Economic Injustice: Honour to Wrong Person

From: "Aaron Tenning"
To: am-global@earthlink.net
Subject: Economic Injustice: Honour to Wrong Person
Date: Sun, 28 Nov 2010 21:11:44 -0800

Baba

"A'loker jharana'-dha'ra'y sna'n kara'yecho tumi saba'ka'r man..." (PS 611)

Purport:

Baba You have showered Your causeless grace on everyone. With the spring
flow of effulgence You have drenched one and all. Everyone is enjoying
in the bliss of Your grace and proximity. This whole universe is
vibrated in Your vibration. Now the difference between close and far &
own and other has been lost. Everyone has become close-- intimate. You
have wreathed everyone's life with the bond of love. Irrespective of
their qualities everyone is feeling close to one another. By Your grace
You have vibrated this universe. Knowingly or unknowingly people are
ready to follow Ananda Marga Ideology. Rationality is developing and the
general common understanding is getting changed. The darkness of dogma
is vanishing away. Baba You are gracious to one and all...


                == ECONOMIC INJUSTICE: HONOUR TO WRONG PERSON ==

Namaskar,
Sometimes we hear reports in the news of how an ultra-wealthy person is donating millions or even billions to a given cause or charity - albeit under a certain set of conditions.

In response, the common people go "oooh" and "ahhh" with great appreciation and veneration. They regard that "philanthropic donor" as a second god and sing the praises of their generosity with full admiration.

As Ananda Margiis, we have to step back and view the scene according to the dictates of bhagavad dharma. Then we will have a balanced perspective.


                            THESE TWO STORIES ARE VERY MEANINGFUL

What follows are two dharmic stories told by Baba which help us understand how to evaluate the value of a given service or donation.

There are three points for evaluating the greatness of a person's donation:
(1) Percentage: How much percentage of wealth was donated;
(2) Hardship: How much hardship they had to undergo in giving that money;
(3) Amount: The total amount donated is NOT a qualifying factor, but unfortunately this is the main thing people look at, and they overlook the above two factors. It is for this reason that this entire posting has been written.

These following stories make the point more clear.


                                                       STORY #1:
              WHO DONATED WHAT PERCENTAGE OF THEIR WEALTH

Many may know the story from the mythological Ramayana which Baba Himself cites on numerous occasions. King Rama and his army needed to cross the waters from South India to Sri Lanka in order to rescue the Siita. So Rama called all his followers - fighters, animals, everyone - to build a bridge.

Baba says, "You know the story of the Rámáyańa. During construction of a bridge, the big monkeys carried large stones while the small squirrels brought only tiny grains of sand. Is there any difference between the carrying of tiny grains of sand by the squirrels on the one hand and the carrying of a whole mountain by Hanumán on the other? Both are equally valuable. You may be a small entity like a squirrel, but your existence is in no way insignificant." (Namami Krsna Sundaram, Disc: 21)

Baba says, "The most important point to consider is who has utilized his ability and to what extent. Hanuman [the mighty monkey, a devotee of Rama in the mythological epic the Rámáyańa] fetched huge boulders to build a bridge across the sea, while the squirrels collected small pebbles. Yet intrinsically both these actions have the same value...We cannot give more appreciation to those who have not utilized their potentialities properly but have done more work than to those who have fully utilized their talents." (Human Society Part 1, 'Social Justice')

In the above quote, the squirrel utlised 100% percent of its capacity and the big monkey did the same thing. So their contribution was equal despite the fact that the monkey carried much bigger objects. Their percentage of giving and degree of hardship is the same.

As the story goes, the bridge was built, Rama and his armies crossed, and Siita was rescued. The import of Baba's above teaching is that even though the squirrels only brought small pebbles, their offering and help was as much valued as the dramatic efforts of Hanuman. Why? Because those squirrels gave their all, according to their capacity and strength.

And that is one of Baba's golden guidelines with regard to rendering proper service. How much one is utilizing their inherent potential - what percentage of themselves are they giving toward a certain cause and how much hardship they are undergoing in their service.

When we apply this formula to the present day capitalist schema, we can understand that a $1 donation by someone who has only $10 is of greater worth than a $50 million ($50,000,000) donation by some capitalist billionaire. Because the amount that one gives is not the driving force; what is valued is the percentage of one's wealth and property that they are willing to offer. A poor man gave 10% of his wealth but a rich person has given only .5% percent of his wealth.

By Baba's dharmic guideline, the poor person has donated more than the billionaire hence the poor person should get more respect.

Although it looks like the rich person has given a lot because the amount is large, but in the realm of service it is quite minimal. Because he gave only .5% of his entire wealth and did not undergo any hardship. So his contribution of $50,000,000 is much less than the $1 given by the poor person.

Here the overall amount is meaningless. We should never look at the total amount per se, but evaluate the donation according to the percentage of one's wealth. That is our Ananda Marga way.

$1 to a poor man who does not have food is quite substantial whereas $50 million to a multi-billionaire is quite petty. Thus the poor person underwent greater hardship. That also counts per the viewpoint of bhagavad dharma.

One added point that should also be noted is that the billionaire will use their $50 million donation as a tax write-off and actually save money.

So for the billionaire the act of giving is often a mere exercise in managing their wealth in a strategic manner whereas the poor person who donates is actually giving away what little money he has. That is why, according to the dictates of bhagavad dharma, that $1 donation is greater as that represents a higher percentage of the person's total wealth. That is one parameter for measuring the quality of social service or one's generosity. And the second parameter is the degree of hardship.


                                                      STORY #2:
                   THE DEGREE OF SACRIFICE IS WHAT COUNTS

This next story is a bit longer and more involved. Here however is a short summary as the story holds great import to Baba's teaching on service and sacrifice.

Once there was a very poor family. They had almost no food and were on their deathbed. They were going to share their last few morsels of food amongst the four of them. Just as they were about to eat, a beggar knocked on their door. The beggar requested something to eat. The family knew that if they failed to eat that evening they would meet their death. Even then, one by one, they all gave up their portions and served it to the beggar. The beggar was deeply satisfied by their offering. That night those 4 family members died of starvation.

A mongoose witnessed the entire scene and was awestruck by the family's great sacrifice. The mongoose started rolling around on the floor and inadvertently rolled over some of the flour that had fallen onto the floor during the offering to the beggar. Because that offering was so pious, the wee-bit of flour turned the mongoose's coat golden wherever it came in contact with the mongoose. Half his body was touched, so half his body became golden.

Time passed.

Upon his coronation, King Yudhisthira offered a grand feast to all in the kingdom. The affair was full of pomp and show and featured the most sumptuous dishes imaginable. The mongoose arrived at the feast and rolled desperately on the floor wherever food had fallen in hopes of making the rest of his coat golden. But the food had no such effect - he did not become golden. Why? Because there was no selfless sacrifice in the offering. King Yudhisthira had tremendous wealth and he was feeding the kingdom as a display of his riches. There was no personal sacrifice involved. That is why the mongoose called the entire gathering a farce.

Baba's teaching in this second story is that the greatness of one's offering is measured by the degree of personal sacrifice and hardship. The poor family offered a very little amount of food but they were willing to sacrifice their life. So their offering was indeed great. In comparison, the King Yudhisthira presented mounds and mounds of fanciful dishes to his subjects - without having to undergo any personal sacrifice or suffering - so his offering was basically valueless, according to the measuring rod of bhagavad dharma.

Thus when teams of billionaires gather and give away huge amounts of wealth and property, but undergo no hardship themselves, then their offering is quite paltry in the eyes of dharma. It has little of no value. Whereas if a man has but one ripped blanket and he gives that to a needy passerby while he himself spends the night shivering in the cold, then that offering is very meaningful.


                                          SOME REVIEW

From the above two stories, we can understand that there are at minimum two critical factors at play. The value of a person's giving is measured by:

1) The percentage of wealth that is given away.

2) The degree of penance or hardship that is undergone by the person making the donation.
     
It is these two factors which truly determine the greatness of one's offering.

Unfortunately, most of the time people overlook these two factors and instead measure the "greatness of the offering" only by the amount.That is the tragedy.

In this way, exploitative vaeshayas who have billions of dollars get venerated for their so-called large donation of millions of dollars, when in fact that donation is but a minuscule amount of their total wealth. Plus such capitalists do not undergo an ounce of hardship in making that so-called big donation. Even then the common public sees all the zeroes - i.e. $10,000,000 - and thinks that capitalist is a second god and divinely generous.

Please read more below.


                                    WHAT HAPPENS IN "REAL LIFE"

In today's vaeshyan era, Baba's above mandates are essentially overlooked, or at the very least not used to determine the value of one's offering.

Because in today's market, when the mass of wealth is controlled by 1% of the population, the common people sit back dumbfounded and awed by how some ruling capitalists give away huge sums of wealth. The public hails such givers as "great philanthropists", "divinely generous", and "true friends of humanity" etc. They think such capitalists are really, truly great. They bow down to them with full reverence, honour and respect. When in fact, those big donors offered a paltry amount of their total wealth and did not undergo even an iota of sacrifice. Thus, for those big donors, their so-called act of giving was effortless yet it earned them great praise. They became champions in the eyes of the common people who were stupefied by the size of the gift. 

That is one half of the story.

Then that same public looks upon their own value as marginal at best. They develop a huge inferiority complex and deem themselves to be comparatively worthless - they become pawns of capitalist exploitation. Such persons undergo endless trials and tribulations to give back to their families and communities, but that is all looked upon a quite trivial.

Rather all the gusto and glamour goes to those so-called great capitalists who control all the wealth. The newspapers, the media, the people, and the whole society gathers round in awe of those capitalists.

So the entire situation is upside down - indeed totally backwards. Those who are sacrificing the most and offering the greatest percentage of their wealth are marginalised and those who give paltry amounts of their enormous wealth are hailed as the great philanthropists. When in fact to accumulate such wealth they had to exploit the common people to the very bone.

Here Baba points out the hypocritical ways of such vaeshyas (capitalists).

Baba says, "Vaeshyas are not satisfied with just sucking people's blood, they often devour their flesh and bones as well; then they beat drums made from the skins of their victims as they deliver religious and philosophical discourses, build temples and construct lodgings for pilgrims, and undertake various other activities. They criticize materialism and try to
retard its progress not because they object to it philosophically or psychologically, but because in a materialistic system there is every possibility that their vested interests would be adversely affected. Although they support spirituality, they are not motivated by spiritual sentiments. The fake spirituality they preach actually injects impotency into society. In their endeavours they are assisted by like-minded exploiters who trade in religion." (Human Society-1, 'Various Occupations')

Actually such capitalists suffer from a psychic disease. They accumulate money not for their basic needs but to satisfy their misplaced longing of expansion. What such capitalists fail to understand is that mundane wealth can never satisfy our inner psychic urge for infinite peace. Instead of looking within they try to accumulate such a vast wealth which they cannot consume. This is their psychic disease.

Baba has put forth this edict about such capitalists.

Baba says, "These capitalists are the unworthy sons and daughters of the Cosmic Father because they go against the principle of cosmic inheritance. They should be cured of their ailments." ('Discourses on Prout')


              MORE OF BABA'S TEACHINGS & PRACTICAL EXAMPLES

Here are more of Baba's divine teachings on this important topic of service and giving financial help.

First Baba points out that it is not the pomp and show of one's donation, but rather the conditions in which it was given.

Baba says, "You know, the measure of sacrifice is not its quantity or its grandeur. A sacrifice should always be measured in terms of the circumstances in which it has been rendered." (Ananda Vacanamrtam, part 31)

Thus when a poor person or a weak person gives their all in trying to help another, that far outshines the rubies and diamonds given by capitalist exploiters.

And here below Baba categorically states how a poor man's penny is greater than a wealthy man's fortune.

Baba says, "The charity of a few paise of the poor has the same value as a thousand rupees from a millionaire. Indeed the charity of those few paise is greater." (Subhasita Samgraha, part 1)

Plus in His own practical life, Baba clearly demonstrated how He never valued the "amount" of the offering but rather the devotional feeling of one's heart.

For instance, Baba would always accept an invitation to stay at a bhakta's residence even if that person was of modest means; and Baba would always refuse the luxurious offerings of big landowners when they gave only out of pomp and show.

Also who can forget the tale of when one wealthy businessman proudly tried to give Baba a bagful of money. Baba refused to see him and when the businessman finally cajoled his way into Baba's room, Baba took the bag of money and threw it outside His window. Immediately the businessman rushed out of Baba's room to retrieve his money and without a moment's delay, Baba shut & locked the door - neither accepting the businessman's company nor his "donation". Why? Because that businessman got that money through unfair and unethical means.


                                        MUST CORRECT THE SITUATION

The way things are now is not good. Greedy capitalists who are veritable enemies of society get treated as the golden ones, and the common people who toil day and night to support their families and help their communities are oft forgotten - their contributions are not at all recognised.

Baba says, "Days roll on. Empires, wealth and valorous human deeds ride on the wings of time, creating only brief flashes of brilliance. Against this panorama the efforts of common people, like those of the squirrels, do not receive recognition – they are like stones lost in the shadows of towering mountains. The leaders of society perform outstanding feats which are recorded in glowing letters in the annals of history. The students of later ages do research on them. But the common people, who carried the golden banners of these heroes, disappear into oblivion." (Human Society Part 1, 'Social Justice')

We must no longer give value to those who are undeserving (i.e. those capitalists) and instead we must give value to those who are deserving (i.e. the common people). Only then can society can progress, otherwise not. Till this situation is righted, people will continue to aspire to become rich by all kinds of wrong means. Because by this way they know they can get worldly power and be regarded as "divine and generous".

      
                                                     BABA'S BLESSING

By Baba's grace He has given us the duty to bring this capitalist era to and end. Such capitalists suffer from psychic disease: They hoard money when in fact it is meant for all.

When people have a better understanding about this then we can bring forth shudra revolution. Once the people know how capitalists got their money & and whose expense, then the masses will be ready to come forward and usher in the new era of social and economic justice. We must hasten this movement. 

Namaskar,
Arjuna


Note 1:                      WHAT GOES ON IN ANANDA MARGA

In certain instances in our Marga, a few have fallen into the same capitalistic model outlined above. Some financially rich margiis give larger donations yet did not have to sacrifice or undergo any hardship whereas many simple margiis underwent much trouble in giving to the organisation. They may have dedicated their all their free time to helping out in a margii school or they may have spent countless hours collecting food and clothing for the poor. Yet it is those wealthier margiis with bigger checkbooks who are given the red-carpet treatment and invited to sit on all kinds of boards and committees.

A similar thing happens within our Wt ranks as well. Those Dadas involved in business and doing smuggling are often thought of as great, whereas those Dadas of little means working day and night in dharma pracar are overlooked.


Note 2:                        BUFFET'S LETTER TO BILLIONAIRES

In the last few months two of the world's richest men, Warren Buffett and Bill Gates, invited billionaires to give away portions of their wealth. In his letter, Mr Buffet offers the following call: What is most valuable to you is your time, and I am not asking you to give away that. I am asking you to give away an amount of money that will in no way infringe upon your current or future living standard. In a phrase, you will not even miss it. That was Buffett's central message. Thus per his own terms, Mr Buffett readily admits that their is no question of any sacrifice when a billionaire gives away portions of his wealth. The fact that they choose to give away some of their money is far better than if they had kept it all for themselves, but according to the yardstick of bhagavad dharma their giving is rather paltry.


Note 3:                         JUST BY THEIR SINFUL DEALINGS

This entire subject would be incomplete if we did not discuss how such capitalists got rich. This is not something that happened overnight by chance. It did not just suddenly come to them - rather they got their money from somewhere. Most often these capitalists have had a long-term devious motive. They indulged in so many sinful activities including not giving a fair share to their laborers who did all the work. Indeed these capitalists did all sorts of wrongs to collect their money. And along the way they purchased all the editors, writers and reporters and got the media in their favor. Thus they got positive press even though they did so many unjust acts.

Finally, those wealthy barons who do donate have a hidden agenda. Such donors give their money with certain stipulations for the propagation of their own name, brand or company etc. It is just like how certain religious donors give money to the suffering masses in impoverished nations with the stipulation that the money be used to convert those citizens to "my religion". Here the whole point is that the giving by capitalists is not done with the sole motive of helping others but with the tactic of executing a personal agenda, at least in part.

Farce of Freedom

Date: Nov 26 2010 19:34:09 -0000 (GMT)
From: Pradiip Bauer
Subject: Farce of Freedom
To: am-global@earthlink.net

Baba

"Tandra na've ankhite manda'loke jadio..."  (1728)

Purport:

Baba, drowsiness falls on my eyes at the time of darkness and I lose the
path-- surrounded only by dogma. So when I cannot see my Goal properly,
when I forget You, then by Your grace please wake me and bring me on the
proper path. O' Baba, o' my lord, please wake me with the call of Your
divine flute; please remove my slumber. You are my God of gods. I do not
have any other entity except you upon whom I have any hope. You are my
only hope. Please remove all the Cimmerian darkness which surrounds me.
Baba, by Your grace my bondage of attraction with these worldly things
is shattered. Now You have graced me the song of liberation-- that is
the only tune I hear. Baba, when I feel drowsy and remain lethargic on
the path of movement, then please grace me and bring me back on right
track-- bring me close to You...


               == FARCE OF FREEDOM ==

Namaskar
We all know that democracy is not optimal, but until something better
comes along-- that is, until Proutistic society is formed-- the
democratic system stands as the best option thus far. This fact every
A'nanda Ma'rgii knows.

Nowadays in the present world there is one ruling democracy that claims
itself as the top, above all others. Even with their recent economic fallout,
this land thinks of itself as the most just and the embodiment human welfare.

Hence not only do they think democracy is the best system of all time,
but they also think that theirs is the greatest representation of a
democratic state.

In an attempt to put things into perspective, let us take a look and see
how far their claims are correct, or not.


                    ARROGANCE OF THE US

On many points the USA thinks itself to be better than other nations.
From economics to Hollywood, and from sports to medicine, the US thinks
itself to be far higher than others.

But there is one sphere of life in which the USA especially claims
itself to be head and shoulders above the rest-- towering high, high
above. Namely, the US considers itself to be the ultimate democracy, or
the 'Father of Modern Democracy'. With this egoistic concept in mind,
they brag that in their land the great principles of democracy shine
through in a unique way. This is the height of their audacity.

Note: Here the "they" & "their" refer not to the common people &
certainly not to the margiis but to those tall-talking US politicians
and political animals-- and anyone else who is riding their "high horse"
about the so-called greatness of US democracy.


                 OTHERS INTIMIDATED (USUALLY)

And often is the case, that other countries & peoples cower down in
front of the "mighty" US, thinking themselves to be inferior. Although
this has become less of late - still it is a major trend. While
there are still others who silently or noisily oppose. But even then,
the common feeling around the globe is that on the point of democratic
freedom, the US is the golden land. Because this is what the US
propagates and this is what the other countries are led to believe.

Hence, side by side, with unflinching pride, the US tries to impose its
system on all other countries-- as if their democratic way is the best &
unbeatable.


                 US DEMOCRACY: NOT UP TO PAR

But upon closer examination on any number of points & issues the US
approach to democracy is way off the mark.

For example if anyone commits a crime in the US-- even a more or less
harmless crime where they made a mistake but did not necessarily hurt
anyone else-- then that person automatically becomes scarred and even
stigmatized for life.

Even after completing the prescribed atonement and allotted punishment
for that crime, still that dark mark gets carried with them year after
year-- all the way up to their death.

Of course rich persons or politically connected individuals who have no
feeling of repentance for their wrongdoing often can "buy" their back
their freedom. So this stands as yet another blatant loophole of US
democracy. That is another scenario.

But here the point is that in that "great democratic land" of the USA
where everyone is supposed to get social and economic justice, a
rectified person cannot even come close re-entering society. They cannot
get a proper job nor become a trusted member of society. Because their
record has become permanently stained. So living a normal humane life is
basically out of their reach. As they are denied so many basic rights
and opportunities. This is the common trial for those outcasted persons:
They are forever looked upon as being criminals.

Under such conditions, when their own country has turned their back on
them and they have no where else to go, then those struggling souls
inevitably then revert back to their life of crime. This is the regular
injustice that goes on night and day in the US. Where having been
deprived of good opportunities, those ex-cons lose hope and jump back
into their old habits just so they can survive. And in that way, with no
other direction to turn, they fall again in their downward spiral.

Hence there is a flagrant duplicity in US democratic life. Because
instead of being a land for all people, the "powers-that-be" that run
this democracy mercilessly turn their backs on those who erred in the
past. Such persons are deprived of the  little help & encouragement they
need. This is the inhumane way in which the US democracy works inside
its borders.

What hell they have done in Iraq, Afghanistan, and countless other
places in the name of promoting democracy-- that everyone already knows.
Yet within the US borders this democracy is also just a namesake. That
is the point of this letter.

In contrast many other countries around the globe do a wonderful job of
rehabilitating ex-cons and criminals. Those who have truly rectified
their behaviour really do get a proper opportunity to re-enter mainline
society and become contributing members.

But in the so-called great democracy of the US, this is rarely ever the
case. Rather those past criminals are left to sink on their own.


                    BABA'S WARNING

Here below Baba warns us about such awful outcomes where people become
crushed by crude systems like US democracy.

Baba says, "Having been subjected to much social injustice and
criticism, some people think, 'Now that I have stepped onto the path of
vice, now that I have fallen down, I will not stop until I reach the
deepest hell'." (AV-7)

So in His above teaching, Baba shows how even well-intentioned people
lose all hope and revert back to their "old ways" when they do not get
proper scope to become participating members of the society.

Hence in their anti-humanistic manner, the US recklessly pushes so many
back onto the path of crime and misfortune-- until they reach the
deepest depths.


                    THE WAY IT SHOULD BE DONE

                 BABA'S NEO-HUMANISTIC APPROACH
In our Marga, Baba guides us to take a totally different approach-- one
that is reflective of neo-humanism and encourages the positive
development of the individual-- no matter who they are.

Baba says, "Social pressure does not mean declaring anyone an outcast or
ostracizing anyone or stopping the supply of anyone's basic needs. This
is not proper social pressure; rather it is a useless approach, having
no positive effect on people. On the contrary, it merely strengthens the
determination of the sinner to sin. What is proper social pressure? It
is to find the good side, the noble aspects, of a person's character,
and help bring about a change in his life." (NHNS-1, p.20)

So Baba's guideline is that we should always seek out the bright spots
of any individual and help them to cultivate those qualities more and
more. By this way even depraved persons can become totally transformed.
This is the neo-humanistic way of AM.

In contrast the US democratic system pushes people in the opposite
direction by permanently labeling them as being "unfit" for the society.
And that produces a horrible result-- both for the individual and the
society.

Whereas Baba's neo-humanistic perspective serves to uplift the people
whereby they can become not just normal citizens but even wonderful
assets of the society.


                       MOVING TOGETHER

The main point being that in Baba's holistic approach all get the scope
to move ahead. None are left behind. Everyone remains part of the
collective flow.

                  'Samanam ejati iti sama'jah'

Baba says, "'Moving together' means that all portions of society, all
portions of the collective body, should have the spirit to move ahead."
(AV-3)

Thus Baba's ideal is to always encourage and help one and all to partake
in the collective flow whereby all can realise their potential.

And while Prout has yet to be established in any country, there are a
variety of nations which do quite good work of rectifying persons who
committed a wrong and help them to get back on their feet and advance.
So this is quite admirable.

Far below that is the US approach which gives up on its prisoners and
wrongdoers and permanently marks their fate keeps them on the fringe and
ostracized. And on so many other point US democracy utterly fails to
live up to its name.


                        BABA'S BLESSING
By His infinite grace & compassion Baba guides us to help everyone to
continually grow & develop.

Baba says, "Encourage everyone to build their career in a nice way. Let
none get the opportunity to think that their life has become useless."
(Ananda Vanii #19)

Namaskar,
Pradiip


Note 1:         AM JUSTICE FAR SURPASSES US DEMOCRACY

By Baba's below guideline anyone can see how benevolent and rational our
AM system of justice is.

Baba says, "In our A'nanda Ma'rga capital punishment, whether social or
physical, is not permitted anywhere. The only punishment in our Ma'rga
is disallowing offenders from taking part in social functions for a
fixed period. After the period is over the person starts taking in all
social functions as usual." (PNS-3, p.45)

So everyone gets scope to re-enter society and become full-fledged
participants once they have undergone their punishment and rectified
themselves. But in the beleaguered and dusty ways of US democracy,
countless people are left to rot and are pushed back onto the path of
destruction. All because they are not given a chance nor encouraged to
show their goodness.


         ********************************************
                          Good Teaching

Baba says, "Those who wrongly worship Parama Purus'a in the form of
clay, iron, or other material substances, are ultimately transformed in
Prakrtiliina*. And those who run around externally in hopes of finding
Parama Purusa outside, they also be come Prakrtiliina." (15 May 1982,
Hindi Section)

Note: Those who are searching Baba in one or another holy land, they
should be especially careful about this above teaching.

*Prakrtiliina= This is one type of microvita which is under punishment
of reaping of reaping its own negative samskaras.
           ********************************************

Devotee Story: Three Boons

From: "Shantatma Kerketta"
To: am-global@earthlink.net
Subject: Devotee Story: Three Boons
Date: Fri 26 Nov 2010 07:46:32 +0530

Baba

"Diner a'lote a'so ni, ele tumi a'ndha're..." P.S. 2073

Purport:

Baba You are so merciful, You are so divine. Earlier when my life was
full of happiness then that time You did not come; but now in this
period of darkness You have come. It is Your grace. During my good days
I wanted You to come and rejoice the occasion. But that did not happen--
in the effulgence of the day You did not come. But now in the darkness
of night You have come.* Baba, how You play Your liila.

Baba in the smile of the moon, You do not present Yourself. But when I
was suffering in pain, then with the soothing balm You came and relieved
me of my suffering. Baba, You have come in this cimmerian darkness when
I am crying. Baba, everyone knows that You are most-loving; and everyone
knows that You think about one and all. Even then they involve in
logically analysing and reasoning about Your ways in order to strengthen
their love for You-- to love You in a deeper way.

O' Baba, You are beginningless and Your abode is in infinity. In all the
twelve months You remain constantly along with me-- in pain and
pleasure. Baba, You are the divine shelter of everyone; You are the
heart of everyone, the Soul of souls. And by Your grace You pull
everyone close to You. You never discard or ignore anyone-- irrespective
of how high or how low they are. Baba You have only come in this time of
crying and suffering. In the good days when I was calling You then You
did not come. Baba, Your glory is unfathomable; Your liila is beyond
imagination; Baba, You are so gracious...

* Here Baba is using effulgence to represent those days of happiness and
darkness symbolizes those periods of tears and sorrow.


             == DEVOTEE STORY: THREE BOONS ==

Namaskar,
Devotees have a special characteristic that separates them from ordinary
people. That is Baba's explicit teaching.

Rregardless of a bhakta's behavior, whether he commits a right or a
wrong, we must not think that thr devotee is therefore useless or worse
than common folk. Because still that bhakta has the special quality of
devotion. Baba Himself places tremendous importance on this.

Here below is one famous story about a devotee from long ago. The inner
meaning of the story lends itself well to life in Ananda Marga.

Thereafter are two dramatic Baba stories wherein He vigorously defends
the honor of even bad bhaktas after they were condemned by others for
their faults.

All these stories point in the direction that Parama Purusa holds a
special place in His heart for all devotees, even bad ones who commit
wrongs.


         GAYA'SURA STORY: BAD DEVOTEE GOES ON CRUSADE

Baba tells the story of King Tripasur who was a great devotee of Lord Vishnu.
After launching a crusade, King Tripasura met his untimely death.

His son, Gaya'sura inherited the throne and followed in his footsteps.

King Gaya'sura too was an ardent worshiper of Lord Vishnu. He prayed
endlessly and finally achieved the gift of immortality, granted to him by
his chosen Lord Visnu. King Gaya'sura promptly launched a heinous offensive
wiping out innocent people in all lands. The wrath of Gaya'sura was terrible.
And no one could kill him.

King Gayasura even attacked the devotees of Lord Vishnu. Lord Vishnu Himself
came to defend them, but the Lord too was defeated.

Lord Vishu's followers pleaded with Him to do something.

Lord Vishnu then askeda boon of King Gayasura. The King agreed. Lord
Vishnu then asked that Gayasura be turned to stone.

Gaya'sura replied, "So be it", but then made three pleas:

1) The Lord should put His feet in Gaya'sura's heart;
2) All those with the Lord's feet in their heart must be granted liberation;
3) If anyone with the Lord's feet in their heart does not get
liberation, then King Gaya'sura will again be granted life on earth.

Here Baba describes these boons in full:

Baba says, "First, the Lord will seat Himself in the heart of the
devotee without bothering Himself about the nature of that person, good,
or bad. It is enough to be a devotee, in order to have the Lord inside.
Second, all those who have the Lord’s feet in their hearts are bound to
get liberation – liberation is a sure guarantee for them. Third, since
Gaya'sura had been turned to stone by the Lord, and since He would again
arise if anyone having the Lord inside failed to be liberated, the Lord
would have to grant liberation to all such persons for all time to
come." ('The Lord's Feet)

By the above story - which Baba Himself has recounted on various
occasions - we can understand that Parama Purusa places great value on
devotion.

Baba says, 'This devotion is a heavenly attribution." (1 June 1986 DMC)

Even though King Gayasura was a ruthless warrior, due to his devotion
he was able to keep the Lord's feet in his heart. Such is the quality of
devotion and such is the grace of the Lord.

Devotion then is enough to gain the favour of the Lord, despite what
other bad qualities a bhakta might have.


            TRUE TO FORM IN ANANDA MARGA

With all the groupism, difficulties, power mongering and so forth, it is
very easy to think that certain people in AM are total garbage. But we
should never harbor such ideas.

Some may have made mistakes and committed gross sins, yet still all are
our brother and sisters. We must develop a relationship of love with them.

We must remember that all have come into Ananda Marga - and they have
come for a reason. In the the near or distant past, they established an
inner link with Parama Purusa, by His grace. They have a place for Him
in their heart - so they have come once again to sacrifice in some way
for Him - and they are going to be granted salvation.

So all in AM are not just our brothers and sisters, but they are
devotees of the Lord and that in itself has great meaning. They have a
special connection with Him.

Regardless of what faults they do or what hell they create, we must not
banish such persons from our minds or think ill of them. Rather we are
to love them.

No doubt such persons may have to undergo rectification in the social
sphere - they may have to stand before the court of justice - but their
spiritual well-being is safe and secure, just as was the case with King
Gaya'sura. Parama Purusa has saved a place in His heart for even bad
devotees.

So we must appreciate all who have come to do something for Baba,
despite whatever shortcomings they may have. Their arrival onto the path
of AM has great meaning - that is enough to make one's life successful.

We should not just think this way about others but about ourselves as
well. Baba has graciously has blessed us with the special gift of devotion.


                      BABA STORY #1:
                THE CASE OF SHARANA'NANDA

We all know that in the 70's when the mass of Wts were called for reporting
and RDS with Baba, then it was so crowded. The rooms were small and
everyone had to squeeze into just a few rooms.

During one such occasion, Dada Sharana'nanda arrived and was told that
all workers should place their bags and blankets into a particular room.
There was hardly any space as hundreds of workers were putting their
belongings there.

Anyway, somehow Sharana'nandaji found a tiny space. He spread his
blanket halfway and placed his bag on top. Then he went off to attend
his various meetings etc.

That evening when Sharana'nandaji returned, he saw that one Dada had
tossed his things aside and taken his spot. When he awakened that Dada
and told him, the Dada did not care at all.

Sharana'nandaji was extremely frustrated. In addition, it was a fasting
day and that made his frustration grow even more. Internally he was
thinking that many of these other Wts were just like monkeys, totally
uncultured and uncivilised. He was thinking they were just worthless
people.

He did not complain openly but those were the thoughts floating in his
mind.

The next day Sharana'nandaji was called before Baba for reporting.

Baba looked at him and in His loving liila He abused him openly. Baba
strongly rebuked him and said that those who have come in AM are not
ordinary. They may have bad manners and their conduct may be irregular,
but I have specially called them and they have come. So you must adjust
with their behaviours. They have a special samskara. Do not
superficially judge them by seeing their bad qualities or rude behaviour.

Baba lovingly scolded Sharana'nandaji in this manner.

Dada was shocked to hear this. First because he had not complained to
anyone, just Baba was peering into his mind. Secondly, he realised that
he must reconsider his relations with other workers and adjust with
their poor dealing.

Certainly Baba must have strongly scolded the Dada who threw away
Sharana'nandaji's blanket. Sharana'nandaji did not know. All he knew was that
he must have respect and love for all in the Marga because of their link
with Baba. That is Baba's wish and explicit direction.

This above story shows how Baba never judges any of His disciples based
on external affairs but rather looks at their inner essence and feeling.
And when He Himself says that all in AM have come because I have called
them and that they have a special samskara, then we must always look
favourably on everyone in AM - and love them.

That does not mean that we cannot point out their wrongdoing. We can in
the social sphere, only with the sweet motive to clean them of their faults.
Good margiis do like this because they know that all in AM are part of their
kith and kin. So in our heart we must not have ill will toward them.
Whether they do wrong or right, we must remember that they come to serve
Him in some capacity and they have Baba's love.


                       BABA STORY #2:
               THE CASE YOUNG WT IN GORAKHPUR

This next story leads in the same direction.

One family acarya from Gorakhpur came to Baba to complain about one
young Wt. The family acarya was telling about all kinds of incidents.

Baba immediately interjected and began scolding the family acarya and
told him to look upon that young worker as his own son. Then Baba
pointed out that the family acarya's own son did not become a WT and was
not even a margii. And not only that, Baba said that, "While you
yourself were eating and enjoying at your house, this young worker was
not even able to find any proper food in the jagrti."

Baba continued, "But you never cared about that and never checked to see
if he is alright. And now you are complaining to me about the behaviour
of this young worker. Such is your audacity. You should be ashamed of
yourself."

Baba concluded, "I am His Father and I have to take care of Him. And you
also should have love for him."

After this incident, everyone stopped complaining about Wts - at least
on the external level.

Again, here the point is not that wrongful behaviours should be
overlooked entirely. We are to point out and seek the rectification of
those bad devotees. But at the same time we should not harbor any
negative feelings in the mind toward such bhaktas. Because all have come
because of His call. They are not ordinary people and we should love
them.


                       MOTHER-BABY ANALOGY
Just as a mother has inherent love for her progeny -- regardless of what
harm their children might cause, same is the case with Parama Purusa. He
has innate and unconditional love for His children.

The mother may abuse and scold her children but she has love. Likewise
Parama Purusa also may scold but His quantum of love is always present.

In the spiritual sphere, love is not unilateral. The bhakta has love for Him
and in return Parama Purusa has much more love for His devotees.

Baba does not look at the qualities or conduct of bad devotees. His love
is based on seeing the feeling in their heart. We should do the same.

This explains why despite all the mischief caused by some Central Dadas,
even then Baba has blessed them and kept them close.


                       BABA'S BLESSING

By Baba's grace He loves, cares for, and looks after all His devotees,
whether they be good or bad. All have a special place in His heart.

Here we must remember the story of King Gayasura and how Lord
Vishnu granted him three boons - keeping His feet always in his heart.

And Baba Himself approves this story.

Although this is the story of King Gayasura and Lord Vishnu, yet in reporting
Baba Himself told and promised that He grants these same boons to all His
devotees.

Then when Lord Vishnu granted the boon that the Lord's feet will always be
in the heart of the devotee, irregardless of their good and bad deeds, we must
know that Baba has promised and guaranteed the same. That is the first boon.

Secondly, Baba also promises that those who have the Lord's feet
in their heart will get salvation. This is His second guarantee.

Lastly, if anyone with the Lords' feet in their heart does not get liberation,
then the Lord's prestige is at stake. Thus He is bound to fulfill them.

So Baba guarantees the above boons for all devotees up to eternity and
the only prerequisite for these boons is devotion. Then liberation is sure -
and the noose of maya will be shattered.

All this Baba has guaranteed and by His grace I was there that time in reporting
and by hearing Baba's loving promise, then tears began flowing from all those
present. The room was completely vibrated; Baba's immense love and grace
was emanating. We all felt especially graced by His infinite love and special
promise. And this guarantee Baba has granted to every devotee - for all who
have love for Him, irrespective of what wrongs and rights one commits in life.
Such His the nature of His loving and unconditional boon.

Thus when Baba does not judge bad devotees poorly, neither should we.
Their mistakes must be corrected in the social realm, but on the
spiritual plane, we must think of even bad devotees as our kith and kin
and love them, and know that Baba will take care for their salvation.

We should not judge any bhakta or even ourselves based on past sins. We
should think about Him and cultivate love for all.

So the lesson given in the Gaya'sura story of old applies equally well
today. That is why Baba has given this story again and again in His
discourses. Because all bhaktas - even bad ones - have earned a place in
His heart.

May we all focus not on the the poor behaviour of bad devotees but
instead adopt a high spiritual ideal.

Baba says, "Cherishing a strong desire to know and understand Him, think
of Him, ideate on Him, meditate on Him – You will certainly attain Him."
(AMIWL-6)

Baba says, "...The wise and intelligent ideate less on their defects and
demerits and more on the Supreme desideratum." (A'nanda Va'nii #66)

Namaskar,
Shantatma

Baba Story: Margii Refused to Drink Wine & Faced Trouble

Date: Wed, 24 Nov 2010 22:21:37
To: am-global@earthlink.net
From: Pradiip
Subject: Baba Story: Margii Refused to Drink Wine & Faced Trouble

Baba

"Ankhi mele, ceye dekho aja'na' pathik eseche..." (PS 1550)

Purport:

O' human beings, behold, look, Baba, the Aja'na' Pathik [1], has come. With His sweet, charming smile and infinite grace, He is pouring His endless compassion and love unto all. He is showering everyone with His divine blessing. All are getting bathed in His love. O' brothers and sisters, come hither and see, Baba, the Aja'na' Pathik has come and He is showering His causeless grace upon all.

Due to His divine arrival and august presence, the darkness which was in the mind has vanished somewhere-- to one far distant place. In the past where there was darkness, one stream of effulgence has come and blossomed in the colour of one rose. By His grace, the mind has become devotional, calm, and peaceful. Baba, the Ajana Pathik has come and showered His grace.

By His causeless grace He is near and dear to everyone. With His infinite love, everyone has a sacred and beloved place in His heart. Parama Purusa graciously holds each and every being in His bosom. O' brothers and sisters, do not waste your time running after name and fame, money, prestige, or any other transitory thing. Do not run after mundane longer. Come unto the path of bliss, and fulfill your hopes and aspirations by reaching unto Him. Baba is the Ista-- He is the Goal. Only He can quench your infinite thirst with His boundless love. O' human beings, your life and death-- your coming and going-- on this earth is dancing in His Cosmic rhythm. Everything is blissful; everyone revolves around Him- nobody is alone. All are an inseparable part of Him. This is His divine liila and ultimately everyone is sure to become one with Him, by His causeless grace...


NOTES TO PRABHAT SAMGIITA #1550:

[1] Aja'na' Pathik= Aja'na' means 'unknown' and Pathik means 'divine traveler'. This is the word by word, literal translation. But the inner sense is that Parama Purusa is always moving throughout this vast cosmos and by His special grace He is constantly present with everyone all the time. He is in the Cosmic Nucleus yet at the same time through His ota and prota yoga He is everywhere-- carefully watching & lovingly guiding everyone. This unique aspect of His grand Personality is treated as Aja'na' Pathik. Because He is constantly traveling yet present everywhere. He is in the nucleus as well as throughout this entire expressed universe.

As the Ajana Pathik, Parama Purusa Baba moves and moves and moves. Thus in their devotional approach devotees feel that wherever they go then the Divine Aja'na' Pathik will always be there to shower His blessing. By His grace, devotees can always get His intimate company & companionship. With this devotional link, by His grace sadhakas understand that Parama Purusa is present everywhere, yet side by side He travels on and on throughout this entire cosmos. Thus He is Aja'na' Pathik.

Overall the name Aja'na' Pathik has one special and unique meaning that goes far beyond its literal translation. And in our hearts we A'nanda Ma'rgiis know and feel that Baba is that Aja'na' Pathik. Indeed in His discourses, in Dharma Samiiksa, and in reporting, in DMC, and in numerous ways Baba has revealed this very fact that He is ever-present and always along with us. Hence He is always moving and wherever we go then He will also be there. Parama Purusa has infinite attributions and one of them is this special quality where He always remains along with us wherever we are in this vast universe. In this way He is known as -- Aja'na' Pathik.

BABA STORY: 

 

MARGII REFUSED TO DRINK WINE FACED TROUBLE

SUMMARY: This is the account of one devoted margii and what happens to him when he refuses to drink wine in celebration of a contractual agreement with the Russian Embassy. Read how Handaji's office loses that lucrative contract, then got much more, as he experiences first-hand how dharma itself saves him. Dharma always protects those who uphold dharma.

Namaskar,
In the early days of Ananda Marga, one very devoted margii, L.P. Handa, was a sales manager for a private company in India.

Through his hard work and good fortune, he arranged a large contract for his company with the Russian embassy in India. This was a very lucrative and profitable job for his firm. After much trial and negotiation, all the paperwork was completed between the two parties - i.e. Handaji's company and the Russian embassy.

Upon completion, various representatives from the Russian embassy wanted to celebrate the contractual agreement. In their "festive" - and somewhat debauched - mood, those Russian embassy agents requested Shrii Handa to drink vodka and dance with them. This was their normal style of celebration and they wanted Handaji to partake in their "party".

Handaji replied, "With all due respect, thank you kindly but I never touch wine so please excuse me - I must decline your offer. I lead a principled life and do not drink alcohol. However I will gladly take fruit or juice."

Hearing this, the Russians became furious. They were shocked that Handji refused their offer of wine and dance. They then threatened to tear up the contract if he did not drink with them.

Handaji remained steadfast in his approach; he did not compromise one inch. He again respectfully declined their offer.

In their fury, the Russians then ripped up the contract and totally voided the agreement with Handa's company. So the company for which Handa worked had suddenly and unexpectedly lost a big contract.

Handaji was just mentally surrendering to Baba Shrii Shrii Anandamurtiji. He was thinking, "Baba, I am merely following the principles You graciously taught. You are managing everything, by Your grace I know you are taking care."

Handa now had to be the bearer of bad news and report back to his boss.

Naturally, Handa's boss was extremely disappointed and frustrated by losing the contract.

The news of the contract dissolution rose even higher. The Russian trade commissioner to India came to hear about the case. He was curious to know more about what transpired. So the Russian commissioner asked what happened and Handaji replied how he had certain life principles and could not accept their request of drinking wine and overall debauchery.

Normally in such situations, a trade commissioner will give 100% support to their subordinates in order to keep their loyalty. But in this case it was not like that. The trade commissioner did not take sides with his colleagues at the embassy. Instead the Russian trade commissioner was quite moved and impressed with Handaji's stand. He appreciated how Handaji stood by his principles. With great concern, the commissioner then inquired, "Have you lost your job with the company?" Handaji replied that his boss had understood and that he still had his job.

Still worried about what had transpired, the trade commissioner offered his heart-felt apology to Handaji for the ordeal he underwent. Then he not only approved the contract but doubled the size of the contract, and from that day forward the trade commissioner had great respect for Handaji's honourable way of living. So the commissioner began referring more lucrative jobs to Handaji's firm - jobs that were far bigger than the original deal with the Russian embassy. Why? Because he trusted Handaji's manner and ethic.

Actually, henceforth, the Russian trade commissioner and Handaji fostered a long and fruitful friendship. In personal life they were close and in professional life, the commissioner continued to refer big jobs to Handaji's company.


                       REFLECTION

Here the point is that since Shrii Handa held firm to dharma, he ultimately became victorious, by Baba's grace. Handa maintained his principles life - even though it created clash - and in the end gained victory.

So although it looked like that by following dharma, Handaji would lose his professional stature, actually by sticking to dharma, Handaji gained a far heightened position in the workplace. Whereas if he had compromised with his ethics and drunk wine, then Handa would have lost dharma as well as the opportunity of greater company contracts.


                    BABA'S BLESSING

By the above story we can easily understand that by the grace of Baba Shrii Shrii Anandamurtiji, those who follow dharma gain victory in each and every sphere of life and move ever onwards toward their cherished Goal.

Baba says" Ácárańát dharmah, that is, “Dharma is the assemblage of all your conduct” – the way you eat, the way you speak, the way you perform sádhaná. If your conduct is good, dharma is with you; if your conduct is not good, dharma is not with you." (Subhasita Samgraha, part 21)

Baba says, "Dharma rakśati rakśitah – “One who protects dharma is protected by dharma.” Dharma saves the dhármika [the upholder of dharma] in the material sphere, in the subtle sphere and in the causal sphere. When dharma saves people in the material sphere, they experience it before their very eyes, they hear it with their ears, they feel it with the tenderness of touch. When dharma helps them in the causal sphere, they experience it by loving Parama Puruśa with all the sweetness of their hearts. This feeling has no external expression. When dharma saves people in the subtle sphere, they experience it through deep reflection." (Namah Shivaya Shantaya, Disc: 11)

Baba says, "Human beings must live like human beings and human beings must die like human beings – not like undeveloped entities such as plants and animals. In no way should people surrender at the altar of animal dharma or plant dharma, but should stick to mánava dharma, to Bhágavata dharma, even if that results in death." (Ánanda Vacanámrtam Part 16, 28 November 1979 morning, Pune)

Namaskar,
Pradiip


Note 1:           MORE OF BABA'S GUIDELINES

Here are more of Baba's related teachings on this topic.

Baba says, "Your ideal is represented by your conduct. Your learning, your social or economic status have nothing to do with your ideal." (Ananda Vanii #13)

Baba says, "Ananda Marga is a man-making mission." (AV-31)

Baba says, "Where the question of benevolence and malevolence is concerned we will not deviate an inch from our ideology." (NSS, Disc: 14)



      ******************************************
                  Mango Cake

Baba says, "In the days of old, when women folk used to prepare dried mango
cakes, the young boys used to sit by the side to keep the crows away with a
stick in the hand. Similarly you should be careful and alert always."
(NHED, p.185)

Note: In His above noted discourse of 'Victory Day' (Vijay Dashami), via
one analogy Baba is guiding us how we should always be ready and very alert
about protecting all the precious gifts which He has bestowed upon us. Just
in the above analogy as the boy is alert using his stick to protect the
mango cakes from the crow. Similarly we should never allow any "crow" to
take away any of the nectar which Baba a graced as such as rights and
scripture and so many things etc.

As we know after '90 such "elements" tried to infuse various dogmas, but by
Baba's grace all margiis were alert so those parties could not get success.
In that same spirit, we should always be vigilant in this regard and
strictly follow Baba's invaluable teaching.
          ******************************************

Which Samaj is Great

From: "Ramanuj Subramanyan"
To: am-global@earthlink.net
Subject: Which Samaj is Great
Date: Wed, 24 Nov 2010 06:50:43

Baba

"Toma'r tare vishva ghure, ber'iyachilum, shudhu shudhu..." (PS 2199)

Purport:

 Baba, You are the most charming Entity of this entire creation. I have
wandered around and searched this vast universe looking only for You-- only
for You. I could not see or find You anywhere; I could not get that most
sweet Entity of my mind, O my dear most Baba.  

Baba, about You, various people say various things: Some give useless
logic and empty theories about You; and, O' my Vidhu, O' my Moon, others
say that You cannot be held by studying the philosophy or by learning
spiritual science.   

Baba, I do not possess any spiritual wealth or atma-jinana for attaining
You. Only this much I know that You alone are the essence of everything.
Baba, You are my Goal. O' my dearmost, by Your grace this much I understand
that when You shower a wee-bit of Your grace only then will I get You.   

Baba, please be gracious...


               == WHICH SAMAJ IS GREAT ==

Namaskar,
On and off since 1990, various groups have come into the lead,
simultaneously pushing others behind. And they justify their view by
telling that their people or their samaj is "better than the rest".

But we know that Baba is the Cosmic Father-- the Supreme One. And He never
favours the people of one area over another. Rather in front of Him
everyone is of equal standing-- irregardless of their birth or community.

Rather Baba enjoys seeing the growth of one and all-- 'Let everyone develop
in a nice way', He would say.

Thus there is no credence to the statement or feeling that one group is a
shoulder up from another. And proof of this is that wherever Baba would go
He would sing the praises of that particular area to give them positive
spirit to move ahead. And those receiving that inspiration would understand
that just as Baba is encouraging us to advance, likewise He is infusing the
spirit of progress within all.

So Baba's samaj theory is a dynamic approach where all progress in
coordination with the development of all. And no group, clan, or community
can raise their head and say they are better or more blessed than others.
To do so is merely to expose their own ignorance.

Here is more about Baba's samaj theory.


                  BABA'S SPECIAL WAY OF DOING

As we know, Baba's samaj theory recognises the specialties of all. In that
regard Baba praises all the samajas. For example, each and every place
where Baba has visited then invariably He praises that community and the
qualities of their samaj. Because Baba wants to highlight the good things
of a particular samaj in order give them a boost of self-confidence so that
they can fight against exploitation and raise their standard. So Baba
praises all samajas with the intention of removing their inferiority
complex-- thus enabling them to move ahead.


                      WHAT SOME PROCLAIM

Unfortunately some samajas are operating in an opposite way. They are
eulogising their own greatness in such a way as to inject inferiority
complexes within other samajas all around the globe in our AM society. But
such an approach goes directly against the spirit of Baba's samaj system.


                  MORE ABOUT BABA'S SPECIAL WAY

Because Baba inspires one and all in order to help the society rid itself
from any and all negative feelings like inferiority complex. Because Baba
loves all and He encourages each and every community to overcome their
current difficulties and struggles. Baba helps everyone to recognise their
inherent strength and talents. Toward this end Baba has praised so many
samajas so that each and every community could rise up and grow.


            WHEREVER BABA VISITS HE INFUSES POSITIVITY
Here then are some of the many examples where Baba praises various samajas
when He visits that particular area.

In the following quote Baba is glorifying how Chattisgarh samaj will serve
as one guiding light to the whole humanity.

Baba says, Chattisgarh "should have a very bright future. Let the people
from other parts of the world come here and learn how far the people here
have achieved progress, and in which ways they are going to bring about
progress in other spheres of life. Let the light of Chattisgarh be ever
effulgent, like a luminous star in human society, so that all may learn and
be benefitted by it." (AFPS-4, p.37)

And here below Baba is encouraging and reminding the Bhojpuri people of the
greatness of their land so they will raise their fist against injustice.

Baba says, "From the economic point of view the soil of this [Bhojpur] area
is extremely fertile...The [Bhojpuri] people are industrious, and the soil
is fertile...If the land is not poor, why should the people be poor? There
should not be poverty among the people at all in this area. So it is your
bounden duty to make this beautiful fertile land free from exploitation."
(AFPS-4, p. 53)

Baba also highlights the speciality of those people of the Ananda Nagar area.

Baba says, "Anandanagar has a unique glory, and that glory has developed
out of the great sacrifice of many noble souls. Let Anandanagar provide
guidance to the entire universe in spiritual practice, service, sacrifice,
renunciation, and culture. This is what we should pray for, and this is the
reason that we should build Anandanagar and help it radiate light to the
universal humanity. This is what I want." (AFPS-4, p. 38)

Baba continues, "Let Anandanagar be the medium of our cultural
progress...it will not be difficult to establish Anandanagar as an ideal
cultural and spiritual center." (AFPS-4, p. 39)

And here below Baba is injecting Magadha samaj with the strength and
courage to stand in the face of all opposition and exploitation.
Baba says, "That Magadha which has given birth to noble persons...will
never perish. There is no power on earth that can destroy it." (SC-1, p. 141)


       WHEREVER BABA VISITS HE INFUSES POSITIVITY-- (CONT)

Furthermore, by the following lines it is clear that when Baba visits any
samaj then He praises not one but many aspects of the samaj. A case in
point occurs here with regards to Mithiila samaj.

Baba says, "Mithiila is situated in the eastern part of India, at a
different longitude, and as such it should and does have its own
almanac...Thus we see that in all respects Mithila has its own
specialities...This proves that Mithila has all along had its own script
and alphabet." (AFPS-4, p. 47)

Baba continues, "The children of the present-day Mithila, should remember
that even five or six thousand years ago there was a great civilisation at
Mithila, and it was a pre-Aryan civilisation: That is, it existed even
before the Aryans migrated to India. Thus you can easily understand how
ancient was the civilisation of Mithila." (AFPS-4, p. 48)

Baba says, "The very land of Mithila is the land of Tantra." (AFPS-4, p. 48)

Baba adds, "The people of Mithila are very rational-minded and intellectual
by disposition. There was no differentiation of caste among them even as
far back as in the post Buddhist age." (AFPS-4, p.48)

Baba concludes, "In fact it can be said that the Maethili language has the
oldest history of all the Sam'skrt-derived languages in India...This
language is at least 1200 to 1300 years old, and its literature is 900
years old." (AFPS-4, p. 50)

And here below Baba is highlighting particular attributes of the Pahari and
Dogari samajas.

Baba says, "Pa'ha'r'ii is a separate language, not merely a dialect; and
Dogrii, too, is also a separate language, as I have told you previously."
(AFPS-4, p. 55)

Similarly when Baba has visited overseas then He always praises and
encourages those local samajas as well. Such as in Venezuela, Fiesch,
Manila and so many places.

By this way it becomes clear that Baba has injected strong inspiration within
all the communities which He has visited. This is one special approach that He
has done everywhere. So none should think that Baba only praises one-- thus
leading the rest behind.


             SAMAJ THEORY IS FOR THE GLORY OF ALL

Indeed the entire spirit of Baba's samaj theory encompasses the welfare of
all-- whether He physically visited a place or not. Baba's overall
guideline is that every samaj and community should grow.

Baba says, "Encourage everyone to build their career in a nice way. Let
none get the scope to think that their life has become useless." (Ananda
Vanii #19)


                  ALL ARE EQUALLY IMPORTANT
So there is no question of any land being high or low. All are are part of
Parama Purusa's special creation; and He loves all equally. About this
there should be no complex, no feelings of inferiority, no dogma.
We should all live remembering that all samajas are great, all human beings
are great, and that all are His progeny.

Baba says, "You must never encourage superiority complex, inferiority
complex, fear complex, defeatist complex etc. You are the very children of
Parama Purusa. Hence you are not inferior to anyone. You must not encourage
any inferiority complex, for you are the members of the highest and noblest
family. Because Your Father is the most revered Entity of this universe."
(AFPS-4, p. 22-23)

Namaskar,
Ramanuj


Note 1: Here Baba is guiding us not to accept the dogma that any particular
samaj is better than the rest. Rather we are to directly oppose such a
misguided idea.

Baba says, "A person who wants to promote other's welfare, a person who
wants to serve the entire humanity must keep away from dogma. Not only
that, he will have to staunchly resist dogma." (AFPS-4, p. 61)

Baba continues, "It is not enough to keep away from something which is
considered a veritable sin, it is not enough to lodge only verbal protest
against sin. But one will have to wage an uncompromising fight against it.
This is the greatest criterion of a truly righteous person." (AFPS)


          ***************************************                                                          
                           Contrast

Baba says, "Acaryas who have a minimum of five hundred initiates and are
adept in the difficult vishes'a yoga will be eligible for purodha
training." (CC-1, chapter 4, point 2)

Note: These days this above mandate of Baba is limited to the printed page
only. Unfortunately, in practice, different parameters are there for
getting Purodhaship. Now a minimum two qualifications are needed: (1) To
obey "Centre" like a slave without any "if's & but's"-- to always be ready to
blindly follow them; And (2) To collect money by hook or by crook, by right
or wrong means, and give that to one's bosses. If these two criteria are
present then one is qualified for Purodha training. So I hope in future
Baba's teaching will again be followed.
          ***************************************

Who Makes Fake Ananda Vaniis

Date: 23 Nov 2010 06:38:22 -0000
From: "Shivadayal Singhal"
To: am-global@earthlink.net
Subject: Who Makes Fake Ananda Vaniis

Baba

"Tumi esecho bha'lo besecho..."  (PS 2435)

Purport:

 Baba, by Your grace You have come and made me Yours. You have spread
Your sweet smile and by that way You have captured my mind and dyed me in
Your divine colour. You have made me colourless. Baba, O' my Dearmost, I
cannot ever forget You. Always I am thinking about Your Your glory and
charm. And I feel deep inside my heart that You love me and that You care
for me in all the ways-- always watching for my welfare. What more do I
need than that. Baba, You have graced me by coming in my dhyan. And by Your
infinite compassion I feel Your proximity and closeness in anudhyana and
sadhana. That is why I am forever engaged with You in this way. Baba You
have come in my heart. It is Your grace...


              == WHO MAKES FAKE ANANDA VANIIS ==

Namaskar,
This entire letter is about the situation regarding our A'nanda Va'niis.

Because on this upcoming New Year's Day of Jan 1, 2011, one or more of the
leading factions will fabricate and distribute their own fake Ananda Vanii.
And this is one dogma which should not be allowed to continue in our Marga.
Only Baba's original teachings are part of our AM shastra, not any groupist
ploys such as the Fake Ananda Vaniis.

The New Year's DMS is just six weeks away - all should vigorously engage in
ensuring the name and manner of Baba's original Ananda Vaniis remain true
by objecting to all such Fake Ananda Vaniis.


                      WE ALL KNOW THAT...

Up to 1990 Baba has graced us with a full and complete collection of
A'nanda Va'niis. Just as His teachings of A'nanda Sutram are complete,
similarly His collection of A'nanda Va'nii is perfect unto itself. No more
need be added-- rather that would taint the collection.

So the tragedy is that since 1991 various groupist opportunists in Centre
and certain factional leaders have injected their own Fake A'nanda Va'niis
onto the scene. Obviously no real margii can accept these in their heart;
that much is sure.

For everyone's awareness here following is a little look at the
psychological & mental make-up of those who are making these Fake Ananda
Vaniis. And thereafter we will review the dharmic qualities of Baba's
authentic Ananda Vaniis.


                 THREE TYPES OF DISCIPLES

We all know that there are three types of disciples. And now we are going
to see which type of disciple will abide by Baba's teachings and protect
the integrity of His Ananda Vaniis, as well as which type of disciple goes
against the Guru by creating their own Fake Ananda Vaniis.

"A grade" disciples, learn all the things while they live at the lotus feet
of Guru they . And when those "A Grade" disciples go away from the physical
satsaunga of the Guru, then they keep all those teachings which they
learned in their heart and they follow and propagate them accordingly. Such
disciples maintain the integrity of Baba's Ananda Vaniis.

Whereas those who are "C grade" disciples, for them the situation is
entirely different. When they sit at the lotus feet of Guru, it appears as
though those "C grade" disciples understand and are following whatever Guru
tells. But when they go away from the company of the Guru then they leave
all those things behind. Means they leave empty-handed; whatever Guru has
taught them gets washed away form their mind. So such C-Grade disciples do
not follow Guru's teachings rather; they do something opposite. Such
persons invent their own Fake Ananda Vaniis and distribute them around the
globe.

This very type of phenomenon Baba has fully discussed in various discourses.


                C GRADE DISCIPLES: NO SHORTAGE

                        SEE WHAT THEY DO

There is no scarcity of examples of such C grade disciples. We have seen
them in our life and we will see them in future also. About such C grade
disciples, when they were physically close with Guru it looked like they
are A grade & neo-humanistic. But now their color has been exposed; their
true color came and they forgot all those things what our Guru taught.
Instead, groupism is rampant; and factionalism, lingualism, and so many
isms are raising their ugly head and spreading poison all around-- thus
polluting the entire margii society.

They want to capture even simple margiis and tie them up in the serpentine
noose of groupism. Only almighty Baba is saving the situation.

Furthermore such C grade disciples ruin the Prabhat Samgiita by putting
various filmy dancers and female heroines' pictures on His divine Prabhat
Samgiita cassette covers. Indeed such C grade disciples have made so many
nuisances. They created dogmatic tiirthas and holy lands, memorial, and
dogma after dogma. Not only that, they are seriously involved in curtailing
margiis' rights.

Plus we will see in future how they will collect certain shlokas from
Baba's various books like Shabda Cayanika, A Few Problems Solved, Prout,
and Namah Shivaya Shantaya etc, and issue those things as Ananda Sutram.
And this they will do in the interest of their own faction or group.

The above are all the tainted works of C Grade disciples. Plus these lowly
disciples also invent Fake Ananda Vaniis.


     FAKE ANANDA VANII: GROUPISTS AND SUB-GROUPISTS AT WORK

In the case of fake Ananda Vaniis groupist people are collecting various
quotes in the favour of their group interest and wrongly labeling them as
Ananda Vaniis. This we have seen since 1991.


             BABA'S TRUE ANANDA VANIIS ARE COMPLETE

But those who are A grade disciples, they know that Baba's each and every
thing is unique in its own way. Thus for us as human beings who have
comparatively very little capacity, how much can one understand about
Guru's greatness. So what right do we have to manipulate His writings and
teachings. Because He Himself specially designated a select number of His
teachings as Ananda Vaniis. He Himself has made His Ananda Vaniis as one
bright sparkling entity like a shiny star. Then we do not have right to
interchange those them. Means some teachings He has given as Ananda Sutram,
some as Prout, and some as Shabda Cayanika etc. So true disciples will
respect and abide by Guru's instructions. And only lesser or fake disciples
will mix those things according to their own selfish convenience.


           ANANDA VANIIS: HAND-WRITTEN BY BABA HIMSELF

Here is another point. History bears this testimony that Baba himself wrote
all those Ananda Vaniis in His own handwriting. And he did not do just one
like this; but time after time for many years Baba continued to write those
Ananda Vaniis with His own hand. All senior margiis are aware about those
things. But in the case of discourses, Baba never did like this. Countless
discourse He has given and always He was speaking and devotees were
writing. Whereas Ananda Vaniis are relatively few in number and written by
hand. So discourses are discourses and Ananda Vaniis are Ananda Vaniis.
Each have their own specialty and distinction.

So there is not only 1 reason but so many reasons that make Ananda Vaniis
as something unique unto themselves. Any sincere devotee will certainly not
ruin or manipulate them. But about the present situation here are some more
facts.


                GURU IS BRAHMA & BRAHMA IS GURU

Our Guru is Brahma Himself-- an ordinary human being. His teachings should
be taken seriously. This is one of the major characteristics of the proper
disciple. Means what Guru says, we should follow. And in due course of time
you will understand that what Baba says, that is truth, meaningful. So we
should see what is the validity of the so-called Ananda Vaniis on this very
point. That will make it more clear.


               ANANDA VANIIS ARE FULL DISCOURSES

There are many points to say, but here is the central point. The true
Ananda Vanii which is given by Baba, is complete in itself. It is a full
discourse.

For example, this following true Ananda Vanii is just a couple of lines.

BABA says, "Struggle against evil forces is life. We have to remember this
fact once again on this threshold of a happy New Year." -Ananda Vanii #9
So the above Ananda Vanii is one entire and complete discourse which was
given on 1 January 1959. And it has eternal value; it is timeless.

Hence it cannot be altered, nor can its title be changed. And you will not
find these above two lines, in any of the discourses. You will not get it
anywhere. Because, this true Ananda Vanii given by BABA is complete unto
itself. Nowhere you will find it in Baba's other discourses.

So the whole message here is that true Ananda Vaniis are not the part of
any discourse. They are a discourse unto themselves.

And Baba titled such types of discourses as "Ananda Vaniis". So we cannot
call Ananda Vaniis as any other thing. They are full and complete
discourses- per Baba's design.

So when Baba has named Ananda Vaniis as individual discourses, as true
disciples our duty is to accept that. In contrast, if anybody thinks that
they can make and fabricate their own Ananda Vaniis and haphasardly
grabbing parts of other discourses, then such infamous characters are C
grade disciples, or worse.

The sole point is that when Baba has beautifully named these as "Ananda
Vanii", then we should accept that and keep it as it is. We should respect
Baba's view and guideline and no C grade disciple should create their own
Fake Ananda Vanii.

Baba's style of discourse has its own importance. Usually discourses are
fairly long explanations on certain subjects. In contrast, the "Ananda
Vanii" collection has a different aim and charm. It is short and striking
like an arrow. It is one discourse unto itself. It is not the part of any
discourse.


              EVERY TEACHING HAS ITS OWN BEAUTY
In true course, each and every thing which Baba has given, has its own
inherent charm, beauty, and attraction. Its own uniqueness. Just like, some
of Baba's poetry is available in children's stories also. And He named it
as children's stories. That will be a blunder if we will include those
things in Prabhat Samgiita. And thereby try to increase the number of
Prabhat Samgiita from 5018 to something more than that. Indeed that would
not be good.

Likewise, we know that each and every literature like Namah Shivaya
Shantaya, Namami Krsna Sundaram, Ananda Vacanamrtam, etc, it has its own
beauty and importance. We do not have the right to alter it. Some ignorant
persons, those who do not understand, if they are trying to ruin something,
then we should try to correct them.

The point at hand of course is clear: that the fake Ananda Vaniis which
Centre is issuing is not Ananda Vanii. Rather they are a quote, a section
of a pre-existing discourse. But those in Centre have painted such quotes
of various discourses as "Ananda Vanii". This is the manipulation that is
going on and has been going on since 1991 in the name of Ananda Vanii.


          NOT EVERY QUOTE CAN BE CALLED AS ANANDA VANII

One related point is when one well known Didi collected hundreds of quotes
from Baba's books, and she printed them as "Light Comes". As a very small
pocket book type. And I was in that reporting session where Baba supported
that work.

But can you imagine if that Didi foolishly would have given the name of
that "Light Comes" pocket book as "Ananda Vanii Collection". That means the
"Light Comes" book would have been projected as "Collection of Ananda
Vaniis", then what would have been the situation?

So when Centre and various sub-groups are issuing a few paragraphs
according to their choice, if we call it as "Ananda Vanii" -- if this very
approach of Centre is accepted, then why not the book "Light Comes" should
be treated as "Collection of Ananda Vanii". Why not? So the question is
serious. But those who are dogmatic, they don't like to think on this very
point.

Perhaps because of lack of devotional heart, such people do not understand
that as a devotee, our duty is to keep Guru's things intact. We should not
allow anybody-- like C Grade disciples-- to ruin it.


                   BABA'S DHARMIC GUIDELINE

We should take guideline from this following Baba's teaching.

BABA says, "The characteristic of good people is to fight against
injustice, to firmly adhere to truth and righteousness, to protect the
helpless and fight against all evil persons.  Those who are merely simple
and are of a meek and goody-goody nature are not good people." (FPS part 5,
p.28)

So we should all stand firm and uphold the ideal that Baba's teachings
should not be misrepresented. So Ananda Vaniis and quotes are two different
things. They cannot be interchanged.

Namaskar,
Shivadayal


      *********************************************
                      How to Stay Fit

Baba says, "All glands need regular and proper exercise...systematic and
rhythmic dances are those useful exercises...In the absence of the proper
exercise of those glands, people lose many capacities at an early age--
especially the capacities of deep thinking and of sustained
recollection...Considering all this-- considering the location of the
glands, and the effect of chandas and mudra's-- Shiva invented a unique and
perfect dance: tandava." (NSS, p. 23)
      *********************************************

The Divine Communication

From: "Manindra  Singh"
To: am-global@earthlink.net
Date: 21 Nov 2010 22:51:48 -0000
Subject: The Divine Communication

Baba

"Ke go tumi a'ji bhare nile sa'ji na' baliya' mor phulavane..."  (PS 2111)

Purport:

  O' Divine Entity, who are You who has come today in the flower garden of
my mind & without my awareness filled up Your basket by plucking all my
flowers. Which Divine Personality are You who has done like this.   
  Baba, neither did I ask You to come, nor did I ask You to please sit--
indeed I could not receive You properly in the canopy of my mental flower
garden.  
   O' Baba, Your grace is unimaginable. When I call You, then You do not
come; and now without any invitation You have blessed me by coming-- it is
Your grace. And You are silently looking at everything in the flower garden
of my mind and You are not telling anything-- just You smiled and got
involved in plucking the flowers. Baba, Your liila is unique.
  O Parama Purusa, I do not have the capacity to understand what type of
liila' You are playing. Why do You go on playing with my mind. In my mental
garden, without my awareness, You go on swaying Your love. And You go on
creating vibrations there without my awareness. And You fill my mind with
Your divine attraction and love. Baba, O' the Divine Entity, You have
graced me by coming...


          == DEVOTIONAL HISTORY OF PRABHAT SAMGIITA ==
 
Namaskar,
As every Ananda Margii knows, Baba first began composing Prabhat Samgiita
in Deoghar on September 14, 1982. That was when His divine songs first took
expression.

                       MILK-MAN STORY

And actually that time a few people asked Baba why this was not done
earlier. That it would have been good if Prabhat Samgiita had been given
sooner. Then Baba gave His reply via analogy. He told that just as the
milkman does not milch the cow prematurely, similarly in order to give
Prabhat Samgiita first He had to wait for sadhakas to reach the proper
standard. Thus it took many years and when Ananda Margiis were finally
ready, then Prabhat Samgiita was given. So as soon as the moment was ripe,
as soon as that auspicious time arrived, then Baba graciously started
composing Prabhat Samgiita.


               BEFORE PRABHAT SAMGIITA STARTED

Prior to Prabhat Samgiita, among other things all Ananda Margiis were
encouraged to write and sing their own bhajans. So people were doing just
that; & others were searching for songs in various places. At the same time
though it was a regular occurrence for Baba to be displeased by many of
these bhajans, as they were of dogmatic type. Of course no one was singing
or writing those songs to displease Him, but often the meaning of those
songs were inconsistent with our AM devotional cult. Even such bhajans were
negative style.

For example in the common society at various religious gatherings they sing
songs about dogmatic themes like "heaven and hell", or "Oh Lord I am
sinner and You are great..." etc. And in those earlier days margiis
directly came from those very religions. So they innocently brought those
dogmatic bhajans and they were singing those songs in their mother tongue
at AM programs.

In particular at one DMC, it may have been Patna 1st January DMC, one
religious-based negative bhajan was going on. The song was like this--

         "Majadha'r me par'a' hu'm...Koii nahin saha'ra'".

Meaning: "Baba, I am in a wild whirlpool. And caught up in that.  Huge
amount of uncontrolled water. And floating away. Going to die. I do not
have any hope, that anyone will save me. I am shelterless...." Etc, etc

So when Baba heard this, then He became furious and He sharply interjected
& loudly spoke, "You are not shelterless! Stop this song." Immediately then
Dadas interrupted and the song was stopped. So like that the situation got
managed and other margiis started singing.
                  
So all this was going on for the months and years prior to September 1982--
so Prabhat Samgiita did not just suddenly appear out of the blue.

Because all along Baba had made everyone understand that AM teachings
should be exemplified in all the ways-- including our bhajans or devotional
songs. So with full sincerity margiis, dadas, and didis were trying write
or find songs that were properly linking with Baba's teachings, but they
could not manage.

So Baba had given all sorts of opportunities until finally when the stage
was set, and the moment was right then by Baba's grace Prabhat Samgiita was
started.


              GUIDING IN THE REALM OF AESTHETIC SCIENCE

And being the Taraka Brahma Baba has to make such a contribution. Because
from Prout to Neo-Humanism to Microvita to spiritual science to Dhya'na
etc, and from subjective approach to objective adjustment in all the realms
everything He has given. So in that case how He can lag behind and overlook
the field of aesthetic science. How can He not guide in that realm when it
was the very need to establish a perfect example in aesthetic science--
when this is the linking point from the subtler mind to higher self.


                PRABHAT SAMGIITA IS THE MISSING LINK

As we know crude people do not appreciate finer things; and that is why
Muslims and other such types do not participate in devotional songs. But
when the sweetness of the heart is there and devotees are singing and
dancing etc then that is everything.

Thus by giving Prabhat Samgiita, Baba has beautifully filled one missing
link. Because after half-bath and preparing oneself in the physico-psychic
way, then one link is needed before starting kiirtan. The intimate sharing
of one's personal devotional feeling is needed.


         THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN KIIRTAN AND PRABHAT SAMGIITA

Kiirtan itself is the expression of one idea: Highlighting the glory of
Parama Purus'a. So we are blessed to have our Baba-Nam-Kevalam kiirtan.

But sadhakas are not satisfied with just the singing of kiirtan. Because
every devotee also wants to express some personal, devotional, sentimental
feeling of the heart to their most loving Parama Purusa. Because He is the
Dearest One of the heart, the Heart of hearts, and the Soul of souls.

So it is natural that a sadhaka wants to pour or open their whole heart.
And this can only be done by sitting in a lonely place and singing to Him
directly and talking to Him. And in this way Prabhat Samgiita is the
perfect medium.

Because Kiirtan is more of a collective approach, or we can say that it is
even a little higher because only one idea is there-- that Baba's glory is
everything. That is the one central idea of our kiirtan.

But, as we know, in devotional life all kinds of personal ideas are there
and the mind needs to be able to goad those feelings towards Him. So this
is the essential difference between bhajans and kiirtan. Because so many
sentimental feelings and so many tales of the heart cannot get expressed in
the collective flow. Because everybody has their own feeling; all the
devotees like to share in their own way; and it depends on everyone's
standard. Some devotees have a special type of relation with Parama Purusa
and some have a different type of relation with Parama Purusa.


            PRABHAT SAMGIITA: AN INTIMATE EXPERIENCE

So Baba has given Prabhat Samgiita as it is an intimate link. Although
every devotee will admit that 'Parama Purusa, You are infinite'; but at the
same time they will say "Toma're ca'i ye ekante...", I want to have You in
an isolated place. O' infinite Parama Purusa I want to have You in a very
personal way. In an isolated place so I can open my heart, and You are mine
and mine alone.

Hence although Parama Purusa is infinite, but true devotees do not feel
that He is infinite. They feel that: 'He is mine and mine alone'.

So in that case there is a deep need to communicate their inner feeling,
otherwise how can there be intimacy. And without intimacy, nobody can
develop in sadhana, because that is devotion. And that only comes with the
pouring of the heart to Him-- He who is most close.

In that case without bhajan type of songs, and especially without
Prabhat Samgiita, there is nothing like that. So that is why this missing
link of heart-felt intimacy was there but Baba has fulfilled that gap in
1982 with the birth of Prabhat Samgiita.


                     BABA'S FIRST SONGS

Thus as Baba began composing songs that intimacy got expressed. And that
depth of personal feeling has gotten deeper and deeper since that starting
point.

As we all know initially Baba started with the song: "Bandhu he niye calo..."
Meaning: O' Parama Purusa, lead me on towards the fountain of effulgence.
O' my Lord, please grace me and take me along with You--on Your path. I want
to move along with You...

So Baba's holy creation of Prabhat Samgiita is from darkness to effulgence.
Where the devotee says, O' Baba lead me on this very path.
Then in the second song-- "E ga'n a'ma'r a'lor jharn'a' dha'ra'-- the
devotee is saying that this is my song of effulgence.

And on and on they go...


       EACH AND EVERY PRABHAT SAMGIITA HAS ITS OWN BEAUTY

So each and every song of Prabhat Samgiita has its own unique beauty. And
the speciality is that the entire philosophy is contained within this plus
the feeling of the heart is expressed directly to Parama Purusa. In this
way they are all very personalized.

Thus in true sense Prabhat Samgiita is not for collective singing like
kiirtan etc. Certainly there are a few songs like that no doubt. But all in
all mostly they are personal songs that are completely intimate. And that
is why Baba Himself has written songs such as #463 and #3189 which
essentially say that-- O' Parama Purusa, those songs which I sing with
others in public, those songs are not my favourite; they do not carry the
inner feeling of my heart. Only when I sing in a private and secluded
place, only then in an intimate way can I express the true feeling of my
heart. Only then can I sing my favourite and most intimate songs.

In contrast, that type of inner talking and sharing of the heart with
Parama Purusa is not there in the kiirtan. When in fact the human mind
itself is dominated with various devotional sentiments. It likes to say
something-- listen something and have some special feeling. And except for
Prabhat Samgiita, this cannot get expressed in any other way.

So that is why in each and every devotee's life Prabhat Samgiita has a
special place. Of course each and every teaching of Baba has a special
place. Some in the realm of philosophy, some in social science, etc-- but
Prabhat Samgiita this is a very close affair that is between me and Parama
Purusa. And like this Baba has guided that in this way you can say all
these things.


                          SHOWING THE WAY

So before Prabhat Samgiita, people were unaware how they could proceed
in their devotional relation with Baba. They were unsure as to whether they
should accuse Parama Purusa about His heartlessness-- that He is not
responding to my calling. Or whether they should tell Him that, O' Parama
Purusa, You are so cruel and You do not care about me that how I am crying'.
And not just now but all these feelings were coming earlier also. But
devotees were unaware whether this is proper or improper to say like that.

But in Prabhat Samgiita, Baba has addressed all these things and given the
answer.


                   NO BARRIERS OR COMPLEXES

So in Prabhat Samgiita, Baba guides us that between Parama Purus'a and
devotees there should not be any barriers. Barriers are not good as they
only create nahimnabodh, difference of duality, and feelings of high and low.

Whereas with Parama Purusa we have a unique relation as He is our most
close One. In that manner, Baba has given a new way of thinking about
Parama Purusa that to what extent He can be close.

Because in all those dogmatic religions, like Christianity etc, it is even
a sin to have some sort of loving feeling towards Parama Purusa. Rather one
has to keep distance from the God as He is very cold and distant like some
judge.


                HOW THE SWEET RELATION STARTED
 
But since the time of Lord Krsna this sweet & loving relation with Parama
Purusa has started. And across all the lands devotees from far and wide are
moving ahead in this way. Plus in certain countries it is there. For
example in India certainly it is there-- because in general people have
love for Parama Purusa. But in Christianity and Islam, there is no such a
feeling of love. Rather people are afraid and fearful that otherwise God
will not tolerate and we will be beaten. So two different feelings are
there side by side.

According to Baba, this loving feeling was introduced 3500 years ago and
now it has matured, since all these years. So for those who have that very
good samskara or for the common general public-- about which the standard
is far higher now-- now each and every Ananda Margii can understand that
loving relation with Parama Purus'a, to some or more degree. That is why in
all the discourses Baba says that one should love Parama Purusa. Because
that love is the ultimate way towards realisation-- and that love is devotion.


                  AM IS THE DEVOTIONAL PATH
 
So Ananda Marga is the devotional path, the loving path, and this is the
way & all the steps. The practical way He has given. Because by theory
alone how much can one understand. By theory alone the heart does not get
satisfied.

Thus the heart does not get fulfilled or satiated by theory. But when the
devotional link is there then the heart gets satiated. Indeed this is the
first step that how one can make Parama Purusa their own and establish a
personal link with Him.

And in that way more closeness and more closeness and then higher lessons
and other things come. But when this basic link is missing then everything
is dry.

Just like when you sow the seed if moisture is not there then in spite of
all the qualities, that seed will never grow. Similarly Prabhat Samgiita
infuses moisture in the heart; it infuses sweetness, so that devotion can
grow.


                LINKING WITH PARAMA PURUSA
 
So this is the beginning link that by infusing the Ista mantra, this will
make more closeness. But for all this there needs to be one link. That who
is Parama Purusa, who is mine, what type of relation do I have, what way I
can express to Him, how far I can open my heart to Him-- how far I have the
liberty to do all these things.

And about this Baba openly talks in various songs. So each and every
Prabhat Samgiita expresses its own unique qualities. Those who are not
understanding Prabhat Samgiita think that all these songs are common-- that
all are the same. But it is not like that. Each and every song has its own
way of expression and its own beauty. It needs that those understanding
should deeply know this very thing. So Prabhat Samgiita is a unique gift of
Parama Purusa and that day started in 1982.


              LONG TERM PREPARATION GOING ON

So by His divine grace Baba Himself has been preparing the sadhaka's minds
for a  long time. And this was the need; thus when Baba thought that it was
the opportune time to impart this lesson then He gave it. And when He did
that that was the right time.

So nobody should think that it took too long to make Prabhat Samgiita or
that it got very delayed, or it got started late. It is not at all like that.


                    BABA'S DIVINE WAY
 
Everything which Baba has done is perfectly on time. So in 1982 when
finally the time came and people became qualified; or Baba made it that
this is the time when people will be ready to understand those highly
devotional things. All that is perfect planning and execution.
Because if Baba had given it earlier then many people would not have
understood the internal beauty of Prabhat Samgiita. And for the common
people He has brought this very gift.

In the individual existence all these things can take shape because Parama
Purusa sits in the heart of each and every devotee and He guides them in
His own way. But in the collective life it is comparatively more difficult.
The timing has to be right. Thus in 1982 the conditions were ripe for the
delivery or divine gift of Prabhat Samgiita and those divine songs will
continue to guide devotees and the entire humanity from now up to eternity.


                       BABA'S BLESSING

Baba says, "All are bound by the ties of fraternity. We will have to move
forward, shoulder to shoulder, together with all." (PNS-21)

Namaskar,
Manindra



        *************************************************
                Wealth and Sin Live Side by Side

Baba says, "The person who cannot cheat others cannot become a millionaire
overnight. You know as I told many times the goddess of wealth is
established in sin. Only the person who is a terrible sinner and knows how
to cheat others as quickly as possible, only they can be come a
millionaire. The goddess of wealth is the goddess of sin." (Discourse:
'Introduction of Various local Gods and Goddesses', AV-11 [H] pg 7)
        *************************************************