== RELATIONS BETWEEN WTS AND MARGIIS ==
Namaskar,
Here are some important points for building up our Marga.
Actually the letter is more than that. As you read Baba's quotes in this
posting, one can only think how ironic it is that our Guru has graciously
given such warnings yet we have fallen into this very condition.
UNITY MUST NOT BE BASED ON GROUPISM
Some may be thinking that if we bring all the various groups together
and have them shake hands etc, then we will have true unity in our
Marga. But Baba warns us that such type of a plan has absolutely nothing
to do with unity. The example is given how bringing a bunch of mafia
bosses or bandits together will not lead to the creation of a pure and
just society. Similarly, bringing H & B & NIA & EC leaders under one
roof will not lead to true unity in our Marga. And indeed it is
preposterous to think it would.
How is real unity to be established in our Marga, here Baba gives the
pointed answer.
Baba says, "Human unity is purely an ideological unity." (PNS-15)
Baba says, "For the unity of the entire humanity, the indispensable
factor is spirituality." (AFPS-2)
Thus according to Baba, the only way to advance the cause of real unity
in our Marga is to rally around AM ideology-- i.e. the spiritual ideals
of AM. That is the only way.
Should we overlook this tenet--- if we fail to pay heed to Baba's
guideline and instead try to make so-called unity by gluing together
various groupist fronts-- then unity in AM will be nothing but a far-off
dream, i.e. it will be spoiled.
Baba says, "However, psychic or ideological unity may be affected if we
encourage the exploitation of one group by another." (PNS-15)
Hence to establish unity in AM, there must not be the presence of any
faction or group. None whatsoever. Then and only then can we raise the
saffron flag of AM and proclaim that our Marga is united.
BABA'S SYSTEM: BOTH WTS & MARGIIS ARE NEEDED
Some may also be thinking that (a) our Marga can succeed if the family
margiis take over the mission or (b) if the wt's alone control AMPS. But
both these concepts are totally defective. Baba's view is totally
different.
In so many places, Baba firmly states that our Marga must be comprised
of Wts and Family people-- and furthermore there must be coordinated
cooperation between the two. That is the speciality and dynamism of the
Marga.
Here below, in these following paras, Baba clearly states how both
family margiis (householders) and wholetimers (renunciates) are needed
for the success and prosperity of our mission.
Baba says, "The dedicated monks and nuns of Ananda Marga have accepted
their life of renunciation not out of any escapist mentality, but to
further the cause of human welfare; and through their service, they seek
to lead human beings along the path of righteousness to the abode of
Supreme Bliss." (AFPS-3)
One of the specialties of wts is that they can go anywhere, anytime. For
the cause of dharma they can be sent to any remote location on this
earth and begin propagating the ideals of AM. This is one of the great
benefits of the wt system. Whereas family people-- due to their many
worldly obligations-- often do not have the flexibility to travel here
and there for indefinite period in order to do mission work. So wts are needed.
Baba says, "Family people are required to know the necessary rules and
regulations for living an ideal family life, and must follow them in
both letter and spirit. They will have to take the vow to render more
service to the society." (AV-7)
Likewise family people also have their distinct role. By establishing
themselves in local regions, ideal householders form the fabric of
society by engaging in all sorts of occupations: From business to
education, from medicine to agriculture etc. So many projects are
carried out by househoulders as well as social service and the propagation
of dharma. By being established in one place, ideal family people rise up
as local leaders to guide the society.
Hence it cannot be denied that only one side is needed. Rather there
must be both ideal wts and ideal householders. This is Baba's guideline.
Baba says, "One should first understand the two paths [wt or
householder] and then take a vow to follow one of them faithfully." (2
January 1979, Patna)
BABA'S FINAL WARNING
And here Baba warns us what will happen if there is not (a) unity in
ideology, as well as (b) coordinated cooperation between family margiis
and wts.
Baba says, "Due to lack of coordinated cooperation, collective effort, a
proper ideology and sound planning, society has been fragmented into
many belligerent groups and sub-groups." (AFPS-9)
Thus if we do not pay heed to the above points of unity in ideology and
coordination between householders and renunciates, then get ready for
more and more groupism. That is Baba's fateful decree.
BABA'S BLESSING
By Baba's divine grace, our Marga will soon become something to
behold on this earth.
Namaskar,
Manindar
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Summum Bonum
Baba says, "Spirituality is the summum bonum of life in all its
aspects." (I & I, 'Cosmic Brotherhood')
Note 1: We all know that spiritual sadhana is the ultimate human
activity and the be-all and end-all of human existence. It is the
sweetest expression of life and by the grace of Parama Purusa it is this
sadhana which transforms ordinary humans into divine beings. Thus
sadhana has an extraordinary role in human development and progress.
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