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Blessings for Life

If you sow the seed of a neem tree, a neem tree grows and yields bitter fruit. If you sow the seed of a mango tree, a mango tree grows and yields sweet fruit. The fruit does not depend merely on the soil. Certain seeds sprout only in certain types of soil. The nature of the tree depends upon the seed.

Similarly, in this world, the mother is largely responsible for shaping the nature of her child. Just as the crop depends upon the seed, the child’s conduct depends greatly upon the mother. From early childhood, she must inculcate good qualities, noble thoughts, and sacred values in the child.

Aryamba was one such virtuous mother. Because of her pure and noble thoughts, Adi Shankaracharya became a great and learned person. His greatness was made possible by the way his mother raised him.

Consider the life of Gandhiji as well. His mother observed a vow to eat only after hearing the call of the cuckoo. One day, the bird did not sing until afternoon and Gandhiji’s mother remained hungry. He went outside, imitated the cuckoo’s call, and returned to tell her that she could now eat. His mother understood what had happened. She was deeply pained that a son born from her womb had spoken an untruth. Seeing her sorrow, Gandhiji resolved from that moment onwards to speak only the truth. Gandhiji also had an ayah named Rambha who told him, “Whenever fear arises, repeat the name of Lord Rama.” From that day onwards, Gandhiji chanted Rama’s name, and the name remained with him until the end of his life.

Consider also Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar. He came from a very poor family and studied under the streetlights. His mother wore simple clothes, yet she taught her son noble values, reminding him that education should not be merely used merely to earn a livelihood, but for the upliftment of society.

One day, during a village fair, Vidyasagar noticed his mother’s old clothes and asked whether she wanted anything. She told him that she would ask at the right time. Later, when he had earned fame and wealth, he asked her to express her wishes. She replied, “I have three desires.

First, build a school in our village, because the children have to walk a long distance to study. Second, build a hospital, because our village has no such facility. Third, remain humble, earn a good name, and bring joy to your mother.” Vidyasagar fulfilled all her wishes and remained humble, simple, and devoted to his mother throughout his life.

Once, while travelling to deliver a speech, Vidyasagar saw an officer at the railway station grumbling because no coolie had arrived to carry his small bag. Vidyasagar stepped forward and carried it for him. When they reached their destination, Vidyasagar refused money offered to him saying, “The opportunity to help you is reward enough.” Later, Vidyasagar took his place on stage to deliver his speech. The same officer, seated in the front row, recognized him, and felt ashamed. He then rushed to the stage to ask for forgiveness. Vidyasagar replied, “Whatever I am is only because of my mother.” All these great men were shaped by noble mothers.

As My students, you must become good mothers and raise your children to be responsible citizens. This will be your contribution to society and to the nation. As you sow, so shall you reap. Therefore, nurture good thoughts in your mind.

Your foremost duty is towards your family. Before going out for work or service, fulfil your duty at home. Be a good wife, a good daughter-in-law, and a responsible mother. Love your mother-in-law as well; she is not merely a mother-in-law, but a mother-in-love.

Education is not for earning a living; education is for life. Today, people change jobs in pursuit of money. Do not work merely for money. Lead a virtuous life.

There are four purusharthas in life: Dharma, Artha, Kama, and Moksha. You must earn wealth (Artha), only through righteous means. Kama means desire, not lust. Through right desire, you should seek liberation (Moksha). Among these, Dharma is supreme. When you follow dharma, you attain the fifth purushartha: parama Prema or universal love.

Remember the three Ds that you must follow in life: Devotion, Duty, and Discipline. Devotion is the governor. Duty and Discipline are like bodyguards.

Each one of you has Shakti within you. Never think that you are powerless. Only when you recognize the strength within you can you develop it. Hanuman was able to cross the ocean in single leap only after Jambavantha reminded him of his strength. In the same way, you must be reminded of the strength already present within you.

Guided by Narada, Rukmini earned the grace of God through devotion. During the Tulabharam, Sathyabhama placed all her wealth on the balance to equal the weight of Krishna, yet she could not equal his weight. Rukmini took a tulsi leaf, wrote Krishna’s name on it, and placed it on the balance Immediately the scales dipped. Only Krishna’s name could equal His weight. Dhruva and Prahlada too are examples of the immense power within.

Who will remind you of your Shakti? I Myself am telling you. Earn the grace of God and you can succeed in all spheres of life. Never fear anything.

In life, there are many tests. People often dislike them, but God gives these tests. Without passing an examination, you cannot advance to the next class. Similarly, these tests will lead to success. Face life with courage, and you can reach greater heights.

The body is like an iron safe, do not allow it to rust. Good qualities (Sathgunas) and good thoughts are like diamonds and jewels within it. Use the body for good work; do not waste it.

Do whatever you like, but remember: I am constantly guiding you.

Rendered from an interview granted by Bhagawan to the outgoing batch students, Anantapur Campus, in the Bhajan Hall at Prasanthi Nilayam, 12 February 1995.