Story: describing His beauty & charm + 4 more

Baba

Story: describing His beauty & charm

Namaskar,

Baba has come to Muzaffarpur to give darshan. The year is 1956 and I am a very new margii. I am seeing Him for the very first time and am so enchanted by His presence - my mind is fully ensconced in His look and charm. I am not even comprehending what He is saying as my analytical brain is not functioning at all. All I know is that the sound of His voice is very beautiful.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

As He delivers His discourse, I am gazing at Him, and He is looking at me. Our eyes are fixed on each other. I am completely magnetized by His divine presence.

Now the discourse has ended, I have come to know that Baba is going to Jamalpur the very next day. I have decided that I too must go to Jamalpur. I cannot bear the thought of not being with Baba. Even during the night I am thinking and dreaming of Him. When morning arrives I quickly make all the needed arrangements for going to Jamalpur. By Baba's grace, the journey passes smoothly.

Baba orders me to start a newspaper

I am in Jamalpur, and just now I got word that I have been given permission to go on field walk with Baba.

While on field walk, Baba asks me to start a newspaper.

I reply, "Yes, Baba."

We continue walking. By His grace, I feel compelled to take on the assigned task. The rest of the day passes in a flash, drenched in His love and care. My short stay in Jamalpur is coming to a close, and I am preparing to return to my home in Muzaffarpur. I feel like the return journey cannot happen quickly enough. By Baba's grace, I arrive safely.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/


My first article

So here I am. I have returned to Muzaffarpur, and I am already thinking about what I will write for the newspaper. Having just been with Baba, I can only think of His magnificent beauty and charm. So I have decided to write about Baba Himself. In my article, I compare Baba's purity to that of the Ganges River.

I am so enthralled by Baba's loving manner and divine personality that I could not resist writing about Him in this way. I have decided to publish the article on the front page of our paper which will be distributed to both margiis and the general public.

By Baba's grace, the project has come to fruition and the paper has been published and circulated all around the local area.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

The margiis became furious

Within one or two days, the local margiis are up in arms and furious with me. They keep telling me, "You are just a new margii - you do not understand - we do not believe in this dogma that the Ganges is pure and holy. In Ananda Marga, we do not subscribe to the belief that bathing in the Ganges purifies one of their sins. What you have written is completely wrong and misleading."

They decided that the leftover newspapers should not be circulated and that in the next issue an apology should be offered. This is what they concluded.

In turn, I am trying to convince them of my feelings and intentions, but no one is listening to me. They are not understanding my perspective.

Baba supported me

Some have decided to bring this matter to Baba. They sent one margii to ask Baba about all that occurred. We are awaiting His review. In the meantime, I continue to be pressured and criticised by the local margiis. A few days pass in this way.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Finally, the margii has come with the news. The margii reports to us that Baba has said that, "What Sashi Ranjan has written is a comparison. When the writer has a positive mind-set then such a comparison is OK."

Alas, Baba knows my inner feeling, and He has approved of my words and told this to everyone. Hearing this, all the margiis apologise to me and accept the article.

Writing style & use of similes

The above account shared with us by Shrii Shashi Ranjan is quite meaningful on multiple levels.

Firstly, it is a very intimate tale of one bhakta's real-life experience with Baba. And secondly, we all get the teaching that using comparisons when writing about Parama Purusa is ok - so long as one's heart and mindset are positive. With good intention, one may use these types of analogies and poetic comparisons to highlight and glorify Baba. If one uses the same type of analogy with malintent to undermine the stature of Guru then that is sinful. But when the intention of the writer is positive, then that simile is ok. Plus similar comparisons are used in numerous discourses as well.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Ananda Marga philosophy says, "By kiirtana you become as pure as if you have taken a “holy dip in the Ganges.” What does a holy dip in the Ganges mean for a sádhaka? It means doing kiirtana constantly." (1)

In the above discourse, the comparison of the river Ganges is used to relay the effect of doing kiirtan. In so many ways we are getting the idea how we are to describe Him, i.e. through poetic comparisons or similes. It is a way for sadhakas to share their feelings about that otherwise indescribable Personality.

Conclusion

Before coming to Ananda Marga, Shashi Ranjan thought of the Ganges as being very pure. This is the common understanding in India. So with his heartfelt feeling he compared Baba in this manner, and Baba gave His divine approval. Without such comparisons, there is no way for bhaktas to express themselves when talking about the greatness and charm of Sadguru.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Namaskar,
In Him,
Mahadeva

~ In-depth study ~

The above account is the story from one well-known, great bhakta: Shrii Shashi Ranjan Sahu was a key member of parliament with a high post; thereafter, he was influential with the founding of the PBI (Proutist Block of India).

Common in Ananda Marga literature

And indeed we see that in our many spiritual treasures, Ananda Marga philosophy uses comparisons to describe the greatness, charm, love and beauty of Parama Purusa, as well as to talk about spiritual life.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

In countless Prabhat Samgiita compositions, Parama Purusa is compared with the sun, moon, and stars - and in so many other ways. For example, in the song, "Nayane ma'mata' bhara'" (PS #12), in the first stanza His smile is compared with radiant pearls, "Hasite mukuta jhara'". And in PS #913, it says: "Candana sama tava a'shisa  a'ma'ke" meaning, Your grace is a soothing balm like sandalwood paste.

Verily there are so many songs where His love or His arrival are compared with the sweetness of a flower or the cool summer breeze. Comparisons are part and parcel of the whole entire expression in Prabhat Samgiita. They allow bhaktas to know and describe the Divine Entity Who would otherwise remain beyond description. So this is an important element of these songs.

Reference
1. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 22, Kiirtana: The Panacea for all Afflictions

Plagiary?

It is the accepted international standard and Baba's system not to copy another's work and publish it in your own way. Baba has given a very strict rule on plagiarism. Why is Baba against plagiarism or stealing someone's work? There are many reasons:

1) It is against the code of asteya (non-stealing).

2) Countless stories of bhaktas need to be published. But some do not want to do the hard work of compiling and writing these stories, so they just steal them from others. But new stories need to be told, otherwise so many unpublished stories of sadhakas will be lost and forgotten forever. So watch out for story thieves, and kindly help them not to steal by posting on social media in their own way. If you want to forward this story then attach the following yellow section with the story: 

“Courtesy of unknown bhakta via Ananda Marga Universal (https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/)”

This will be treated as the standard protocol.

*        *        *

The below section is an entirely different topic, unrelated to the above material.
It stands on its own merit as a point of interest and ideological awareness.

*        *        *

== Section 2: Prabhat Samgiita ==

You are the only One

"Toma'rei a'mi bha'lobasi, toma'ri katha' koye ja'i..." (Prabhat Samgiita #0975)

Purport:

Parama Purusa, I love only You and talk only about You. All my thoughts are goaded unto You. My days pass singing Your glory and spreading Your eternal teachings - Ananda Marga ideology. I am moving on Your path, day and night. It is Your grace. My aim is to always adhere to all Your do's and don'ts and aspire to follow all Your guidelines, i.e. the path of dharma. Besides You there is nothing. For me You are the only One. I don’t depend on money, wealth, power, and post---they are not going to save me; they are not my shelter. Baba, You alone are my Polestar. 

Unfathomable Entity, Your magnificence is resplendent across this entire universe - throughout the galaxies, nebula, stars, planets, and moon. Everywhere I see Your unparalleled greatness getting expressed. You are everything: The source and origin of life and the final Desideratum. Because of that, I long for Your blessing day and night, all the 24 hours. In my sadhana, in my dhyana, and in the deep core of my heart I long for Your close proximity and mercy.

Baba, Parama Purusa, the entire creation is within You. Everyone is in Your mind: In pain they are crying, in pleasure they are dancing. You have arranged all my needs and requirements. Nothing good in my life is due to my virtue. You alone are the Benevolent Cause. Because of Your irresistible, exquisite attraction and pull, I do sadhana, sing bhajans, chant Your kiirtan, and ultimately come close to You. It is all due to Your endless compassion.
 
Baba, I only love You and chant Your splendour…

== Section: Important Teaching ==

Formula behind gender selection

Ananda Marga ideology states, "Jiivátmá is neither a male nor a female, nor a hermaphrodite. For the proper expression of one's latent samskáras [reactive momenta] one gets reborn into the body of a woman or a man or sometimes a hermaphrodite. There is no question of high or low, superior or inferior, noble or ignoble because whatever might be the sex of the body, the jiivátmá is just the witnessing faculty of the mind it is attached to. It is unassailed by the sexual differences of the quinquelemental bodies. The unexpressed psychic reactions (samskáras) of the disembodied soul are guided by the Cosmic Mind and adjusted with a proper structure, at a proper time and a proper place, providing a congenial environment for the expression of the unrequited samskáras. Depending upon the nature of the samskáras there is either the predominance of the tendency to attract (samyojanii shakti) or the predominance of the tendency to be attracted (vibhájanii shakti). The nature of the force of attraction is to draw the object of enjoyment towards itself, and the nature of the force which is attracted is to move towards the object of enjoyment. When there is dominance of samyojanii shakti in one's latent saḿskáras, the disembodied soul attains a female body for its outward expression, and conversely where there is a dominance of vibhájanii shakti, it attains a male body. Where there is an approximate balance between the two, the disembodied soul attains the body of a hermaphrodite. Of course, even in the hermaphrodite the balance between saḿyojanii and vibhájanii shaktis is not perfect; there is a slight tilt in favour of one or the other. That's why some hermaphrodites are more inclined towards masculinity, and some, femininity." (1)

Reference
1. Ananda Marga Ideology & Way of Life - 7, Form and Formless

== Section: Important Teaching ==

Key point to bring people together

Ananda Marga philosophy states, “In Europe Latin scholars tried their best to suppress other languages. The Arabic scholars of the Middle East wanted to suppress Persian. And in recent years the people of Wales and Quebec in Canada have protested against the imposition of the English language. They preferred to use their own languages as the medium of expression. In modern India, too, due to selfish political influences, important languages such as Bhojpurii, Maethilii, Mágadhii, Chattrisgaŕhii, Avadhii, Bunddkháńd́ii and Marwarii are being suppressed. Their speakers will certainly not accept this silently, but will surely protect against this unjust domination. Recently there was an open revolt against the imposition of Hindi as the national language of India. That’s why, it is better to bring people speaking different languages closer to one another than to suppress their languages. As a result, people will feel inspired to speak other languages. The arbitrary imposition of any language invites trouble.” (1)


Religions: cause of mayhem

Ananda Marga philosophy states, “There are a variety of religions in the world formulated by different propounders. But instead of enhancing the spirit of unity in the human society, these religions have actually increased disunity and mutual conflict. How many wars have been fought in the name of religion? So, far from being a unifying force, religion should be seen as a cause of disharmony.”

“One thing should be remembered: Dharma and religion – or “Imán” and “majhab” in Arabic – are not synonymous. Throughout the ages, Dharma or Imán has been propagating teachings to unite humanity. Religions are many, but Dharma is one, and that Dharma is Manava [[Human]] Dharma – a system for the attainment of the Supreme. Based on practical wisdom and logical faith, Dharma is a rational approach for the realization of Absolute Truth. External paraphernalia are not required for the practice of Dharma: the only prerequisite is a unit mind. Within Dharma there is no room for exploiting people entrapped in the snare of blind faith, and no scope for self-aggrandisement or the pursuit of group interests. Love, freedom and equality are its foundation stones. As Dharma is beyond time, space and person, there is no scope for Svajátiiya [[differences within a species]], Vijátiiya [[differences between species]] or Svagata [[differences within the same unit being]]. Dharma is inchangeable.”

“Eka eva suhrd dharma nidhane’pyanuyáti yah.”

[Dharma is the only real friend; it follows one even after death]

“Religion is the exact opposite. It is based on the following three factors:
1. Psycho-sentiment
2. Physico-ritualistic observance
3. Tradition” (2)

References
1. A Few Problems Solved - 2, Human Society Is One and Indivisible – 2
2. A Few Problems Solved - 2, Human Society Is One and Indivisible – 2

== Section: Important Teaching ==

Important role of philosophy

Ananda Marga philosophy, "I said a little while ago, and I say again, that the psychic structures of human beings should be created by an all-encompassing philosophy which combines the magnanimity of the sky with the vibrational vastness of the ocean, ruffled by endless waves. A philosophy which fails to do so plunges people into the dark caverns of dogma and stifles their mundane, supra-mundane and spiritual progress under its crushing weight. People forget that the unlimited expansion of intellect is the predominant quality of human beings. When they lose this quality and become like beasts drawn to sensual pleasures, then regardless of what they might have achieved, they hardly deserve to be called human beings. Thus it is the duty of human beings to embrace with open heart and outstretched arms that all-inclusive philosophy which will never encourage them to harm humanity, either directly or indirectly." (1)

Reference
1. Namah Shiváya Shántáya, Disc: 14

== Section: Hindi Quote ==

स्वर्ग क्या
“स्वः युक्त “ग”, स्वर्ग | सुख-दुःख की अनुभूति यहीं होती है | तो, मनुष्य अच्छा कर्म करने के बाद मन में जो तृप्ति होती है, वह मन के स्वर्लोक में अर्थात्‌ मनोमय कोष में होती है | तो, ये स्वर्लोक हमेशा तुम्हारे साथ हैं | तुम सत्कर्म करते हो, तुम मानव से अतिमानव बनते हो तो, स्वर्लोक ख़ुशी से भर जाता है | और, तुम मनुष्य के तन में, मनुष्य की शकल में अधम कर्म करते हो, तो स्वर्लोक दुःख में भर जाता है, मन में ग्लानि होती है, आत्मग्लानि होती है | तो, स्वर्ग-नरक अलग नहीं, इसी दुनिया में | और, तुम्हारे मन के अन्दर ही स्वर्ग छिपा हुआ है | तो, जो पण्डित हो चाहे अपण्डित हो, स्वर्ग-नरक की कहानी, किस्सा-कहानी सुनाते हैं, वे सही काम नहीं करते हैं | वे मनुष्य को misguide करते हैं, विपद में परिचालित करते हैं । उनसे दूर रहना, वे dogma के प्रचारक हैं |”

[यह प्रवचन-अंश, बाबा के कैसेट से सीधे लिखा गया है । बाबा का यह असली प्रवचन, अमृतोपदेश है। आनन्दमार्ग हिन्दी पुस्तकों में छपे प्रवचन तो नक़ली प्रवचन हैं, असली नहीं हैं -- बंगालीकरण (बँगलाइजेसन) के तहत उनकी बर्बादी की गई]  (1)

Reference
1. MD,may 19 varanasi,v19-02-(H)

== Section: Prabhat Samgiita ==

तुमने अहैतुकी कृपा करके सूखे हृदय को भक्ति और प्रेम से भर  दिया है।

प्रभात संगीत 2655  अन्धार हियाय तुमि आलो, नाशो  कालो...

भावार्थ

हे परमपुरुष! तुम प्रेम स्वरूप हो। तुम सदैव कृपालु हो। अंधेरे और दुखी हृदय में तुम परम प्रकाश हो। तुम मेरे हृदय की मिठास हो। तुम हृदय के आनन्द हो। तुम अपनी अनन्त कृपा से अंधेरे को हटा देते हो। हे मेरे प्रभु! तुम सबके हृदय को भक्ति भाव से प्रकाशित कर  देते हो। अनुपजाऊ सूखे मरुस्थल जैसे हृदय में तुम भक्ति अमृत की वर्षा कर उसे सुमधुर सुगंधित हरियाली में बदल देते हो। बाबा तुम सब कुछ कर सकते हो। तुम सदैव कृपालु हो, तुमने अपनी अहैतुकी कृपा से सूखे हृदय को भक्ति और प्रेम से छलका दिया है।

 हे परम सत्ता! तुम्हारे अलौकिक छत्ते के नीचे सभी आश्रय पाते हैं सूखी लता, और बिखरी फूलों की कलियों  को, तुम अपने प्रेमस्पर्श  से मधुर बना देते हो । और पौधे तथा हरियाली जिन्होंने ग्रीष्म के कारण अपनी सुंदरता खो दी है उन्हें अपनी कृपा से ठंडी ताजी वयारि प्रदान करते हो। तुम अपने प्रेम और आनन्दायी उपस्थिति से सब के दुखों और कष्टों को दूर कर देते हो। और जो जीवन से निराश  हो चुके हैं, जिनके पास निवेदन करने के लिये शब्द  और भाषा नहीं है, उनके लिये निकटतम प्रियतम बन कर  हृदय में बस जाते हो।  जिनके पास आगे बढ़ने का सामर्थ्य  नहीं , दबे कुचले और हताश  हैं, तुम अपनी कृपा से उनके हृदय, अमृत से भर देते हो। बाबा! तुम सब के साथी और शुभचिंतक हो, और आवश्यकता के समय अपनी दिव्य करुणा से सब की मदद करते हो।

हे परमपुरुष बाबा! तुम ही सर्वाधिक कृपालु हो। पातकी और महापातकी, पतित और भ्रष्ट सभी तुम्हारी कृपा चाहते हैं, क्योंकि वे जानते हैं कि तुम उन्हें बचा लोगे। यही कारण है कि केवल भक्त ही नहीं पापी भी तुम्हारी ओर दौड़ते है, सभी तुम्ही में आश्रय पाते हैं।  बाबा! तुम किसी से भी घृणा नहीं करते, चाहे वे भयंकर महापापी ही क्यों न हों। बाबा, जाने अन्जाने सभी अपने मन में तुम्हारे आशीष की चाह छिपाये दौड़ रहे हैं। जिस प्रकार मधुमक्खियाॅं , मधु प्राप्त हो सकने वाले रास्ते की खोज कर उस ओर भागती हैं, उसी प्रकार भक्त भी तुम्हारी ओर भागते हैं । हे दिव्य, हे बाबा! तुम मधुर से भी मधुरतम हो, और सभी सुखों और आनन्द के धाम हो | ए मेरे प्यारे ! तुम महान से भी महानतम  हो। 

== Section 3: Links ==

Postings to Read

Who received this blessing

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2017/08/unique-reason-behind-babas-scolding-3.html

Remedy for debased thinking

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2014/11/mythological-characters.html

Fame today

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2013/10/hungry-for-praise.html

Prout's view of legalized cannabis

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2017/12/cannabis-am-3-more.html

Sadhaka life over the ages + 2 more

Baba

Sadhaka life over the ages

Namaskar, 

In today’s society, there are many advancements in the physical sphere, and generally those goad one to be involved in crude things, thereby degenerating oneself. On one side, due to the development of science in the present day society, there are so many avenues by which people are degenerating their mind. Things which degrade the mind are easily available. At the same time, for good people, there are many positive things which are also now easily available that are very helpful for one’s psychic and spiritual progress. So in this era, degeneration is easily achieved, and psycho-spiritual progress can also be more easily achieved than ever before. 
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/


More advancement more degeneration

In ancient times, there was limited scope for degeneration from the spiritual path. But today, with advancement in the physical sphere, there is larger scope for degeneration. We see how various types of munitions people are killing other human beings at an alarming rate. Indeed, people harm others at every step using various means. In contrast, in ancient times, one could kill another human with stones, but by using stones how many people will they kill? Whereas nowadays with mass shootings and mass killings that number is far, far higher. In ancient times, if one was using a stone to kill another person, then both had access stones. So everything was available to all. But now that is not the case. One person goes in public places and starts to shoot when those present do not have any access to weapons or shields etc for defending themselves.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/
 

Analogy of travel by ship, versus swimming

In today’s society which has achieved so much progress in the material sphere, why take the spiritual approach of those of ancient times---nature worship. When the revolutionary process of Ananda Marga sadhana is there one should follow it. Take the analogy of travel by ship, versus swimming. If 100 persons swim to go from one end of the ocean to another, then a few may reach but so many may die during their journey. But a wise person will travel via ship instead. So in the same way, we should follow Ananda Marga sadhana -- and not idol worship or religious rituals.


Religion is against dharma

Religions do not preach dharma. In the name of religion, they say if you do such-and-such then you will get more money, you will pass in exams, your daughter’s marriage will be done etc. This way they cheat. Religion does not teach that the goal is Parama’tma’. In Ananda Marga, in the very first step itself, it is taught that one should never be selfish, but rather should think about the welfare of all, seeing all as manifestations of Brahma. Whereas in religions due to ignorance people blindly follow certain dogmatic rituals to obtain materialistic aims. 
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Nonetheless, among hundreds of millions of religious followers, there may be a precious few who become bhaktas because of their good samskara and bhakti for Parama’tma’. Slowly by doing bhajan and ideation they get involved deeply over time and start to devote more and more of their life for Parama’tma’. So even without Ananda Marga sadhana, some people may slowly progress spiritually. It is similar to the aforementioned analogy about swimming or going by rowboat instead of using a more advanced mode of transportation like an ultra-modern steel ship.

Parama’tma’ is all-merciful and gracious. When He sees that one has strong bhakti for Him, then He introduces the sadhaka to Ananda Marga. It is akin to how if a child is trying to walk, but is falling after many tries, then the parents help the child, and thereafter the child walks on its own. Parma’tma’ sees everything, so when He sees bhakti in bhaktas then He shows them the right path, Ananda Marga. 

 
Diverted from sadhana

Even within AMPS we see that some lose the path. The reason is that their negative samskaras are so dominant that it suppresses their bhakti. The sadhaka had some bhakti and that is why Baba brought him/her to the path of Ananda Marga, but now the sadhaka’s mind is occupied by various samskaras: 

• Inborn negative samskaras
  
• Imposed negative samskaras
  
• Earned negative samskaras
  

That is why they lost the track of sadhana for the time being. Like when one goes to an airport to go to a specific place, one had the intention to go to a particular destination and that is why one has come to the airport, but now they forget that destination and they go on a plane to go somewhere else, temporarily. 
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

The overall idea is that when people are diverted from their path of sadhana they drift away. And either others help them come back on the right path, or they face some tragedy in life to open their eyes. The tragedy reminds the sadhaka that Parama’tma’ is everything in life whereas the material riches and pleasures are just momentary. Sometimes it takes much longer for people to realize this fact, and till that time comes they continue to drift away. Best is to continually analyse and reflect upon one’s actions and dealings and ensure one is sticking to the path of Sixteen Points and dharma. 

In Him,
Nirakar

Importance of Ananda Marga sadhana

In different ages of human history there were a number of rśis who were there to advance the society spiritually. It is not that all rśis were born at one time, nor that during some periods no rśis were present. To move the world forward we see a number of rśis throughout the ages of human evolution to guide people forward.

People carry spiritual growth from one birth to another; that is how some became great with their spiritual effort from many births. But now with the advanced sadhana process given by Shrii Shrii Anandamurti ji, one can progress spiritually at a much faster rate compared to thousands of years ago. So the difference between the spiritual progress in ancient times compared with that which can be achieved today is one of speed.
https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/
 

*        *        *

The below section is an entirely different topic, unrelated to the above material.
It stands on its own merit as a point of interest and ideological awareness.

*        *        *

== Section 2: Important Teaching ==

Parents beware

Ananda Marga philosophy states, "In some families the parents have lost their peace of mind due to poverty or some other cause and oppress their children with or without reason. Naturally the children lose respect for their parents, which further aggravates family indiscipline. The parents have to put up with more unrest, adding to their lack of peace."

Ananda Marga philosophy states, "Parents who are middle- or high-level officials in the public works or police departments have to get work done through others or supervise manual labourers or subordinates, so they often forget to talk sweetly. Some become accustomed to using abusive language, and some to issuing commands. Due to this their children do not have an opportunity to learn to speak with restraint. Such children suffer from a superiority complex, even within their circle of friends. In their future lives it will be extremely difficult for them to love people and create a congenial social environment."

Ananda Marga philosophy states, "Some parents may claim that it is impossible to maintain a balanced life in an age full of problems, where they are extremely busy with numerous activities. I maintain, however, that it is possible for an intelligent parent to avoid the mistakes I have discussed. If parents fail to carry out their basic duties, I am compelled to say that, although they live in society, they are guilty of encouraging an antisocial mentality. By encouraging their children to develop a criminal psychology, they give unnecessary trouble to the police. The main point is this: for want of a little care, children are deprived of the opportunity to become complete human beings, even though they have a human structure." (1)

Reference
1. Human Society Part 1, Education

== Section: Important Teaching ==

How to fix: gurumanta

Namaskar, 

In spiritual life, ideation on the Great is very important; Cosmic ideation is the main thing, but all too often human beings forget the Supreme Entity in the course of their daily duties. In His discourse, Baba has given a very simple method for sadhakas to remember their Guru mantra. Baba’s guideline is that to remember anything then one should associate it with a particular physical action. 

For example, when entering or leaving the home then it is important to repeat Guru mantra. But often we forget, while only sometimes we remember. The solution then is to employ a physical action that will trigger your memory to recite Guru mantra. So when leaving or entering the house, then do namaskar mudra before touching the door. And this namaskar mudra will automatically alert the mind to recite Guru mantra. So the first step is to cultivate the habit of doing namaskar mudra before touching the door. Once this habit is established, then you will be regular in repeating Guru mantra when entering and leaving the house. And the operative point is the use of the namaskar mudra as a reminder for doing Guru mantra. 

Naturally, this same technique can be instilled at various junctures throughout the day such as when getting on a bicycle, taking food, going to sleep, answering the phone etc. When a physical action like namaskar mudra is done before those engagements, then one will automatically recite Guru mantra. Try this in your own life and see how it goes. 

Without the use of a physical reminder, then most of the time sadhakas forget their Guru mantra. And that is a problem because imbibing the mind with Cosmic ideation is the main essence in the life of a sadhaka. 

Ananda Marga Caryacarya states, “Namaskára is done by bringing the palms together and touching the ájiṋá cakra [the mid-point of the eyebrows] with the thumbs.” (1)

In Him, 
Viniit Deva

Reference
1. Caryácarya Part 1, Methods of Salutation

== Section: Important Teaching ==

How British struck down India

Baba says, "The British rulers were very clever. Instead of attacking the Indian Práńa Dharma directly, they resorted to the path of diplomacy. They believed that to maintain British rule in India they would have to create a group of native supporters who would remain Indian by birth and complexion but European in manners, customs, education, taste and culture. So they introduced a system of education based on their own British system. This was an obvious attempt to strike a blow at Indian Práńa Dharma. As a result, the people of India forgot their distinctive national characteristics and developed a completely Western outlook. The moral, spiritual and social qualities that were developed through the Indian system of education were ignored. Rather, Indian youth, under the influence of materialistic Western civilization, grew cynical, materialistic and atheistic. A class of educated persons was created who were neither English nor Indians. Many of them were employed in the Indian Civil Service. A certain scholar once remarked that the Indian Civil Service “is neither Indian, nor civil, nor service.” These people became alienated from the mainstream of Indian social life because their conduct, behaviour, customs, manners, thoughts and ideals were different from those of other Indians. This neo-class of people with modern education could not regard the simple, innocent masses of rural India as their own. The clever English rulers trained them in such a subtle way that they looked upon the British as being nearer to them than the Indians. The imperialistic British purpose was served: colonial rule was firmly established." (1)

Reference
1. Prout in a Nutshell - 6, Práńa Dharma

== Section 3: Links ==

Postings to Read

Who received this blessing

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2017/08/unique-reason-behind-babas-scolding-3.html

Remedy for debased thinking

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2014/11/mythological-characters.html

Fame today

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2013/10/hungry-for-praise.html

Prout's view of legalized cannabis

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2017/12/cannabis-am-3-more.html

Remedy for debased thinking + 2 more

Baba

Remedy for debased thinking

Namaskar,

When human beings become blindly infatuated with objects of enjoyment and lose all common sense, and get wholly absorbed in the pursuit of finite objects forgetting the infinite, they make the error of believing that the impermanent is permanent. This useless pursuit exhausts all their vital energy. They forget that no single object of the world is permanent. Some educated people say, “Well, I may not live long enough to enjoy all the pleasures of life, but my grandchildren will.” This yearning for the finite is caused by avidyá maya.” Basically avidyá maya means having a degrading effect on the mind. More about this is explained below. 
http://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/


Bad thoughts will multiply

When witnessing dark deeds, often one thinks, "That can't happen to me." Yet it is important to remember that those criminals in jail and those who have fallen were not born into such a condition. That degradation occurred little by little, as the tendencies of a debased frame of mind were further encouraged within their own self. When faced with troubling tendencies, if one does not recognise them and fend them off, then those degenerating tendencies will grow.

In the beginning, a lowly thought is small. Only that individual knows what lesser thoughts crop up in the mind. Others do not know. In this initial period, one must face and conquer those aspects of bad ways of thinking, and not let them grow. Thus one must know the technique of how to obliterate those debased thoughts - and that is detailed further down in this mailing. Because if one does not catch it and destroy it early on, then that degrading tendency will grow. Any bad thought or tendency can and will multiply into if not caught early on.
http://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

No community leader thinks they will be exposed for their misdeeds; no spouse thinks they will get bound up and humiliated for being in an extramarital affair; and no student thinks they will be caught cheating on an examination. Similarly, no Wt can think that they may fall prey to a particular weakness. The key point to know here is that any thought or psychic tendency can erupt into a volcano if one is not vigilant and does not use Baba's sadhana. There are so many ways that degrading thoughts can sprout and bring about one's ruination. One lapse or one moment of poor thinking is enough to bring one's downfall. So one must recognise the issue, be vigilant in addressing the matter, and know the proper technique for gaining victory.


Remedy: take shelter in Parama Purus'a

No matter how big or how small one’s lowly tendencies are in life, there is one and only one solution. There is a singular way to escape from those ill effects.

Ananda Marga ideology guides us, "Now how can you kill, how can you destroy this Ra'van'a? This depraving force, this degenerating force is “Ra'van'a.” How can you destroy the Ra'van'a? You can destroy this Ra'van'a only when you take shelter in Parama Purus'a. So “Ra'van'asya maran'am Ra'mah” here “Ra'ma” means “Parama Purus'a”. Without the help of Parama Purus'a one cannot destroy this ten-faced demon." (1)

Ananda Marga ideology states, "How can one be saved from crudification? Ra'van'a can be defeated, can be destroyed, only when one takes shelter in Ra'ma. That’s why He is Ra'van'asya maran'am: when one takes shelter in Parama Purus'a, Ra'van'a automatically dies." (2)

The only real solution to overcoming the degrading and harmful ways of thinking is to wholeheartedly ideate on Parama Purusa Baba. As soon as any debased idea comes in the mind, one should think of Him. Then everything will be fine - that tendency will dissipate - vanish.
http://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

It is only when we think of Baba, that all degrading ways of thinking get eliminated as the mind is cent-per-cent involved in Him.


Conclusion

Sadguru Baba has given the solutions to all problems - including the solution to overcoming the degrading aspects of mind. The moment one recognises a negative tendency in the mind and eliminates it by thinking of Him, one will march along the path progress.

Ananda Marga ideology states, "Now, what is the duty of a sa'dhaka for spiritual enlightenment. The sa'dhaka will have to fight against Ra'van'a, against those debasing propensities which are the causes of illusion and cloud the spiritual vision of mankind. So to be established in Parama Purus'a, one will have to crucify Ra'van'a." (3)

Namaskar,
In Him,
Liiladhar


Represents the extroverted human

To bring this point to light, Baba makes an analogy from the Ra'ma'yan'a to show how many human beings are prone to depraving propensities.
http://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/

Ananda Marga ideology states, "And what is Ra'van'a? In the Ra'ma'yan'a there is something regarding Ra'van'a. (The Ra'ma'yan'a is a mythological book, it is not history.) Ra'van'a means a ten-faced demon. That is, Ra'van'a represents the extroverted human mind moving, functioning, in ten directions – moving towards crudeness, away from the Nucleus – being drifted away by the centrifugal force." (4)

Thus whenever the mind loses its internal flow and allows tendencies like lethargy, jealousy, greed, or other degenerating forces to grab hold of the mind, it means that one has been influenced by their inner Ravana, that degrading tendency of mind.


Debasing propensities is called Ra'van'a

Ananda Marga ideology guides us, "What is Ra'van'a? You know human mind has got both the subtle and debasing propensities. As subtler propensities are directed towards the Self, there is no question of their extroversial expressions. Only the debasing propensities of human mind are expressed in ten directions - east, west, north, south, north-east, north-west, south-east, south-west, above and below. The pu'rva, pashcima, uttar, daks'in'a, urdhva, and adhah are known as “Pradisha” in Sanskrit and Isha'na, Va'yu. Agni and Naert – these four corners are known as An'udisha. Six Pradisha and four An'udisha taken together are the ten directions in which microcosms express debasing propensities. As they are directed towards the mundane objects, the microcosm goaded with debasing propensities is called Ra'van'a." (5)

Thus, many human beings have both Rama - i.e. uplifting tendencies - and Ravana - i.e. debasing propensities. The aspect of Rama guides one towards the internal spiritual Goal, whereas the degrading tendencies of Ravana lead one towards so many mundane allurements and bad habits.
http://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/


Rama & Ravana are evident in everyday life

This dramatic rift between Ra'ma and Ra'van'a is an everyday reality for many people. When one gets inspiration to quickly rise from the bed and do spiritual practice, that is due to the helping force of Rama. And when one decides to go back to sleep, that is the degrading tendency of Ravana. And if we think further we can see how this applies to so many daily events in life. For instance, do we express patience with others or do we quickly become frustrated and angry? Do we take time everyday to do svadhyaya or just spend time in mundane dealings?

Nearly each and every moment one is either being goaded in some or another direction - introversial flow of Rama, or extroversial flow of Ravana. Some of the time for people, Ravana is the dominant force. In this era of extreme materialism, many of the human population is moving fast towards external physicality. As an Ananda Margii, one must take steps not to get affected by that flow. To this end, vigilance and awareness is needed.
http://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/


Prone to bad habits

Many are prone to falling into bad habits or bad ways. This is a fact of life - not just some theory but the practical reality for so many people. That bad characteristic might be lethargy, jealousy, or greed etc. Most have some inner weakness or degrading proclivity. Numerous people experience it - in one way or another. So one should learn Baba's direct remedy for curing oneself of such tendencies or ills, lest those tendencies grow and take over the whole personality. Then one will get success in overcoming that habit / tendency. 

References
1. Ananda Vacanamrtam, part 12, Names of the Lord
2. Ananda Vacanamrtam, part 1, “Krśńa” and “Ráma”
3. Subhasita Samgraha, part 18, The Lord and His Name
4. Ananda Vacanamrtam, part 1, “Krśńa” and “Ráma”
5. Subhasita Samgraha, part 18, The Lord and His Name

*        *        *

The below section is an entirely different topic, unrelated to the above material.
It stands on its own merit as a point of interest and ideological awareness.

*        *        *

== Section 2: Prabhat Samgiita ==

I have opened the doors

Note: Only those bhaktas who feel a deep spiritual vibration in their heart can understand this song in the depths of their core.

"Priyo ámár, keno náhi ele mor ghare, janam janam dhare, 
jege áchi tava tare, priiti pradiipe..." (Prabhat Samgiita #4765) 

Purport:

O’ my Parama Purusa, why did You not come to my home. By Your blessing, I remain awake for You birth after birth, age after age, holding the lamp of love which is filled with heartfelt longing for You. My most Adored, why have You not come to my abode.

O’ Parama Purusa, You are that Supreme Entity - the mohan of my soul. To receive You, I have decorated a'lpana' on the pathway of Your arrival. I have also spread the colourful fragrant pollen of the niip flower on the entrance gate of my home in honour of Your reception. Baba, by Your sweet will, I have trained the peacock of my manan so that my mind can dance with pure bhakti and ideation for You. 

O’ my Parama Purusa, by Your mercy I have pulverised the noose of that chain of samskaras. I have unlocked all the boosts and opened the doors of my home. By Your ahaetukii krpa', I have removed all the obstacles and bondages which were on my path towards divinity - towards You. After overcoming all fear and public shyness, with immense attraction and longing, I have desperately called You with a very strong desire. Baba, by Your kindness, now that I am chanting Your name with my inner self, I can see You present in my core. You are so gracious - my Dearmost. Please reside eternally in my I-feeling…


Notes for Prabhat Samgiita #4765:

[1] A'lpana': These are the colourful motifs, sacred art, or decorative painting done on a horizontal surface (walkway, patio etc) on auspicious occasions. Those who have attended DMC might have witnessed how on the footpath across the stage leading up towards Baba's dais there are some very decorative, colourful, attractive designs. In an artistic manner there is a brilliant array of flower pollen, flower petals, or any colorful scented fragrance which are soft and upon which someone can walk comfortably. This beautiful and colourful decoration is known as a'lpana' and it is meant to pay high respect and adoration to the Divine Entity. In our Marga this is used for Baba's holy and auspicious arrival. 

[2] Ahaetukii krpa': Ananda Marga ideology guides us, “In this universe of ours everything is causal. Everything is haetuka; everything is causal. Only three entities are of non-causal character. One is the transmutation of the Non-Attributional Entity into the attributional faculty [Saguna Brahma]. The second one is the creation of this universe, and the third one—the krpá of Parama Purusa. Parama Purusa is not to explain for His conduct when He does any krpá or when He attracts anybody towards Him. So these three entities, three items, are of non-causal character. So ahaetukii krpá is the non- causal blessing or, say, non-causal gratitude.” (1)

Reference
1. Ananda Vacanamrtam - 49 (Pure), Non-Causal Blessing

== Section 3: Important Teaching ==

Duty of Renaissance movement

Ananda Marga philosophy says, "In the social sphere there are several sub-strata, and the real spirit of social progress is to dispel all social disparities. Each and every member of the human society should enjoy equal rights as members of the same family, but there is disparity and it is the duty of the Renaissance movement to dispel the disparity and bring about equality, equilibrium and equipoise amongst human beings."

"There are disparities, disparities of different types and different kinds. For instance, there are biological disparities existing in the society, which are being encouraged by certain selfish persons. The biological disparity between human and animal, between human and plant, between animal and plant – that disparity must not be there. Just as a human being wants to survive, a pigeon also wants to survive – similarly a cow also wants to survive, or a tree. Just as my life is dear to me, so the lives of created beings are also equally dear to them. It is the birthright of human beings to live in this world, and it is the birthright of the animal world, and plant world also, to remain on this earth. To recognize this right, and to get it recognized by the entire human society, the Renaissance movement will have to do something concrete." (1)

Reference
1. A Few Problems Solved - 7, Renaissance in All the Strata of Life

== Section: Important Teaching ==

Mayan civilization: link between east & west

Ananda Marga philosophy says, "At one time, the ancient Mayan civilization of America was more advanced than many other civilizations, but because they lagged behind in the invention of the wheel, they were forced in subsequent times to acknowledge their defeat at the hands of other civilizations. The oldest existing artifacts of the Mayan civilization give evidence to advanced ways of life but no wheel. One should keep in mind that the Sanskrit name for America, Mayadviipa, came from the name of the Mayan civilization. During the Chola, Pa'n'd'ya, and Pahlava dynasties of the Indian Middle Ages there was contact between America and India--this was before Columbus' discovery of America." (Shabda Cayanika - 1, p.87) 

== Section: Important Teaching ==

Teaching your children to be liars

   Ananda Marga philosophy states, “Today parents may rightly say, “We have almost no vital energy left after exchanging blows and counter-blows with life. We have no chance to mould the minds of our children with the care and tenderness of our hearts. All the sweetness and finer sensibilities of our minds have been sucked dry by the harsh realities of life. How can we take care of our children? We cannot even provide them with proper food and clothing. How can we know what they are thinking? Do we have the time to understand anything properly at all? We know children should be taught through the medium of play and entertainment, both at home and outside, but is it possible for us to do that? We even have to disturb our talented son at his studies to send him to the grocer’s to buy salt, cooking oil, spices, etc. We know it is wrong, but there is no alternative, for keeping a servant is beyond our means.”"
   "There may be some truth in this, but it is not the point at issue here. In order to develop a healthy outlook, the most important thing children need is robust idealism. To impart this, parents require only two virtues: self-restraint and good judgement. Let us discuss good judgement first."
   "When the parents are about to go on a trip or go to a show, or when they are invited to a pleasant function or a social outing, the children may start whining or nattering to accompany them. At such times many parents tell lies without a qualm; somehow they dupe their children and leave. When the children realize what has happened, they also learn to tell lies; and to hide their intentions or their actions from their parents, they gradually start lying more and more." (1)

Note: Without realising it, parents teach their children both good things and bad things. Being an ideal parent is not easy. Unknowingly parents often teach their children the ways of lies and deception.

Reference
1. Human Society - 1, Education

== Section 4: Links ==

Postings to Read

Prout's view of legalized cannabis

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2017/12/cannabis-am-3-more.html

Big difference: AM & Hinduism

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2015/09/my-travel-stories-mixing-up-hinduism.html

One Divine Entity & various names

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2014/01/simple-thing-but-few-cannot-understand.html

Humanity & planet Earth's future

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2014/09/revolutionary-marriage-when-earth.html

How to save oneself from the burden of memories

• https://anandamargauniversal.blogspot.com/2013/12/heavy-load-of-old-memories.html