Aum Sairam
What is new in the world? Nothing. What is old in the world? Nothing. Everything has always been and will always be.
What comes and goes is a form of illusion, the creation of man's mind and yet at the time it all seems so important, absorbing his attention and distracting him from the truth and the reality of life. A house must be built on solid foundations if it is to last. The same principle applies to man; otherwise he too will sink back into the soft ground and becomes swallowed up by the world of illusion.
That is why the divine Sri Sai Baba is here today, to act as your guide and teacher. He is here on earth for your benefit, to give all mankind the opportunity to learn the truth and establish solid foundations for spiritual growth. It is an opportunity, which you may never experience again, and you should take it while it is there. The divine Sri Sai Baba shows you the way but leaves you to exercise freely your individual will lead to liberation.
With every tide you witness ebb and flow. So it is with life, the ebb and flow of opportunities. Yet another opportunity is offered to you today.
What is that opportunity? It is the chance to move away from the present pattern of life where you live in the twilight world of illusion, a state that constantly obscures the truth and can never bring lasting happiness.
Awaken and see the light. Seize the opportunity that you now have and break away from the grooves of the past. Follow and experience the utter bliss that comes from union with Sri Sai Baba.
Learn the truth, live in truth, open the heart and let your life be filled with love, then you will experience absolute joy, peace and the unity of all mankind.
Allah Malik
Monday, April 30, 2007
The Bird that Talked
There is an old story about a fellow who lived alone and went to a pet store to buy a parrot. He thought the bird might fill some of his lonely hours.
The very next day, however, he came back to complain, "That bird doesn't talk."
The storeowner asked if he had a mirror in its cage, and the man said he didn't. "Oh, parrots love mirrors," he explained. "When he sees his reflection in the mirror, he'll just start talking away." So he sold him a birdcage mirror.
The bird owner was back the next day to gripe that his parrot still hadn't said a word. "That's very peculiar," allowed the pet expert. "How about aswing? Birds really love these little swings, and a happy parrot is a talkative parrot." So the man bought a swing, took it home, and installed it in the cage.
But he was back the next day with the same story. "Does he have a ladder to climb?" the salesman asked. "That just has to be the problem. Once he has a ladder, he'll probably talk your ear off!" So the fellow bought a ladder.
The man was back at the pet store when it opened the next day. From the look on his face, the owner knew something was wrong. "Didn't your parrot like the ladder?" he asked. His repeat customer looked up and said, "The parrot died."
"I'm so sorry," the stunned businessman said. "Did he ever say anything?"
"Well, yes. He finally talked just before he died. In a weak little voice, he asked me, "Don't they sell any bird seed at that pet store?'"
Some of us have mistakenly thought that happiness consists of lining our cages with toys, gadgets, and other stuff. Excessive consumption has become the hallmark of our life. "Whoever has the most toys wins" seems to be the likely candidate to be the bumper sticker for an entire culture. But is it so?
There is a spiritual hunger in the human heart that can't be satisfied by seeing one's own image reflected back in vanity mirrors, playing with our grown-up toys, or climbing the corporate ladder. Our hearts need real nourishment. The love of family and friends, relationships over the pursuit of more things, personal integrity, and a secure connection to God --these are the things that feed the soul.
Have you chosen a life course that leads to a destination that matters?
The very next day, however, he came back to complain, "That bird doesn't talk."
The storeowner asked if he had a mirror in its cage, and the man said he didn't. "Oh, parrots love mirrors," he explained. "When he sees his reflection in the mirror, he'll just start talking away." So he sold him a birdcage mirror.
The bird owner was back the next day to gripe that his parrot still hadn't said a word. "That's very peculiar," allowed the pet expert. "How about aswing? Birds really love these little swings, and a happy parrot is a talkative parrot." So the man bought a swing, took it home, and installed it in the cage.
But he was back the next day with the same story. "Does he have a ladder to climb?" the salesman asked. "That just has to be the problem. Once he has a ladder, he'll probably talk your ear off!" So the fellow bought a ladder.
The man was back at the pet store when it opened the next day. From the look on his face, the owner knew something was wrong. "Didn't your parrot like the ladder?" he asked. His repeat customer looked up and said, "The parrot died."
"I'm so sorry," the stunned businessman said. "Did he ever say anything?"
"Well, yes. He finally talked just before he died. In a weak little voice, he asked me, "Don't they sell any bird seed at that pet store?'"
Some of us have mistakenly thought that happiness consists of lining our cages with toys, gadgets, and other stuff. Excessive consumption has become the hallmark of our life. "Whoever has the most toys wins" seems to be the likely candidate to be the bumper sticker for an entire culture. But is it so?
There is a spiritual hunger in the human heart that can't be satisfied by seeing one's own image reflected back in vanity mirrors, playing with our grown-up toys, or climbing the corporate ladder. Our hearts need real nourishment. The love of family and friends, relationships over the pursuit of more things, personal integrity, and a secure connection to God --these are the things that feed the soul.
Have you chosen a life course that leads to a destination that matters?
Saturday, April 28, 2007
God – A Matter Of Experience
Aum Sairam
Sri Sai Baba's language was truly mystic for he talked back and forth between the absolute mode and the mode of surrendered servant or even bond slave of the Lord. In the former mode, He made such statements as: "I am formless and everywhere" and, "I look equally on all. Not a leaf moves except my grace". In the latter mode of surrendered instrument of God, he declares:" Without God's permission nothing can be made by me", and "Sri Sai Baba is but phaladata [giver of the fruit or dispenser of the result]. However, his message is clear both on fear and hope that if one becomes God or Sri Sai Baba's devotee the one will be under his protective wing and need no fear. If then the devotee has patience, his hopes will be realized and in due course, he will indeed be raised spiritually. This blessing is not to be confused with worldly benefits such as material prosperity, fame, power or even health, although these may in fact occur as by-products. The promise is for the achievement of the Sufi goal of mystical union with God, or the realization that one was never in truth separation from God.
Among many quotations in this vein of protection and guidance, Sri Sai Baba said: "if you make me the sole object of your thoughts and aims, you will gain paramartha - the supreme goal. Some visitors came to see Sri Sai Baba at first merely out of curiosity to see a miracle-worker, and then gradually they started coming to listen to what Sri Sai Baba was teaching. Nana Chandorkar, for example, began listening to Sri Sai Baba this way, and eventually gained complete confidence that Sri Sai Baba did indeed demonstrate the qualities of divinity. Others however, such as Dasganu, although he had great respect for the Saint and had been shown many phenomenal miracles, could never quite come to terms with admitting Sri Sai Baba's divinity.
Allah Malik
Sri Sai Baba's language was truly mystic for he talked back and forth between the absolute mode and the mode of surrendered servant or even bond slave of the Lord. In the former mode, He made such statements as: "I am formless and everywhere" and, "I look equally on all. Not a leaf moves except my grace". In the latter mode of surrendered instrument of God, he declares:" Without God's permission nothing can be made by me", and "Sri Sai Baba is but phaladata [giver of the fruit or dispenser of the result]. However, his message is clear both on fear and hope that if one becomes God or Sri Sai Baba's devotee the one will be under his protective wing and need no fear. If then the devotee has patience, his hopes will be realized and in due course, he will indeed be raised spiritually. This blessing is not to be confused with worldly benefits such as material prosperity, fame, power or even health, although these may in fact occur as by-products. The promise is for the achievement of the Sufi goal of mystical union with God, or the realization that one was never in truth separation from God.
Among many quotations in this vein of protection and guidance, Sri Sai Baba said: "if you make me the sole object of your thoughts and aims, you will gain paramartha - the supreme goal. Some visitors came to see Sri Sai Baba at first merely out of curiosity to see a miracle-worker, and then gradually they started coming to listen to what Sri Sai Baba was teaching. Nana Chandorkar, for example, began listening to Sri Sai Baba this way, and eventually gained complete confidence that Sri Sai Baba did indeed demonstrate the qualities of divinity. Others however, such as Dasganu, although he had great respect for the Saint and had been shown many phenomenal miracles, could never quite come to terms with admitting Sri Sai Baba's divinity.
Allah Malik
Friday, April 27, 2007
Mystic Master!
Aum Sairam
Mystic Master Lord Shirdi Sai Baba, with His mystic ways in silence and in words speaks to those loving devotees in their own way and own language and console those intently seek solace in Him. His form in full splendor and radiance is above us, amidst us to teach us the essentials of dharma and to inculcate in us simplicity, humbleness, devotion, dedication, love and bring peace.
The mystic saint can only be realized, only if one follows the principles He taught and demonstrated in His earthly life in day-to-day practice, second to second, minute-to-minute and hour-to-hour. I cannot quote any other saint such as Lord Jesus Christ, Guru Nanak Devji, or others, but my inner consciousness reveals that all masters are in Him.
The Maya in us, around us needs to be observed carefully. The Maya can not be set right until qualities like mada [conceit], matsarya [jealousy], moha [delusion], lobha [greed], krodha [anger], kama [lust], mamakara on worldly things [attachment], abhimana [pride or ego] are overcome.
The only way is a complete surrender to Sri Sai and follows his inscrutable instructions. Parabramha Sai is amidst us in the form of bikshaku, ready to take all our difficulties, remove all negativity, and give us what we want and deserve. He is one of infinite grace and benevolence.
Very long ego, Lord Siva in the form of Adi Shankara was amidst us, restored Sanathana Dharma, distributed pure wisdom, and made us understand His leelas.
Adi Shankara did not suggest idol worship, did not advocate the division of society, and exhorted all people to understand the ultimate, brought unity at intellectual and spiritual levels to understand the divine. Lord Sai, in a similar way distributed the grace, made us aware of Him, and propagated the principle of adhering to simple and practical principles with devotion, dedication, and perseverance. The Ultimate, the Bhagavat-thava lies beyond the principles of one ness and duality can only realized in Sai path.
We need to remember that we have been in touch with Him, the ultimate, the Supreme Master regularly in the process of evolution of our souls. He knows and we do not. We need to remember that we are essentially divine sparks, with soul continually evolving, with a human experience. We can avail His grace, following the dharma principles, treating Maya as guest, which deserves to be treated with respect which alerts us to remind that we stick to Sri Sai path, with assistance from friends [innate or pure qualities] simplicity, humbleness, love, dedication and other good qualities.
Allah Malik
Mystic Master Lord Shirdi Sai Baba, with His mystic ways in silence and in words speaks to those loving devotees in their own way and own language and console those intently seek solace in Him. His form in full splendor and radiance is above us, amidst us to teach us the essentials of dharma and to inculcate in us simplicity, humbleness, devotion, dedication, love and bring peace.
The mystic saint can only be realized, only if one follows the principles He taught and demonstrated in His earthly life in day-to-day practice, second to second, minute-to-minute and hour-to-hour. I cannot quote any other saint such as Lord Jesus Christ, Guru Nanak Devji, or others, but my inner consciousness reveals that all masters are in Him.
The Maya in us, around us needs to be observed carefully. The Maya can not be set right until qualities like mada [conceit], matsarya [jealousy], moha [delusion], lobha [greed], krodha [anger], kama [lust], mamakara on worldly things [attachment], abhimana [pride or ego] are overcome.
The only way is a complete surrender to Sri Sai and follows his inscrutable instructions. Parabramha Sai is amidst us in the form of bikshaku, ready to take all our difficulties, remove all negativity, and give us what we want and deserve. He is one of infinite grace and benevolence.
Very long ego, Lord Siva in the form of Adi Shankara was amidst us, restored Sanathana Dharma, distributed pure wisdom, and made us understand His leelas.
Adi Shankara did not suggest idol worship, did not advocate the division of society, and exhorted all people to understand the ultimate, brought unity at intellectual and spiritual levels to understand the divine. Lord Sai, in a similar way distributed the grace, made us aware of Him, and propagated the principle of adhering to simple and practical principles with devotion, dedication, and perseverance. The Ultimate, the Bhagavat-thava lies beyond the principles of one ness and duality can only realized in Sai path.
We need to remember that we have been in touch with Him, the ultimate, the Supreme Master regularly in the process of evolution of our souls. He knows and we do not. We need to remember that we are essentially divine sparks, with soul continually evolving, with a human experience. We can avail His grace, following the dharma principles, treating Maya as guest, which deserves to be treated with respect which alerts us to remind that we stick to Sri Sai path, with assistance from friends [innate or pure qualities] simplicity, humbleness, love, dedication and other good qualities.
Allah Malik
Thursday, April 26, 2007
Understanding Shirdi Sai in Baba's Own Words
Aum Sairam
Sri Sai Baba of Shirdi uttered certain truths in His lifetime during His talks with various persons on different occasions. These reflect on His 'Sat - Chit - Anand' Swarupa and his omnipotent, omnipresent and omniscient character. These truths apart from revealing different aspects of Sri Sai Baba's philosophy and method of functioning, also convey the assurances given by Sri Sai Baba to His devotees: how one should take to Him; what Sri Sai Baba expects from His devotees and finally how one can merge in Him and become one with Him. A study of these passages again and again, reflecting on them in calmer moments and imbibing them in ones own life would certainly help an aspirant onto the path of Sri Sai bhakti as also remove the doubts lurking in his mind. Selections from these utterances are reproduced below for the benefit of the aspirants:
1. I am God. I am Mahalaxmi. I speak the truth sitting as I do in this Dwarkamai. I am Vithoba. I am Ganapati. All offerings made to Ganapati have reached me. I am Dattatraya. I am Laxmi Narayan. Why go for Ganga elsewhere. Hold your palm at my feet, Ganga flows here. I am Maruti.
2. I am the attribute less 'Nirguna'. I have no name and no residence.
3. I embroiled myself in 'Karma' and got this body. 'Brahman' is my father and 'Maya' is my mother. I am formless and in everything. I fill all spaces and solitary wilderness. I am in the fire and ether.
4. I am not the body or the senses. I am the eternal ‘Sakshi’ [witness].
5. I require no doors to enter. I have no form nor do I have any limitations. I am always existent in all animate and inanimate objects. I am the wirepuller of all actions of the man who trusts me and merges in me and ultimately provides him Liberation.
6. Be wherever you like; do whatever you choose; remember this well that all what you do is known to me. I am the Inner Ruler of all and am seated in their hearts.
7. I need no paraphernalia of worship either eight-fold or sixteen-fold. I dwell where there is full devotion.
8. Meditate always on my formless nature, which are Existence, Consciousness and Bliss Absolute. If you cannot do this, meditate on my form, from head to toe, as you see me here night and day. As you go on doing this, your 'Vrattis' [thoughts] will become one pointed and the distinction between the 'dhyata' [meditated upon] 'Dhyari, [meditation] and 'dhaya' [object] will be lost and the meditator will become one with consciousness and be merged in 'Brahma'.
9. Those who are fortunate and whose sins have been washed away turn to my worship. If you always utter 'Sai, Sai', I shall lake you beyond the Seven Seas.
10. My master told me to give bounteously to all that ask. People come to me asking for the petty things of life such as wealth, children, promotion and the like; but nobody comes to ask for the real treasures, I hold. My treasury is full; take away cartloads of it. Be the true sons of the Divine Mother and fully stock yourself. What is to become of us? This body will return to earth and the air we breathe will melt into air. This opportunity will not return.
11. There shall be no dearth of food and clothing in the houses of my devotees. It is my special characteristic that I always look and provide for the welfare of those devotees, who worship me whole-heartedly. If you want to beg of anything, beg for the Lord Himself.
12. Howsoever oppressed and troubled one may be, as soon as he ascends the steps of the Dwarkamai, he is on the pathway to happiness. The 'Fakir' here is very merciful. He provides protection to all with love and kindness.
13. The 'Dwarkamai' wards off all dangers and anxieties of its children. Once a person sits in its lap, all his miseries come to an end. He, who rests in its shade, gets bliss.
14. Let anybody speak hundreds of things against you, do not express resentment by giving a bitter reply. If you always tolerate such things, you will certainly be happy.
15. I am the bonded slave of My devotee. I love devotion. He, who withdraws his heart from the world and loves Me, is My true lover and he merges in Me like a river in the sea.
16. All creatures [such as; dogs, cats, flies, and pigs] are My own form. He who seas Me in them, is My beloved. So abandoning the sense of duality and distinction, continue to serve Me.
17. If any one does any evil unto you, do not retaliate. If you wish to do anything, do only good acts unto others.
18. He, who carps and cavils at others, pierces Me in the heart and injures me, but he who suffers and endures, pleases Me most.
19. Do not entertain the sense of doer ship in performing good or bad act; be entirely free from pride and ego in all actions.
20. I feel indebted to him who surrenders himself completely to Me and always remembers Me. I shall repay his debt by giving him salvation. I belong to him who thinks of Me, hungers after Me and does not eat anything without first offering to Me. Leaving aside pride and egotism completely; you should surrender to Me, who is seated in your heart.
21. Mysterious is the path of action. Though I do nothing, people hold Me responsible for their actions, which take place on account of destiny. I am merely an observer. The Lord is the sole doer and inspirer.
22. How can the worldly desires and impure inclinations come near persons, who remember Me in their everyday life, worship Me and lovingly listen to and brood over My life stories? I shall draw them out from the jaws of death.
23. Keeping your mind steady continue to do your duty fearlessly and have faith in My words. If My 'Leela's' [deeds] are written, 'avidya' [nascence/ ignorance] will vanish and if these are attentively and devotedly listened to, the consciousness of the worldly existence will abate, and strong waves of devotion will arise. If one dives deep into My 'Leela's', he shall obtain precious jewels of knowledge.
24. My Guru never taught Me any Mantra, how could I then blow any Mantra in your ears? Just remember that Guru's tortoise like loving glance gives us happiness. Do not, therefore, try to get Mantra or sermon [Updesh] from any body. Make Me the sole object of your thoughts and actions and you will, no doubt attain 'Parmartha'-the spiritual goal of life. Look at Me whole-heartedly and I, in turn, will look at you similarly.
25. Give [Charity] with faith and magnanimity [liberally]; give with modesty, sympathy and respectfully.
26. He who loves me most, always experiences my presence. The whole world is desolate to him without Me.
27. If you spread your palms with devotion before Me, I shall immediately be with you at any time of the day and night. Though I am here physically yet I know all that happens beyond the seven seas. Seated in your heart, I am in fact your Inner Self. Always worship Him alone who is seated in your heart as well as in the hearts of all beings. Blessed and fortunate indeed is he, who is aware of My omnipresent and omniscient form.
28. If I accept one rupee from anyone as 'dakshina', I have to return many more times of it. I never accept anything gratis from anybody nor do I ask for 'dakshina' indiscriminately. I only ask and take from him towards whom the 'Fakir' (God) points out. If anyone is indebted in his previous birth to the 'Fakir", then only 'dakshina' is received from him. The donor gives and sows the seeds to reap a rich harvest in future. Wealth should only be used to earn 'Dharma'. If it is used for personal enjoyment, it is wasted. Unless you have given charity before, you cannot, get it now. So, the best way to receive is to give. The giving of'dakshina' leads to Vairagya' (non-attachment) and thereby to 'Bhakti and' Gyan.
29. Why should any fear when I am there. Cast all burdens on Me, I shall bear them.
30. Have faith in Me. Even though I give up this body, My bones in My Samadhi will give you hope and confidence. Not only I but My Samadhi would be speaking, moving and communicating with those who surrender to Me whole heartedly. Do not feel disappointed that I would be away from you. You will hear my bones speaking and discussing your welfare. If you remember Me constantly and have faith in Me, heart and soul, you shall be greatly benefited.
Sri Sai Baba of Shirdi uttered certain truths in His lifetime during His talks with various persons on different occasions. These reflect on His 'Sat - Chit - Anand' Swarupa and his omnipotent, omnipresent and omniscient character. These truths apart from revealing different aspects of Sri Sai Baba's philosophy and method of functioning, also convey the assurances given by Sri Sai Baba to His devotees: how one should take to Him; what Sri Sai Baba expects from His devotees and finally how one can merge in Him and become one with Him. A study of these passages again and again, reflecting on them in calmer moments and imbibing them in ones own life would certainly help an aspirant onto the path of Sri Sai bhakti as also remove the doubts lurking in his mind. Selections from these utterances are reproduced below for the benefit of the aspirants:
1. I am God. I am Mahalaxmi. I speak the truth sitting as I do in this Dwarkamai. I am Vithoba. I am Ganapati. All offerings made to Ganapati have reached me. I am Dattatraya. I am Laxmi Narayan. Why go for Ganga elsewhere. Hold your palm at my feet, Ganga flows here. I am Maruti.
2. I am the attribute less 'Nirguna'. I have no name and no residence.
3. I embroiled myself in 'Karma' and got this body. 'Brahman' is my father and 'Maya' is my mother. I am formless and in everything. I fill all spaces and solitary wilderness. I am in the fire and ether.
4. I am not the body or the senses. I am the eternal ‘Sakshi’ [witness].
5. I require no doors to enter. I have no form nor do I have any limitations. I am always existent in all animate and inanimate objects. I am the wirepuller of all actions of the man who trusts me and merges in me and ultimately provides him Liberation.
6. Be wherever you like; do whatever you choose; remember this well that all what you do is known to me. I am the Inner Ruler of all and am seated in their hearts.
7. I need no paraphernalia of worship either eight-fold or sixteen-fold. I dwell where there is full devotion.
8. Meditate always on my formless nature, which are Existence, Consciousness and Bliss Absolute. If you cannot do this, meditate on my form, from head to toe, as you see me here night and day. As you go on doing this, your 'Vrattis' [thoughts] will become one pointed and the distinction between the 'dhyata' [meditated upon] 'Dhyari, [meditation] and 'dhaya' [object] will be lost and the meditator will become one with consciousness and be merged in 'Brahma'.
9. Those who are fortunate and whose sins have been washed away turn to my worship. If you always utter 'Sai, Sai', I shall lake you beyond the Seven Seas.
10. My master told me to give bounteously to all that ask. People come to me asking for the petty things of life such as wealth, children, promotion and the like; but nobody comes to ask for the real treasures, I hold. My treasury is full; take away cartloads of it. Be the true sons of the Divine Mother and fully stock yourself. What is to become of us? This body will return to earth and the air we breathe will melt into air. This opportunity will not return.
11. There shall be no dearth of food and clothing in the houses of my devotees. It is my special characteristic that I always look and provide for the welfare of those devotees, who worship me whole-heartedly. If you want to beg of anything, beg for the Lord Himself.
12. Howsoever oppressed and troubled one may be, as soon as he ascends the steps of the Dwarkamai, he is on the pathway to happiness. The 'Fakir' here is very merciful. He provides protection to all with love and kindness.
13. The 'Dwarkamai' wards off all dangers and anxieties of its children. Once a person sits in its lap, all his miseries come to an end. He, who rests in its shade, gets bliss.
14. Let anybody speak hundreds of things against you, do not express resentment by giving a bitter reply. If you always tolerate such things, you will certainly be happy.
15. I am the bonded slave of My devotee. I love devotion. He, who withdraws his heart from the world and loves Me, is My true lover and he merges in Me like a river in the sea.
16. All creatures [such as; dogs, cats, flies, and pigs] are My own form. He who seas Me in them, is My beloved. So abandoning the sense of duality and distinction, continue to serve Me.
17. If any one does any evil unto you, do not retaliate. If you wish to do anything, do only good acts unto others.
18. He, who carps and cavils at others, pierces Me in the heart and injures me, but he who suffers and endures, pleases Me most.
19. Do not entertain the sense of doer ship in performing good or bad act; be entirely free from pride and ego in all actions.
20. I feel indebted to him who surrenders himself completely to Me and always remembers Me. I shall repay his debt by giving him salvation. I belong to him who thinks of Me, hungers after Me and does not eat anything without first offering to Me. Leaving aside pride and egotism completely; you should surrender to Me, who is seated in your heart.
21. Mysterious is the path of action. Though I do nothing, people hold Me responsible for their actions, which take place on account of destiny. I am merely an observer. The Lord is the sole doer and inspirer.
22. How can the worldly desires and impure inclinations come near persons, who remember Me in their everyday life, worship Me and lovingly listen to and brood over My life stories? I shall draw them out from the jaws of death.
23. Keeping your mind steady continue to do your duty fearlessly and have faith in My words. If My 'Leela's' [deeds] are written, 'avidya' [nascence/ ignorance] will vanish and if these are attentively and devotedly listened to, the consciousness of the worldly existence will abate, and strong waves of devotion will arise. If one dives deep into My 'Leela's', he shall obtain precious jewels of knowledge.
24. My Guru never taught Me any Mantra, how could I then blow any Mantra in your ears? Just remember that Guru's tortoise like loving glance gives us happiness. Do not, therefore, try to get Mantra or sermon [Updesh] from any body. Make Me the sole object of your thoughts and actions and you will, no doubt attain 'Parmartha'-the spiritual goal of life. Look at Me whole-heartedly and I, in turn, will look at you similarly.
25. Give [Charity] with faith and magnanimity [liberally]; give with modesty, sympathy and respectfully.
26. He who loves me most, always experiences my presence. The whole world is desolate to him without Me.
27. If you spread your palms with devotion before Me, I shall immediately be with you at any time of the day and night. Though I am here physically yet I know all that happens beyond the seven seas. Seated in your heart, I am in fact your Inner Self. Always worship Him alone who is seated in your heart as well as in the hearts of all beings. Blessed and fortunate indeed is he, who is aware of My omnipresent and omniscient form.
28. If I accept one rupee from anyone as 'dakshina', I have to return many more times of it. I never accept anything gratis from anybody nor do I ask for 'dakshina' indiscriminately. I only ask and take from him towards whom the 'Fakir' (God) points out. If anyone is indebted in his previous birth to the 'Fakir", then only 'dakshina' is received from him. The donor gives and sows the seeds to reap a rich harvest in future. Wealth should only be used to earn 'Dharma'. If it is used for personal enjoyment, it is wasted. Unless you have given charity before, you cannot, get it now. So, the best way to receive is to give. The giving of'dakshina' leads to Vairagya' (non-attachment) and thereby to 'Bhakti and' Gyan.
29. Why should any fear when I am there. Cast all burdens on Me, I shall bear them.
30. Have faith in Me. Even though I give up this body, My bones in My Samadhi will give you hope and confidence. Not only I but My Samadhi would be speaking, moving and communicating with those who surrender to Me whole heartedly. Do not feel disappointed that I would be away from you. You will hear my bones speaking and discussing your welfare. If you remember Me constantly and have faith in Me, heart and soul, you shall be greatly benefited.
Facts About Shirdi Sai!
From the assurances and commitments given by Sri Sai Baba the following facts emerge:-
(a) Sri Sai Baba is an Avtar of Love and Compassion. If one car learn to have unflinching faith in Him, Sri Sai Baba shal] assume full responsibility to look after him and provide him succor at every step in his life. In fact, His devotees have abundant experience of the truth of his commitment.
(b) He has prescribed a code of conduct for His devotees which is simple and easy to follow, yet capable of taking one to the supreme goal of 'Parmarth'. He doesn't want His devotees to take to assiduous practices such as observing fasts, going on pilgrimages, practicing 'Ashtang Yoga' and the like. He lives in Bhakti alone.
(c) Sri Sai Baba's Samadhi is an ever living phenomenon. Sri Sai Baba may not be there in His physical form today but His Samadhi actively lives, moves about, and answers the questions of His devotees. They need not seek answers to they problems elsewhere.
(d) Sri Sai Baba communicates directly with His devotees who have completely surrendered to Him. He gives them guidance answers their questions and comes to their help in times of need in some way or the other, either in their waking or sleeping state. One surely need not seek Sri Sai Baba's Grace through intermediaries, as is being claimed and observed all around.
(e) Sri Sai Baba wants His devotees to demolish the wall of discrimination in every walk of life which would facilitate their becoming one with Him.
(f) Sri Sai Baba has given great stress on 'Shrawari (hearing), and 'Manana' (contemplation) of his Leela's (deeds). He has again and again said that if His Leela's are listened to and meditated upon, purity of head and heart will follow and the seeker will acquire oneness with Him.
g) Sri Sai Baba had said, "I give to My devotees what they want, so that they may learn to want what I want to give to them." Let us, therefore, refrain from asking from Sri Sai Baba the mundane things of life for which he has already taken responsibility and develop an urge to ask for a little chunk out of that great and sacred treasure, which He is holding and wants to share with us.
(h) Let us not allow ourselves to be distracted from the path shown by Sri Sai Baba by taking to and seeking the help of persons claiming nearness to Him. Sri Sai Baba is omnipotent and omnipresent and if He can hear the movement of even an ant, surely He can hear the voice of my and your heart and scatter on us the bread of His Grace, provided we have taken to Him heart and soul.
Sai Brothers and Sisters! Sri Sai Baba is an ever living phenomenon. Let us learn to make Sri Sai Baba the focal point of all our thoughts and actions. Sri Sai Baba is our God; Sri Sai Baba is our Guru. Let us learn to live in Sri Sai Baba, think of Sri Sai Baba, breathe of Sri Sai Baba, dream of Sri Sai Baba, read of Sri Sai Baba, eat with Sri Sai Baba and become one with Him. Let us seek His Grace to make every pore of our body emit the fragrance of His love and bhakti. Whosoever smells it, should feel drawn to Him and in ecstasy exclaim, "Sri Sai Baba! you are indeed wonderful, great and unique. You are Love and Compassion Incarnate. It is only because of our 'Prarabdha' and your Grace that we have come in your Sharan'. Make us, your children surrender whole heartedly at your lotus feet in this life and in lives hereafter, if any.
Allah Malik
(a) Sri Sai Baba is an Avtar of Love and Compassion. If one car learn to have unflinching faith in Him, Sri Sai Baba shal] assume full responsibility to look after him and provide him succor at every step in his life. In fact, His devotees have abundant experience of the truth of his commitment.
(b) He has prescribed a code of conduct for His devotees which is simple and easy to follow, yet capable of taking one to the supreme goal of 'Parmarth'. He doesn't want His devotees to take to assiduous practices such as observing fasts, going on pilgrimages, practicing 'Ashtang Yoga' and the like. He lives in Bhakti alone.
(c) Sri Sai Baba's Samadhi is an ever living phenomenon. Sri Sai Baba may not be there in His physical form today but His Samadhi actively lives, moves about, and answers the questions of His devotees. They need not seek answers to they problems elsewhere.
(d) Sri Sai Baba communicates directly with His devotees who have completely surrendered to Him. He gives them guidance answers their questions and comes to their help in times of need in some way or the other, either in their waking or sleeping state. One surely need not seek Sri Sai Baba's Grace through intermediaries, as is being claimed and observed all around.
(e) Sri Sai Baba wants His devotees to demolish the wall of discrimination in every walk of life which would facilitate their becoming one with Him.
(f) Sri Sai Baba has given great stress on 'Shrawari (hearing), and 'Manana' (contemplation) of his Leela's (deeds). He has again and again said that if His Leela's are listened to and meditated upon, purity of head and heart will follow and the seeker will acquire oneness with Him.
g) Sri Sai Baba had said, "I give to My devotees what they want, so that they may learn to want what I want to give to them." Let us, therefore, refrain from asking from Sri Sai Baba the mundane things of life for which he has already taken responsibility and develop an urge to ask for a little chunk out of that great and sacred treasure, which He is holding and wants to share with us.
(h) Let us not allow ourselves to be distracted from the path shown by Sri Sai Baba by taking to and seeking the help of persons claiming nearness to Him. Sri Sai Baba is omnipotent and omnipresent and if He can hear the movement of even an ant, surely He can hear the voice of my and your heart and scatter on us the bread of His Grace, provided we have taken to Him heart and soul.
Sai Brothers and Sisters! Sri Sai Baba is an ever living phenomenon. Let us learn to make Sri Sai Baba the focal point of all our thoughts and actions. Sri Sai Baba is our God; Sri Sai Baba is our Guru. Let us learn to live in Sri Sai Baba, think of Sri Sai Baba, breathe of Sri Sai Baba, dream of Sri Sai Baba, read of Sri Sai Baba, eat with Sri Sai Baba and become one with Him. Let us seek His Grace to make every pore of our body emit the fragrance of His love and bhakti. Whosoever smells it, should feel drawn to Him and in ecstasy exclaim, "Sri Sai Baba! you are indeed wonderful, great and unique. You are Love and Compassion Incarnate. It is only because of our 'Prarabdha' and your Grace that we have come in your Sharan'. Make us, your children surrender whole heartedly at your lotus feet in this life and in lives hereafter, if any.
Allah Malik
Thursday! Baba's Day!
Aum Sairam
May This Thursday [Baba's Day] Bring You Strength, Good luck, Happiness, Success And Joy
Even the mighty ram bows its head before the blow. One of the strongest positions we can take as we begin something new is humility. "Humble" not in a way of thinking less of yourself, but rather from the sincerest form of pride.
Be thankful All too often, if it's something we already have, we don't seem to think very much of it. We don't appreciate it until it's gone. Other times, we can become boastful because we think it makes us better than everyone else. In all cases, we're blind. Taking just a moment to say thank you opens our eyes to the gift called Life. Be honest with yourself you may actually be the best in the world at something or you might actually be the worst. After all, someone has to be, right? More than likely, though, it isn’t you. You're somewhere in the middle in the world scale… but that should never stop you from becoming the best that you can be. You're the only one in the world who can do that. See the greatness in yourself don’t you see it? I mean, look deep inside. Get away from all your opinions and the opinions of others. Look at that spark inside you. That's greatness. Look! See the greatness in others I always say that true humility doesn't come with seeing yourself as less than others, but rather seeing how great everyone else is as well as you.
Namaste "Namaste" means the spirit in me recognizes the spirit within you. There is no greater gift than to whole heartedly acknowledge the existence of another. Okay, maybe there is one thing that is greater than acknowledging another… it's loving them unconditionally, without expectations or opinions. The spirit in me loves the spirit in you. Nice. Balance yourself out with greatness and you will have pride in what you do and who you are, without ego going off in a wrong direction. It truly is a humbling experience
Let us pray on This Beautiful Thursday [Baba's Day] at the feet of Sri Sai Baba who is the incarnation of all gods and protector of all, to show mercy on us, and increase our devotion towards him
Allah Malik
May This Thursday [Baba's Day] Bring You Strength, Good luck, Happiness, Success And Joy
Even the mighty ram bows its head before the blow. One of the strongest positions we can take as we begin something new is humility. "Humble" not in a way of thinking less of yourself, but rather from the sincerest form of pride.
Be thankful All too often, if it's something we already have, we don't seem to think very much of it. We don't appreciate it until it's gone. Other times, we can become boastful because we think it makes us better than everyone else. In all cases, we're blind. Taking just a moment to say thank you opens our eyes to the gift called Life. Be honest with yourself you may actually be the best in the world at something or you might actually be the worst. After all, someone has to be, right? More than likely, though, it isn’t you. You're somewhere in the middle in the world scale… but that should never stop you from becoming the best that you can be. You're the only one in the world who can do that. See the greatness in yourself don’t you see it? I mean, look deep inside. Get away from all your opinions and the opinions of others. Look at that spark inside you. That's greatness. Look! See the greatness in others I always say that true humility doesn't come with seeing yourself as less than others, but rather seeing how great everyone else is as well as you.
Namaste "Namaste" means the spirit in me recognizes the spirit within you. There is no greater gift than to whole heartedly acknowledge the existence of another. Okay, maybe there is one thing that is greater than acknowledging another… it's loving them unconditionally, without expectations or opinions. The spirit in me loves the spirit in you. Nice. Balance yourself out with greatness and you will have pride in what you do and who you are, without ego going off in a wrong direction. It truly is a humbling experience
Let us pray on This Beautiful Thursday [Baba's Day] at the feet of Sri Sai Baba who is the incarnation of all gods and protector of all, to show mercy on us, and increase our devotion towards him
Allah Malik
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