Sriram Jayaraman
1996 Brindavan

Once a Sai student, always a Sai student. There are times when we may forget Swami, but His shield of grace is always around us at all times and in all places.

My narrative takes me back to a day in 1996 when Swami was giving Padanamaskar. I knelt down before Him for His blessings. Swami spontaneously uttered “Always” and placed His hand on my head. That moment is etched in my memory and gives me much-needed reassurance when I feel down or under pressure be it at work or otherwise. It has been 18 years since I left the portals of our institute, but I realize that He has taken control of my life and guided me in every step. Be it the time when I had to take up a new job or take up roles where I was not sure how I’ll be able to perform, Swami has been the spirit that operated and guided me.

I think about the evolution of my relationship with Swami over these many years and how it continues to do so even now. Initially it was Swami’s physical proximity, Prasadams and gifts that were of prime importance. It was followed up with prayers on family needs and settling down in a good job and a happy family. As I grew up more I realized that devotion to Swami does not mean praying and asking for what we want, but having the attitude to accept what He gives to us. For how long can we live a life that expects (material) blessings from Swami? I have now come to a firm belief and understanding that these are incidental, and Swami takes care of it based on the merits of our Karma.

Swami has always given and continues to give without any expectations from us or by judging us. If there is a way we can repay Him, it is by following His teachings and pray for His guidance to help us evolve to the level He will be proud of. In this context we also have His large and selfless Sai organization that we can be associated with in our respective places and partake in Swami’s activities and programs.

I pray to Swami to give us the motivation and blessing to steadfastly serve and spread His message not by words alone, but by actions and by living. Considering the very many negativities and human frailties that we may have, I pray to Swami to work on us so that we may take one step at a time to reach the level where He would be happy and proud of us.

Swami’s assurance to me over 18 years ago holds true till eternity. Whether I am willing to earn His grace is in my hands. Swami, kindly lead me to what You have come to give us.

Brother Sriram Jayaraman did his graduation in Physics from Brindavan. He is a Senior Professional with a reputed IT firm & is an active worker of the Banglore Sai Samithi. While in the hostel, he served as part of the sick ward team which takes care of ailing students’ needs