Serve the Parents, Serve God

This sacred land of Bharat is the 
birthplace of great women like Savitri, 
Who could bring her husband back to life; 
Chandramati, who demonstrated the power of Truth
 by extinguishing the forest fire; 
Sita, who demonstrated her chastity 
by coming out of blazing fire unscathed; 
And Damayanti, who burnt a demon to ashes 
by her power of chastity and pristine purity. 
In Bharat, there have been numerous such women,
who were proverbial for their chastity. 
Bharat is the teacher of these virtues to the whole world. 
O, foolish man!, why do you go seeking 
Brahman when He is right within you? 
Look within and there you shall find Him. 
Do not forget these profound words of Sai.
(Telugu poem)

Embodiments of Love! 

Right from the olden days, Bharat has given spiritual knowledge to the other nations, thus ensuring peace and harmony to the entire world. It is not only the kings that protect a country, but women of great chastity are also responsible for it. It is because of noble men and women that the country has been able to achieve peace and prosperity. All the prosperity and the good that we find in this land of Bharat is due to the strength and courage of women of virtue.

Rama’s divinity blossomed under 
Kausalya’s loving care; 
Because of the tender feelings and austerity of Sita, 
Lava and Kusha achieved name and fame; 
Fostered with the love of his mother Putlibai, 
Gandhi became a Mahatma**;** 
The loving care of Jijabai made Shivaji a great warrior.
(Telugu poem)

Mother Is The Very Foundation For The Entire World

Sons become illustrious examples because of the goodness and greatness of their mothers. Mother is the very foundation for the entire world. One calls one’s own country as motherland, not fatherland. Even the language is called mother tongue, not father tongue. This land is the birthplace of many noble sons, who got their goodness and strength from their mothers. In those days mothers gave their sons good guidance by being themselves ideal.

The welfare of the son depends on the mother. It is because of the love of the mother that the son becomes great and eminent. So the foremost duty of the son is to be grateful to his mother, respect her and serve her. Divinity is immanent in every being. But who is responsible for this divinity within? It is the mother alone. The mother, who bears you for nine months with many difficulties, is ready to sacrifice even her life for your welfare. You owe your existence to your mother.

Purity Of Heart Is Very Essential For Man

Since time immemorial, human being has been called Nada Bindu Kala Svarupa. It is these three aspects that are responsible for the existence of humanity. What is the meaning of Nada? It is the primordial sound Om that emanates as a result of the combination of Prana (vital force) and Vayu (air). The combination of body, mind and intellect is called Bindu. Divinity that reflects in Buddhi (intellect) is called Kala. So man is the embodiment of Nada, Bindu and Kala.

The Principle of Atma transcends all these three aspects. That is why the sages, while offering prayers to God, used to Say, “_Nada Bindu Kalatita Namo, Namo_” (salutations to the One, who is beyond Nada, Bindu and Kala). These three aspects pertain only to Nature. The potter makes pots by mixing water and clay. But that does not make him the creator. It is divinity latent in man that enables him to perform the task. Spiritual knowledge helps us to undertake good actions and cleanse the mind. But that is not enough. The heart also should be pure. In the absence of purity of the heart there can never be purity of the mind and the intellect. We should not give scope to the creeper of bad qualities to entangle the tree of the heart. A creeper that goes on covering the tree ultimately smothers the tree itself. One should ensure that the creepers of lust, anger, greed and infatuation do not get entangled to one’s Self.

It was lust that caused the downfall of Ravana, the one of great penance and the master of 64 types of knowledge. He not only ruined himself but also his whole kingdom. Without purity of heart, all the spiritual practices are of no use. That is why Tirutondar Alwar said, “Oh! Lord, I worship you not with flowers, but with purity of heart”. So, purity of heart is very essential for man.

Lack Of Sense Control Results In Lack Of Respect

Hiranyakashipu had total control over the five elements. Such an all–powerful one was ruined because he had the evil quality of anger. In spite of being a great warrior, Duryodhana, a king of kings, was ruined because of greed. His entire clan was destroyed. It was Moha (infatuation) of Dasharatha towards Kaikeyi, which was responsible for Rama being sent to the forest. Kaikeyi loved Rama even more than her own son, Bharata. But, Manthara poisoned her mind. Consequently, she not only lost her husband, but also the respect of her own son. Due to this delusion she not only earned a bad name for herself, but put the entire kingdom to shame. Today, no woman bears the name Kaikeyi, because she distanced herself from God. Similarly, no man bears the name Duryodhana, Ravana or Hiranyakashipu as they lacked good qualities and developed hatred and enmity towards God. Hiranyakashipu was a great scientist. Ravana was a great engineer and it was he who invented the vimaana. He had mastered the language of animals, birds and insects. He had so much to his credit. But does anyone bear the name of Ravana? No. People value purity of heart more than these achievements. It is the foremost duty of every individual to keep his/her senses under control. One can escape from the house on fire, but not from the senses, which are ignited by the fire of evil qualities.

Intellect is of four types: (1) Swartha Buddhi, (2) Swartha Paraartha Buddhi, (3) Paraartha Buddhi and (4) Nisswartha Buddhi. One with Swartha Buddhi is always interested in his own welfare and fulfilment of his desires. One with Swartha Paraartha Buddhi is equally interested in his own welfare as well as that of others. One with Paraartha Buddhi does not desire anything for himself. Surrendering himself to God, he craves for His love alone. He believes that God is the indweller of all beings and desires the welfare of the entire world–Lokaah samastaah sukhino bhavantu. One with Nisswartha Buddhi has no sense of I and mine. The feeling of ‘I’ (body) is ego and the feeling of ‘mine’ is attachment. The root cause of all sorrow and suffering of man is this feeling of ‘I’ and ‘mine’, by giving up which man can purify his heart. Purity of heart is the greatest achievement of human endeavour.

Divine Origin Of Bharat

What is the difference between Nara and Narayana? Nara is one who is endowed with the three aspects: Nada, Bindu and Kala. Narayana transcends all these three. The former corresponds to Pravrutti and the later to Nivrutti. Nivrutti is the state of desirelessness. One who treads along the path of Nivrutti surrenders himself completely to God. Such a man has absolutely no trace of selfishness. The sacred land of Bharat is the birthplace of many such selfless souls. Though you call yourselves the children of Bharat, you tend to be selfish and full of desires. This is responsible for leading you away from the culture of Bharat. The culture of Bharat is pure, unsullied and selfless. Only when the young boys and girls recognise and follow this sacred culture, can this country prosper. A nation bereft of noble men and women can never progress. The country needs virtuous men and women. That is why I have established these educational institutions. I willed that out of these institutions should emerge noble boys and girls. In a short time, all of you will realise and experience this happiness. Wait for the golden moment.

Discharge your duties sincerely. Do not forget your mother. In the world today there may be a wicked son, but never a wicked mother. You owe your blood, food and strength to your mother. What is the gratitude you are offering to the mother for the sacrifice made by her? She is the one who had fostered and nourished you. So, never forget the love of the mother. First and foremost love your mother. Then love your father, teacher and God. The mother shows the father; the father shows the teacher; the teacher shows God.

This day is being observed as Mother’s Day, Ladies day. From time immemorial, mother is considered synonymous with God. The Goddesses Durga, Lakshmi and Saraswati are worshipped as mothers. Saraswati is the Goddess of learning. Another name for Saraswati is Bharati. Our country Bharat has derived its name from ‘Bharati’. There is a misconception that ‘Bharat’ refers to the name of Bharat, the son of King Dushyanta. In that case, what was the name of this land prior to Bharat? On enquiry you will know that this name has originated from God.

Purpose Of Ladies’ Day

Today women are being looked down upon as mere workers in the kitchen. Women can study, undertake jobs, but they should not neglect their household duties. If both husband and wife go to the office, who will look after the household responsibilities? If women go to schools to teach other’s children, who will teach their own children? Mothers are responsible for the well–being of their children. They also show the spiritual path to their children. So, never forget your mother. To set an ideal in this regard, I visit the Samadhi of My parents on My birthday. To inculcate this good feeling in the hearts of people, even Sai Baba has undertaken this sacred activity. Every individual should adore, respect, worship and love his/her mother.

I have initiated this Ladies’ Day in order to foster respect and love for the mother. Not only the 19th November, but the 19th of every month is being observed as Ladies’ Day in some States. Whatever may be the circumstances, good or bad, do not forget your mother. Due to the effect of Kali Age, people consider their mothers as mere cooks in the kitchen. Not only that, they have been degraded to the level of servants. This is the misfortune that has befallen on man today.

All Have To Ask For Alms From God

The beggar comes to the house and calls on, “_Bhavati Bhiksham Dehi_” (Mother! give me alms). He cautions, “Oh! Master and the mistress of the house, in my previous birth I had not given alms to beggars. As a result I am standing at your doorstep today begging for alms. Do not commit the same mistake. I am a beggar for three births. In my previous birth, I never gave alms to beggars. In this birth, being myself dependent on others, I am unable to give anything in charity and as a result I will again be a beggar in my next birth. Beware!” To Whom is he asking for alms? He says, “_Bhiksham Dehi_”. ‘Dehi’ refers to the Indweller (God). This body, made of five elements is bound to perish one day or the other. The Indweller has neither birth nor death and no attachment whatsoever. Truly speaking, the indweller is God Himself. So, the beggar addresses the Indweller, not the master or mistress of the house. He asks for alms from God. All have to ask for alms from God. God can give us all types of alms–money, education, knowledge, intelligence, etc. Whatever you have acquired from God has to be shared with one and all. Only when you share your wealth and knowledge with others will it remain with you forever. Sacrifice is very essential for man. It is the stepping stone to immortality.

Mother is prepared to give up her own life for the sake of her children. Mother is the very embodiment of sacrifice. That is why in this land of Bharat mother is given such an exalted place. Lord Rama said that the mother and the motherland are greater than heaven itself. Such an ideal of Rama is forgotten today. Mere chanting of Rama’s name will not suffice; it is only when you follow His command that you can be called a true devotee. The Ladies’ Day serves as a reminder that one should revere and love one’s mother; never hurt her feelings.

Love And Worship Your Parents

Shankaracharya posted two sentinels in his Ashram who went round repeating, “Tasmaat jaagrata jaagrata” (Beware, beware). It so happened that one day Shankaracharya was thinking of his worldly achievements and wealth of his Matham. As he came to the doorstep, he heard the sentinels repeating, “Tasmaat jaagrata jaagrata”, which made him realise his folly. Then he declared:
 Janma Duhkham Jara Duhkham 
Jaya Duhkham Punah Punah, 
Antya Kale maha Duhkham, 
Tasmaat Jaagrata, Jaagrata. 
(Beware! Birth, old age and death are filled with misery). In this context, the Vedas declare: “Arise, awake and stop not till the goal is reached”.

Students! Boys and Girls! Always remember your mother’s love. Do not hurt your mother in any way. You say, Swami’s love is that of thousand mothers. When you are unable to comprehend and experience the love of a single mother, how can you understand the love of thousand mothers? If you are unable to please your mother, how can you make Swami happy? Swami will be happy when you make your mother happy. Swami does not want anything.

Many people wish Me happy birthday. You need not wish Me happy birthday since I am always happy. Give happiness to your parents, friends and relatives.

God is the embodiment of Supreme Bliss and 
wisdom;
beyond dualities, One without second; 
Eternal, Pure transcends the mind 
and the three attributes.
(Sanskrit Sloka)

How can you wish Him happiness? I often tell the students, “Happiness is union with God”. God is pleased only when parents are respected. I do not desire anything. My happiness lies in you being happy and also making your parents happy. Love and worship your parents. Your welfare lies in the happiness of your parents. God showers His grace on those who make their parents happy. The respect and love you receive from your children depend on the respect and love you show to your parents.

Hurting Others Amounts To Hurting God

Have you ever visualised Vishwa-virata Svarupa (the cosmic form)? Earth, water, sky, etc, can be seen in it. The universe is made of five elements and the same five elements are present in you. So, you are also Vishwa-virata Svarupa. God is in you and in everybody. So, hurting others amounts to hurting God. Do not criticise and find fault with others. Love all, Serve all. Respect, adore and worship your parents. They constitute the real wealth of your life. The blessings of your parents will confer health and wealth on you. God comes to you on His own when you love and serve your parents.

One Can Choose One’s Wife, But Not One’s Parents

Pundarika used to visit the temple of Lord Panduranga every day. One day he was engrossed in serving his parents and hence could not visit the temple. So, Lord Panduranga Himself came to Pundarika. At that time Pundarika was pressing the feet of his parents. As Pundarika was busy serving his parents, he requested Lord Panduranga to take His seat and wait. So saying, he passed a brick to the Lord as there were no chairs and sofas in those days. After attending to his parents, Pundarika offered his due respects to the Lord Panduranga. The Lord was immensely pleased with his devotion to his parents and blessed him profusely, saying, “God comes to you on His own when your behaviour is good. There is no service greater than the service to parents. Consider service to parents as service to the Lord”. We need not go to God, but should make God come to us. One can choose one’s wife, but not one’s parents. Only God chooses His parents. I wish that you obtain the blessing of your parents and set an ideal for the rest of the world.

Today, I do not see parents being accorded respect due to them. They are approached only in times of need and are neglected later. There is a proverb in Telugu–the boat is set on fire, once it serves its purpose of taking you across the river. Similarly, parents are sought after only in times of difficulties. Once you are highly placed in the society and accumulate wealth, parents are forgotten.

Here is a small example. V. Ramakrishna was an I.C.S. officer in Madras. His wife was Durgamma. They sent their son to America for higher studies. A month later, Durgamma contacted her son over the phone and enquired of his welfare in Telugu, to which he replied that he had forgotten Telugu and could converse only in English. On hearing this, the mother was overjoyed and came to Swami to share the news proudly. I replied that a person, who forgot his mother tongue in a month, was likely to forget his mother too. There are many such students in the world today. They forget their parents once they go abroad.

The Influence Of Western Culture

There was an orthodox Brahmin who was hesitant to send his son abroad fearing that he might lose his culture. On the insistence of his son, he reluctantly consented to send him abroad and exhorted him to chant the Gayatri mantra thrice a day. He warned his son that he would forsake him if he failed to do so and extracted a promise from him. But the son failed to keep up his word. He did not chant the Gayatri mantra even once. He was absorbed in the western culture.

On many occasions the father asked him to return home, but the son did not pay heed to his word. The father, as a last resort, sent a telegram that his mother had expired. Immediately, the son rushed home and was received at the airport by the father, who told him that mother was brought back to life by the infinite grace of the Goddess. Then he took his son to the temple of the Goddess en route home to offer their obeisance and gratitude. As soon as they entered the sanctum sanctorum, the son greeted the Goddess, “Hello Mother! How are you? Good morning!” On hearing this, the father became furious and asked him to get out. This is how many people change their lifestyle once they go abroad.

Our Jayamma (previous speaker) said that only Anantapur girls were good. What about our Prasanthi Nilayam boys? These boys are also good. She said that on many occasions the girls asked her to speak more and more about Swami and show them the way to please Swami. Even our boys here day in and day out are engaged in pleasing Swami and attending to His needs. Nobody is less or more, both the girls and boys are equally good. There may be a few lapses here and there, but all those who have been nurtured and fostered in Sai Institutions are good.

Satisfaction Of Parents Is What Pleases Me

It is not enough if you and I say, but the parents should say. The parents must feel that there is a transformation in their children after joining Swami’s Institutions. Parents should be satisfied; that is what I want. It is only then I feel satisfied. So, boys and girls should make their parents happy. You do not need to enquire what pleases Swami. Satisfaction of parents is what pleases Me. I do not require anything. When you make your parents happy I am also happy. I wish that you develop these qualities and set an ideal to the whole world. Do not try to satisfy Swami; make efforts to satisfy your parents. If your parents are not convinced about your views, try to explain the rationale behind them. Speaking harshly to them will not help them understand your views. Be calm and give them a patient ear. Only then you will be able to convince them. Try to inculcate sacred feelings; only then your study in this institute will fructify.

Discourse in Sai Kulwant Hall on 19-11-1998.