching is dharma whereas theirs is dogmatic.

For instance, both AM and Islam embrace the belief that all are brothers
and sisters. But the word “all” in Islam refers only to other Muslims.
Theirs is a limited application of brotherhood whereas in AM our
approach is totally universal. Every person is our brother and sister
irregardless of race, nationality, and belief etc.

Another example is that of service in Christianity. Although service is
a shared ideal between AM and Christianity, their application of service
can consist of serving meat, preaching the gospel of hell,
indoctrinating the dying into Christianity, and all kinds of other
dogmatic things. So although we both appreciate the practice of service,
AM’s approach to service is quite different from that of Christianity.

While the Hindus may be aware of the glories of astaunga yoga,
ekadashii, yama and niyama etc, mostly they do not practice those things
and when they do it is often in a very watered down or dogmatic manner.

Thus despite the seemingly shared terminology and practices between AM
and the various religions, our way is unique and quite different from
the dogmatic religions. None then can claim that AM is merely a mix of
the various religions.

Baba says, “Ananda Marga alone is dharma and all the rest are sectisms.”
(SS-1, p. 63)

THE ORIGINALITY OF SHIVA & KRSNA

Here is another facet of the conversation to keep in mind.

Lord Shiva and Lord Krsna graciously gave many, many teachings and both
these Divine Personalities predate the existence of most of the world’s
religions. Often we find that the religious dogma stems from watered
down versions of Lord Shiva’s and Lord Krsna’s teachings. Thus rather
than say that AM borrowed from Hinduism etc, it is probably far more
correct to say that those Hindu priests, Christ, & Mohammed stole and
distorted Taraka Brahma’s earlier teachings.

That also explains why there are remnants or shadows of certain dharmic
teachings in the various dogmatic religion.

And as to the uniqueness of AM, may we also keep in mind that Baba has
given many things not given earlier by either of the Taraka Brahmas.

Among many other points is that AM represents the first time that the
philosophy of yoga has been given.

Baba says, “The yoga philosophy was first propounded by Ananda Marga.”
(06 Jan 1979, Patna)

Note for more about this reference:
http://am-global-01.blogspot.com/2009/07/yoga-phil-was-first-propounded-by-am.html

But with regards to the dogmatic religions, more often than not they
took from Shiva and Krsna – and then watered down and distorted those
teachings – and that is why such religions may superficially look like
they are similar to AM.

Top of all though, the comprehensive body of teachings of Ananda Marga
have never before been given.

That is why Baba Himself has declared.

Baba says, “Baba says, “Never before in the entire history of this world
or the universe, if it could be known to mortals, has a system of life
fully embracing the economic, social, mental and spiritual spheres ever
been correlated in such closely knit society as in Ananda Marga.” (PNS-11)

ALL KNOWLEDGE COMES FROM HIM

Ultimately, by His grace all knowledge comes from Him.

3-9 Brahmaeva gururekah na’parah.

[Only Brahma is the guru, no one else.]

Purport: Brahma alone is the guru. Brahma alone directs the units to the
path of emancipation through the media of different receptacles or
bodies. No one except Brahma conforms to the real significance of the
word “guru”. (Ananda Sutram)

Thus the eternal teachings of life either come directly from God when He
appears as Taraka Brahma or they come indirectly from God via those
rishis who have linked their unit mind with Cosmic mind, by His grace.
Some great yogis have been able to do this. In that case their words
resonant with neo-humanism and are consistent with Baba’s ideals.

In contrast, the religions may claim to also preach the gospel of God,
but when we apply our rational intellect we can easily see that their
teachings are full of loopholes and inconsistencies.

Whereas the teachings of AM are totally dharmic, perfect and pure.
Because our teachings come directly from Him.

BABA’S BLESSING

By Baba’s grace the teachings of AM are entirely new. New in every way
imaginable. So none should get confused into thinking that AM is a mix
of the various religions.

Baba says, “Ananda Marga is radically different from all concepts of
philosophy as well as economic and social thinking. It is not a change
which has evolved as a result of the evolution of the human mind and its
economic and social environments. It is a revolutionary concept of life
altogether different from any of the present or past ideas. It is a
change which is independent of the cyclic changes due to the passage of
time. It does not practise anything which is not new both in approach
and practice. It is a revolution which makes life a reality. It teaches
adjustment to life, rather than giving up the world by leading a life of
useless seclusion. It creates people who are fit for every walk of life,
who do not make any distinction among their fellow beings, and who are
joined together as one world community. In our Ananda Marga all
humanity, nay, all living beings (jiiva matra tare) have combined
together in every walk of life.” (AFPS-7)

Namaskar,
Ram

***************************************
Practical Aspect of Mysticism

Baba says, “Mysticism is a never-ending endeavour to find a link between
finite and infinite.” (AV-23, p.101)

Note: Here Baba is indirectly giving the guideline that in the realm of
devotion one should have a particular personal relation with Parama
Purusa. And these relations are known as “bhava”– whether they be
sakhya bhava, dasya bhava, madhura bhava etc. So these various bhavas
are that very “link between finite and infinite”. Because with the help
of these relations devotees gradually come in closer and closer
proximity with Parama Purusa. Until finally by linking up in this way
the sadhaka becomes one with Him.
***************************************

Read Full Post »

To: AM-GLOBAL
From: Cinay Deva
Subject: Eating Petroleum
Date: Wed 20 Jul 2011 14:12:06 -0400

Baba

== EATING PETROLEUM ==

Namaskar,
Some people are eating petroleum without realising it. This post examines who is most prone to ingesting petroleum, how to recognise it on your food, and how to remove it.

WHO IS AT RISK

Those who get their fruit and vegetables from large-scale supermarkets, those who live in big cities (especially in the US and Europe), and those whose food comes from far away locations are all eating petroleum on a regular basis – whether their produce (i.e. fruits and vegetables) is organically grown or not.

If you fall in one of the above categories then certainly you are are eating petroleum on a regular – if not daily – basis.

This is an acute problem in the western nations which means that sooner or later all are at risk. Because the western lifestyle is being mass-replicated all around the globe.

Really speaking then, this is a letter for everyone.

WHAT IS THE PROBLEM

The main problem is that a coating is applied to most of the fruits and vegetables that are sold in big food markets. The food comes from far away places – sometimes shipped from even half-way around the earth. So they apply a “coating” to protect and preserve the food, i.e. fruits and vegetables. Most often this coating is petroleum jelly, and sometimes jelly from a plant source. By this way the fruit and vegetables look bright and shiny even after being transported for weeks on buses, trains, trucks and airplanes.

TRYING TO EAT HEALTHY

Here it should be understood that this problem is not limited to conventional (i.e. non-organically grown) produce i.e. fruits and veggies. Petroleum is also applied to organically grown fruits and vegetables.

As sadhakas, we all try to make healthy choices in life. To that end, some may be spending a little extra to purchase organic produce. We see the label; we see the quality of the vegetable or fruit, and we think, “Yes, this is the healthy choice to make.”

In His Ideal Farming book, Baba provides us with many excellent techniques for growing food organically, i.e. without pesticides and chemical fertilizers. So in Ananda Marga we strongly support organic farming.

But the way organic farming is done in today’s ultra-capitalist schema is not totally pure. In this big-business, high-profit era, organic produce (fruit and vegetables) has become a high-stakes market. The mega corporations have jumped into the organic food business. Even Walmart now sells organic produce.

It is commonly known that big business bends the laws in their favour to increase profits. Nowadays it is legal for organic food distributors to coat their fruits and vegetables with petroleum jelly.

This is standard practice. What they are doing is affecting our health, so we should all be acutely aware.

MOST ARE UNAWARE

The application of petroleum jelly is especially common with harder fruits and vegetables or items with a distinct peel. These include: Apples, tomatoes, zucchini, squash, cucumbers, citrus fruits, and many other items which are far too numerous to name here. Suffice to say that most fruit and vegetables are affected in this way.

Here are some of the most common responses to this unhealthy protocol:

1. The majority of the public simply does not notice. They think that they are eating a fruit or vegetable and therefore it must be healthy. They do not know that with every bite they are ingesting petroleum.

2. Then there are still others who simply think that since their produce is “certified organic” then it must be perfectly pure. Such persons are also in the dark and we may or may not be able to wake them – though certainly we should try.

3. Those who are somewhat aware generally haphazardly rinse their fruit and vegetables in water and then eat it or cook with it. But a simple rinsing is not enough to remove the wax or jelly.

4. Some are more aware and use a brush to remove the petroleum. This is a step in the right direction but does not entirely solve the matter.

5. And there may be other techniques which people use. What do you do?

6. Further down in this letter is a very good method to fully remove the petroleum coating from your food.

TESTING YOUR PRODUCE

Firstly, you must determine if there is petroleum on your fruits and vegetables. The tricky point is that petroleum jelly has no taste so you will not notice it if you take a small or large bite.

One of the best ways to determine if your fruits or vegetables have this wax or jelly is to submerge your organic tomato or apple etc in warm water. Let it sit there for 5 – 10 seconds or so and then touch it with your hand. If it feels sticky, slimy, greasy or waxy then you know that it was coated with petroleum jelly etc. To be perfectly sure, compare that with a locally grown item (i.e. the same fruit or vegetable) and feel the difference.

If you do not have access to warm or hot water, then simply put your fruit or vegetable in the sun or any warm area then the jelly will become apparent. Here again if you touch it, it will be sticky, slimy, and gooey.

HOW TO REMOVE THE WAX

There are a few ways to remove this petroleum jelly from your newly purchased produce (fruit and vegetables):

1. You can peel your fruit or vegetables. This works with apples, carrots, cucumbers and so many others – but not with peppers and tomatoes etc. But then you have to realise that you are losing the nutrients of the peel, and even more critically the nutrients on the inside of the peel.

2. You may blanche it: Simply place it in a pot of boiling water and remove the peel. This works very well with tomatoes since the peel is easily removed this way. Plus the peel of tomato is essentially indigestible and should be removed anyway.

3. Another way to avoid the petroleum coating on your food is to purchase your fruit and vegetables from a local grower. It may or may not be organic, but since they need not ship it they will not be applying the petroleum jelly. Best of course if it is organic, i.e. grown without herbicides and pesticides. If it is not organic then it will be covered with poisonous chemicals.

4. Finally and this is perhaps the best way. If in fact you are sure that there is petroleum jelly on your fruit or vegetable. Then wash or scrub it with a wheat flour or baking soda mixture. Just take a partial spoonful of wheat flour or baking soda and mix it with just a touch of water on your hand. The mixture should be more like a paste than a watery solution. Then rub the mixture briskly all over the surface area of each piece of fruit or vegetable. It must be done one by one. Both wheat flour and baking soda are grease-cutting agents and will thus remove all the petroleum jelly completely. Rub strongly and then wash thoroughly with water to remove all remnants of the flour or baking soda. Then your fruit or vegetable will be perfectly clean and ready for eating.

SUMMARY

Usually people think that they are eating “healthy” if they are eating fruits and vegetables. But they do not recognise that they are eating petroleum jelly also. That is an unwanted chemical for the body. Our body does not run on petroleum – we are not automobiles etc. If we ingest petroleum then it causes problems. Petroleum is not sentient – you will notice on the below list of sentient food, petroleum is not included.

Baba says, “Sáttvika Áhára: All the staple food-grains such as rice, wheat, barley, etc.; all the pulses except masúr [an orange-coloured lentil] and khesári; all fruits and roots; all kinds of vegetables except violet-coloured carrots, white brinjals [white eggplants], onions, garlic and mushrooms; milk and milk products; all green and leafy vegetables except red puni and mustard.” (Caryacarya-3, Procedure for Eating)

Baba says, “As a result of eating sentient food and performing spiritual practices, the cells of the human body become sentient. Naturally, an effulgence emanates from these cells creating an aura around the physical body of the spiritual aspirant. This is the reason why many pictures of mahápuruśas [highly-evolved persons] show them with radiant auras. If cells are affected by food and water, and if the nature of the cells affects the nature of the human mind, obviously human beings should eat the correct diet, because food and mind are closely related to each other. Any food item, whether good or bad, must not be taken indiscriminately because it may lead to mental degeneration. Sincere spiritual aspirants must follow the dictum: Áhárashuddhao sattvashudhih [“A sentient diet produces a sentient body”].” (Yoga Psychology, Food, Cells, Physical and Mental Development)

Namaskar,
Cinmay

Read Full Post »

Date: Tue, 19 Jul 2011 21:46:03 -0400
From: Donald_G
To: am-global@earthlink.net
Subject: Remedy For Trauma Patients

Baba

“Ekahno ki prabhu toma’y du’re tha’ka’ bha’lo dekha’y…” 2332

Purport:

Baba with deep longing in my heart I go on calling You. How can You feel
good when You do not pay heed to my call. Do You think that this is
appropriate. In calling You again and again my voice got hoarse until
finally I completely lost my voice. But Your heart never melted.
Baba, on which dusty earth have You sent me– thus pushing me far from
You. Why have You forgotten me. Is this the definition of Your love.
Should I believe that what You are doing is proper. Baba Your liila is
unfathomable; it is beyond my understanding. Why do You do like this. I
do not have the proper language to express myself, but all these
feelings which I am sharing with You come from deep within my heart.
Baba, sometimes You make me cry & float in my tears; and sometimes You
make me laugh when my heart is filled with Your longing. Baba, I do not
know what to do. How long do I have to wait for Your heart to melt. Baba
please come…

== REMEDY FOR TRAUMA PATIENTS ==

Namaskar,
Here is yet another striking example of how AM sadhana – and not any
other sadhana or therapy – really is the panacea for today’s modern world.

POST TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER

Tragically, this globe is now full of grave injustices where people are
terribly wronged and suffer a lot. The recently-coined term
“post-traumatic stress disorder” (PTSD) has become a common phenomenon,
especially in the west. Yet, unfortunately, in the east this critical
problem is also starting to take root.

Basically, when people are overwhelmed by a traumatic or horrifying
experience – such as (a) the death of their child, (b) time in a Nazi
concentration camp, (c) marital abuse, (d) tragedies of war, (e) sexual
abuse, (f) being held hostage etc – then their mind shuts down and they
are often buried in a state of psychic upheaval, revisiting those awful
scenes again and again. They undergo a terrible mental crisis and
extended suffering. In result, they fail to return to a normal frame of
mind and are unable to function properly in life.

Such victims have often been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress
disorder (PTSD) – a terrible psychic malady. Many techniques have been
tried to cure such patients through counseling, rehab, work-programs,
drugs, support groups, relaxation, hypnosis, and even various types of
meditation. But often those patients continue to suffer from their
mental despair and PTSD for the remainder of their life. They are never
the same again.

Psychiatric and health-care professionals do not have a proper approach
or cure.

EVEN BUDDHIST MONKS ARE SUFFERING

While we can easily see how war veterans and victims of abuse (child
abuse, wife abuse etc) fall prey to this terrible syndrome or PTSD,
yet a few years back a group of Tibetan monks also suffered from this.

Due to the harsh crackdown in Tibet wherein the Chinese military
detained and tortured Buddhist monks, those monks tragically fell into a
state of psychic disarray and were diagnosed with PTSD.

Not to make light of the situation in any way, but this does bring up a
striking point: Buddhist meditation was unable to break the spell of
their mental trauma. It was unable to free those monks of their psychic
suffering.

The main reason is that the human mind needs something to think about.
It will always seek an object of ideation, or abhoga.

Baba says, “A’bhoga means occupation or pabulum..the mind also requires
a pabulum; whatever object the mind confines itself to, that is its
pabulum.” (SS-11)

But in Buddhist meditation, the aim is to empty the mind. When in
reality, that is not possible. The mind will always to fill that psychic
vacuum with something.

In the case of PTSD patients, their mind gets flooded with those
horrifying scenes and they relive those fateful days of suffering over
and over again. That was what was happening with those Buddhist monks.
Their meditative technique of emptying the mind was insufficient to
overcome their issues of PTSD.

AM HAS THE REMEDY

When traditional western approaches (counseling, drugs, therapy,
hypnosis, etc) and when other meditative practices cannot cure those
patients, then something else must be tried. The world is looking hard
for a remedy for PTSD, as this mental ailment is rampant and becoming
more prevalent as the pressures and tragedies of the day mount.

Of course, as Ananda Margiis we know that Baba has given the real
remedy. And that remedy is Ananda Marga sadhana.

Only AM sadhana can remedy the situation and bring the patient back into
a proper frame of mind.

WHY ONLY AM SADHANA CAN HELP

The question then is why AM sadhana is the remedy and not any other type
of meditation.

The answer is that only AM sadhana is based on incantative power,
pulsative force, and ideative method. For more about this read Baba’s
spiritual discourses like ‘Mantra Caetanya’, ‘Tantra and Sadhana’ etc.

Plus only AM sadhana is fueled by the grace of Parama Purusa and
utilizes siddha mantras. Even our Baba Nam Kevalam mantra is enough to
cure patients of PTSD.

As we know, in AM sadhana, the mind is vibrated by a mantra and goaded
toward Brahma. Then the mind can no longer hold onto old, stale
thoughts. The mind is forced to shift away from those tragic days of
torture.

Of course, there is a vast philosophical and rational base behind the
rational system of our AM sadhana. When the mind is ensconced in this
approach, then all kinds of psychic ailments can be cured, including PTSD.

Soon the world will discover this.

MUST CREATE CONDUCIVE ENVIRONMENT

To cure PTSD patients, the main thing is that those victims of torture
and pain must be placed in a proper environment to properly practice AM
sadhana.

Sadhana camps, sadhana shivir, akhanda kiirtan, spiritual retreats are
the perfect atmosphere to ensconce the mind in psycho-spiritual
practices. Those with PTSD should be encouraged – if not mandated – to
attend these functions. Then they can really be cured of their psychic
maladies. Then they will not look back at those past events of pain, but
their mind will surge ahead in a positive flow that will bring psychic
equilibrium, stability, and the ability to greet life in a new way.

Our AM sadhana has that requisite force. And it is our duty to create
the right environment for those in need. By our sadhana camps and
spiritual retreats, many PTSD patients will be cured.

WHAT HAPPENED WHEN ANANDA MARGIIS WERE JAILED

Who can forget those days when Ananda Nagar was under siege in 1967.
Step by step our AM was under attack from communists. So many nefarious
things happened and countless Ananda Margiis were jailed and tortured.

But those jails turned into a spiritual havens for our brothers and
sisters of the Marga and so many Wts were created. It was really a
phenomenon.

Actually, those days, many groups, religions, and radicals were thrown
in jail by Indira Gandhi’s dictatorial regime. And those detainees often
fell into woe and suffering.

But not Ananda Margiis. Rather in jail, those margiis created a
whirlwind of spiritual flow. Huge dharmacakras and akhanda kiirtans were
held. Margiis on the outside were coming to attend. And there was a
surge of psycho-spiritual force.

Indeed, it was the talk of the town how. People were wondering why
Ananda Margiis were not discouraged, depressed, or sunken into woe
because of being persecuted. That was what everyone was talking about.

The answer of course is AM sadhana and devotional practices. That is why
Ananda Margiis could rise above the torture of life in jail, whereas
other detainees were depressed and falling prey to psychic maladies like
PTSD etc.

AM SADHANA IS THE REMEDY FOR TODAY

Today there are so many psychic ailments, diseases, syndromes, and
afflictions that are causing people to lose their mental balance. Thus
far, western medical professionals and eastern meditative approaches
cannot relieve patients of their mental suffering.

A Buddhist meditation or new age relaxation made offer a touch of help
for those leading an already normal life. But such techniques are not
strong enough to clear the mind from more serious psychic afflictions
like PTSD.

And western drugs and therapy sessions are not the right way. Drugs
bring so many problems and therapy attendees end up talking about their
problems, thus again plunging the mind in those painful memories.

That is why to this day, Vietnam war veterans and Holocaust victims
continue to suffer from mental imbalances, depression, fateful memories
etc. They may try eastern techniques or western approaches, but a cure
is not found.

The world however has not stopped looking for solutions and very soon
they will come to realize that our AM sadhana is the remedy.

BABA’S BLESSING

By Baba’s grace we have to move forward in our own spiritual practices.
That will give us the inspiration, innovation, energy, and insight to
bring AM sadhana to the masses. Then so many people can be benefited,
including those suffering from PTSD.

Baba says, “A correct spiritual ideology is the only solution to the
problems confronting the world. From this perspective we can call Ananda
Marga ideology the philosophers’ stone. Just as the philosophers’ stone
is meant to transform everything into gold, Ananda Marga ideology can,
most definitely, find a just and rational solution whenever it is
applied to any problem.” (POD #36)

Namaskar,
Divyajyoti

******************************************
Who is Real Human Being

Baba says, “Parama Purusa will be pleased when you serve His creation– not
only human beings, but also plants, animals, and the rest of creation. That
is bhu’ta yajina, pite yajina, and nr yajina are to be performed. Those who
have this feeling are human beings in the real sense of the term.” (AV-3,
p.58)

Note: Usually so-called advanced people do most things solely for their own
self-gratification and personal entertainment etc. Sometimes it may look
like they are doing social service work, but it is not social service in
the true sense. Because they are doing that “service” only to enhance their
own prestige and to garner praise from all around. And proof is that they
themselves brag about the little things that they did. So what they are
doing is just business, not service. If in their various duties and works
anyone does not feel that they are truly serving the progeny of Parama
Purusa, then we cannot call such people proper human beings.
******************************************

Read Full Post »

To: AM-GLOBAL
Date: Mon, 18 Jul 2011 21:01:34 -0000
From: NJK Deva
Subject: Phase of Pause in Sadhana

Baba

“Ke go tumi ele man ma’ta’te manorathe…” (PS 412)

Purport:

O’ Divine Entity, by Your grace on this auspicious morning You have
come and stirred my consciousness. You have come on a mental chariot and
divinely intoxicated my mind. You are so gracious, please tell me Who You
are. O’ Gracious One, please grace me by revealing Yourself fully.
O’ Divine One, You have come moving along the path of effulgence. You
have taken away everyone’s unit feelings and removed their personal desire.
You satiated their heart and mind by pouring Your infinite cosmic bliss.

O’ Baba, You have reached me by moving long the path of melody and tune.
Baba, by Your grace You have taken away everyone’s unit rhythm and infused
everyone by pouring Your divine cadence. You have come to sing the divine
song to everyone and satiate their heart.

Baba, with Your divine song You have inundated the entire universe; You
are ever-gracious…

== PHASE OF PAUSE IN SADHANA ==

Namaskar,
As sadhakas, it is perfectly natural for us to go through “ups” & “downs”
in our practice of meditation. At the same time we all wish that we could
always be in an “up” phase. So when a “down” phase invariably comes then we
should all know what it means and how to handle it.

Recently one senior tattvika responded to my queries on this topic and with
his permission here below I am giving a summary of his replies– all of
which the senior tattvika has reviewed and approved.

NATURAL FLOW OF LIFE: SYSTALTIC MOVEMENT

As Baba discusses in so many discourses– whether about sadhana, economics,
education, social progress, quantum physics, or literature etc– each and
every movement in this universe moves along a systaltic path.

Baba says, “As you know, in this universe of ours nothing moves – no force,
no expression, no manifestation, moves – along a straight line. The
movement is always pulsative; the movement is always of systaltic order,
order of pause and start. There must be a stage of pause, and another stage
just following the stage of pause – a stage of movement.” (AV-8)

So according to Baba, the “ups” & “downs” in spiritual life are totally
natural and to be expected. And His own terminology for these “ups” &
“downs” of life are known are periods of speed and periods of pause.

PAUSE AND SPEED IS PART OF THE NATURAL PROGRESSION

Each and every sadhaka must know that sadhana itself moves in phases of
pause and speed. This is the normal and natural pathway for everyone. This
is what Baba says.

Baba says, “While doing sa’dhana’ in the spiritual sphere, the state of
pause may come. Sometimes people say, ‘How strange! A few days ago I was
having excellent meditation, but these days I can’t seem to concentrate at
all. That’s very sad.’ Or at times one may say, ‘The other day while
meditating my body began to quiver. It was quite a pleasant experience. Why
don’t I get the same experience today?’ This sort of blissful experience
during meditation or in concentration comes within the scope of
assimilation. It becomes internalized. But if it does not find any
expression within the mind, you can never experience it. Maybe after a few
days you may experience an even greater bliss during incantation or
meditation. All this means that even in the spiritual sphere also there is
pause and speed.” (PNS-7, ‘Dynamicity and Staticity)

So while we should always put forth maximum effort in sadhana and never
skip any lessons, at the same time no one should become overly concerned
when sadhana is not as good as it once was. Because it is sure that in the
near future a new period of speed will come and one will advance ahead on
the spiritual path. This is Baba’s above teaching.

SOME TECHNIQUES TO HELP KEEP SADHANA STRONG:

THIRD LESSON HELPS

Given the fact that it is an inevitability that we will experience periods of
pause in sadhana, there are certain approaches we can do to help push our
sadhana back into a period of speed.

One point is to practice our lesson of tattva dharana– or third lesson. As
we know that this energizes our being, enhances our concentration, and
purifies the cakras. So it is a very good lesson to do when experiencing a
period of pause.

Certainly though, sitting for long or even short session in viira’sana (the
posture for 3rd lesson) is not particularly easy. Because the toes are
curled underneath and there is a lot of pressure applied to the joints of
the toes.

In that case, one can place some soft clothing articles or a piece of foam
underneath one’s feet when doing third lesson. In that way viira’sana will
feel more comfortable and one will be able to remain in that position long,
thus getting the many benefits. And certainly over time doing this lesson
will become physically easier and easier in which case the sadhaka can
involve purely in the psycho-spiritual plane.

SADHANA AND SADHANAUNGA

As we all know in our sahaja yoga system– i.e. the six lessons of
sadhana– the lessons can be separated into two basic catergories:
sa’dhana’ & sa’dhana’unga.

Our first lesson (iishvara pranidhana) and our sixth lesson (dhya’na) are
the only two lessons of sadhana. The former leads to mukti and the latter
brings moksa, by His grace. So those are both sadhana lessons.

Whereas our others lessons– numbers 2 through 5– are helping lessons of
sadhana known as sa’dhana’unga. These include: Madhuvidya (2nd lesson),
tattva dharana (3rd lesson), pranayama (4th lesson), and cakra shodhana
(5th lesson). All of these are helping lessons in sadhana.

Baba says, “There are certain helping sádhanás. Ásana and práńáyáma,
for example, are helping items. They are not sádhaná, they are called
sádhanáuṋga.” (Ananda Vacanamrtam – 23, How to Concentrate)

All the helping lessons of sadhana, i.e. #2 – #5, support, along with
other aspects of astaunga yoga like asanas, help bring the mind into
a balanced state where one can do sadhana, by His grace.

WHAT SADHANA LESSONS TO DO WHEN:

FIRST & SIXTH LESSON

The point then comes that when should one do 1st lesson and one should 6th
lesson be done. Here are some basic guidelines that everyone can try and
experiment with.

1. If one is struggling a lot in dhyana either because one cannot visualise
Baba or because one is not feeling that sweet, heart-felt connection
inside, then one can try to switch over to first lesson. Because first
lesson is comparatively easy.

2. And it should be remembered that first lesson itself is a devotional
lesson. So just after one completes the stage of cittashuddhi (the last
step of one’s withdrawal process) then before starting the practice of
mantra japa, first one infuse a strong feeling of devotional love for Baba.
And then after arousing that devotional feeling one can then repeat their
is’t’a mantra. Then that mantra japa will be fruitful by His grace. Here
the whole point is that one’s mantra repetition should be saturated with
devotional feeling and yearning for Him. That is one key point for first
lesson.

3. And then as first lesson builds momentum and spiritual flow and one is
getting support from the other lessons as well, then that is a good time to
again engage in the practice of dhyana.

4. So one should always remember that first lesson is easier than dhyana.
That is one point. And next is that normal dhyana is easier than very
intimate and deeper dhyana. So one should proceed according to one’s own
mental feeling.

MORE POINTS ABOUT PROCEEDING AHEAD IN SADHANA

5. We can say that the most important point is that a sadhaka should always
be natural in their approach to sadhana and not be artificial or
hypocritical. One should do as one sincerely feels.

6. For example, when a small child has a strong desire to sit on his
mother’s lap then that little baby is going to cry and cry until that
mother lifts him onto her lap. And this is quite natural and the mother
feels that she must respond to the child’s cry. Because that is the child’s
pure and natural feeling. In contrast, if that same mother also has an 18
year old son and if all of a sudden that elder son also starts crying and
crying and demanding that he be placed on his mother’s lap, then that is
not going to bear any fruit. Because the whole scene is unnatural; that is
not what 18-year-old boys are supposed to do. And no mother is going to
take such an old child onto her lap. It does not work that way. Rather
there are other ways for that 18-year-old son to get his mother’s attention
and concern. Here the whole point is that one must be natural in their
approach.

7. Similarly in sadhana also, one must follow a natural approach–
especially in dhyana. One should approach Baba and communicate with Him
according to one’s internal feeling. One should not act in any fake or
unnatural manner. Sincerity is the key for progress in dhyana.

8. There are some who may say that dhyana is the only lesson that one
should practice– but that is not at all proper. Rather all the lessons
have their utility and speciality, and they all help promote deeper dhyana.
So the way to develop a sweet and more intimate feeling in dhyana is by
doing all the six lessons and by being sincere and true in dhyana.

ASKING FOR HIS GRACE

9. And perhaps the most important point in sadhana is to directly ask help
from Baba. One may repeat, ‘I cannot do anything, I am helpless, so Baba
please grace me so I may move towards You’. Requesting His grace in this
way will invariably help one to move ahead on the path. This type of
constant request is needed for getting His grace. And certainly this type
of request should be carried out with all the sweet and sincere feelings of
one’s heart. Only then will it be successful. And this whole entire concept
of asking got Baba’s grace is His direct guideline. Baba teaches us that
each and every sa’dhaka should do like this.

Baba says, “They will have to approach Parama Purusa with these words:
‘Parama Purusa I want to move towards You, but I do not have sufficient
strength to move. Please give me strength, I want to move on.” (SS-18, p.
9-10)

Namaskar,
Nagendra

Note: All the above points are a senior tattvika’s explanation of points
originally given by Baba Himself. And by His grace all these guidelines
help a sadhaka in sadhana, especially if one is experiencing a period of
pause. Whereas when one is in a period of speed then by His grace all the
lessons are flowing naturally and one becomes completely lost in the ocean
of Cosmic Bliss.

**************************************
A New Era of Spiritual Age Will Be Coming

Spontaneous Spiritual Experience in Tomorrow’s Humans

Baba says, “To move ahead from physicality to intellectuality is the
Proutistic order. It is the surest movement of human life — it is the
surest movement of human destiny…human beings will be making tremendous
progress in the realms of intellectuality and intuition. The human beings
of that future age will be very sensitive. The efferent nerves will be more
active than the afferent nerves, and subtle experiences will be more common
than they are now. Today human beings seldom have subtle experiences, but
in the future they will occur naturally and spontaneously.” (PNS-17, p.36)
**************************************

Read Full Post »

Baba

== RIDICULOUS DOGMA RELATED WITH SADHANA ==

Namaskar,
The quoted statement appended below in note #2 where one person is giving their suggestion about doing dhyana with a chair placed in front of them is not at all supported by the teachings of Rev. Baba.

BABA’S TEACHINGS ON PUJA

Baba has elaborately discussed the term puja or pujan along with its various expressions used by the karmkandis (dogmatic Hindu ritualic worshipers). A few sentences are as follows.

Baba says, “When a person, with or without any selfish motive, offers his or her deep reverence to an entity with undivided concentration, with or without external paraphernalia such as flowers, bel leaves, sandalwood paste, Ganges water, basil, bananas, rice, etc., that is called pújá or pújana. And the type of worship which is performed with selfish motive and external paraphernalia is called arcá or arcaná. The type of worship which is performed with or without selfish motive, but certainly without any specific external paraphernalia, is called prárthaná. And the special type of pújá which is performed without any selfish motive or external paraphernalia is called Brahmasadbháva [ideation of Brahma]. Now, these systems of worship are further divided into certain stages of priestly ritual, for instance: auṋganyása [bodily gestures], karanyása [hand positions], ácamana [sipping holy water], shikhábandhana [tying ritual hair-knots], áváhana [invoking the deity], mályadána [garlanding the deity], tilakadhárańa [smearing the forehead with vermilion or sandalwood paste] and visarjana [immersion of the deity in water]. This systematic mode of worship is called vidhipújana [systematic worship].” (Namah Shivaya Shantaya, Disc: 14. Shivopadesha 4)

Discussing these points Baba has proven that best of all of these is Brahmasadbhava, and finally established that NA MUKTIH VIDHIPUJANE (ritualistic worship does not lead to liberation).

TWO PROBLEMS FOR ANY SADHAKA

Actually, there are two great problems before the devotee:
(1) How to contemplate the vast entity i.e. Brahma or cosmic entity by his small unit mind?; and,
(2) If the cosmic entity i.e. Brahma comes in the ideation what should be presented to him as an houour?

In our Ananda Marga system we are given sixth lesson to do dhyana or ideation. As the Cosmic Entity is formless, yet very vast and unfathomable how He can come in the ideation of an unit entity. This problem has been solved by our Baba. He has directed us to ideate on Guru’s Varabhay Mudra because we know only our Guru’s physical form and treat Him as Gururbrahma.

Some devotees asked, “Baba we do not see Your varabhaya mudra in dhyana, even though we try very hard – please tell us the way.” In response, Baba told that perfect surrender is the needed for doing Guru dhyana properly. The sadhaka should not think that he is seeing the Guru but rather Baba is seeing me.

Baba says, “He is the subject, He is everything. He sees you, because He is the subject, you are the object. But if you are thinking of Him, then He becomes Your object. How can He become Your Object? It is an impossibility. To resolve this, I told you that as you do meditation, with the help of Your incantation, you should think that He is seeing You.” (Ananda Vacanamrtam, part 1, The Glory of Prańava)

In this way, dhyana will take place smoothly without any hindrance. That is Baba’s expressed guideline.

For second problem, Baba has suggested to offer Him the purity of one’s mind, i.e. ‘Nivedyami cha atmanam twamgatih parmeshwara’. (Pl refer to chapter 36 of Krasna tatva aur geetasar or Krsna and the Giita)

This clearly suggests that there is no scope for any external paraphernalia for doing dhyana of the Cosmic Entity. And indeed this is Babs explicit guideline in many discourses: Devotion is an internal affair where there is no place for external rituals and instruments

Baba says, “Bhakti cannot be identified with árcaná either, which means to worship the deity with flowers, leaves, [holy] water or other articles.” (Ananda Vacanamrtam-33, Bhaktitattva)

Thus, as for as the sadhaka’s below suggestion of offering a chair to Him to sit on is also ridiculous. We cannot support the dogmatic notion of placing an actual physical chair before us in dhyana sadhana.

WHERE GURU SITS

If we want to provide some place for Guru to sit, it is sahasrara / Guru cakra. It is only there where He is always found. It is His Vrandavan; see the promise He has made in Prabhat Samgiita

Baba says, “Vrnda’vanam parityajya pa’damekam na gaccha’mi…” (PS 4425)

“I am always eternally present in Vrindavan, in the hearts of devotees.That is the Guru cakra. I do not go even a little away from that. I am eternally present along with the devotees.”

CONCLUSION

So my humble request to those who are being misguided by anyone is that they should read Babas discourses very keenly. Then they will certainly get way to proceed on.

Dr T R Shukla

Note 1: MORE OF BABA’S TEACHINGS ON RITUALISTIC WORSHIP

Baba says, “The word archaná has come from the root verb arc. Archaná means to worship a deity with flowers and other paraphernalia like vilva leaves, ganga water etc. In this ritualistic worship, how much genuine love is there. The ritualistic worship with paraphernalia is done in the midst of time space and person. The difference between time place and person brings difference in ritualistic paraphernalia. So in external rituals, the spatial and personal difference between the Lord and the devotee is not obliterated. But with cosmic ideation people advance towards Parama Puruśa a bit by bit. The more the sádhaka comes close to him, the greater will be the degree of devotion. At that time the devotee will realize Parama Puruśa as his or her own, as the soul of souls and will surrender his or her unit existence in the Macrocosmic flow.” (APH-4, Bhakti and Krpá)

Note 2: WHAT ONE PERSON HAS WRITTEN

Kindly now see what one person has written.

“Before sitting on sadhana imagine that Baba is sitting in front of you physically and He is witnessing your practice, if possible arrange a suitable sit [seat or chair] for Him.”

As we all know Baba strongly condemns this notion of using external paraphernalia in one’s puja. Placing a chair in front when doing sadhana is nothing but a carbon copy of the ritualistic dogma found in the various religious. This is not the way. In sadhana we are to seek Him within – in our heart.

Note 3: MUST NOT IGNORE THIS PROBLEM

All in all this is quite a serious point. If we ignore this suggestion and allow people to put forth their notions of putting chairs in front of them when doing sadhana, then that will create a very negative reaction.

Then, instead of doing real sadhana, more and more people will be encouraged to place chairs in front of them while in so-called sadhana. And not only that but a competition will start as who has the fanciest and most expensive seat or chair. People will start bringing couches or gold chairs, as if that will get them closer to Parama Purusa. By that point our dharmacakras will be filled with chairs – one per every attendee. People will be totally focused on what chair they brought and how it looks, and they will be less focused on their mantra.

So many religious dogmas started in this way. We should not let the same occur in Ananda Marga. We should critically nip this dogmatic suggestion at the very root. It should not be allowed to grow.

Our is that path of dharma and we should not allow any cheap suggestion to take form in our sadhana.

Read Full Post »

Older Posts »