Q & A's with Guruji

*Q&A with Guruji*

*Q: Do we need luck when we have guru?*
*
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SriSri: YOU NEED LUCK TO HAVE A GURU!!!*

Q: Life is hectic. How to find peace?
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Sri Sri: Meditate. So first become a dreamer. Life force will move in that
direction. Have a dream. Whatever it is, actor, model Be flexible yet firm
about your dream. Be a multifaceted personality. Always remember to come to
the sacred space within you. That is your strength. Prayer gives you
strength to move ahead. Guruji began by saying: " Let us start with
questions. It is not a sign of intelligence to start talking before someone
asks a question. That's why all our scriptures start with a question -
Parvati asks Shiva a question, Shiva asks Parvati a question - in the
Upanishad, the disciples ask questions of the Gurus. Even the Bhagavad Gita
starts with Dhritarashtra' s question.

Q:What role does innocence play in a society where intelligence is
important?
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Sri Sri:Crooked person though intelligent is harmful. Innocence of a foolish
person is of no value. Innocence combined with intelligence is of value.
Innocence indicates our values of heart, life, friendliness. The human
values. Friendliness of a crooked person is of no value. They cannot be
loving. Loving is essentially innocent. We need to maintain our innocence
and cultivate intelligence.

Q: Guruji what is Shanti(peace) ?
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Sri Sri: We must make you sit in a closed small room and play loudspeaker 24
hrs. And not some good music, some heavy music. Then after 24 hrs, when we
switch it off you will come to know what is Shanti. (Laughter!!)

Q: What is the greatest responsibility of a human being?
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Sri Sri: Every responsibility, whether small or big, is important at
different times. Even the smallest task can be done with perfection. You do
not have to be a genius… just be simple.

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 "Celebrate Life. Care for others and share whatever you have with those less fortunate than you. Broaden your vision, for the whole world belongs to you."

- Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, Founder, Art of Living Foundation.
 
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AUSTERITY - KS 180

Knowledge Sheet 180 - Austerity Nov 19, 1998 Bangalore Ashram, India Austerity is often mistaken to be poverty, self-denial. It is neither. Austerity comes out of maturity. It is a sign of social health. Often people who practice austerity are resentful of richness. This is a very pitiable state. Such austerity is not born out of maturity but out of compulsion. The true austerity has tolerance for richness and is never resentful. In fact, one who is mature will have pity for one who is not austere. Austerity is not against celebration and just vanity is not celebration. Celebration dawns in the spirit. Only one who is rich in spirit can practice austerity. One may be rich materially but if he is poor in spirit he can neither celebrate nor evolve. Poverty of spirit is vanity. Austerity brings freedom from the pride of vanity. But taking pride in austerity is again a vanity ! Austerity comes out of abundance, and austerity brings abundance. If you feel a lack in any area of life, immediately start austerity. Austerity not only brings freedom but nurtures sharing and caring.

Jai Gurudev

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 "Celebrate Life. Care for others and share whatever you have with those less fortunate than you. Broaden your vision, for the whole world belongs to you."

- Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, Founder, Art of Living Foundation.
 
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Happy Diwali from Sumeru Software Solutions Pvt. Ltd

 

 

HAPPY DIWALI

H  ERE'S BEEN SENT BEST WISHES
A  DDED WITH GLITTER OF CRACKERS,
P  EACEFUL BE THE FESTIVE DAYS
P  ROSPECTS BE ENJOYED ALL THROUGH
Y  EAR FULL OF SUCCESSIVE ACHIEVEMENTS
 
D  ERIVE THE JOYS OF GOODNESS
I   NSPIRED BY RIGHTEOUSNESS
W ALKING THE PATH OF UPLIFTING
A  LWAYS REMEMBER TO BE SHARING
L  IFE'S BLESSED GIFTS FROM ABOVE
I  NCREASING HAPPINESS ALL ROUND
 
HAVE THE MOST ENJOYABLE & MEMORABLE DIWALI & PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR.
Rajesh / Anjana
 
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Deepawali message

The message of Deepawali

According to the Vedic culture, the message of Tamaso ma jyotir gamaya (from darkness unto light) is given through the festival of Deepawali to all peoples of the world. During the night of Deepawali the myriads of little
clay lamps (dias) seem to silently send forth Deepawali messages: Come let us remove darkness from the face of the earth. This is not the work to be done by one dia or by one individual. It requires collective effort. In the
diffusion of light the question of high and low is forgotten. This is the lesson taught by both small and big dias.

The second message of the burning dias is to destroy the difference between rich and poor- the destruction of discrimination based on poverty and wealth. The burning dia, whether in a palatial bungalow or in a grass hut,
is a symbol of this unity. The wall of separation based on economic status cannot prevent the penetration and spread of the light of the dia.

The third message of the burning diias of Deepawali is to kindle the extinguished lights of our neighbours. Let us find out what is needed- whether there is a shortage of wick or oil- and just by a little help the neighbour's lamps can be lit. One dia can light several others. A little charity can bring joy to countless others.

The row of lamps teach yet another lesson and that is of unity as exemplified in Satyam, Shivam Sundaram- Truth, Joy and Beauty.

The lights of Deepavali are displayed at the entrance doors, by the walls of houses, in the streets and lanes. This means that the inner spiritual light of the individual must be reflected outside. Passersby may thereby be
prevented from stumbling on their way to reach their destination.

The lights of the dias on earth beckon the lights in the firmaments to descend upon earth and establish the heavenly kingdom of God for the welfare of the human race.

Feeding empty stomachs, lighting blown-out dias and providing cheer and joy amongst the downtrodden is to enter the true spirit of Deepavali. This is the true prayer to Lakshmi Devi.

Happy Deepawali
To you and your family
May this auspicious day brighten your life with happiness
and joy!!



Jai Gurudev

Rajesh

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 "Celebrate Life. Care for others and share whatever you have with those less fortunate than you. Broaden your vision, for the whole world belongs to you."

- Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, Founder, Art of Living Foundation.
 
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A experience shared

AOL Experience

 

This is my experience with the miraculous healing power of Sudarshan Kriya. This experience will not only benefit those who have not done the basic part I course but also to those who have done the course but are irregular with the follow up kriya or having slight doubt in their mind regarding the benefits of the Sudarshan kriya:

 

Since my childhood I have noticed that I have tremors in my hand. I could not hold objects properly. I used to literally struggle to write and which eventually end up with very bad hand writing. Normally pattern of hand writing is set some where around the age of 7-8 years; however in my case hand writing would depend on tremors in hand at that time. I was good in studies but in examinations I could not perform because I could not write the question papers in given time. These tremors would increase whenever I have to meet someone or there is any important event such as interview or facing new situations or persons. Because of this I was suffering tremendous anxiety in mind whether I could perform or not or what will happen if the opposite person see me with my hands shaking. This anxiety and nervousness would not allow me to speak properly in front of any new person and I would struggle to speak even few words to express myself though I might know the matter. This worry occupied major portion of my mind putting block on creative and clear thinking. This anxiety affected my sleep also. In my Board examination i.e. 11^th Standards (year 1978), though I know how to solve all the questions papers, I could write only up to 80-75% with shaking hands. For god's sake, I could secure 71% and got admission in Engineering college. In engineering college also I used to avoid interactions with teaching staff and other students except chosen few in order to hide my ailment. In verbal exams also I could not fare well because of anxiety and nervousness in spite of knowing the matter. Though I desired to do post graduate and appear in U.P.S.C. exams but I knew that I would not because of this serious shortcomings. I have to therefore settle down with government job which for god's sake I could able to secure. And I am grateful to god for that matter. In job also I used to avoid meeting top bosses. Many a times I would think why this is with me. More I think more I get frustrated. Some time I used to think of committing suicide. I could not concentrate on any activities as always these thoughts would occupy my mind. In short these shortcomings were a great impediment to my growth in life and also seriously affected my day to working.

 

I have started looking for allopathic treatment since 1982 with the help of my sister, who was studying medicine at that time. The head of department, Neurology, Medical College, Indore, at that time opined that he can hardly do anything. In Mumbai, I first consulted one neurologist at Goregaon in 1989. He continued my treatment till 1995 by advising medicines for anxiety. Initially that helped a bit in the sense that my anxiety had reduced till I consumed medicines and I could have sound sleep. Not fully satisfied with the treatment, I have consulted one head of department of Neurology at Nanavati Hospital, in 1995. He also treated me till 1999. Finally I enquired about best neurologist of Mumbai. My search landed me to the head of department neurology at Bombay Hospital. I heard that not only he is best in Mumbai but probably in India. He is a very senior doctor awarded with 'Padmashree' by Government of India. His treatment has offered me some relief to the extent that it reduced tremors little bit till I continued with the medicines. After some duration with treatment, i.e. for nearly 3 years, he gave me a shock that I have to consume the medicines for entire life and for avoiding anxiety during stress causing situations, he advised me a small dose of 'RED WINE'.

 

During my allopathic treatment, I did some personality development courses including meditation courses. I had virtually gone for spiritual shopping. One of my friends suggested doing Art of Living course. Finally I landed up in Basic part I course in 1999. However I have not followed up thereafter. I did also not know venue for follow up. One day volunteers namely Raju, Minu and others came in our building and gave intro talk and told me to come for follow up. I wanted to avoid consuming RED WINE and hence this time I took up seriously and started doing Kriya regularly. I also started attending long kriya once a week. The benefits of Sudarrshan Kriya started showing results and after 3 months I completely stopped medicines which I was consuming since 1989. I meanwhile did Divya Samaj Nirman course and started doing Param Padma Sadhana regularly. DSN broadened my comfort zone. I also did Sahaj which is making me natural day by day. Everyday I could feel myself lighter and lighter and I could see the difference in myself on a day to day basis. Further guruji's knowledge tapes such as Ashtavakra GIta, Narad Bhakti stotra, Shiva Bhakti stotra benefited me a lot. Sudarshan kriya has cured my ailment completely but I think healing is only a by product of larger gain which I got namely peace of mind, unshakable faith, positive attitude towards life, increased awareness, focus towards life, increased confidence, better efficiency in work, better interpersonal relationship and above all it has brought my smile back. This is a rebirth to me and I am looking forward to every new day with lot of enthusiasm and energy. From my experience, I am of the firm opinion that sudarshan kriya can cure any ailment be it developed in this life span or hereditary ailments, as was in my case, because the recovery effected is in most natural way, cleansing each and every cell. But the journey towards the recovery was not a cat walk. I have not missed my kriya for a single day since last 2 years and param padmasadhana since last April (i.e. when I did the DSN). But that is a very small contribution from my side in comparison to treating a life long hereditary ailment for which I could not find any cure from any quarter during so many years. From my experience I can say that if you do sudarshan kriya daily including long kriya preferably once in a week and continue doing that, you get benefits which you have never thought off.

 

With tears in my eyes, I am deeply indebted to Guruji, Art of Living Foundation, Thakre, who advised me for Basic Course, Nitin Kachalia, my basic course teacher, who is no more now, Raghu Raj Raja, my first advance course teacher, Dinesh Ghodke, my second advance course teacher, Rishi Nitya Pragyaji, my DSN course teacher, Bhanu didi, my Sahaj Meditation teacher, Vinaya Hegde, my third and fourth advance course teacher, teachers in my area, specially Dinesh Bhojwani, Seema, Sreekumar, Rohit, Shilpa for spreading valuable knowledge of guruji  and all the volunteers from Mahakali, Andheri (E) area, who have been always very supportive. We have a great team in our area.

 

Our beloved guruji Sri Sri Ravishankar is transforming lives of millions, my life is also transformed and I will see that my remaining life is put in use for some good cause.  

Jai guru dev.

          Santosh mujumdar

          Contact santmujumdar@ gmail.com    

 

ref : http://artofliving. rediffiland. com/blogs/ 2007/06/21/ A-friend- s.html

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 "Celebrate Life. Care for others and share whatever you have with those less fortunate than you. Broaden your vision, for the whole world belongs to you."

- Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, Founder, Art of Living Foundation.
 
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TURBULENT TIMES

TURBULENT TIMES Š Talk by H.H. Sri Sri Ravi Shankar
 
Is it not true that only in turbulent times we are ready to listen, we are willing to receive new knowledge that can bring transformation. We hardly do that when things are all right. And it's when we are open and ready to listen that there is an opportunity for change and chance to unleash the new "us".  What is it that we really need in these times? First of all, we must recognize that it is a turbulent time. When we deny the turbulent time, we live in a utopia - a utopia that we are then unable to find a solution for. So, recognition is important!
 
The second thing is accepting it. The moment we accept that this time is turbulent or this situation is bad, then our emotions calm down. We don't question it: `Why is it turbulent? Why is it turbulent??' This turbulence is a happening. This questioning of the happening is of no use! It is like post mortem! It doesn't help the situation in the present moment. So then, accepting that this is so, will bring calmness, steadiness in the mind. When the emotions are calm, we will be able to think better. The energy of an emotion or a thought process ­ creative thinking is the same. How we use this time to channel our energy is up to us. So, acceptance is the second point. Once we accept, it cannot be a passive acceptance, like: 'Okay....Let it happen...Let us leave it to God or the Universe...' - that type of passive acceptance will not work! There we need action! We need creativity! What change do you want to make and how do you want to make good use of the situation? For that you need clarity of mind, sharpness of mind, presence of mind. At times, you
may feel that we want to just give up, that this is so much bigger than you. You may feel weak and helpless. But this is the time to boost our ego. It is the time to feel confident that this is nothing. We can easily handle this situation. When children fall down you say, 'You know you are superman! Nothing has happened to you!' - then they stop crying! Have you seen this? Teenagers, youngsters, kids... when they fall, they start crying, but the moment you give a boost to their ego - then that inner strength comes up, comes out. If you keep telling them, 'Oh! You are useless! You are good for nothing!' - then that energy, that inner capacity will not find expression. If you don't want someone to be creative, just take the self-esteem out of him or her. They will become like vegetables. Self-confidence, self-esteem is something that brings creativity in turbulent times. Now it is easy to say that we should have self-confidence - but how does one get it? I tell you, it's simplicity that brings you that self-confidence. We should be ready to learn from simple things, simple people - even from a child. The readiness to learn something can bring up creativity in you, can bring up self-confidence. Presence of mind is what is required to take advantage of turbulent times. You know the word 'advantage' feels sometimes like there's a lack of compassion, a lack of caring, in it. It sounds like it has a little tinge of greed in it. Advantage! You are taking advantage of a bad situation. Rather it could be - making better use of the situation, the turbulent time, with compassion in your heart - the compassion and love that brings us fulfillment, that unites us with the entire workplace, the job,  society, the people around us, the world. The uniting force in our life is love. When there is love, such crises will not happen! A short-term advantage is of no use. It's misery. Good is something that gives long term betterment and short-term problem, while that which is unethical gives long-term problems and short-term benefits. So while you're taking advantage of a turbulent time, notice, observe if you are taking short-term benefit or a long-term benefit or what appears to be an advantage could be a disadvantage. So that clarity in our thinking, in our vision is essential. What brings that clarity? Are you all here? That is called yoga! Be in the moment!
 
Finally, intuitive awareness, the intuitive quotient is what comes to your help. If you lack intuition, you can't be really successful! Intuition is not just dry thinking. It's a combination of gut feeling... emotion and
intellect -`Antarnath Antargyan' - Intuitive awareness. Developing intuitive awareness as well as a little bit of music or logic is needed. When the balance happens in our life, then we are able to develop our
intuitive awareness, the intuitive quotient. If you ask most successful people in our society, they will vouch for this: It was just an intuition, they acted on it and that brought them success - not their logical planning or thinking. Of course that's needed - logic is needed, but not just that! You need to have the support of intuitive awareness... and smile MORE!

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 "Celebrate Life. Care for others and share whatever you have with those less fortunate than you. Broaden your vision, for the whole world belongs to you."

- Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, Founder, Art of Living Foundation.
 
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Q & A's with Guruji (NEW ONES!!)

Real virtue is to forgive someone even before they ask for forgiveness. If you don't have that then at least when they ask for forgiveness you have to forgive them. And I don't think you would not, if anyone in spite of pleading for forgiveness, and when you forgive you are the one to benefit. You think you did a great thing, I tell you, you are wrong. When you forgive its you who become free otherwise holding onto that is such a misery. Very good.

Q: Are swamiji's God?

Sri Sri: I think now you understood.Swami means, just one who is there for everybody. One who has made whole world as his family. For whom there is no one and other. That action in life when blossoms you all are swamis. You don't have to change your cloth, or grow long beard and hair. But this is just uniform (claps). Suppose if tomorrow I come in 3 piece suit, will you recognize me? But
it doesn't matter to me, but even now I'm in 3 piece suit (laughter).

Q:Our strongest negative feelings are directed towards those we love the most . How can we avoid this even while maintaining the affection?

Sri Sri: Developing awareness, you know, and spending a little time in knowledge, very often not once in a while do some meditation and course and forget about it. Almost every week or very often if you are understanding and spending your thoughts on knowledge about
impermanence of everything and permanence in spirit lot of difference naturally comes in life.

Q: What distinguishes between good and not good desires?

Sri Sri: You know that which gives you long term joy and short term problem is good, that which gives you short term joy and long term problem is misery. Just keep this as your criteria, that's good enough (claps).

Q: When I try to understand people, places and situations I end up finding mistakes in myself, makes me feel like I am becoming a better person. However it affects my self confidence, how do I overcome it? When will I ever be confident?

Sri Sri:You know that is where the process of surrender comes to help. To whom you surrender is immaterial- to God, mother. But when you surrender you drop, you feel lighter. Surrender is a technique in which you can dump all the garbage of the mind. What else is there with you to surrender. Divine doesn't want your talents, and you can't surrender those because that is a gift to you. Certainly Divine doesn't want your money, and if you think you have power you are mistaken you have no power at all in this world. And nobody wants to give any power at all and you think you have power. You have feeling of losing control and you have no control, no control of thoughts running in your mind, all good thoughts, bad thoughts and who is interested in this? Do you see what I'm saying? So surrender means what? Drop all that negativity, that worries that we carry it in our heart. We surrender to God and be happy. It is only then we gain the power. In India in South India temples when you bow down, priest comes and places a crown on your head. The symbol is when you are devoted to God, you really become a king, you get crowned. I mean they just put on the head the crown for a moment and take it out and put it on everyone's head, they keep shifting to everyone, everyone is a king (laughter). But original idea was of 'Sharana-gathi', when
you surrender to God means you become a king. You wear a crown in your head and you walk that way, you are carrying Lord of the universe in your heart, such confidence, such joy, smile, happiness. We are here to give to the world. If you are a giver you are always winning. If you are a taker, then I tell you without your knowledge you are losing. If you think what about me, what about me, see what I can do, how I can contribute, how I can make people happy, then your needs will be met, it all happens.

Q: War and natural calamities signify what?

Sri Sri: War means Worst Act of Reason (WAR), natural calamities invite you to be active and do service, and reminds you that you are not in total control my dear, there is a super power, a power that is permeating every particle of the creation, everywhere, just wake up, wake up and there is power and when that power is conscious it is lively, it can hear, feel and respond to your feelings.

Q: You expose us, give us such wonderful knowledge, yet whenever the time comes in our daily lives we are back to our little minds, what to do?

Sri Sri: Doesn't this knowledge help you when you really need it? Whenever you were regretting, come to the present moment, hasn't it struck you? The very little time you spend has brought so much transformation, if you spend little more time, take little more time, go deep into knowledge and study you'll find amazing growth can happen to you.

Q: Why has God made stress?

Sri Sri: So that I could have a job (laughter and claps) You know there is a story, bed time story. After God created all this world ....this is a new story which you haven't heard...he wanted to go rest, right? So while he went to rest, he suddenly realized he made a big
mistake. He created human beings, who would not allow Him to rest. Even if he goes to moon, somebody like Armstrong will reach there also. So God became little worried. He wanted to find a place to go and rest, wherever He goes, man will chase Him, and He'll file so many court cases against Him, if you made man, why did you make woman and woman would blame Him too, all fingers pointing to
Him? And animals, if they would have right to file cases, that's it finished. God was really terrified. So he came to a Guru. Guru's
are good in giving advices. He wanted to get out of this mess, He wanted to rest in peace somewhere, where nobody comes. So a wise man was there and God went to Him and asked do you have any suggestions, any ideas, can I use any help to you. And wise man whispered something in the ear of God. And God became very happy. Guess what the wise man said...he said, yeah, wherever you go man will reach there, he has made rockets, space shuttle, but where he doesn't go is into his own heart. You just go and hide there, where he never goes and one in a million some Kabir, Nanak, Jesus go there and by the time they go there they wont have any  complaints, so there you'll be very safe. So when man goes all over the place and bends down and goes into his heart all his
complaints disappear, feeling of other disappears and feeling of oneness dawns.

Q: Why good people are suffering so much, most of the time, feel powerless to overcome the bad situations?

Sri Sri: You know when you feel powerless, that is the time prayer happens, prayer is a great strength. In Hindi there is a saying 'Nirbal to Balram' the weak and meek (Jesus also said) shall inherit heaven. If you are weak God is with you. Now, Good people suffer, not because of good actions, sometime good people do foolish actions. This opens new topic of karma. If you have sown a cactus you'll get only cactus, if you've sown mango seed, you get mangoes. A weed comes very fast, but for a mango tree it takes 3 or 4 years. If you've done something good, something good will come out of it. Another thing is don't think that you are weak, because you are good you are getting all the problems. No, there are people who are bad they also are getting problems. They do bad things, they also get into  problems. You need skill in dealing in life. Just being good is not enough. Good and being skillful also, intelligence also.

Q: How do you practice not doubting others love for you and their intentions?

Sri Sri: You know you always doubt something that is good. You know when someone says I like you, you ask them really? And when they say I don't like you, you don't say really? This has been your nature. Nature of doubt is always directed toward positive. If you love someone take it for granted that they also love you. And even if it appears you keep telling them, oh you love me so much, but if you question the love of someone towards you, even whatever little they had will start diminishing. So its upto you what do you want?

Q: What is God and what is the difference between you and God? Jesus, Ram, Buddha, etc are you their incarnation?

Sri Sri: I already mentioned, we are all love, we are all part of that is.

Q: How do we prepare for death?

Sri Sri: Don't worry about it. Whether you are prepared or unprepared it'll come and get you (tremendous laughter and clapping). When it comes it won't listen to you, wait for another 1 year. Can come any moment, don't worry.

Q: What is the distinction between sleep and meditation?

Sri Sri: One is vertical another is horizontal (laughter). For now just think that much. But tomorrow when you sit for meditation don't think
about it. You'll neither be able to meditate nor be able to sleep. Okay.

Q: Why are we not getting rain?

Sri Sri:Because the trees are getting cut. Take a *sankalpa* that it should rain. (No wonder it rained after satsang :) reminds me of sankalpa at Shimoga.

Q: When will the fear of terrorists go?

Sri
Sri: We don't have them in Karnataka. Join and do satsang, then it will go, call them too. They are taught about one religion and given wrong knowledge. We should educate them, they are not bad, they are good.

Q: How to be happy always?

Sri Sri: Drop the word *always*, then you can be happy every moment.

Q: Is Paramatma sarva-vyapi? (Is god everywhere?)

Sri Sri: Yes.

Q:What is self-realisation?

Sri Sri:Who is asking the question? Self, do you realise it.

Q: Why do we feel that something is lacking inspite of having everything?

Sri Sri:Thats lack of knowledge. If you have knowledge and love, you won't feel any lackings in life.

Q: Guruji in one of your books you have said that "God is an illusion",how?

Sri Sri:I have never said "God is an illusion", I said "Surrender is an illusion", because anything you surrender anyway belongs to HIM only. Where is publication department?( Huge Laughter)

Q: How can we give in our 100%?

Sri Sri:Meditation is deep relaxation. 100% activity precedes or follows meditation.

Q: When you know maya is an illusion, does it cease to exist?

Sri Sri:A. Is your question a reality or an illusion.

Q: What is truth? What is love?

Sri Sri:Truth is that which does not change. To know what is truth, you need to go through all that is not true. So, all that changes is not
truth. Life is a quest to find what is truth, don't be in a hurry. Truth can be realized in deep meditation and love is truth. They are two sides of the same coin. In short, truth is that which never changes and love is that which is undescribable.

Q: What exactly is a prayer to God?

Sri Sri: Prayer happens when you are grateful or helpless. If both happen together, it becomes a very effective prayer. And, to whom you pray is immaterial. Its like the rain water, no matter wherever it falls, it goes to the ocean. So whoever you pray to, it goes to the ONE. It is the most precious phenomenon that can happen to human beings. Whole nature is a prayer. Sun shines and prays, wind blows and prays. Fulfillment is prayer. When mind matures and is fulfilled it is called a prayer.

Q: What is Moksha?

Sri Sri:Ask a child. When his exams are over, he comes home and throws the book on the couch, then he will tell you what is moksha.
When you find a deep relief in life, from miseries,sorrows, cravings and aversions, that is Moksha.

Q: How to destroy ego?

Sri Sri:Destroying the ego itself becomes the biggest ego. When you tell everybody that I have destroyed ego, that is the biggest ego.
Let it sleep there. Nevermind, feel natural, be friendly.Live in the present moment, that is an antidote to ego. So don't destroy ego, keep it in your pocket and feel like a child, at home with everybody.

Q: What is your opinion about conversion?

Sri Sri:First, we should honour every religion. Those who preach that my religion is better so you join it, are ignorant. It was in medieval
time when they coneverted people by punishing and torturing them. Now its different, now we have to take good things from every religion and move forward. Conversion should be there - but from RELIGION TO SPIRITUALITY.

Q: What do you have to say about today's education system?

Sri Sri:It lacks the juice. It lacks an essence which can transform students to human beings. System has become so mechanical that we are producing human machines out of students. We need to create good personalities out of them. Full development of human potential is lacking and an all around development is needed.

Q: What is your view about ayurveda?

Sri Sri:In last century people didn't care for ayurveda. Now that allopathy has not proved to be that effective, they are turning towards ayurveda.Ayurveda has tested the time. It has a holistic approach. It is re-establishing the health and not converting one disease to another.

Q: What about homeopathy?

Sri Sri:Thats also good, but needs a lot of faith than ayurveda.

Q: Are mind and self one and the same?

Sri Sri:Are ocean and wave the same. Mind is the wave and self is an ocean.

Q:Can a communist be spiritual?

Sri Sri:They have to be spiritual. Otherwise he is not a communist, else he will be a pseudo-communist. A communist wants good for everyone, they want everyone to raise up in life. Spirituality brings these values in you. Spirituality removes small mindedness and negativity. And, unless that is done how can you care for anybody.If you have not got rid of stress and negativity, you will become a corrupt communist.

Q: Buddha told life is "full of miseries" and you tell life is "full of joy", why is this contradiction?

Sri Sri: Opposite things are complementary. You acknowledge misery, so you meditate and you overcome misery and there is only joy. Buddha began at that point and did not finish at that point. So everybody knows the first step, and somebody had to tell the second step. So I told the second step "life is full of joy".

Q: Scriptures describe a lot about "Heaven and Hell", is there any "Heaven and Hell"?

Sri Sri:The bondage and freedom are present in the mind. When you are miserable you experience hell. This is not just the end of universe.There are lots of layers of existence. Universe is so vast, so unfathomable. And, you need to experience in order to prove or disprove something.

Q: Kerala is 100% literate state but no. 1 in suicidal cases, why so?

Sri Sri:Information should not be thought of as education. Though kerala is 100% literate in information, its not 100% literate in self-education. Our education system doesn't include spiritual aspect and if they do not broaden this aspect, it is very dangerous. Many educated people have committed suicide. Todays education is about "How of things" but not "How of life". What is prana,mind,life? This knowledge should be given.

Q: What is the purpose of having a religion?

Sri Sri:You know from your birth to death, life is full of rituals. You are born, you have a naming ceremony, you have a marriage  ceremony, then death ceremony. All the important events in life are joined or conjoined with the religion. So it has become a part of people's life. Whats important today is to rise above and become spiritual. Religion and rituals can divide but spirituality unites.

Q: What's the importance of "Mantra" and "Tantra"?

Sri Sri:Our body is made up of billions of atoms. And, sound is nothing but energy. Our atoms give or absorb energy. Mantra has a deep effect on our consciousness, they energise us. Tantra is the "How to" part, the technique. And, Mantras are used to make life better and bring more comfort to you.

Q: What is God?

Sri Sri:That something which is present everywhere. In Upanishad, once a son asks his father,"How is God like?" The father says,"HE is like the sky, everything is born there, remains there and desolves there".God is the joyful space. Empty like a sky and full like an ocean. And, its nature is truth. God is love, love is God.God loves forms, so he created so many forms. So adore him in any form. This is what happens in Puja. In mantras you call your god to come outside and reside in the idol. Make life a play, don't become so serious. He loves fun. Play, dance, chant with God. Sit in meditation and feel God everywhere, like a *Rasagulla*( A sweet dish) soaking in the syrup.

Q:Gurudev! Pranam! I joined AOL family about 18 months back. I did one advanced course in your presence in Bangalore last year. I feel I am quite centered after AOL. But there is still scope.How to be more centered? I am not having control on my desires.

Sri Sri:Do some exercises and do meditation. Do not worry about having a great control over desires and take it easily.

Q:How do I get rid of being materialistic? Does materialism got to do anything with stress?

Sri Sri:Balance is essential between life, caring for the matter and the spirit.

Q:Dear Guruji, how do you handle differences in opinion in a group in a Seva project so as to bring everybody together?

Sri Sri:Note that, everybody is together already and difference in any project only adds more dimension to the project. It also helps you to develop skills to maintain harmony.

Q:How to silence mind?

Sri Sri:The will to silence itself will pay in many ways. Also, meditation and Sudershan kriya.

Q:How does Sudarshan Kriya help reduce stress?

Sri Sri:It just does it.

---

Regular health mistakes

Regular Health Mistakes   All of us make  little health mistakes that cause damage to our bodies in the long run -  simply because we are unaware we are doing something wrong. Here are some of  the most common mistakes made by  many of us.   Crossing our  legs Do you cross  your legs at your  knees when sitting? Although we may believe that this is the  lady-like elegant  way to sit, sitting this way cuts down circulation to your legs. If you don't  want varicose veins to mar the beauty of your legs  and compromise your  health, uncross your legs every time you realise you have one knee on top of the  other. The best way to sit is to simply place both legs together on the  floor, balancing your weight equally. If you feel like changing position, instead of crossing your legs, simply move both  legs together to one side. As an alternative, you could also consider  crossing your legs loosely at the ankles. This is  a classically elegant  way to sit, and is far better for your legs and  your health than  sitting with your legs  crossed at your knees. Not changing our  toothbrush How often do  you change your toothbrush? Most of  us wait until most of the bristles have  either fallen off, or are in such bad  shape that we'd be embarrassed to pull out our brush in public. However,  since not many of us need to pull out our  brush in public, we carry on with our  frayed one until we lose it. Replace your  toothbrush often. Damaged  bristles can harm the enamel, and don't massage your  gums well. If you find brushing your teeth a pain like I do, but know you must do it, you  might as well be  doing it right. Imagine going through the  annoyance of brushing your teeth twice a  day only to find out that you're damaging your enamel every time you clean your  teeth. Also, use a brush with soft bristles unless your dentist has advised  otherwise. Eating out  often There are oils  that are high in  cholesterol, and oils that cause little harm and are better  for your heart.  However, no matter how light the oil is, it is never a good idea to  eat too much of it.  Avoid fried foods.Remember that in all probability your favorite Indian  food restaurant throws a huge, HUGE chunk of butter in a tiny bowl of dal. Rita,  who worked in the kitchen of a 5 star hotel, was shocked when she saw the cook  chop a 500gm butter slab in half, and throw half into a Paneer Makhani dish.  No wonder the  customers left licking their fingers. And no wonder they felt  so stuffed and heavy  afterwards. Limit outdoor eating unless you know that you're getting  served light and healthy food. Skipping  breakfast Never, ever  skip breakfast. Remember, when you wake up in the morning it's been  around 10-12 hours since your last meal. Your body needs food now, more than at  any other time. Eat a heavy breakfast. You will then be busy through the day,  and the calories will get expended quickly. If you are trying to diet, eat a  light dinner. Here are some more  common health mistakes we make.  Being informed and making a few  changes can help make us feel a whole lot  better. High  heels High heels sure  look great, but they're  murder for your back. This however doesn't mean you should steer clear of  stilettos. Wear them, but not when you know you will be walking around a lot. Wear  them when going out for lunch or dinner -  when the only walking you will be  doing is to your car, to the table, and back. Avoid high heels when you are  going somewhere on foot. If you are constantly tempted to wear your heels, take a good look at your flats. Is there something about them you dislike? Invest  in a new pair of beautiful flats or shoes with a low heel. Buy something you  love, that you will enjoy wearing. If possible, get a matching bag. You will  then enjoy your flats as  much as you do your heels. Sleeping on a soft  bed You don't have  to sleep on the floor be kind to your back,  but do make sure you have a firm  mattress. Although a mattress on springs  is soft and lovely to sink into, it's bad for your back. If you already have an old bed with springs, you don't need to invest in a new one - simply get a thick wooden plank put over the springs, and place the mattress on the plank.  Similarly, if your mattress is  old and lumpy, throw it out and get a new one. Your  neck and your back will thank you. The same rule applies to sofas. If  you will be spending  hours on a sofa, get a firm yet comfortable one. Sofas you  completely sink into are not the best idea. Pillows No matter how  comfortable sleeping with ten cushions is, have pity on your neck and resist.  Sleep with one pillow, and make sure it is not too thick.  If your pillow gets lumpy, discard it and go for a new one. Get a thin pillow  if you sleep on your stomach, and something a little thicker if you sleep on  your back, to give your neck adequate support. Not  exercising So all of us  know we should exercise more, but many of us don't. This is a  health mistake we consciously make! And why is that? Simply because we refuse  to admit the damage we are causing to our bodies by not working out. A number of people  only start working out once they've experienced a warning signal.  Don't wait for a heart attack to strike before you decide to opt for a lifestyle  change. Make the change now. You don't need to train for the marathon to be in  top shape. Half an hour of brisk walking three to four times a week will make a  world of difference to your health. You could then increase this to forty  minutes, four times a week - and you're all set. If you haven't  exercised for a week, you're making a mistake.   Today's Message of the Day is:

Life is short. Forgive quickly. Love truly. Laugh often, and never regret anything that made you smile.

---

 
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DON'T BE GRATEFUL!

31 Jul 1996
Germany
Today is a gift from God -- that is why it is called "present!"

DON'T BE GRATEFUL!

Warning! Watch out! This Knowledge Sheet contains explosives! It can explode your head or your heart. If it explodes your heart -- nothing is left! If it explodes your head -- everything is attained!

Guruji: How many of you are grateful here?

(Everybody raises their hand.) If you are grateful, you don't belong to Me! (Everyone is shocked.) You are not part of the Master. When someone gives you something, you are grateful. That means you feel separate. You are not grateful to yourself.

Gratefulness is inevitable. When you go beyond gratefulness, then union happens. No "I," no "you" remains. You are part
of the Master. You are just One Being with a thousand heads and a thousand arms, but with one heart. You have got to be grateful on the path, but you have to transcend gratefulness. Better stop being grateful. (Laughter.)

When you are grateful then you are the center, you are more important. When you are grateful to God for having received something beautiful, for example, eyesight, who is important? You or God? You! So your gratitude indicates ego.

Richard: But you are not grateful?

Guruji: I am simply great and I am full!
(Laughter) Don't be grateful; just be great -- and be full! 

This Knowledge is very dangerous! When you are part of the Master, you have every right to be happy. You have every right
to Knowledge, happiness, and the whole universe!

Angelika: Small children dont feel grateful as long as they feel one. They take everything for granted.

Meike: You are not grateful to your own hand which feeds you.
 
Ananda: On one of the courses you said in the thanking process, "Now, thank yourself for being here!" So you can thank
yourself.

Guruji: if you wish, you can! This is true celebration: thanking yourself!

Balder: Could you say something about the relationship to friends and the relationship to the Master?

Guruji: Your friends tie you to the world, to the matter. The Master ties you to the Divine, to the spirit.
 

 

---

 "Celebrate Life. Care for others and share whatever you have with those less fortunate than you. Broaden your vision, for the whole world belongs to you."

- Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, Founder, Art of Living Foundation.
 
P  Please consider the environment before printing this email. 

AOL MAIL : STRENGTH AND SUBORDINATION / TIME SPACE AND MIND

STRENGTH AND SUBORDINATION

STRENGTH AND SUBORDINATION
 

Many people do not want to work under someone else, be it in their profession, in any company or even voluntary service. The general notion is that when you work under someone, you lose your freedom, you have to be answerable.
 
So, many people opt for business, wanting to be their own boss. But, in business, you are accountable to so many people. If you cannot be accountable to even one person, how can you be accountable to many? This is the paradox. In fact, being in business binds you more than the boss!
 
Refusing to work under someone is a sign of weakness, not strength. A strong person would not feel uncomfortable working under anyone, because he knows his strength. It is the weak and poor in spirit who do not like to work under someone else, because they are unaware of their strength. They can be neither successful in business nor in any profession.
 
And the same is true even in the field of social service - often volunteers do not want to work under someone else. This is merely an exhibition of their weakness. With such an attitude, they achieve very little.
 
One who is timid and weak in spirit would be uncomfortable to work even under the Wise one; but one who knows his own strength can work effectively even under a fool!
 
Nityanand: But to work under a fool is frustrating!
SriSri: When you know your strength, with skill and intelligence, you can turn every disadvantage into an advantage. A fool can bring out the best of your communication skills! (laughter)
 
So watch out! If you feel uncomfortable working under someone, it clearly shows you need to strengthen yourself. Desiring freedom from circumstances, situations or people is no freedom at all. Knowing that nobody can take away your freedom Ö that is strength! And when you realize your strength is unshakable, you would not mind working under anybody.
 
 

---

 
Weekly Knowledge #312 Lake Tahoe 08 Jul 2001 USA

TIME, SPACE AND MIND

Become God to each other. Do not look for God somewhere in the sky, but see God in every pair of eyes, in the mountains, water, trees and animals. How? Only when you see God in yourself. Only Gods can worship Gods. To recognize divinity, there are three dimensions: time, space and mind.

For a seeker, it is necessary to honor time and space so he or she can
experience sacredness in his or her mind. When you honor time and space, your mind becomes alert. But for the one who has transcended the mind, either sacredness has no meaning, or all time, every place and every mood is sacred.

Precious moments are few in life. Catch them and treasure them. Place, time, mood of mind are factors that influence celebration. Snatch every opportunity to celebrate, then you feel great and full. Then celebration infiltrates your mind in all moods and space, and celebration is inevitable.

Celebration reminds you of the fullness of the moment. The moments you are in the company of knowledge - the Master - are the most precious moments in your life. Treasure them. Treasuring them you transcend the mind, time and space. And that is true celebration.
 

---

 
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NO WORDS NECESSARY

KEEP SMILING >> ALWAYS ..

 

 

 

GO GREEN..

From: sandip pawar <sandipaol@gmail.com>
Date: 2008/9/18
Subject: milk packet makes green !!
To: Anjana Bhagole <a.bhagole@gmail.com>

Dear Anjana,

 

Nursery without cost - http://in.youtube.com/watch?v=WnZ0yfvSS_8

 

***********Nursery without cost **********

 

Today, we are becoming aware of the damage we are doing to our environment & planet. We are responsible to disturb the ecological balance of nature which is millions of years old. We started the way of development by grabbing the every opportunity to exploit the means we have. We started industrialization, urbanisation without thinking of "how to protect our environment? while getting our work done".

 

Since this two decades every body is talking about the environment , but realistically very few are serious for the cause. Everybody is not aware of their true duty, they are thinking short term comforts for their beloved ones or for themselves. E.g. they are using AC car while driving in traffic but nobody is aware or protest cutting of trees on same street, which are absorbing CO2 everyday.

 

We can make a difference with small things, What is our goal in life is to handover what ever we got from our ancestor to coming generation than better condition we had. So let us come together to protect environment, simple way is to plant more trees.

 

We can make nursery without cost!! really its amazing !

1. Daily every household is getting milk in poly bag packets. We are throwing these empty packets in dustbins. We can reuse these plastic bags to make nursery of different saplings. For this we can involve more children. They will be in charge of collecting all poly bags in their surrounding houses & apartments.

    These milk packets should be washed carefully to avoid bad smell while storing them for two three days. make some holes to poly bags to drain the excess water for plants.

2. In rainy season we can just observe many saplings growing under the tree, these small saplings we can pick & put it in the empty milk packets. The soil under that tree or where we are going to raise nursery can be used.

3. With this way we can create small nurseries in-house or at common place, at farm etc.

4. If every metro city around the world, we spread this word to collect empty milk packets. we can get these free of cost & Reuse them for nursery purpose.

 

 

Just get ready & spread the word to all places, schools, residential apartments, public places, hotels, railway stations, etc.

 

 

ALSO PLANT TREES>> NEW FORMULA

- under exisiting trees there are little plants we can replant than to other spots so that they can become new trees adn that they have enough space.

- when we replant the plants we can use a waterbottle, (plastic) up side down, on the top side we make some holls and the underpart of the bottle we leave open so that water can be given.
we plant this next to the plant so that we can water the plant from thru the bottle and the roots become strongs.

- if we can bring vararity of plants and seeds to teh ashram so that the ashram will be rich in her varatity of greenery, what also is very good for birds etc

- that we can use this idea as well for the stand up and speak out day.

- for this day we can also show seeds which we are planning to plant... or that we plant them and we show that..

other thing:

Yashoda Ma from the Ashram is having her dream. She said if ppl who come can bring, wheter clothings, used or unused, if they just can leave one pair, or some pens, blocknotes, anything which is useable, we can give it to her and she can distrubute it further.She stays in Setu 5.
I had done this, i brought some pens, toys clothigns, and sweets, adn the kids adn ppl where soo happy....i think everyone deserve to feel the happinez of giving.

--
yours truly
sandip pawar
 

---

"Celebrate Life. Care for others and share whatever you have with those less fortunate than you. Broaden your vision, for the whole world belongs to you."

- Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, Founder, Art of Living Foundation.
 
P  Please consider the environment before printing this email. 

Beautiful message from GOD

10 Beautiful Messages from God........

1. QUIT WORRYING:

Life has dealt you a blow and all you do is sit and worry.

Have you forgotten that I am here to take all your burdens and carry them for you? Or do you just enjoy fretting over every little thing that comes your way?

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

2. PUT IT ON THE LIST:

Something needs done or taken care of. Put it on the list. No, not YOUR list. Put it on MY to-do-list. Let ME be the one to take care of the problem. I can't help you until you turn it over to Me.

And although My to-do-list is long, I am after all... God. I can take care of anything you put into My hands. In fact, if the truth were ever really known, I take care of a lot of things for you that you never even realize.

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

3. TRUST ME:

Once you've given your burdens to Me, quit trying to take them back.

Trust in Me. Have the faith that I will take care of all your needs, your problems and your trials. Problems with the kids? Put them on My list. Problem with finances? Put it on My list. Problems with your emotional roller coaster? For My sake, put it on My list.

I want to help you. All you have to do is ask.

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

4. LEAVE IT ALONE:

Don't wake up one morning and say, "Well, I'm feeling much stronger now, I think I can handle it from here." Why do you think you are feeling stronger now? It's simple. You gave Me your burdens and I'm taking care of them.

I also renew your strength and cover you in my peace. Don't you know that if I give you these problems back, you will be right back where you started? Leave them with Me and forget about them. Just let Me do my job.

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

5. TALK TO ME:

I want you to forget a lot of things. Forget what was making you crazy.

Forget the worry and the fretting because you know I'm in control. But there's one thing I pray you never forget. Please, don't forget to talk to Me - OFTEN! I love YOU! I want to hear your voice. I want you to include Me in on the things going on in your life.

I want to hear you talk about your friends and family. Prayer is simply you having a conversation with Me. I want to be your dearest friend.

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

6. HAVE FAITH:

I see a lot of things from up here that you can't see from where you are.

Have faith in Me that I know what I'm doing. Trust Me; you wouldn't want the view from My eyes. I will continue to care for you, watch over you, and meet your needs. You only have to trust Me.

Although I have a much bigger task than you, it seems as if you have so much trouble just doing your simple part. How hard can trust be?

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

7. SHARE:

You were taught to share when you were only two years old. When did you forget? That rule still applies. Share with those who are less fortunate than you. Share your joy with those who need encouragement.

Share your laughter with those who haven't heard any in such a long time. Share your tears with those who have forgotten how to cry. Share your faith with those who have none.

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

8. BE PATIENT:

I managed to fix it so in just one lifetime you could have so many diverse experiences. You grow from a child to an adult, have children, change jobs many times, learn many trades, travel to so many places, meet thousands of people, and experience so much.

How can you be so impatient then when it takes Me a little longer than you expect to handle something on My to-do-list? Trust in My timing, for My timing is perfect. Just because I created the entire universe in only six days, everyone thinks I should always rush, rush, rush.

 

9. BE KIND:

Be kind to others, for I love them just as much as I love you. They may not dress like you, or talk like you, or live the same way you do, but I still love you all. Please try to get along, for My sake.

I created each of you different in some way. It would be too boring if you were all identical. Please, know I love each of your differences.

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

10. LOVE YOURSELF:

As much as I love you, how can you not love yourself? You were created by me for one reason only -- to be loved, and to love in return. I am a God of Love. Love Me. Love your neighbors. But also love yourself.

It makes My heart ache when I see you so angry with yourself when things go wrong. You are very precious to me, Don't ever forget.

 
 
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Jai Gurudev...
Rajesh