Om Sairam dearest Sai family
Greetings from the holy land, Puttaparthi. With His divine grace, blessings and His immense compassion, things are looking great in Parthi. The energy levels are high, the tempo is being maintained, the Prashanthi schedule right from Suprabhatam is as it used to be with very peaceful and extended Mahasamadhi darshan arrangements.
GRAMA SEVA 2011
Come the end of september there is always tons of anxiety in the air as the most beautiful festival of Dasara followed by Diwali fast approaches. It is also a great excitement for the people of Puttaparthi and surrounding villages as they would be blessed with Swami's Prasadam as part of Grama seva.
Even for the students it would be a busy schedule as they do the major "home work" and "hard work" right from packing the food packets, sarees, dhothis to distributing to one and all in villages.This "Grama seva" also gives a good chance to students in particular to peep into the lives of the poor villagers where the living conditions are poor, the nutrition levels are poor and even the houses are poor but yet you will find all the villagers content and happy which is a very important point to be noted.
This year's grama seva which is starting from the 28th September to 6th October, is very unique as it marks the 10th Anniversary of this stupendous project which Swami very lovingly started in the year 2000 where He personally monitored each and every aspect of the Grama Seva programme, from selecting the villages, students, mode of transport and also the type of sarees and dhotis to be distributed. Swami's every "work" is very closely knitted with perfection and purity.
This year's grama seva is also very unique as it would be the first Grama seva in His physical absence. There were many rumour mongers who predicted the closure of "grama seva" project from this year. there were some who doubted if this is still in the "Prasanthi Schedule" but our Swami has left His physical form only to "work with more intensity and power" and rest assured, with His grace all the activities would continue for eternity and beyond.
145 VILLGES, 350,000 HOUSES:
This year's Grama seva will cover three mandals surrounding Parthi, Kothacheruvu, Bukkapatnam and Puttaparthi mandals. About 145 villages would be covered as part of Grama seva this year with about 350,000 houses. Each house hold will be given a saree, Dhothi and food packets and Laddu for each member in the family..
Talking of Grama seva we should also mention about the great fortune of few youths from the UK whom Swami very graciously allowed to do the Grama Seva along with the students from the year 2002. In the evening of one fine day in the month of January 2011, I bumped into Mr.Puppet from the UK near Sai Kulwanth hall and his face was brightly lit and he looked very very happy and before I could ask him, he very kindly said, brother Satish, Swami has very kindly accpeted the programme for this year's grama seva programme and with His immense compassion has asked me to bring all the youths who have participated in grama seva over the years to Prasanthi to mark the 10th year of Grama seva programme.. Apparently Mr.Puppet said, Swami! among the boys there are many who are already married and living with children and Swami said, "sabko bulake aana" (bring every one).
Now to keep the promise given to our beloved Lord, there are about 100 youths coming to Prasanthi, old and new, from the UK on the 25th september to play their role in this year's Grama seva programme which I am sure will make Swami very happy.
Dasara sapthaham is going to start from the september 30 in Poorna Chandra Auditorium with poornahuthi on October 6th.
FREE FOOD PROGRAMME:
Not sure how, even though there is no official word yet, but every one in Puttaparthi are talking about the probable launch of Sri Sathya Sai Nithya Annadana Pathakam (free food to all devotees). Some say it will start from Dasara some others say from Swami's birthday. Every major temples in India be it Tirupathi and even Shirdi for that matter, provide free meal to all the Devotees, (provided you wait, sometimes for hours, for your turn). Even though Swami's ashram operates three canteens within the ashram premises, the South Indian canteen in particular is providing a FULL MEAL for just Rs.6 which itself is literally free food scheme as Rs.6 is nothing even for the poorest of the poor.
In this era of high vegetable prices, fuel prices etc, to provide full meal for just Rs.6 is not a small thing. This is where Swami and Swami's ashram stay unique and this free food programme is indeed a noble gesture for Swami's devotees.
The other canteens will operate as usual even after the launch of Free food programme.
VIBHUTHI MATERIALISATIONS:
On a different note, Swami has blessed the General hospital in Puttaparthi with Vibhuthi prasadam as you can see in the pictures with Vibhuthi on them. The black and white photo graph of Swami holding a stethoscope ( Divine Doctor photo) in ward number 14 in the General hospital, has been blessed with Vibhuthi since Septermber 14 2011 and you can also see another Vibhuthi photo of Swami in NORTH 4 block in the ashram. Even though such divine occurences are not new to the Sai world, such a sign of Swami's omnipresence gives immense joy to us the Devotees especially when it happens in His very own Puttaparthi.
On a different note, attached here is a photograph of a poor mother, selling coconuts on the street, definitely an illeterate lady checking her son's note book as he gets ready to go to school. This photo shared by Dr.Amrat Lad of Newzealand is very touching and a definite lesson to all those so called BUSY working women who, inspite of being highly educated, don't have few minutes to look into the child's home work. May God bless this poor mother for her mother hood and love she has for her child inspite of being illiterate and poor..
NO CHANGE IN CHRISTMAS PROGRAMME:
There were many enquiries about the status of Christmas choir which happens on Christmas eve and also the children's choir on 25th December Evening, which for reasons best known was missing from the Prasanthi calender released by the ashram. Even though the Media co-ordinator was notified about this but so far there is no official word but according to a source who is key member for the Christmas programme said that the programmes are as scheduled and they have added Multi faith mass in the double deckar building (conference hall opp.Shopping center) on 27th December and a choir by Croatians on 20th of December in Sai Kulwanth hall.
With Pranams at the Lotus feet of our beloved Lord,
R.Satish Naik
(Please note: this is a personal article with no affiliation to the Official Sai Organisation.
log on to www.sssbpt.org for official news/photos of Swami
Monday, September 26, 2011
STORY BEHIND THE PHOTO – 28
The Camphor – 2
Sri P.S.A.Srinivasan Chettiar was entrusted by Bhagavan Baba, with a unique and great Job of fixing gold foils in Prashanthi Nilayam. I was most fortunate to be included in the team, by Srinivasan Chettiar, along with Sri. Srinivasa Raghavan, and Sri. Sengodan. We are ever thankful to him for providing a great opportunity to join this Divine Seva.
After finishing the work in Sai Kulwant Hall, we were directed to take up the job in the interior and outside veranda of Prashanthi Mandir. The area around the Altar and the ceiling nearby, seemed pretty bad, and looked oily and blackish. While the work was in progress Swami walked in and was quietly watching the workers engaged in the job. Swami looked up near the altar and showed us the black patches up on the corners of the wall and the ceiling in right hand side of the Altar. Swami engaged us in conversation. Swami innocently asked why that particular place had become tarnished.
By profession, I was technologist in industrial heating systems, and had done many researches on the movements of heat rays. I took pride to explain to swami based on my pride. I explained that the black oily patches had been formed by smoke emanating from the camphor burnt during Arathi every day. I also explained the heat rays and the smoke ultimately goes up slightly in an angle, and not vertically up. Swami was listening as if in awe and wonder. Then he asked me to give suggestion to avoid the recurrence of smoky layer! There are small windows at the highest level, but are always kept closed. I took courage to suggest, it would be better if an exhaust fan is fitted.
Instantly Swami got angry with me, told me, “I am trying to build up vibrations inside this prayer Hall, and you are suggesting something to destroy those vibrations. An exhaust fan in the “Garbha Graha?”
My ego and pride were smashed in a second. I knelt down and prayed Swami for forgiveness. Swami smiled back, and called for Sri Bhat who was the priest in Mandir. Swami told Sri. Bhat, pointing His hands on me, “This Bombay Srinivasan is complaining about you. He says that you are burning too much camphor for Arathi. Henceforth, you should use only a very small quantity of camphor for Arathi”.
Swami was insistent that we should not stop work even during Bhajan sessions. Bhajan will be going on and Swami will be sitting on the Golden Throne listening to the Bhajans and at times looking at the workers who were on the job sitting high above the scaffoldings. On this particular day, during evening Arathi, Swami went near Sri. Bhat to see for Himself how much camphor had been kept on the Arathi plate. And a slight glance towards me with a mischief smile.!!1
Later, I will tell you an another incidence of Swami & the Camphor.
Cosmic Alignment
This is an important message – something that everyone needs to know. I almost never send out messages like this. Sorry if this contradicts anyone’s beliefs/offends anyone. My purpose is not to tell you to do anything, but to inform you of the important things that are happening in our solar system right now. Generally, we don’t think about the importance of stuff in outer space, but right now, it is very important. This is all scientific information, confirmed by NASA’s jet propulsion lab.
From October 28th 2011 to November 5th, the earth will be trailing a cosmic body (comet) called Elenin. Various times in the past (listed below), the earth has aligned with Elenin and another cosmic body, and has caused massive earthquakes on the earth (see table below). Every time Elenin has aligned with Earth, it has caused an earth-changing earthquake, such as Chile, Christchurch, and Japan (which all changed the earth’s orbit by a couple of inches – see Wikipedia). An ordinary comet could not cause this strange activity, and so it has been theorized that Elenin is being closely followed by Nibiru, a brown dwarf star. This star, with its sheer mass and electromagnetic field, could alter the earth as we know it. Please see www.elenin.org for more information.
It is important to understand that these dates will bring huge changes to the Earth. It is up to us to prepare for these changes, by meditating, praying, or whatever you’d do in a time of crisis. Please try to be with your families on these dates, because we don’t really know what’s going to happen. Already the alignment is starting, and there was a 5.9 earthquake in Nepal two days ago.
Know that if we all join together at this time, we can change the world. Many people believe that we have the power to end disasters with prayer and meditation. This is the best time to do this.
Date Alignment Proximity Result
| Feb 27, 2010 |
| Sep 4, 2010 |
| March 15, 2011 Sun, Earth, Elenin 2.101 AU Japan earthquake 9.0 |
| Sept. 26, 2011 Earth, Sun, Elenin, Mercury .396 AU (This coming Monday) |
| October 17, 2011 Earth, Elenin, Mars (my note) .232 AU (Elenin crosses earth orbit closest proximity) |
| October 28-November 5, 2011 Earth Trailing Elenin .348 AU (hit the trail of Nibiru – may cross debris path) |
| November 11, 2011 Venus, Mercury, Earth, Elenin .433AU (11/11/11 alignment) |
| November 23, 2011 Sun, Earth, Elenin |
*AU= Astronomical Unit
On a more spiritual side: These dates have been prophesized by the Hopi tribe for thousands of years. Additionally, it has been discovered that the original Dec. 21, 2012 date “end of the calendar” by the Mayans is only incorrect due to the inaccuracies in our Gregorian solar calendar.
Saturday, September 24, 2011
TRAVEL ALERT - INDIA, NEPAL, AND BHUTAN
India, Nepal, and Bhutan
September 24, 2011
The U.S. Department of State alerts U.S. citizens to the difficulties of traveling in and around the areas of Sikkim and northern West Bengal in India, the western areas of Bhutan, and the eastern areas of Nepal, all of which suffered damage from the 6.8 magnitude earthquake that occurred on September 18, 2011.
Media and government reports indicate the quake caused a significant number of injuries and deaths, destroyed roads and buildings, and created landslide conditions. Furthermore, meteorological forecasts predict weather that could hamper rescue efforts and impede safe travel. Infrastructure damage and downed communication links warrant extra precautions by U.S. citizens. Those traveling in these areas should consider emergency preparedness, including the availability of reliable sources of food, water, and medical supplies. There have been no reports of U.S. citizen casualties as a result of the earthquake. This Travel Alert expires on November 15, 2011.
U.S. citizens are encouraged to enroll in the Department's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). U.S. citizens without internet access may enroll directly at the U.S. Embassy. By enrolling, U.S. citizens make it easier for the Embassy to contact them in case of emergency.
Updated information on travel and security in India, Nepal, and Bhutan may be obtained from the Department of State by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. For information on general crime and security issues, U.S. citizens should also consult the Department of State's Country Specific Information for India, Nepal and Bhutan. Stay up to date by bookmarking our Bureau of Consular Affairs website, found at travel.state.gov, which contains the current Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts as well as the Worldwide Caution. Follow us on Twitter and the Bureau of Consular Affairs page on Facebook. You can also download our free Smart Traveler iPhone App to have travel information at your fingertips.
U.S. citizens with questions or concerns may contact the American Citizens Services Unit of the U.S. Embassy in Kathmandu, Nepal, the U.S. Embassy in New Delhi, India, or the Consulates General in India for further information. Please note that consular issues related to Bhutan, including assistance to U.S. citizens, are covered by the U.S. Embassy in New Delhi. Embassy and Consulate contact information is as follows:
-- The U.S. Embassy in Kathmandu, Nepal is located at Maharajgunj, Kathmandu, Nepal; telephone +977-1-400-7200; fax +977-1-400-7281. The Consular Section can be reached by email at consktm@state.gov. For after-hours emergencies, please call +977-1-400-7266.
-- The U.S. Embassy in New Delhi, India is located at Shanti Path, Chanakya Puri 110021; telephone +91-11-2419- 8000; fax +91-11-2419-8407. In case of emergency involving an American citizen, please call the 24-hour operator at (+91-11) 2419-8000 and ask for American Citizen Services.
-- The U.S. Consulate General in Mumbai (Bombay), India is located at Lincoln House, 78 Bhulabhai Desai Road, 400026, telephone +91-22-2363-3611; fax +91-22-2363-0350. In case of an emergency involving an American citizen, please call the 24-hour operator at (+91-22) 2363-3611 and ask for American Citizens Services.
-- The U.S. Consulate General in Chennai (Madras), India is at 220 Anna Salai, Gemini Circle, 600006, telephone +91-44-2857-4000; fax +91-44-2811-2027. In case of emergency involving an American citizen, please call the 24-hour operator at (+91-44) 2857-4000 and ask for American Citizen Services.
-- The U.S. Consulate General in Kolkata (Calcutta), India is at 5/1 Ho Chi Minh Sarani, 700071; telephone +91-33-3984-2400; fax +91-33-2282-2335. If you are an American citizen with an after hours emergency, please call our primary hotline cell phone (91) 99030 42956. If unable to reach the cell phone, please call (91) (33) 3984-2400 and dial "0" and ask for Duty Officer.
-- The U.S. Consulate General in Hyderabad, India is at Paigah Palace, 1-8-323, Chiran Fort Lane, Begumpet, Secunderabad 500 003; telephone: +91 (40) 4033-8300. In case of emergency involving an American citizen, please call the 24-hour operator at (+91-40) 4033-8300 and ask for American Citizen Services.
September 24, 2011
The U.S. Department of State alerts U.S. citizens to the difficulties of traveling in and around the areas of Sikkim and northern West Bengal in India, the western areas of Bhutan, and the eastern areas of Nepal, all of which suffered damage from the 6.8 magnitude earthquake that occurred on September 18, 2011.
Media and government reports indicate the quake caused a significant number of injuries and deaths, destroyed roads and buildings, and created landslide conditions. Furthermore, meteorological forecasts predict weather that could hamper rescue efforts and impede safe travel. Infrastructure damage and downed communication links warrant extra precautions by U.S. citizens. Those traveling in these areas should consider emergency preparedness, including the availability of reliable sources of food, water, and medical supplies. There have been no reports of U.S. citizen casualties as a result of the earthquake. This Travel Alert expires on November 15, 2011.
U.S. citizens are encouraged to enroll in the Department's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). U.S. citizens without internet access may enroll directly at the U.S. Embassy. By enrolling, U.S. citizens make it easier for the Embassy to contact them in case of emergency.
Updated information on travel and security in India, Nepal, and Bhutan may be obtained from the Department of State by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. For information on general crime and security issues, U.S. citizens should also consult the Department of State's Country Specific Information for India, Nepal and Bhutan. Stay up to date by bookmarking our Bureau of Consular Affairs website, found at travel.state.gov, which contains the current Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts as well as the Worldwide Caution. Follow us on Twitter and the Bureau of Consular Affairs page on Facebook. You can also download our free Smart Traveler iPhone App to have travel information at your fingertips.
U.S. citizens with questions or concerns may contact the American Citizens Services Unit of the U.S. Embassy in Kathmandu, Nepal, the U.S. Embassy in New Delhi, India, or the Consulates General in India for further information. Please note that consular issues related to Bhutan, including assistance to U.S. citizens, are covered by the U.S. Embassy in New Delhi. Embassy and Consulate contact information is as follows:
-- The U.S. Embassy in Kathmandu, Nepal is located at Maharajgunj, Kathmandu, Nepal; telephone +977-1-400-7200; fax +977-1-400-7281. The Consular Section can be reached by email at consktm@state.gov. For after-hours emergencies, please call +977-1-400-7266.
-- The U.S. Embassy in New Delhi, India is located at Shanti Path, Chanakya Puri 110021; telephone +91-11-2419- 8000; fax +91-11-2419-8407. In case of emergency involving an American citizen, please call the 24-hour operator at (+91-11) 2419-8000 and ask for American Citizen Services.
-- The U.S. Consulate General in Mumbai (Bombay), India is located at Lincoln House, 78 Bhulabhai Desai Road, 400026, telephone +91-22-2363-3611; fax +91-22-2363-0350. In case of an emergency involving an American citizen, please call the 24-hour operator at (+91-22) 2363-3611 and ask for American Citizens Services.
-- The U.S. Consulate General in Chennai (Madras), India is at 220 Anna Salai, Gemini Circle, 600006, telephone +91-44-2857-4000; fax +91-44-2811-2027. In case of emergency involving an American citizen, please call the 24-hour operator at (+91-44) 2857-4000 and ask for American Citizen Services.
-- The U.S. Consulate General in Kolkata (Calcutta), India is at 5/1 Ho Chi Minh Sarani, 700071; telephone +91-33-3984-2400; fax +91-33-2282-2335. If you are an American citizen with an after hours emergency, please call our primary hotline cell phone (91) 99030 42956. If unable to reach the cell phone, please call (91) (33) 3984-2400 and dial "0" and ask for Duty Officer.
-- The U.S. Consulate General in Hyderabad, India is at Paigah Palace, 1-8-323, Chiran Fort Lane, Begumpet, Secunderabad 500 003; telephone: +91 (40) 4033-8300. In case of emergency involving an American citizen, please call the 24-hour operator at (+91-40) 4033-8300 and ask for American Citizen Services.
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Sai Ram - The peace and quiet...
It is strange being here. The peace and quiet is comforting. The energy from the MahaSamadhi is incredible. Baba’s Love is felt everywhere.
Changes are happening within the ashram. I feel it. People are different. It is all for the better.
While there was no formal program from Sunday – September 11 to Tuesday – September 20, there was Rudram, bhajans, arati and darshan.
It has been a great time to be here. A time to absorb the special vibrations in Kulwant Hall while being blessed by Sai. A time to visit the MahaSamadhi.
The weather has been nice even with a few brief showers.
In years to come, you will have difficulty even getting into the ashram because of the crowds.
Dr. Safaya is leaving the directorship of the Super Specialty Hospital in Puttaparthi on October 7th when he moves for Delhi. He has done an excellent job including managing everything during Baba’s last physical illness.
There are several rumors as to who will replace him. Each of these individuals is already part of the hospital system. The staff knows them and he knows the hospital.
It is certain that the excellent care that has been provided will be continued and newer programs added.
By the Ganesh Gate exit behind the seva dal booth there are 2 new structures. The dark blue one is for security people. The one next to the wall is a lookout post. With everything that has been happening in India, security is a major concern. These structures are just added precaution to keep our lives safe and secure
For those of you who like the South Indian Canteen, there is a rumor that they will start having free lunches for everyone. I believe it will happen but we have been unable to verify when.
Below is a portion of a discourse given by Baba on Shivarathri 1991 where he
spoke about the Chataka bird which is located in Puttaparthi.
“The Chataka bird endures many ordeals to secure unsullied raindrops from the clouds. The moment it espies a dark cloud in the sky, it embarks on its adventure. There is water aplenty on the earth in lakes, ponds and rivers, but the Chataka bird has no use for these polluted waters. It waits for the pure raindrops in the month of Karthika and does not seek any other water. It is undaunted by thunder and lightning. It seeks only the pure raindrops falling from the clouds, without fear or concern. It sings in joy as it drinks the raindrops. The Chataka bird is an example of pure love. The true devotee should perform a similar penance (to realise God). He must have the same determination. He must go through similar ordeals to experience the ultimate ecstasy. He must not succumb to the wiles and attractions of the world. The golden life of man should be tested on the touchstone of the Lord's name.”
Attached is the story of Baba’s visit with Swami Sivananda Saraswati in Rishikesh in
July 1957. Fascinating.
Also, attached is the story of how Almighty God saved a man’s life.
In addition, there is a bal vika’s story from Radio Sai about being a true friend.
You must watch this incredible video http://vimeo.com/28870604. It is called Su Legado. It has subtitles in Spanish. I also saw that there were many videos in Spanish. At any rate, this video was dedicated to Baba. There are some scenes I have never seen before. Be prepared to cry.
Some people got excited because on the last full moon, Sai Baba was seen.
Some robbers in Hyderabad thought that that a family that moved there from Puttaparthi had a share of the gold and other treasures that was at the ashram. They thought everyone who lived in Puttaparthi got a share of the wealth. We did but not the physical kind.
The rupee is at a 2 year low which means that possessors of foreign currency can get a better bargain for their money. For U.S dollars it is up to 47-48.
There has been circulating on the internet a photo which the photographer and then some others claimed was Baba standing at the base of the coffin. After about 10 hours researching, it was discovered that the person is an elderly female staff member.
Her hair identifies her as she is only one that has hair just like that. Other women have similar hair but not quite the same. Also, her sari had a floral pattern.
There are 2 Seema Messages – “A Strong Will to meet the Divine Grace” and “A Basket of Values”. If you want to get her messages directly, contact me.
Thought for the Day
15 January 2011
Service is an expression of gratitude to the society. It should not be done in a spirit of condescension or to achieve some ulterior selfish objective. It should proceed from an awareness of what you owe to society. You must realise that you are bettering yourself by rendering service. Your name and fame, all the comforts you enjoy, are derived from society. Sheer gratitude demands that one should serve society which is the source of all benefits enjoyed by man. What is required for service is not money and materials. A loving heart is the first requisite. All service done without a love-filled heart is as dry as dust. Fill your hearts with love. When you are immersed in the spirit and filled with love, everything looks good and beautiful.
Baba
Thought for the Day
13 September 2011
There is no profit in simply controlling impulses. A cobra becomes harmless only when its fangs are plucked out; similarly, the roots of impulses must be burned. Only then can the aspirant attain the Brahman. Of course, even pure desires are a bond. But they are not hindrances, however many they may be. A thorn is removed by another and both are thrown out afterwards, right? So also, when impure impulses are overcome through the influence of pure impulses, one has to outgrow both. This means that even the purest of impulses, the craving for liberation, has to disappear in time. Only then, can you become Brahman. A shackle is a shackle, whether it is of iron or gold. That is to say, one should attain a stage when neither good nor bad will attract or repel. Anyone aiming at the realisation of God should practice the diminishing of impulses, the curbing of the mind, and must strive to understand the fundamental principle of Divinity.
Baba
Thought for the Day
14 September 2011
Of all the factories in the world, the factory of the body is the most wonderful, because it is the tabernacle of the Lord. In such a factory, the impulses are sublimated in to vows and the impurities are weeded out, beneficent desires are shaped, and good imaginings are brought about. Uprooting of impulses is a very difficult task. Mountains can be swept away sooner than these deep-rooted impulses. But with willpower and zest, supported by faith, they can be overcome in a short time. Impulses can overpower you and keep you down as their slave. While intoxicants enslave you and hold you in their full grip only for some time, impulses grip you for a whole lifetime! Just do not give up your determination and faith, whatever the loss, hardship, or obstacle. The entire meaning and purpose of meditation is to attain freedom from these mighty and manifold impulses.
Baba
Changes are happening within the ashram. I feel it. People are different. It is all for the better.
While there was no formal program from Sunday – September 11 to Tuesday – September 20, there was Rudram, bhajans, arati and darshan.
It has been a great time to be here. A time to absorb the special vibrations in Kulwant Hall while being blessed by Sai. A time to visit the MahaSamadhi.
The weather has been nice even with a few brief showers.
In years to come, you will have difficulty even getting into the ashram because of the crowds.
Dr. Safaya is leaving the directorship of the Super Specialty Hospital in Puttaparthi on October 7th when he moves for Delhi. He has done an excellent job including managing everything during Baba’s last physical illness.
There are several rumors as to who will replace him. Each of these individuals is already part of the hospital system. The staff knows them and he knows the hospital.
It is certain that the excellent care that has been provided will be continued and newer programs added.
By the Ganesh Gate exit behind the seva dal booth there are 2 new structures. The dark blue one is for security people. The one next to the wall is a lookout post. With everything that has been happening in India, security is a major concern. These structures are just added precaution to keep our lives safe and secure
For those of you who like the South Indian Canteen, there is a rumor that they will start having free lunches for everyone. I believe it will happen but we have been unable to verify when.
Below is a portion of a discourse given by Baba on Shivarathri 1991 where he
spoke about the Chataka bird which is located in Puttaparthi.
“The Chataka bird endures many ordeals to secure unsullied raindrops from the clouds. The moment it espies a dark cloud in the sky, it embarks on its adventure. There is water aplenty on the earth in lakes, ponds and rivers, but the Chataka bird has no use for these polluted waters. It waits for the pure raindrops in the month of Karthika and does not seek any other water. It is undaunted by thunder and lightning. It seeks only the pure raindrops falling from the clouds, without fear or concern. It sings in joy as it drinks the raindrops. The Chataka bird is an example of pure love. The true devotee should perform a similar penance (to realise God). He must have the same determination. He must go through similar ordeals to experience the ultimate ecstasy. He must not succumb to the wiles and attractions of the world. The golden life of man should be tested on the touchstone of the Lord's name.”
Attached is the story of Baba’s visit with Swami Sivananda Saraswati in Rishikesh in
July 1957. Fascinating.
Also, attached is the story of how Almighty God saved a man’s life.
In addition, there is a bal vika’s story from Radio Sai about being a true friend.
You must watch this incredible video http://vimeo.com/28870604. It is called Su Legado. It has subtitles in Spanish. I also saw that there were many videos in Spanish. At any rate, this video was dedicated to Baba. There are some scenes I have never seen before. Be prepared to cry.
Some people got excited because on the last full moon, Sai Baba was seen.
Some robbers in Hyderabad thought that that a family that moved there from Puttaparthi had a share of the gold and other treasures that was at the ashram. They thought everyone who lived in Puttaparthi got a share of the wealth. We did but not the physical kind.
The rupee is at a 2 year low which means that possessors of foreign currency can get a better bargain for their money. For U.S dollars it is up to 47-48.
There has been circulating on the internet a photo which the photographer and then some others claimed was Baba standing at the base of the coffin. After about 10 hours researching, it was discovered that the person is an elderly female staff member.
Her hair identifies her as she is only one that has hair just like that. Other women have similar hair but not quite the same. Also, her sari had a floral pattern.
There are 2 Seema Messages – “A Strong Will to meet the Divine Grace” and “A Basket of Values”. If you want to get her messages directly, contact me.
Thought for the Day
15 January 2011
Service is an expression of gratitude to the society. It should not be done in a spirit of condescension or to achieve some ulterior selfish objective. It should proceed from an awareness of what you owe to society. You must realise that you are bettering yourself by rendering service. Your name and fame, all the comforts you enjoy, are derived from society. Sheer gratitude demands that one should serve society which is the source of all benefits enjoyed by man. What is required for service is not money and materials. A loving heart is the first requisite. All service done without a love-filled heart is as dry as dust. Fill your hearts with love. When you are immersed in the spirit and filled with love, everything looks good and beautiful.
Baba
Thought for the Day
13 September 2011
There is no profit in simply controlling impulses. A cobra becomes harmless only when its fangs are plucked out; similarly, the roots of impulses must be burned. Only then can the aspirant attain the Brahman. Of course, even pure desires are a bond. But they are not hindrances, however many they may be. A thorn is removed by another and both are thrown out afterwards, right? So also, when impure impulses are overcome through the influence of pure impulses, one has to outgrow both. This means that even the purest of impulses, the craving for liberation, has to disappear in time. Only then, can you become Brahman. A shackle is a shackle, whether it is of iron or gold. That is to say, one should attain a stage when neither good nor bad will attract or repel. Anyone aiming at the realisation of God should practice the diminishing of impulses, the curbing of the mind, and must strive to understand the fundamental principle of Divinity.
Baba
Thought for the Day
14 September 2011
Of all the factories in the world, the factory of the body is the most wonderful, because it is the tabernacle of the Lord. In such a factory, the impulses are sublimated in to vows and the impurities are weeded out, beneficent desires are shaped, and good imaginings are brought about. Uprooting of impulses is a very difficult task. Mountains can be swept away sooner than these deep-rooted impulses. But with willpower and zest, supported by faith, they can be overcome in a short time. Impulses can overpower you and keep you down as their slave. While intoxicants enslave you and hold you in their full grip only for some time, impulses grip you for a whole lifetime! Just do not give up your determination and faith, whatever the loss, hardship, or obstacle. The entire meaning and purpose of meditation is to attain freedom from these mighty and manifold impulses.
Baba
More Lesson
First let me say that yesterday went very well. I sang at the senior center across the street for the first time. 'Country Roads, take me home, to the place I belong, West Virginia,' was the song I sang.'Actually it was really 'to the place I belong, Puttaparthi,' but no one knew that. I sang pretty well and got lots of compliments from everyone but as I explained to my sister who came to see me sing....the bar was really low. There was one lady who was pretty good and sang those wonderful sad country songs about how her man had 'done her wrong'. There was also one lady, age 95, I'm not kidding, who sang in a straight line, only on one note and another Vietnamese lady who was also absolutely off key. I didn't know the key when I sang in so it was acopella (never mind google, I can't spell it either) I mean unaccompanied. I never know the key I'm singing in. At Prasanthi we would sound the 'starting note' when beginning a bhajan and that was enough. I'll sing again on Friday. What a coincidence right? That He has had me singing all these old songs from the 60's for a month and for absolutely no reason except to quietly sing them as love songs to Him here in my quiet little flat? Now I am singing them to an audience with a few changes in the lyrics taking out His name and using the generic 'Lord'. Is this blog making any sense? It's just after 4 am and I'm not wearing my teeth. Somehow I can think more clearly with my teeth in.
My sister stayed about an hour at the show so she was away from our 'joint dog' Puggles, for two hours altogether. As a result the dog took almost an hour to quiet down when Betty got home. She yelps and barks and runs in circles as she use to do with me when I left her. We think she was abused before she found us. Did I tell you that the man told me she had given him seven litters of pups in three years. I guess she was always pregnant and he took all her babies away from her, too. Then he got rid of her because he wanted a smaller dog. Good thing for her though as she is soooo loved now by my sister and me.
Anyway with all this running here and there, Puggles and me, I'm having a hard time meditating. Meditating ha ha. I simply fight this mind of mine for about an hour before falling back exhausted to a prone position to sleep. The mind wants to think about Puggles and Christine who's having her problems and now a few people at the senior center have joined the cast. Swami has provided me with a quiet uncomplicated peaceful life but my mind is always on the look out for confusion and trouble and is determined to find these things even if it has to borrow them from people around me.
There are two important lessons to be learned here. One is that all these situations are only my imagination and shouldn't effect me at all. And secondly, He is the only doer and the Lord will take care of all of them even if they don't exist for me, as He takes care of me. I don't have to, in fact I can't, He does it all. It's just 'busy work' for my mind and counter productive to say the least. I am here, alone, with my Swami following His script and just witnessing everything. I actually have no role as I have never been anyone's wife or mother. Free, free, thank God almighty I'm free. I wonder why my mind refuses to see it that way. But with Swami's help, I'll soldier on.
My sister stayed about an hour at the show so she was away from our 'joint dog' Puggles, for two hours altogether. As a result the dog took almost an hour to quiet down when Betty got home. She yelps and barks and runs in circles as she use to do with me when I left her. We think she was abused before she found us. Did I tell you that the man told me she had given him seven litters of pups in three years. I guess she was always pregnant and he took all her babies away from her, too. Then he got rid of her because he wanted a smaller dog. Good thing for her though as she is soooo loved now by my sister and me.
Anyway with all this running here and there, Puggles and me, I'm having a hard time meditating. Meditating ha ha. I simply fight this mind of mine for about an hour before falling back exhausted to a prone position to sleep. The mind wants to think about Puggles and Christine who's having her problems and now a few people at the senior center have joined the cast. Swami has provided me with a quiet uncomplicated peaceful life but my mind is always on the look out for confusion and trouble and is determined to find these things even if it has to borrow them from people around me.
There are two important lessons to be learned here. One is that all these situations are only my imagination and shouldn't effect me at all. And secondly, He is the only doer and the Lord will take care of all of them even if they don't exist for me, as He takes care of me. I don't have to, in fact I can't, He does it all. It's just 'busy work' for my mind and counter productive to say the least. I am here, alone, with my Swami following His script and just witnessing everything. I actually have no role as I have never been anyone's wife or mother. Free, free, thank God almighty I'm free. I wonder why my mind refuses to see it that way. But with Swami's help, I'll soldier on.
Saturday, September 17, 2011
Atmic Up-date
Well, it looks as if I have rejoined the world. I hate to say that but it might be true. Of course we know that, if it isn't His will, He'll throw a monkey wrench into the thing which is OK by me.
Yesterday I went across the street for something called, 'county classics' Got all dressed up with lipstick and eye brows and my new black slippers and, forgetting to take my cane, scurried across the street. It was held in the auditorium and about 20 people, men and women, sang and played guitars; three of four played the piano. All of them were quite elderly in fact there was a round of applause for a ninety year old man who was celebrating his birthday. A few had pretty good strong voices, most sounded pretty feeble. One tall lady in short shorts danced all around wiggling her hips and giggling. I only witnessed the drama but found myself going up front at the end to ask if I could sing next time. As youall know, I've been singing here in my flat lately translating the 'golden oldie songs from the sixties into love songs to Swami. I've done about 70 of them removing words like 'kiss' and replacing it with 'bliss'. I thought I might sing, John Denver's, 'County Roads, take me home' which I rewrote as. 'Take me home to Puttaparthi, mountain Ama, brown hills circle Chittravati'. Now I'll have to change it back to. Take me home, West Virginia, Mountain Mama but it doesn't matter because I will always know where my real home is. Actually Puttaparthi ISN'T my real home either, as we know, my REAL home is my glorious Atmic self.
A couple weeks ago Christine and I hitched a ride with a young man here who was in a very bad accident and drives a specially built car. He's very nice and was telling us that a fellow from the next floor, a retired opera singer, fixed him lunch every day. I have probably mentioned to you that my mother was an opera singer before she married my father, or did I. Anyway I have always sung a bit myself so my ears picked up at that. OK youall know how HE works. There was one fellow at the music thing who had an amazing voice. Afterwards when I went up to volunteer to sing, this fellow was talking to the organizer. I told him I thought he had a glorious voice, a Basso Profoundo and asked if he was the nice man who cooked lunch for Randy. H said that he was and yes, why don't you come and sing next Wednesday. I said I would even without a smile from the organizer. I scurried back across the street. So I guess I will sing and maybe I've at last made a friend here in the building. Inshalla.
I miss my little dog. Everything reminds me of her. The chair she always sat in, the little off color spots on the carpet which I cleaned up but not completely. My sister is better about calling me and telling me about her antics. She is less hysterical now, about being left alone, I mean Puggles. Not my sister. She stays in my sister's room which is down stairs and jumps on the computer chair to bark out the window when Betty comes home. The chair goes in circles and Puggles gets scared. I use to call her my 'circus dog' because she would jump on the recliner and it would tilt over, and jump up on the step table to get on the bed which is pretty high. My lamp just went out by itself so I guess He doesn't like it when I go on about my...my sister's little dog.
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