SPIRITUAL DEVELOPMENT

"Those, who adhere to discipline, are always free from hard work". It is here that we realize the divine in us.

This is a saying, the truth of which is specially noticeable in matters of spiritual development. Power is wasted only when in thought and action we go into unnecessary, and wrong directions. Our normal work, even when under heavy strain consumes only about twenty percent of our strength.

What robs us of 80 percent of our energy are the useless or negative thoughts and actions. We can learn to make our life easier and more meaningful if we maintain our direction with discipline and constant attention. This requires a daily time-table of certain exercises.

In the morning and in the evening a consciousness training for about half an hour with the following thoughts; "I am an embodiment of energy, a soul, and everybody who meets me is also a soul, I remain free of all obstacles in the mind". Such thoughts give us a deeper understanding of ourself and consequently we take ourselves seriously and treat ourselves as a good friend and advisor.

It is important that throughout the day, every two hours or so, we check our present condition and follow this up with a few minutes of deep soul consciousness-training. Such checking prevents us from a subtle, creeping aimless decline and puts us back on the correct course.

Exercise to ensure our right mental approach before every important and an intensive soul-conscious state as often as possible gives us greater strength. In addition, the radiation of our high vibrations also has its impact on others.

Whoever becomes an embodiment of such consciousness, is at the same time the embodiment of spiritual powers. A constant, powerful stage of consciousness is a pre-requisite for the ability to judge clearly and to differentiate, in order to arrive at the right decision.

During the course of all these endeavors we should see that we are at ease and kind to ourselves. There will always be disturbances but these are chances for us to learn and are indicators on the path. If we learn to conduct ourselves with such clarity, discipline and greatness i.e. to conduct ourselves properly, then we can also guide others. Self-guidance is the pre-requisite for successful leadership qualities in enterprise.

THE WAY TO SUCCESS - SPIRITUAL CHANGE

Man is Divine and he has the power to make things work positively but all this depends upon his spiritual power which is related to his contact with the God.

Nothing is unattainable for us, if only the spiritual power and ability were fully taken into account and duly made use of. It is our thinking, which determines how we feel and how we act.

Constant, daily practice, along with patience, kindness and discipline, are the necessary prerequisites for success. On what basis can we ascertain the progress of our spiritual development? Spiritual development though slow at the beginning is a continuous process, that produces a complete in life the ensures inner joy, contentment and happiness. Things which formerly made us angry and discontent bother us no longer, since we have changed our outlook on things. They do not have any power over us any more.

We react less skeptical, because we have become more appreciative, and at the same time have become more conscious of the reality. We acquire a friendly attitude towards others and feel less separated from them. We have come closer, yet at the same time we have grown inwardly detached, that is, independent sovereign.These are indications of maturity. From these we can measure our own development. We must first learn to be patient and continue to practice spirituality courageously and with determination even if now and then disturbances occur.

Permanent lack of spiritual nourishment brings a slow spiritual death without any happiness in life, or inner satisfaction. However the knowledge of spiritual coherence alone is not sufficient.

Most of the so-called eleven heads, educated and well read, radiate a high degree of discontent, they have merely realized the intellectual connections, but have failed to absorb this knowledge fully.

Therefore, they cannot become the embodiment of knowledge, which expresses itself through high vibrations of thoughts which are deeply embedded in their consciousness like an unending great power force. Pure thoughts for the spirit are like healthy nourishment for the body.

Only through the process of soul-consciousness training and the inculcation of all our perceptions do we become the embodiment of knowledge and vibrate power and strengths.

DELIVERANCE THROUGH GRACE

The way to prosperous life free from all the hazels is dependence on the Divine and living in grace. Grace, as the word may look simple, yet has profound sense and power hidden in it.

Grace could mean -

"undeserved blessing freely bestowed on man by God" - (Hughes)

"love as exercised towards the inferior, dependent or unworthy" - (Hodge)

Grace alone can help a person rise to great heights both spiritually and materialistically. Live a simple life and love generously, Care deeply, Speak kindly and you are beyond the horizon. Grace alone can save one from the cycle of birth and death and then paves way for eternity.

There are probably as many definitions of grace, yet one thread that runs through all of them is simply that Grace is what God does for us, in us, with us, and through us. Grace is an activity of God motivated by His Love alone and not through our merits, accepted by the receiver through the eyes of faith, and there is no scientific theory to it. Grace has to be experienced by one to taste the Love of God.

Grace is the nature of Divine. In common we equate grace to kindness. To communicate grace is to be nice to people, especially when they aren’t particularly nice to you. Every definition will fall short to explain the term "Grace". We can say that we are saved by the grace of the Lord and being forgiven just because of his mercy.

Grace is never a condition, it is not we get because we deserve it for some of our merits. It is a free gift from the Almighty - a way he showers his immeasurable love for his creation though most of the times we do not walk in the path of righteousness. The knowledge of self-realization, to think deeply and take apt decision regarding one's life which is of utmost importance needs many spiritual ingredients.

God's grace is recognized as a key ingredient for deliverance. Faith and unconditional surrender alone will help us to receive Divine Grace. Whether it is meditation, prayer, introspection or self-assessment, the route used would depend on a person's temperament and inclination. What is encouraging is that sincere steps taken on the spiritual path leads to progress that we might not even be aware of.

There are moments in life when even scientific advancement and scientist who need a proof ascribe to the role played by divine Grace, which in some cases operate throughout a person's life. Miracles and the powers of healing is a witness to this aspect.

The hand of Grace of God makes transformations in knowing the Truth and helps one to grow spiritually leading to self-realization. The intellect now perceives the truth in the light of the Self, through the eyes of knowledge and craves to know the Omnipotent force.

Grace alone can lead one and helps the soul realize the cause of creation. The path of devotion or inner reflection, conscious of the Cosmic Intelligence, the Absolute truth, leads one to receive grace.

Grace is a beautiful flower with golden petals made of mercy, love and gentleness all dipped in honey of the mother nature. Men of wisdom have always looked for grace of a higher power right from the time of Moses and Abraham of the Old Testament and throughout all ages.

The door to Grace unfolds when the mind is tuned in wonder, reverence and gratitude to the power of divine. An unique bond is created between the seeker and the Eternal force for he who longs for it receives in many folds.

Grace is the gift of Almighty to men of who seek him with all humility. A gift par excellence..... and been admired by many ... wanted by many ... yet all one needs to gain this is simple LOVE and devotion to GOD. Grace alone unwinds itself into Miracles.

Humility is the stepping stone to Grace. Things work in harmony when we care for each other rather than being selfish and distancing ourselves just because of our egoistic nature. The Divine power can neither be comprehended nor apprehended by the lower order of things. With all our righteousness, we are but filthy rags and when in the flesh, none are righteous.

The soul, as it rises above the body consciousness, shines forth in its pristine purity, rises into Cosmic flow and feels, as it were, the efflorescence of the microcosm into the macrocosm. It is this which is called the birth of the Spirit as distinguished from the birth of the flesh where are vices tend to crop up.

Except a man be born again, he cannot see the Kingdom of God - (John 3.3).

Except a man be born of a water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter the Kingdom of God (John 3:5).

The Absolute truth is the primal manifestation which comes in the form of Light and Sound, and it is for the Master Saint to give an experience by helping each soul rise above the sensory plane, if only for a short while. So long as a person does not transcend the sensual plane, he remains an utter stranger to the Life Divine.

The culminating point of the spiritual journey is the Kingdom of God, to which the spirit is gradually led by the radiant form of the Master. It is not something external, for all beauty and glory lie within the human soul. It is said that -

"The Kingdom of God cometh not with observation, the Kingdom of God is within you".

Man can be saved only by grace alone and not out of his own merits. It is a free gift for us, all we need to do is to recognize its importance and accept the same with all humility. For man is saved through grace alone and not out of his merits.

The hand of law always makes him a prisoner to bondage where as grace delivers the soul and gives the strength to breath free. The grace of God will lead all humanity into Eternal Peace.

LAW OF KARMA THE ETERNAL RULE

The world is governed by a balanced law from time Eternity. Spiritual laws are above human laws and it works without bias, besides the laws created by humans on Earth, there are Laws that govern the entire Creation of God. Laws behind the physical plane of manifestation.

The Law is called 'the Law of Karma'. It is well known in many great Asian cultures. It says in short: "What ever you do to others is coming back to you one day." This Law of Karma applies to all of your thoughts, emotions, fantasy, words and actions.

When you cheat, hurt and do things negative to another soul, anything at the expense or the welfare or health of others, you may suffer the same destiny as you have caused to others. Whatever you do to others is coming back to you. Sooner or later it surely will. This is an absolute law of Creation. It is only that we do not realize the effects of it since it takes sometime for us to view the results and co-relate the same with our thoughts and actions further, we do not want to accept the facts because of our Ego.

The secret to counteract this law is only through - LOVE AND HONESTY.

Jesus has given us a tremendous clue through his wisdom, that we should understand the law with our conscience, and know that we can kill one another with a word, with a glance, or with our will. We can kill without a knife or a gun and he tells us that even these actions and words spoken, that seem so normal, so acceptable, comes under judgment and punishment.

Did he not say - we will reap only what we sow in life. As we do, so shall we reap.

If we continue day after day nursing resentments against our spouse, our co-workers, and continue feeding our anger within our family circle and friends, at every nook and corner way down on the streets right from the sub-way to the freeway, what do you think you are sowing in the field of your life? What seeds are you planting there? What do you expect from those seeds you sown? It's obvious, isn't it? If we plant the seeds of anger, then happiness will not grow there. It's impossible. Yet we expect this!

If we plant the seeds of greed, then contentment will not grow there. It cannot happen that way! If you want to grow green beans you cannot plant a thorn bush, and yet this is exactly what we do, everyday.

Once we deeply comprehend this fact, we can see that we are responsible for the state of our life, we are responsible for the well being of others, we are responsible for everything that we experience in life. Yet, we do not accept the fact, we blame others, everyone else, and we never recognize that the primary person who is at fault for our problems is OURSELVES.

We are all imperfect, with our own unique flaws. Still, we have to make a life together to make our home and life a sweet dwelling place on Earth, interesting and rewarding and the world a beautiful place to live.

You've just got to take each person for what they are, and look for the good in them. Blessed are the flexible, for they shall not be bent out of shape.

Love another soul even with all the flaws for God created them all as he did create You and Me, out of his immense love for us.

DISCIPLINE THE MIND

The mind is the seat of all actions. We perceive with our eyes but take action in accordance to what we think. An orderly mind does not create obstacles in the path of thinking and does not hinder any success in the external world.

We all know that we have a physical body and the invisible soul power within us. The body is your physical instrument for living in this external world indulging in various activities, causing turmoils in our life. Your mind or internal instrument which is made up of four faculties that function in the interior world - Active mind (manas), Intellect (buddhi), Subconscious - the storehouse of subtle impressions or samskaras (chitta), Ego the sense of “I-am-ness" and "I" (ahamkara).

Mind has five subtle senses and five gross senses to experience the external world—the world of objects. Coordinating the four faculties requires real effort and makes the mind creative, useful, and productive or if not directed properly leads us astray.

The mind should be observed and its functioning in association with the other four subtle senses should be analyzed in day to day life. Always, analyzing one's actions using the power of discrimination and a little everyday introspective process will certainly help one to and take decisions in the right way. Project on every thought within and the action taken on behalf of it, and a little practice will yield better results.

Thoughts emerge as speech, feelings and action. One has to keep track as to what causes them to take such an action and the result out of it whether for the welfare of others or to the person concerned. This way one can classify his actions to be selfish or selfless.

All thoughts have their origin from the mind, let it come and leave. These are brain waves which are created and then moves into the conscious state which materializes into actions. Thoughts may be pleasant and unpleasant churning positive and negative vibrations. Never allow negative thoughts to settle and do not allow yourself to get disturbed. Be friendly to your mind and don't be hostile with yourself with disturbed thoughts.

The Mind is the gateway to happiness, one cannot leave it and go, hence situations, people and places can never make one happy or sad, it all depends on one's mind. If one goes to one of the nature's best spots and yet cannot enjoy nature's beauty or still cannot find peace, the reason being he is still in conflict with his mind.

Hence, one should have the power to control it and think rationally.The mind can transport you to a higher realm of wisdom, and can come in touch with the collective consciousness.

Through meditation the mind is trained. If the mind is not purified with a definite discipline, it will suffer from the age-old epidemic of hallucination. Those who do not know this aspect go on debating with the mind until the last breath of their lives without finding a solution.

The mind remains unruly disorderly, and enveloped in its primitive drama unless it is coordinated in a specified way. An untrained mind interferes with the spontaneous feelings arising from the heart and hence it is compared with the monkey wandering around places. Mind is the cause of both bondage and liberation. A mind with a proper goal and purpose can help one grow within and unveil the mystery of inner life, whereas an undisciplined mind remains dissipated shattering thoughts wildly.

When the focus of the mind is outward, it tries to find peace and happiness from the external world running behind various objects. Lacking inner awareness, the mind refuses the guidance and inspiration of the subtle Divine Force. Having such a mind, one fails to study the inner dimensions of life, and as a result, considers the external world to be the sole reality.

Spiritual lessons and discipline leads one to perfection and helps him attain his goal and unfold one's inner potentials. The method of focusing one's mind at a single point to attain perfection is called meditation. Through meditation, an aspirant withdraws his mind from the external world, focuses on a given internal object, and develops an interest in dwelling within.

Once when an individual attains freedom from distractions originating in the consciousness of the mind, he is able to grasp the thought constructively which originates from the unconscious mind. With proper practice he can tap the inner power within him and then visualize the whole world to be one and the immense LOVE he has for all creation.

Conflicts are not from others or from the outside world. Conflicts arise in the mind. A well trained mind removes all the obstacles and will gradually leads one to the path of love.

FREE MIND IS THE GRACE OF GOD - ALL VIRTUES AND LOVE

Tranquility is what is required for happy living and attaining mastery over training the mind through surrender to God and meditation. Compared to the unconscious, the conscious part of mind is very small; however, there is close interaction between the unconscious and the conscious mind.

An uncultivated brain is a devil's workshop. Never identify yourself with your mind, its objects, emotions, speech, or actions. The doer is different from the deeds. Try to meditate on the eternal principle and remain in eternal delight by establishing yourself in your essential nature that is peace, happiness, and bliss.

When there is complete surrender to the Almighty, the EGO ceases to exist, one develops the capacity to listen to the inner voice of the Soul. It requires enormous courage to accept one's folly and rectify oneself.

Do not condemn yourself in any way. We all do have things to be admired and appreciated but let this not be a step to enhance the EGO. We are torn apart most of the times whether to satisfy our desires or to listen to the inner voice?

The secret lies in not becoming a slave to our EGO, then you can emerge from the confines of body, senses, and mind. Only a profound method of meditation can help to purify the ego. A purified ego does not create barriers. Only after rising above egocentric awareness, can one find the universe within. Only then can one learn to love all and exclude none. One who does not love one’s fellow beings, cannot love God at all.

A true heart searches for deeper happiness and knows the reality that ego is that which separates one from the Reality, the Truth, the ultimate destination to Eternity.

Once ego surrenders itself to the highest Truth, you have attained victory, and spiritual illumination is yours. Soon after the victory over ego, all other virtues, such as love, humility, compassion, selflessness, kindness, spontaneously unfold. These virtues are prerequisites for self-transformation. When these virtues blossom, a human being becomes a saint. These saintly qualities are magnetic waves which can bond the world together with the sacred LOVE.

Once again I would like to remind you that the world is full of LOVE, created out of LOVE and exists because of LOVE. Hence, to lead your thoughts powerfully know the LOVE of the Almighty and surrender yourself to Him to attain peace.

THE POWER OF LOVE

The power of Divine love is the main force which holds the world. Everything falls apart without this LOVE, which is free, always flowing abundantly, without any condition, heals the wound and soothes the soul. Truly said such is the power of Love in our world.

LOVE IS AN EMBODIMENT OF GOD - ANBE SIVAM GOD IS LOVE, TRUTH AND BEAUTY

Well, why not just go introspective and think and find out the facts? As humans we all need tender love and care and search for the same. We have always craved for love never satisfied, gave several names to relationships, and yet loved one another only as long as we got back what we aspired for, only when it was reciprocated.

Have you ever loved an enemy – or another person who hates us? Was it true love when you said those words “I love you”, from the depth of your heart and soul? If you had really cared and loved someone so sincerely then you find a tremendous peace and comfort deep within you. It is a stage beyond the stage of “FORGIVING”, for even when you forgive you do have some marks left about a particular incident, but when you can love your enemy as much as you do love yourself then only the feeling of true love can be experienced.

Hey! Soul U who are created by the Divine
With grace and mercy you did come to Earth
A short journey yet worthwhile
A purpose to fulfill the Divine will

God made you in his image and loves you.
Bible quote – God created man in his own image; in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them - Genesis: (1, 27).

He created you for a purpose on this Earth, for a specified period of time. God loved you and made you to love yourself and others, share his love here in this world, equally to all creations and return back to him!

Love yourself for you are created in his image, just and pure, honor your body and soul for heart is the place where God resides in you. God made you to love because you are a being of love - made of love and made to learn to love. God depicted his infinite Love to the world by His works.

Divine Love is the song of the soul
A language unspoken
Quenches the thirst of the soul
Heals the wounded soul
In the journey of its Life on Earth
Rejoice once again in the Love of the Divine

We should radiate and be a reflection of God's divine love on Earth. It is the beauty of our entire nature which is a reflection of God's love for us, as an example of how we should learn to be to all our loved ones around us.

Our own life should reflect an equal amount of purity in reflecting our divine being towards all. Nature is a manifestation of God - all beauty and manifold loving aspects of nature shall help us to understand the nature of love to be developed within. It is only the divine love which can heal a soul of all its miseries and tormenting memories.

Love is man's original nature. We are divine beings of love and light. We long for love and care, Can it ever be denied? The soul yearns for Love. Divine love can free us, never be possessive.

Love has no extremities or limitations; it is beyond what a human brain can perceive, one should experience it to know it.

Love and love each other for all are made in the image of God! We are born out of a loving relationship, a gift from God. God’s love for us is infinite and hence we need to experience the same to give it freely to other souls. If you are sincerely caring and loving others - then you are free to fully absorb and enjoy all the savory love from others.

Always be on the check to know if your Love is true and free of Ego. Love, Love and Love that is what the world searches for... so sweet ... yet so sorry, still unable to find the same!!

The relationship to all various aspects of creation, nature, animal kingdom and mankind reflects your true attitude toward love. Here, we need to surrender to the Almighty just give our hearts and ask in a simple way to heal us of all infirmities hidden deep in us of which we are slaves, and be assured that He will make you the light of the World with the simple magic of Love.

True Love can be expressed in our ways of behavior in different aspects of life, being a good boss caring for his subordinate, a loving wife/husband, a sincere friend, a true lover being rational in thinking and considerate to others problems as well.

When we have developed the same purity of Divine Love within ourselves as God is radiating, we can merge with God. The difficulty of developing this Divine Love - from soul to soul is often is a lack of understanding of your nature in relation to God.

God created the whole creation, both the physical and the metaphysical one. Millions of Universes, astral planes and atomic planes, of unique splendor and beauty, each reflecting the glory of God. Out of his spirit and love made He all, for the love of all - out of his very own substance.

God's love is so sweet beyond measure, let us all share the same with one and all to rejoice in this world with sincerity and true Love.

GOD IS LOVE

Love is expressed in many ways. Nature is a manifestation of the Divine Love of God!

The manifold loving aspects and beauty of nature shall help us to understand the nature of love to be developed within ourselves so we can radiate the same to one and all.

Love reins all creations; Love is the highest of all laws! Love the language of the heart!

Look at the beautiful Sun rise at dawn

The humming bird with its colorful wings

Flowers with radiant colors

A treat and expression of Love!

The busy bee gathering honey for the day

The black beetles making its way through thick trees

Snow covered peaks looking silvery fresh

The Sun shines with its golden rays.

The gushing sound of the falls, roaring towards the valley

The chillness of the night, broken with the warmth of the morning light!

Majestically seated high the king of the forest

The meek deer, leaping high and low to the tune of nature’s blue.

The waves of the sea rise up and down

With lovers in its bosom – so true!

A baby, cherished and kissed in the arms of a loving mother,

The warmth of the father, so secure!

The Moon looks so pure and whole

The silence of the night brings peace to the soul

To start a day fresh with the rising Sun above

An inexpressible joy but feelings so true!

Yes, the Love of Mother Nature

Can we deny the gift from God above!!!

Mother Nature is a teacher and we can see God’s love in all things created by Him.

The beauty of the entire nature is a replica of God’s love for us, so we need to radiate the same love towards all our loved ones around us. The purity of the divine being is manifested as divine love towards one and all.

The whole world will be a vacuum, full of vanity, a loner’s paradise, full of deceit, envy, empty of love, unworthy in all aspects if there was no Love of God.

The power of the Divine Love is so kind that in spite of human transgressions, yet the Love of God does not change for us but always the same every flowing, endlessly.

Love so sweet - Love so healing - experienced instantly by all true hearts.

A few sweet words

A soothing song

A refreshing smile

A loving look

A soft touch of assurance

A caring heart

God is Love - nothing but Divine Love - whatever you do, He still loves you. He never stopped loving you in your past. His love is eternal and long lasting. Not the love you experience in this world.

There is still time for you to know him and his love, all you need to do is just open your heart and make a sincere call for his help and just surrender you ego and he takes care of the rest.

There will be a remarkable change in you. Man becomes an angel and beyond! Why not try and change now and be a recipient of his tender Love?

God’s love is not forced on anyone; He gives you the free will either to accept or to reject. God never punished you now or in the past, just have a look at his love, the nature is an example of his motherly love and care, still why doubt? Try now?

You stay on this planet just for sometime not for Eternity, we need to go back to our loving home, full of love and mercy, but you can only change your thoughts and take the decision and not the world for you! All this depends on you, for you are a soul with enormous power, if you wish so – you can go to your eternal home in this very incarnation and live in Eternal Bliss.

To attain this Divine Bliss all you need to do is just close your eyes and talk to God which we call prayer from the depth of your heart. Ask him to lead you in all walks of life, right from making decisions and to lead you at every step, ask for the gifts of the Spirit….

The gifts of the spirit of God being -

Love, Mercy, Honesty, Tolerance, Grace, Humility, Persistence, Hope, Patience, Kindness, Forgiveness and all the sweet things of the world.

You will then find that His love has filled your heart and then you have only love and care for others and the more you pray and ask, the more you become loving and the world revolves around you. You become a magnetic force, shinning in His Divine Love!

COSMIC CONSCIOUSNESS

Oh! Soul, we are all one though look many in form

A single eternal soul in the journey of Life.

Searching all around for the Love of our home

Distant through our act of Karma and action.

Forgotten the power we have within

Endlessly grumbling at this drama of Life.

Why not end to the finish the fight

Back to relax and be united with the Divine Bliss!

All of us are learners in this path to divinity

Why not share the Love we have for the world is our family too.

We are all one with the Eternal Conscious

No diversity, except for Unity through unconditional Love.

The thoughts we think are all expressions of the One divine being the absolute Universal soul. These thoughts do lead us to the Ocean of Cosmic Consciousness.

All of us know that there is an unsolved question within us, which keeps us awake with our conscious. The simple search being “Who am I ?”.

Yes, why not find and answer for the same… that is the voice of the soul. Can anyone deny it? No, not, we just try to ignore the thought in the busy rustling of life.

Our very nature is to rise to spiritual evolution, if not now and then when?Thoughts do come in silence, asking for an answer. Every thought lays a mark and a print on our conscious and makes us do some act or karma out of it.The mind is the seat of thoughts and then when analyzed with our hearts can we be successful to do it successfully. Is there any copyright to the thoughts?

Our life is a mirror and what we share reflects back to us. Well, to make a wonderful world outside let us try to keep our mind clear with divine thoughts, away from vices with the sweet fragrance of unconditional love, care and affection for every living being on this Earth.

Let us never be touched by the selfish acts and the egoistic blues which gives us satisfaction for a while. Yes, truly said change your thoughts and then we can give the world the best, it will surely make the difference. You transform as a new individual with a new spiritual regeneration, to evolve spiritually, does not look for sympathy rather be sympathetic to others.

There is a change in your attitude not to do a certain act for gaining something “punyam”, or “even a place in heaven”, or for fame, rather you consider the whole world as your own, because that is the change you find now in this flow of Cosmic Energy – a refined soul full of Love.

The lives of all great masters reflect the same. They worked together emphasized on the principles of unity and the universal natural law of Love to give, without expectations, the principle of unconditional love

The best of teachers were Swami Vivekananda a soul winning Orator too, spoke on Spiritual awakening is a foundation for every activity of life.

God realized soul will not look for the pomp and show and praises of common man for this is all he can get from this material world! He rises above this to discharge his duties most efficiently committed for selfless social cause. The strength comes from spiritual awakening which is a gigantic power which has to be realized.

In the journey of life -

From the form to the formless

From the body to the soul within

To connect from the soul within me

To reach out to others from within the depth of Silence within me to that unbounded omnipresent Divine not just in me found in all humanity.

Life when understood this way has a new concept and dimension to it and then our journey on Earth will become truly a journey to our way back home.

SPIRITUAL INDIA

Since times immemorial Indian culture is admired and respected all over the world for its beauty and depth. Almost every Indian custom and tradition has either a scientific, logical, historical, social or spiritual significance. This lends meaning to an otherwise mechanical following of the customs which are often misunderstood to be mere superstitions that fade away in time.

IMPORTANCE OF LIGHTING THE LAMP

In almost every Indian home a lamp is lit daily before the altar of the LORD. In some houses it is lit at dawn, in some twice a day - at dawn and dusk - and in a few house it is maintained continuously (AKANDA DEEP). All auspicious functions and moments like daily worship, rituals and festivals and even many social occasions like inaugurations commence with the lighting of the lamp, which is often maintained right through the occasion.

One finds beautiful earthen ware, brass, sliver and a wide varieties of artistically carved vases which are lit in the most decorative way using cotton threads as a vic and oil for burning.

During the festivals like Devali, Dussera we find almost the whole city, lit with these wonderful lights, a welcome message for the Goddess of Wealth.

Light symbolizes knowledge, and darkness ignorance. The LORD is the “Knowledge Principle"(Chaitanya)who is the source, the "knowledge absolute", and the illuminator of all knowledge. Hence light is worshiped as the LORD Himself.

In Meditation too one starts concentrating at the point of light , it is in a closed, calm, quiet and serene atmosphere where one meditates in the early stages focusing on the brightness of the light.

Knowledge removes ignorance just as light removes darkness. Also, knowledge is a lasting inner wealth by which all outer achievement can be accomplished. Hence we light the lamp to bow down to knowledge as the greatest of all forms of wealth. Knowledge backs all our actions whether good or bad. We therefore keep a lamp lit during all auspicious occasions as a witness to our thoughts and actions.

The traditional oil lamp has a further spiritual significance. The oil or ghee in the lamp symbolizes our Vasanas or negative tendencies and the vice, the ego. When lit by spiritual knowledge, the Vasanas get slowly exhausted and the ego too finally perishes. The flame of a lamp always burns upwards. Similarly we should acquire such knowledge as to take us towards higher ideals.

A single lamp can light hundreds more just as a man of knowledge can brighten the world. So too knowledge does not lessen when shared with or imparted to others. It is the best help which a human can offer to his fellow human beings on this earth and the best of all sacrifices and charity.

PRAYER IS A GOOD MEDICINE

Prayer is an active effort to communicate with a deity or spirit of one’s choice either to offer praise, to make a request, seek guidance, confess sins, or simply to express one's thoughts and emotions. The words of the prayer may either be a set hymn or incantation, or a spontaneous utterance in the praying person's own words.

Prayer unites the soul with God, it acknowledges the presence of the Divine, a place where pride is abandoned and the Ego is shattered and a humble supplication is made. A place where a joyful/broken heart has a feel to cry or open its heart to the mother nature, a force that is supreme and invincible, where hope is lifted and the heart is filled with lots of strength, a hope for the spirit and a treat for the soul where we admit our needs and surrender to him. Prayer is the exercise of faith and hope. It is the pillar of strength, where mighty men were brought on their knees.

A song unknown and words just from the depth of one's heart - the language of the soul and the spirit united with the divine, longing to search the eternal home and relish in the presence of the divine.

THE POWER OF DISCRIMINATION

The power of tolerance leads us to discriminate between the right and wrong, also gives us the strength to act accordingly.

We are more detached now, are wiling to understand others from their perspective and analyze their problems. We are rather at the giving end than the receiving side, a merciful heart full of sympathy and love dawns on us and we are a step ahead to help the person who had behaved in the most inappropriate way.

This power of discrimination unites us with the entire humanity crossing all barriers, accepting all diversities, yet there is only one song - the song of humanity to serve with upright perfection.
It is a beautiful experience and one should strive for it as it gives us the power to act in the correct way without judging the world.

Now, we are more in a relaxed state of mind knowing the pulse of the other person. It is here we remain detached from our EGO, willing to accept and view things in the most positive way.
When we still have negative thoughts imbibed in us, then we face difficulties in any kind of relationship, else we will always be at peace and life becomes a joy.

POWER TO CO-OPERATE

The powers of tolerance, assimilation lead us to face life as challenge.

The power to co-operate makes one appreciate the special qualities and abilities of others and not merely judging others by their weakness and mistakes.

The prerequisite for good human relationship is the ability to have good thoughts for others, and also through words and deeds.

when we are agitated, we automatically strengthen the mistakes of others and our own. We discover faults in others and weigh so heavily with us, which are like reflections of our own weakness. This is why we feel the discomfort level with opposite party.

A positive mental attitude towards others, a realistic view, a genuine heart to listen and share others feelings, thoughts, a caring nature and pure love without expectations is the strongest help we can ever offer to mankind.

POWER TO TACKLE WITH EASE

Once we know the art of developing patience and assimilation we do not see any incident in life as an obstacle rather an opportunity and challenge in life.

There is clarity of vision, an accommodating nature which finds a solution to tackle any problem with calmness.

One is able to work under the greatest of difficulties with great ease, detachment, does not feel the strain, the secret of his success lies in his spiritual strength.

Life becomes an experience and a joy to live rather than a never ending pain!
One finds a new dawn, a new peace in life with ease.

ASSIMILATION - POWER OF SUCCESS

This power of assimilation is derived from the power of tolerance. The mind is calm, silent,peaceful and serene like an ocean over which storms rage, but deep within it is calm and steady.

A state of high positive vibrations where one progresses in life. A unifying force in a family, creating unity, harmony of thoughts and absence of conflicts.

We are a mere witness to what happens around, just observe and then push them away yet inwardly remain calm, digesting every incident as a drama, accommodating and assimilating the same with greater calmness and silence.

It is a state of being where we no more complain, about an occurrence, a power gained inwardly to forgive the harm done to us.

Assimilation is a great force when one is confronted with difficulties, one does not look for sympathy from the outside world, but has the strength to find an answer within oneself, and gains the respect and admiration of others.

Tolerance leads to assimilation, where the negative powers are transformed into positive vibrations leading to greater poise.

TOLERANCE - THE PILLAR OF STRENGTH

The power of tolerance is the primary force, upon which all other powers depend. It helps us to deal with all circumstances constructively, even when others defame us, still we remain detached and are not affected by negative radiations.

This precious power of tolerance helps us to assist others, even our enemies. One does not have the thought of harming another soul!

It is irrespective of how we are treated by others, or what circumstances may arise, we are in the state of consciousness, where we can go on giving the fruit to others.

This could happen when we absorb the laws of nature and are completely detached from our actions. There is cessation of bondage, we no more expect or depend others to be friendly or care for us rather we start loving others from the core of our heart.

We are no more in bondage and hence we work with free will and no expectations in return and this power of tolerance is connected with the second power, the power of assimilation.

PURE LOVE - THE PERFECTION OF THE SOUL

Love in its pure sense can never be demanding or a passionate one. Love means to look upon the other in his perfection and to believe in the true value of the other and it elevates both the parties. It builds confidence and gives strength to each other and makes one happy.


Pure love is the joy and the realization of a high quality and from it springs the fountain of deep inner happiness.

The hidden truth here is when one recognizes his qualities, respects and loves his own self, then he is always in an elevated mood, a state where he is capable of conquering his faults and possess immense confidence.

Love if not pure can be selfish and becomes a bondage when we see it as a form longing for someone and when this is reciprocated, we demand more attention and care that we make the other our servant and try to humble them.

This love which is demanding makes both the parties dependent, possessive to derive something which gives temporary pleasure, and when that is not met there is pain in a relationship. To overcome the pain and grief we look for satisfaction from the other which is a never ending process. This way we slide hopelessly into dependence and bondage.

Hence, when love is pure and selfless is an overpowering feeling, a state of realization of our true positive nature and deep desire to grow higher with complete surrender and devotion.

Pure Love never creates bondage and has the power to bind the whole of humanity together.

A FEW QUOTES

•To love means to serve.
Love, Love and Love the whole world revolves around it and longs for the same. Only when we realize God’s presence in us and his mercy and grace for us do we know the meaning of Love truly. Only then we can share this pure love to others.

True Love is perfect but accepts imperfections, does not expect anything in return, is always self- sacrificing, cares with a true heart, is liberal and exercises free will, is not dominating, forgiving and always ready to yield and give anything - alas! Not asking for anything in return. True Love means to Serve and we as God’s servants should serve others so that we get the pleasure of serving the Almighty


If we try to maintain some material pride or prestige, our ego finds some satisfaction, which is mixed with fear, frustration and envy, and our heart finds no satisfaction. Ego is the aspect which separates an individual soul and is the main cause for the number of negative aspects like pride, fame, jealousy and hatred.

• We should find great love and satisfaction in seeing others advancement, even better than us even if it happens to be our enemies.

• Forgive and forget maintains the dignity and sanctity of love. A devotee who sincerely loves God/Guru reaches that level of spiritual thinking where he is willing to forgive and forget even his worst lots, still waiting to help and save them.

• Material familiarity breeds contempt. Spiritual familiarity breeds Consciousness.(Eternal Conscious). God conscious gives peace to the soul which cannot be attained by mere material aspects of the world.

• A wealthy man is judged by how much he can give himself to others. True wealthy man is he who does something for others by words and deeds. Not by what he accumulates but how much he cares for others and willing to give for charity.

• Arrogance repels the Lord; humility attracts the Lord. God loves a humble soul and is always ready to answer his queries, but he desists the Proud and mighty.

• Humility is the ornament which attracts Almighty’s heart. When humble one is like an ornament on the Lord’s neck, His love always abides in him leading in the path of virtues, even though one walks on the deserts or thorns, still His grace will lead him through safely.

• To be proud of one’s sinlessness in front of God is also sin. To pose as not being sinful and being portrayed as being holy in front of God is the biggest sin we commit on Earth.

• Inability to find faults in ourselves is a sign of pride and it is a wall between God and us. Pride and covertness is a wall which separates us from God.

• A person who finds faults in others is a person full of faults.
The best man is he who finds no faults with the other. Our heart is like a mirror, what we perceive we indulge to do the same in actions.

• A person criticizing others is an exhibition of their envy to God.
A soft soul will never criticize others no matter how worst the case may be. One who views the other as a soul will see the divinity in another soul and will give a helping hand to change rather than criticizing the other. This is the truth of a God realized soul.


• All the miseries of material existence follow for those who are attached to sensual life. All sensual pleasures leads us to miseries as it is said --- Desires are the cause of sorrow!

• Struggle is the name of the game as long as we are in this material world. Material prosperity will not give a soul Peace but the realization of the Power within us gives peace.

• It is not the light that is needed in this world but the warmth because we will die out of cold but not out of darkness.
It is said Light the lamp of your heart and see that God resides in You. Do not die a death where you will go into an unknown sphere. Trust God and love him with all your soul and heart and then realize him when living on the Earth to create a bond with him.

• Success in spiritual life lies not in being the best, but doing the best. Always try to do the best in life. Good deeds certainly are the fruits which can help us now and beyond and help us to cross the Ocean of Samsara, and brings us closer with the Eternal. Fruits like mercy, love, compassion, honesty, humility, forgiving and forbearance, selflessness and sacrificing are the fruits of a humble soul. They help one to lead the best spiritual life. Not alone preaching but follow the same.

• Mercy means “To get what we don’t deserve”. Its always that the word “Mercy”, has more meaning and is associated with Divine Grace.

• Real intelligence does not mean the ability to explain material phenomenon better but the ability to distinguish between truth and illusion and to cut a choice between them.

• Real independence is to declare our dependence on God.

• Advancement in God Consciousness depends on the attitude of the follower.
One can advance in God consciousness the more he trusts and depends on his Lord, not a trace of self or ego should be found and then he becomes one with the eternal. Surrender to his Guru leads one to attain this easily.

• Simply change of situation or service can give temporary satisfaction but not shelter.
Service gives immense pleasure, when done for the satisfaction of the Ego. If the service is done as a sacrifice and offering to the Lord with sincerity which brings eternal satisfaction and creates state of Bliss and satisfaction for the Soul.

Human birth being noblest of all creations has something more than material life.
we are here for selfless service,like charity, and other noble deeds quenches the thirst of the soul and erases the cycle of birth and death and ultimately unifying with the Divine aspect.