Hariharapura’s Influence in my Life

One of the places which has influenced my life considerably is this Holy Spot on the banks of the pure River Tunga. It must be Divine Providence that I chanced across Hariharapura and the wonderful Sri Adi Shankaracharya Sharada Lakshminarasimha Peetam (Sreemath Hariharapura) operating under Paramapoojya Srimajjagadguru Shankaracharya Sri Sri Swayamprakasha Sachhidananda Saraswathi Mahaswamiji (Swamiji).

In 2018, I had visited Sringeri with two friends. I had been visiting the Sharada Math every year since 2015. Since we had time on our hands, we made a visit to Shakatapuram – another beautiful temple in that region. On the way back, we saw a highway signboard mentioning the Hariharapura village and another one pointing the path to the Sreemath. In just a moment we took the turn from the highway. The small road led to a gate which didn’t even look like the entrance of a place of significance. After ascertaining we were in the right place, we parked and alighted and were directed to the room where Swamiji was performing the Navavarana Puja.

That experience will stay with me all my life. It was as if He was conversing with Devi while offering Her oblations. It was as if Devi were indeed present in front of Him and listening to Him. It would be irrelevant to say more – the feeling is only something to be experienced. The feeling was consistent for the three of us. It was wonderful, ecstatic. Swamiji gave us Darshan after the Puja, asked about us, blessed us with a shawl each and received a copy of my book. I knew this was the beginning of something significant in my life.

We had the good fortune to receive Swamiji’s Darshan a couple of times at Bangalore during His visits to the Sreemath’s branch at Girinagar. His Darshan has always been energizing, as also echoed by the rest of my family.

It had been in my mind to perform the Upanayanam of my son, Naman, in a way which laid primary importance on the rituals and their significance rather than becoming a social event. For me – one who had rejected religion, rejected the concept of God and then transformed to one who is pursuing spirituality in day-to-day life and doing Puja every day, the Bramhopadesha feels sacred and significant in a person’s life. I believe that the Upanayanam is the beginning of a person’s spiritual journey, an initiation into the quest for oneself with the potent Gayathri mantra as the means to take one forward in the journey.

In our current context, the gathering of friends and family during the function, although well-meant causes the performers of the Upanayanam – the father, son, mother and first family, to get more engaged into the organizational and social aspects than the rituals themselves. This is not unfounded, as for us “Athithi Devo Bhava” applies and taking care of guests who come from afar is a definite duty on such an occasion. What I have been concerned about is the diminished focus on the core aspects.

As a regular visitor of Sringeri, my mind was set of performing the function there. The thought process was to take the blessings of Sringeri Mahasannidhnam and conduct the function there as recommended by the Sharada Math for similar requests.

While I was looking at May of 2021 as the likely date, COVID struck, and it was not practical to do the function. I also felt Naman needed more time to be prepared for doing the Nitya Karma prescribed after the wearing of the sacred thread.

It was the end of 2021, when COVID had cleared significantly that I visited Sringeri with my family. It was in our minds to request the Sringeri Acharya for His blessings and then find out how to go about actually conducting the event. Sringeri, though has now become partly a tourist spot. Apart from a limited set of people seeking the spiritual vibrations and the Guru’s blessings, several people come as it is another place of religions significance like the countless shrines in our country. Personally, I am unable to be at peace with crowds.

During that trip, we had a plan to visit Hariharapura. We reached around noon time and were told that visitors are no longer allowed to witness His Navavarana Puja. We waited then for His Darshan. It was at this time that I walked around the Sreemath – still under renovation and the wonder of the place seeped in deeper. Before we were ushered into Swamiji’s Puja room, I told my wife, Subhashree I would rather move the location of the Upanayanam to Hariharapura, given the serenity of the place, the energy pervading and the access to the Guru. She agreed without hesitation. We also discussed it with our kids and parents, and we all concurred.

Swamiji was very happy to hear my request to conduct the Upanayanam at the Sreemath. He asked us to visit two to three months before we intended to conduct the function to discuss further. We were in immense bliss to get His Blessings and highly excited that one dream was taking shape.

Our next visit was during the Mahakumbhabhishekam of the Hariharapura temple in April 2022. To say that this was a grand event would be an understatement. It was a Mahotsav in the true sense. Thousands of people had flocked to the event to be a part of the festivities. The scale of the Yagnas was astounding and the organization of the event itself was meticulous. For visitors from out of town, the organizers had gone out of the way to ensure excellent stay facility considering that the Sreemath’s own newly constructed guest house was full.

After being at the Mahakumbhabhishekam event, Subhashree and I were more drawn to this wonderful place. We wanted to stay there for at least a week. The plan formed to complete the Upanayanam, stay there for a while and use the opportunity to help Naman learn the Nitya Karmas – mainly Sandhyavandanam and Samithadaanam. I had never performed Samithadaanam as my family had to shift cities owing to my parents’ transfer right after my Upanayanam. I didn’t want Naman to be a victim of my ignorance and started feeling it would be wonderful if we could stay back and get some of the Pundits there to help him learn.

We planned to be at Hariharapura again in December that year and seek the Swamiji’s specific directions. The visit was postponed to January 2023 and then again to February. We got lucky the third time and reached the Sreemath. Our hearts were full of anticipation and apprehension. Apprehension because we knew we were doing something others in our circles had not done. The concern of the unknown is always a nagging feeling.

The Darshan of Swamiji that evening was a greatly reliving experience. He listened to our request and with a smile pouring out genuine happiness and compassion, he blessed that the Upanayanam could be conducted at the Sreemath. We were to see him the next day to know the date. The next afternoon, he suggested two dates based on Naman’s Nakshatram. We met the administration and fixed May 14^th, 2023 as the date for the function. I was advised to undertake Gayathri Japa of 1 lakh times before the function. During this visit, we spent one and a half days at the Sreemath, staying in the guest house, visiting the Tunga River, taking Darshan of Swamiji, gazing at the sublime statue of Shri Ishtasiddhi Bhaktaanjaneya, wonder and serenity engulfed our apprehensions and brought in beautiful hope, the bliss of the place sank into our beings. Just the thought of being able to conduct a sacred ritual here and spend a week in an atmosphere of spirituality, service and Vedic practices was a truly elevating one.

After our return to Bangalore, we started preparations – invitations, confirmation from friends and relatives who wanted to be there, purchases, travel arrangements, stay arrangements, coordination with the Sreemath administration for the event and other such matters. We avoided organizing photography and videography to minimize distractions during the event. We preferred to enjoy the moment and keep some candid shots from our family’s mobiles for remembrance. Everything went seamlessly – an occurrence attributable mainly to the influence that Hariharapura exerts on the lives of people associated with the Sreemath.

I also undertook the Gayathri Japa and it was magical indeed that I could complete the 1,00,000 chants over the next two months. For a common person like me engaged in day-to-day work, office, home, etc., it is only the Divinity of Hariharapura and the blessings of Swamiji that made me complete this undertaking.

We reached Sreemath Hariharapura on the 11^th of May 2023 again, this time for the function we had been eagerly looking forward to. That evening Swamiji smiled His compassionate smile again when we said we were here for the Upanayanam. We were overjoyed and overwhelmed that we were finally at the place for the conduct of the rituals.

We were fortunate to see the conduct of another Upanayanam the next day – of a child of one of the Sreemath’s key personnel. The evening at Hariharapura was magical. After a spell of rain, the weather was cool, soothing and enchanting. A strong natural fragrance of Raat Ki Rani at some spots kept us fixated for a while. The sight of the Tunga from the temple entrance is extremely refreshing. Retiring early, we were brimming with eagerness about the next few days.

With nothing to do except a check on arrangements for the functions, we spent the 12^th of May enjoying the Divinity present in Hariharapura. It is strange that we seek Divinity in special events, places, objects, symbols and people spend lives in the search. In a place like Hariharapura, Divinity is around to see everywhere, in the simplicity of the people, in the welcoming nature of the Sreemath. I was touched by a devotee who stood before me for Swamiji’s Darshan. Swamiji asked him in Kannada “what news” and he promptly and unpretentiously replied – “I have got your Darshan, what could be better news.” I wish I could be so devoted and candid.

My relatives arrived that evening and all arrangements were well taken care of. The quarters impressed them all more than their expectations. The rooms are all clean and well-facilitated for simple living.

Needless to say, the Upanayanam went off very well. To start with, the Navagraha Homam was so well done, we could feel energy generated by the meticulous chanting and procedures followed. Everything happened seamlessly, and the food served was excellent – Sattvic, sumptuous, apt. The Vadhyars there are focused on their work, dedicated to the Puja they are undertaking and have no other distractions unlike in our cities. Dakshina is collected by the Sreemath – so the Vadhyars aren’t of a commercial bent of mind at all. The smooth, clear chanting in the Udagashanti that evening was also very refreshing.

The Upanayanam itself went through comfortably on the 14^th of May. We were explained the significance of the important rituals. We could pay attention to what was going on and be focused on the task of initiating Naman. The Matru Saha Bhojanam was a touching event. In earlier times, the child would step away from home to the Gurukul after his Upanayanam. Hence, this was the last occasion that he would be fed by his mother from her plate. The other boys help the child adapt to his new way of life and start befriending him. We were also explained the ten duties of the Bramhachari after the Upanayanam, the importance of the thread and other matters.

Swamiji personally blessed Naman after the Upanayanam concluded with token gifts, a photograph and Prasadam.

Lunch was elaborate. It was least expected by us and the Sreemath had really done wonders on the front of hospitality too. My only concern in doing the function away from home was that I may be unable to host elaborate food – but the Sreemath had taken this into consideration and the guests were extremely happy with the food offered.

As Divine Providence would have it, we got introduced to another priest from the same lineage as my family who agreed to teach Naman his first Sandhyavandanam and Samithadaanam that evening. I couldn’t ask for more. Hariharapura has a way of fulfilling one’s needs.

The next week spent in Hariharapura was a very fulfilling experience. We would wake up early, do Nitya Karma, witness the ongoing Chandi Homam, bask in the soft sunshine while awaiting Swamiji’s arrival for Darshan, be blessed by Him, interact with the homely team managing the Sreemath’s affairs, partake of the Sattvic Prasada Bhojanam. On some days, we took an evening dip in the holy and refreshing Tunga, while on a few days, we visited the nearby temples – all steeped in calmness and spiritual energy. Gazing on the Ishtasiddhi Bhaktanjaneya statue, taking Darshan at the Shri Lakshmi Narasimha and Shri Sharadambal temples everyday brought in immense peace and calmness.

The influence of Hariharapura’s energy is such that my children didn’t complain a bit about being away from home. Neither did they feel like giving in to the distractions of the Internet. My daughter, Stuti spent her time reading several books at her favorite spot near the Yagna Shala. Naman practiced Sandhyavandanam, Madhyaanikam and Samithadaanam every day and resolved to keep the practice. Even after his return to Bangalore and school, he has been doing these rituals every day while delving into the significances of the same. I would attribute the energy of Hariharapura and Swamiji to be the cause of these wonderful influences.

The week at the Sreemath prepared us for taking on the chaos of the world in our stride for quite some time. Just thinking back at those moments and remembering the Hariharapura Kshetra brings in much calmness while tackling day-to-day affairs back at Bangalore.

I haven’t been a believer in the energy of places with historic and spiritual significance till I have been influenced by Hariharapura. The efforts of the sages of the yore really does last for ages and can be felt by people even to this date. This is evident at this Holy Place – reputed to be a Yagnakshetra, Tapokshetra and Gyanaksehtra.  My Namaskarams to this Holy Spot and gratitude that I have had the opportunity to be there with my family and I look forward to a life-long association with Hariharapura and the Sreemath.

Deadla

I generally write about life – this story is about death. Not just death, but possibly murder. If that isn’t enough, the murderer would be me. Of course, it has all happened in a way that no law in this, or any country would take any action. But the whole episode made me ruminate considerably about life and death and, as with such episodes, brought a little change in me. Maybe the reader will see things from a new perspective too. 

It was November 2022, and we went on a long-weekend trip to Puducherry. It rained the entire day on the day we drove from Bangalore to Pondy and we had to stay away from the beach till evening. The clouds let up for a while, just long enough for us to enjoy the beach, the magnificent sea, the playful waves and the calm evening. The beach was urging us to stay longer but concern and fear won over the appeal of Nature, and we went back in just in time as the rains took over again. 

The next day was warm and sunny, not the type of sunny when the sun is beating the sweat out of people’s brows but the type of sunny when the clouds are teasing the sun; hiding it and then easing out its frustration by letting it shine over the world for a while and again covering it up – a lovely day to ask for when on a holiday to a beach. Encouraged by Nature’s inviting gesture, we rushed to the gushing beach waters and soaked ourselves in the Divine Play – the never-ending waves that tease, caress, throw away and pull in, sometime scaring, mostly entertaining the players on the beach. The salt water soothed our spirits while we danced and pranced in Creation’s Wonder till it was all we could take of the Infinite Bliss She offers – one that is always around to take yet grasped by one in millions only. The irony – with all the wonder to soak oneself in, humans still indulge in the least enticing aspects of life and squander precious time in wallowing in material pursuits and worrying about inevitable events, while a short while soaked in the Immensity, feeling our smallness, gives so much more meaning and a glimpse of that Bliss which we are truly made to experience. 

This small taste of the Divine Nectar is also an intoxication – not to the senses, but to the mind. I felt the lightness of spirit seeping into my mind and getting playful with Life when my lovely daughter came up with excitement and wonder at her find. Little girls generally love shells – she is no exception. Clubbed with an intense concern for keeping things Naturey while studying those innocent and lovely beings (which probably live their lives with less stress than we intelligent beings who have devised several meaningless stress givers, and then hunt desperately for ways to de-stress ourselves), she pointed excitedly to the closed clam in her palm. 

“It is alive?” she asked. 

I didn’t know. I have no idea of these things.  

“Should I take it, or should I put it back?” 

I said something then – which changed a life, and a little bit of mine forever. It must have been something like – “Keep it if you like, it’s probably dead and empty since it has been washed to the shore anyway.” 

When you deal with Life – do be careful. It is so much less burdensome when you don’t make statements without complete knowledge and thought – especially when you are the type of person who is affected by little and big events, due to the resolve to keep evolving as a person. The commitment to be a better oneself – while being an elevating one, does have its flip side, as one must contend with those seemingly insignificant mistakes, but which set the mind into the whirls of a dilemma, one that sucks in the basis of one’s mental posture yet eventually clears the clutter after the storm. The pain of the churning comes from those mindless moments – so beware, but also welcome the new you once you are turned inside out. 

With confidence in my words, the little girl carried the little mollusk gently back to our room. She cleaned it and readied it to be part of her shell collection back home – a new and different addition to her assortment of pretty trinkets. A unique one this would be indeed; two shells, tightly closed unlike the regular single shells of clams or snails. 

The clam travelled with us back home to Bangalore – three hundred and fifty kilometers from its home. It was kept with all the care and love a Nature loving little girl could give, with a special place in the collection and a valued place in the heart. However, these kinds of collectibles are eventually forgotten from day-to-day life and so it was with the tightly closed two-shelled clam. 

It was around two months later when my loving little daughter’s school announced a “Show and Tell” event. She was all excited that her best friend would be putting up a display of aquatic creatures.  

“The two-sided shell would be a wonderful and different thing to display and let people know about.” This was her thought and suggestion to her friend. She was really excited about her little find being useful and possibly in the spotlight. She carried the clam in a small box to school to show her friend. 

Remember reader, this story is about death.  

When she was back home, she was a little disappointed and said something like – “my friend doesn’t want to show it on her display as it has a bad smell.” She wanted me to check if the mollusk was indeed smelling. I said I’d do it later. That’s how a common person’s life usually is; engaged in the tangles of work and priorities set on meaningless mundane tasks. I must give myself credit though, that I take out time eventually for my family’s little needs and so it was with the clam – a couple of days after the Show and Tell concluded, I asked for the clam and its box to be left on my table. 

The next morning, I opened the box, and it smelled foul. I filled the box with water and left it open at my window. I do not remember why I did that, maybe it was my destiny to go through the grind of the mental whirlpool that prompted me to do so rather than just throwing it away. Or maybe I just felt the water would take away the smell after which the two shelled wonder could go back to my daughter’s collection. While the clam rested in the water-filled box on my window, I toiled away at my office completely forgetting the clam on my window. 

Imagine my astoundment when I found the least expected change in the box at my window that evening – the clam had opened. 

Yes! Two months away from the sea, two months out of water, two months of being an item of adoration amongst others, the supposedly dead being had shown signs of life – it had opened. I really did not know if it was alive or if it was just a natural phenomenon for a dead clam to exhibit. Within the two shells was a fleshy mass – the being within the shells. After the wonder of the event had passed, I started finding out about clams (on Google, of course) – live and dead; when they open their shells, whether they can stay alive outside water and for how long, does the opening of the shell signify life and so on. 

My daughter was excited, of course. But as children are – she wasn’t over thinking. I asked her if the clam would be her pet. She wasn’t too eager as we were not sure whether the creature was alive. But with her cutely creative thought, she gave the being a name – Deadla. Thus, was christened the protagonist of this story. 

My prime concern now was to ascertain if the clam was alive and if so, how to keep it that way. However, the most popular articles I found on Google searches dealt with clams as food and how to ensure a clam was alive when being readied as food. For a vegetarian, it was a difficult task to sieve through several websites to get scientific articles on the subject.  

While my research was going on, the flesh was disintegrating and of course, the foul smell was intensifying. I was flabbergasted by the occurrence. It seemed that the creature was either dying or dead. But that was contrary to the opening of the shells which had signified life. Did the creature die when it opened? Did it die because it had no food in the water in its box? Was it already dead when I put it in the water? If so, how did it open? Was it dead when we brought it to Bangalore? Did it die after we picked it up? Was it already dead when we picked it up? 

If not, was it my statement to my daughter that killed it? Would it have survived if I had asked her to put it back on the beach or into the sea? 

Google offered no specific consolation. The articles were not clearly conclusive. Maybe no one has had the moral dilemma I was experiencing. Or maybe not enough people have gone through this thought tornado to write about it. I researched more that night. What I found was that some clams could survive a few months out of water. Broken shells generally signify that the creature had died, while closed shells could mean that the creature was alive. The two shells being held open signified life. Opening of the shells signified a live being. A foul smell signified a dead being (not fit for being eaten).  

The next morning, I was almost sure the being was dead. The flesh was disintegrating into the water, the smell was stronger. My final attempt was to see if the shells would close. I put a little pressure, but it was just a bit too much and the foot of the clam gave way and the two shells separated. This was the last straw that broke the proverbial camel’s back. I quickly dumped the shells, the creature and the water into the dust bin which was to be cleared by my apartment housekeeping staff in a few minutes. Deadla was out of my life in a little while, but it had left indelible questions for which I still struggle for answers.  

I realize that there will be no answers, but I would avoid such a situation again – where I would (maybe out of ignorance, but surely out of unmindful) feel responsible for murdering harmless creatures existing in Her vastness in their symbolic shells of life. I watched recently a poisonous insect being crushed under the heavy footwear of a well-meaning housekeeping staff at another place I stayed at. But knowing that one is causing a death for self-protection against causing a death where there was no cause for fear is less burdensome. No one will convict me for the possible murder I may have committed, except my conscience which pokes me every time I see the possibility of humans inflicting death on the creatures not protected by human laws – Nature will find its way, I pray, as a tribute to Deadla. 

THE GRAND DESIGN

As I witness the waves of water,

I wonder,

Am I but a drop,

While the ocean stands before me,

Or am I the ocean itself,

Hiding away my glory.

As I gaze into the moon above,

I wonder,

Do I pave my own road as I walk ahead,

Or do I walk upon a purposefully planned path,

Leading to my destiny.

And as I watch the gleaming stars,

I wonder,

Am I the master of my future,

Or are we all puppets, Playing our parts in the Grand Design.

Written by my son, Naman (aged 12) and presented to me on Christmas Day – Dec-25-2022 as part of the ‘Secret Santa’ by my daughter, Stuti.

Black Lotus Maha-Yogi

I had written about my journey with Black Lotus earlier here when I reached the “Yogi” stage. Well, I chalked up to the next level recently – pat on my back again 😊.

Crossing this milestone needs:

• 23000 Reflect Points (earned by Meditation and Chanting)
• 23000 Act Points (earned by Breathwork, Acts of Kindness, Mindfulness Activities and Gratitude)
• 2250 Reinforce Points (earned by reading and watching Wisdom content)
• 10000 Evaluate points (earned by Daily Evaluation)

This leg of the journey has had a new set of learnings. But first, my stats as on 8-May when I reached this level:

Go on – say something nice. I’m not shy of accepting some praise any more. I’ve done something awesome and I’m sharing it with the world to know. I don’t mind if people say a few good words.

For this is an important realization that has dawned – acceptance of oneself.

I have accepted I like being praised (I guess everyone does anyway). While it does go to my head and bloats up my confidence to the level of being over-confident, that is as I am. Striking the balance between seeking and accepting appreciation while balancing the ego is my ongoing effort while I traverse this wonderous life further with the aid of Black Lotus.

Interestingly the notification came up unexpectedly. At one point of time, I was viewing my points often. Somewhere in the early April, I stopped looking at the points. It was overwhelming when the notification came.

Some more experiences and learnings along the way below:

Higher tolerance of pain:

I’ve been known to be intolerant to pain – even the injections and the syringes for blood tests used to make me shirk away. (My family enjoys teasing me about it 😊). I don’t generally fall ill – I’ve had fever maybe for 2-3 times in the last 20 years – but when I do, I have found it quite intolerable. I’ve had a tendency to make a big fuss and attract a lot of attention.

However, when I was down with COVID infection in January, I can say with confidence that my tolerance of the discomfort due to high fever was considerably higher than on previous occasions. 

The ability to withstand pain and discomfort has grown with the practice of regular meditation.

Deeper interest in meditation and the Chakras:

While the Black Lotus meditations and goal packs are very well tuned to a balanced, happy and peaceful life, the practice of meditation also created an interest in spiritual practices. I’ve been drawn to understand more of the Chakras, the Divine Energy and other non-tangible forces. Considering my available time and ease of access, I learnt the practice of Reiki earlier this year.

Acceptance:

Though I spoke of acceptance earlier in this post, there are more aspects to it.

• Acceptance of events
• Acceptance of mistakes and shortcomings

Each aspect is unique. Acceptance of events (or life) has given peace and joy. Acceptance of my mistakes and shortcomings has given me courage.

I recently made an error in a calculation at work. Normally, I would have tried to hide it, avoid the situation, manage it, manipulate my way out of it. This time, I simply told the relevant colleagues that I goofed up. (Fortunately, I work with some really good people and we worked our way out.) But irrespective of that, I’m now firm in the belief that I cannot be right all the time and would make mistakes. But the fastest way to move ahead is to accept and look for a solution.

Importance of rest:

This has been another great realization. Over the last 2-3 years, I’ve been pushing my body and mind hard by reducing my hours of sleep so as to do more during the day. The practice of meditation and mindfulness acts, clubbed with the wisdom content have made it dawn upon me that the body and mind need their due rest. Meditation, contemplation and acceptance have helped me understand the need for sufficient rest. While this would vary from person to person, I’ve found my optimum. Rather than trying to manage more time for meditation by sleeping less, I’ve increased my sleep time and found that the day goes off much better.

Maintaining a diary:

This may seem trivial but its importance cannot be understated. I’ve had a diary on and off but after doing the “Live Like a Champion” goal pack, I understood its value. Though I just make entries every week or two – the time spent in writing (physically) does have a good impact in organizing my thoughts and plans.

So, in summary, this leg of the journey has helped me strike a balance in my life, understand myself better and adapt my lifestyle to the needs of my body and mind. Needless to say – daily kindness, everyday gratitude, lesser distractions and day-to-day mindfulness are key findings but I’ve spoken about them before.

Immense gratitude again to the Black Lotus team and Om Swamiji for this wonderful guide to a balanced and happy life.  

Morning Thought

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Indeed, what one thinks in the morning shapes up one’s day. By “one’s day”, I mean the thought patterns for the day which define how one would react to situations. Situations, obviously are quite beyond one’s control. But the responses to the situations aren’t – they can definitely be controlled to suits one’s goals.

One very powerful way which has worked for me to regulate responses and build mindfulness is the “Morning Thought”. It is not an original concept. Several experts have already shared deep insights on what I refer to here as the “Morning Thought.”

Very simply, “Morning Thought” is what one consciously thinks first thing in the morning. I stress here on “consciously”. So far as I am concerned, as soon as I wake up, my chattering mind is all over the place – having just got free from its wild dream-world and into the cage of conscious existence.

A few years ago (no idea when), I realized that to regulate the day and make it productive, one should make the day’s plan early in the morning. I got into the habit of mentally listing out the tasks or activities for the day and my strategies to attend to those tasks. I would mentally list out priorities, set mental (or mobile) reminders as required. This helped me a lot to keep my focus for most part of the day and I realized the importance of the “Morning Thought”.

But planning the day’s activities only helps to manage one’s material life.

The next version of the “Morning Thought” I adopted (maybe a year back) was of gratitude. This is an undoubtedly powerful thought to keep one happy during the day. Telling oneself that it’s a great day and mentally (or verbally) thanking God / the Universe for the little and large pleasures and comforts (home, kids, family, car, food, greenery, rest, job, money, etc.) is a wonderful way to calm the mind for the day. I continue my practice of saying thanks to everything in the morning.

About three months back, I came across another very significant “Morning Thought”. Surprisingly it came in a management course I undertook.

I digress here to state that one thing I respect about the West is that they work towards building up spiritual practices into day-to-day material life. A lot of management techniques reflect inner practices of developing peace and spreading joy. I personally believe that spirituality should be practice-able by every person while doing their normal activities.

So back to the “Morning Thought” which I use now.

It is: “What kind of a person do I want to be today?”.

This is then followed by a detailing of the question – some options which could come up are:

• Calm and Peaceful
• Focused on work
• Kind
• Grateful
• Happy
• Relaxed

This then extends to how the chosen aspect/s would reflect in the day’s situations. For e.g.: “I will be a calm person under work pressure” or “I will maintain focus on completing all pending work and relax later” or “I want to be kind to my family and co-workers today”.

As long as the thoughts are positive, it will steer the day to happiness and contentment.

For me, this one thought – “What kind of person do I want to be today” – sets a great direction every day. It is a paradigm shift from activity-based thinking to character-based thinking. The “Morning Thought” is powerful, potent. It is also a way of ensuring that one’s mind is under control from the start of the day.

She Rose, Fell and Ascended

“Ungrateful! That’s what you are – the whole lot!”

She wasn’t liking the conversation. She wanted to escape but she knew she couldn’t. He would know exactly where she was and would continue to talk. It was better to have the talk. She only wondered, “Why me?”

As if he understood, he continued, “I think you are more intelligent than the rest, you have shown more understanding of the way things are.”

“And why do you say that?” her irritation was evident.

He was determined, “Every time you pick what you need, you say a prayer. I hear it. It’s a rare quality.”

Praise works. The little sparrow didn’t realize this. Her chest puffed up. Maybe the Earth wasn’t wrong after all. She was different. She felt respect and gratitude for the Earth for bestowing her food and water. He deserved that much. That’s why he had chosen to talk to her.

“But that’s the way we are made to be – isn’t it?” she countered him, less harsh now. What he was asking her to do seemed completely out of place.

“Rubbish!” he said. “There is no such thing as ‘we are made to be’. Everyone evolves. Living beings can decide their own fate. There are more creatures living off my soil than up there in the air. You all ought to give up flying and adapt like the land beings. I protect them all, I nourish them all and I sustain them all. What are a few more to me? The Sky has nothing to offer to you – no food, no shelter. You have to rest on my soil or trees growing on my soil. Why not start living off my soil all the time. This whole concept of flying around was brought in by the Sky to confuse poor creatures like you. He is jealous that he cannot sustain life. As a consolation, the Creator let birds fly to give him company. But that is no reason why birds should not seek life’s pleasures from Me – the Earth all the time. Change now, you would see.”

The Sky was hearing too. He blew softly into the sparrow’s ears telling her not to listen. But the Sky was soft-spoken and gentle.

“Consider this,” continued the Earth. “I will continue to feed you no matter what you decide. I’m magnanimous.”

“Don’t listen,” she seemed to hear the Sky. The voice was faint and gentle. “Listen to your heart.” It seemed to say.

The little sparrow heard the Earth’s voice louder.

“So, what should I be doing?” she asked in resignation.

“Build a nest, use pebbles and twigs in addition to grass and straw. Build it under that boulder over there. Walk around, enjoy the food you find in this forest – berries, worms, anything. Just don’t fly away. I’m sure the others will see the point soon. You don’t have to be up in the air anymore spending all your energy against the wind. Your food is here, just stay here.”

“Not everyone is safe here,” she said nervously. “You also host a number of predators.”

“Life is balanced,” replied Earth. “They have to live too. You should consider the better interests of your kind rather than worry only about your own well-being. Set the trend, little one. All birds will benefit in the long term.”

She waited to see if the Sky was saying anything but her intuition was failing and the Earth was strong. She puffed with pride at the thought of being a trend-setter. One who would change the way of birds.

The Sky knew it wasn’t the time. He had to wait.

The sparrow built its nest under the boulder. She felt safe. Earth was huge and he sustained all life. She had nothing to be afraid and soon, other sparrows would follow suit too.

She asked Earth if she could invite the others.

“Wait! They will come when the time is right. You need to set the example first,” Earth was firm about this.

“Best to trust him,” she thought. The evening set in. Her friends were returning to their nests. A few called out to her. Earth was seeing and hearing everything. Under his instructions, she told them, her plans to stay on the ground. They were puzzled. Some scoffed at her, some laughed, some wished her well. No one offered to stay with her. She felt lonely and sad.

“Setting a path for others isn’t easy. It takes sacrifice and I’m sure you have the courage,” Earth said emphatically when he saw she was preparing to take flight. How she wished, she wasn’t the chosen one but what had to be done, had to be done.

A rabbit came scurrying by. She looked at the sparrow and cocked her head just as much as a rabbit could do and flattened her ears. The sparrow felt really awkward.

“This is no place for you,” said the rabbit. “There are better ways of dying than becoming prey.” The scoff was evident.

“If you can survive,” she retorted, “why can’t I?”

“Ah yes! you’d fly away,” she said knowingly.

“I’ve given up flying,” the sparrow clarified her intent. Proving someone wrong lends a lot of courage and resolve. “I’m a ground creature from now on.”

The rabbit’s whiskers twitched. The teeth seemed for an instant longer. Or was it the determined sparrow’s imagination! “Best wishes,” hailed the rabbit. “Hope you see the light soon.” She scurried away without turning back. The sparrow pecked away at the ground and settled for the night. She kept vigil for a while till sleep got the better of her.

She woke up to the morning and as was customary, stretched her wings to take flight when the Earth reminded her, “Welcome to your new life, little one.” The tone was ever so soft and kind, the sparrow was drawn to comply.

“Thanks for the reminder,” she said. “I am yet to get used to the new way of my life.”

“Always glad to help. Enjoy your day,” came the reply.

It was excruciating after an hour to not take wing and fly away. But now the sparrow was determined. She hopped, jumped, walked, preened herself but would not fly. The rabbit returned to see her. She looked at her straight in the eyes and she had to scamper away. The sparrow was truly becoming a ground creature.

At the end of the week, Earth said to her happily, “Another week and you will be completely used to this life. Ignore the taunts of your friends. I will get them back to you when the time is right.”

It happened suddenly!

The cat appeared out of the bushes. It pounced and was in the air headed to her. She saw the menacing eyes, the sharp claws on the outstretched front legs, the exposed canines ready to dig into her. At that moment, there was no thought.

Before she knew it, she was flying fast in the Sky.

Her breath normalized and she looked down. An angry call came to her, “Get back here,” Earth said. “You coward. All you had to do is peck the cat in it’s face. I had told you, you could manage here.”

She landed on a dry branch befitting her state of mind. The Earth was still crying foul but with closed eyes, she only heard the Sky’s whisper, “Be yourself.”

She opened her eyes and respectfully told the Earth, “In spite of your best intent, it is not meant to be. It was my pride that made me feel I can do what I am not destined to.”

“You can make your destiny,” the Earth thundered back.

“Within the boundaries of my being, I will respect your words. I cannot be that which you ask which is contrary to the laws which govern my being. I realize my mistake and my pride is dried up like this branch I sit on. Forgive me.” she waited.

The tinkle of mild laughter sounded from the Sky. The Earth too was suddenly merry. “Well,” he said to the Sky, “you’ve been proved right.”

The Sky caressed the confused sparrow with a smooth flow of air. “It was a test, and I am glad you learnt my child. Pride makes one stray from one’s true nature. You can be the best sparrow but must respect all those other creatures. I think you have understood.”

The sparrow took short flight and landed on the soil to the Earth’s stillness. But now, the heaviness in her heart was gone. She felt at peace.

Dawn at Twilight

It was a day I will remember forever.
I was ruminating on the beauty Nature had entrusted me to sustain and enjoy. I have been a witness to the myriad beings grow, evolve and disappear. I have watched weather change. I have seen the pleasant and the undesirable events that are part of my existence. I have watched the Universe unravel itself and I, Earth, look at other planets and feel blessed to be able to sustain life amongst the millions.
Life of the beings that live with me passes quickly. It hardly lasts compared to my own age. Yet some incidents catch my attention and make me feel my existence is worthwhile. This day was to be one such.
Hilsy was ready. She was full of curiosity and energy to seek answers. Life’s wonders would open up. In the small span she would enjoy, she wanted to rake in the most. She looked forward to someone who could help her in this.
Blitz was prepared too. The days of summer had ended, the Sun had done his job uninterrupted and it was time for the rains to take over. Blitz was bubbly with enthusiasm. He saw the multitude around and below him and was amazed at the largeness. He sought one whom he could call his own.
The lives of a Hibiscus flower and a rain cloud span about a day. It’s an unusual relationship which I could perceive was developing. Hilsy’s strong transmissions for a friend who could help her learn, Blitz’s keen sight looking for one he could shower his full might upon – Yes, I sensed these.
It was inevitable and I observed their first interaction with great curiosity. Hilsy noticed that Blitz and other clouds like him could see the entire garden and much more. Biltz was all-knowing from where she stood – on a stalk on her bush. If only Blitz would tell her all he could see. She called out.
Blitz realized here was one who was different – like himself, unconventional, bold, ready to explore. None from the ground ever called to a rain cloud. Flowers were afraid of dark clouds like himself as they could wreak havoc if they let themselves precipitate too soon, an occurrence common to their nature. Blitz saw in Hilsy the boldness he was looking for.
“What does this Earth look like?” she asked.
“Round, vast, dotted with beings like yourself and others which move,” he said.
“Move?” she asked and as if in answer, she sensed a goat nibbling at a bush nearby.
“Yes,” he said, “like that and many more. I can see beings walk on two legs, crawl on their bodies, wriggle with a thousand. It’s amazing.”
“I wish I could see from there.”
“I will keep telling. The secret down below is to be strong.”
“I am.”
“Hardly, if that creature you just sensed bites you, you would be done for.”
She pondered. “I am what I am but I know I am unlike others. I want to see existence for what it is.”
“None of my kind speaks to beings down below. I will tell you and I will help you grow strong,” he responded.
“Is it possible? To be different, to live longer, to learn?”
“When we rain, we create life. I can see little beings emerge far away where another cloud is pouring out.”
“You can watch life forming,” she sighed. She would do anything to witness this wonder.
I see this miracle every day and Hilsy reminded me of this marvel which I sometimes tend to get used to.
“When we come down to the land and live our lives out as rain, life of several beings starts, grows or strengthens. Plants like you absorb our water, they grow stronger, they live because we die.” Blitz knew his existence was with a purpose and he was longing to help Hilsy with his rain waters.
Ignorance plays spoil-sport to unconventional enthusiasm!
I wish sometimes that these creations which live with me would last as long as I do so they would know all I know. Maybe my desire has rubbed off on the best of them, the ones who dare to be different. Such ones stand apart from others in their enthusiasm to learn.
“I will pour my rain on you to make you strong,” Blitz thundered with enthusiasm. The roar sent shivers to many who lived their normal existence. But Hilsy was not normal. She was brave and thirsty – what a metaphor! She welcomed his downpour.
Blitz let his strength down. I see everything and I could see him straining to give his fullest to Hilsy.
Hilsy put up her bravest, strongest demeanour. She believed she would grow strong and learn.
But Nature has made things the way they are and let a part of herself reside in all. One has to flow with her beauty to go beyond. Those who spend time to mingle themselves with her, recognize the ways to use her against herself and stand out.
But again, Ignorance plays spoil-sport to unconventional enthusiasm.
Fragile as she was, a mere over-zealous, curious, ignorant Hibiscus flower, Hilsy could not stand the strength of Blitz’s well-intended, powerful, devastating downpour driven by his ignorance. She was fortunate to be saved by the branch above her.
Try as she might, she could not listen anymore to Blitz and bent low to save herself. She felt defeated.
Blitz was furious. This imprudent flower had called to him but was unwilling to take his strength into herself. He had reduced his own existence to help her learn and be strong. He had been let down.
He slowed down and finally stopped. I could sense his feelings loud and clear. He felt his life-giving water wasn’t meant for such ungrateful weaklings. He allowed the wind to drift him away.
She gathered her strength but was too weak to let an apology be heard.
I was heart-broken for both. My children had gone beyond themselves without the right understanding. Yet, it is not my role to interfere. I am a spectator and must bear the merry and the misery of my beings in silence.
The day had but reached its peak and Nature had yet not shown her wondrous self to these two lost beings.
The sun shone brightly. The wind blew away the clouds. The rain drops dried and soon, Hilsy felt strength seeping into her. She couldn’t believe she would be her strong self again. But when one gives up oneself to allow Nature rule, magic happens. By the time the sun was to start its downward journey, Hilsy was strong.
Blitz didn’t know either the magic that comes when Nature takes upon herself the care of a sincere one. He grew and then he realized he was growing. He allowed it and his lost power was back.
Both were wiser.
She knew now what her fragile life was about. There were others to learn from – the sun, the wind, the garden, the distant beings. She would end up in my bosom as dried petals and seeds and go on to create new life of petite beauty.
He knew now what his power was about. He let himself rain out gently, let parched beings soak his caressing shower, let young ones pirouette with joy as the falling drops danced their way in the gentle wind. He sighed in satisfaction creating joy and life.
They both merged into me that evening – this unusual pair. I don’t know what to call them – “friends” is too light a word. I did hear their last calls to each other as they understood at the end, their lives’ meaning and their errors. I interfered just enough to let them hear each other and pass on in contentment. Nature smiled at my trespass of her boundaries.
Realization – it dawned at evening twilight.
I shall remember these two and this day.

Did He Win?

“This is completely unfair!” he complained. “With the huge effort I’ve been putting in recent times, I’ve been progressing so well. My species has been making great technological breakthroughs. Bah! I know the others can stand it. Just to accommodate them, I even changed my ways as YOU wanted to let others feel better. Yet you brought this impediment! At the pace I had set, I would be completely in control of everything on Earth soon.”

Silence!

“Come on,” he prodded. “Say something. Why did you do this?”

“Balance is important,” the Nature-Spirit said in her calm voice.

“Bah!” the Man-Spirit exclaimed. “I am doing that too on your insistence. See how much I am doing for the Tiger-Spirit and the Panda-Spirit. They couldn’t sustain the life of their species down on Earth and I have been kind enough to have my race try to conserve them.”

The Tiger-Spirit growled, “You destroyed a large part of my race for pleasure. What you are doing now isn’t kindness, it is repentance.”

“The spirits in this Spirit-Domain govern their species on Earth and direct their actions,” Nature-Spirit intervened gently swaying her branches. The myriad flowers covering her branches formed a wondrous collage of sprinkled hues generating a peaceful aura. “You had allowed your men to kill other species in large numbers,” her voice flowed like a bubbling brook – gentle and soothing to all living beings.

“I don’t repent,” Man-Spirit said adamantly ignoring Nature-Spirit’s calming manifestation. “The Creator – God has given me the power to rule. He has given me the strength to overpower other species. I only direct my species to do what they are they meant for – rule. I use my best skill – intelligence to the fullest.”

Nature-Spirit looked at God who was in his Butterfly form. He was smiling benignly as always. He hadn’t uttered a word since Man-Spirit had been bawling to him about the onset of the pandemic on Earth. Nature-Spirit sighed. It was her job as usual to drive home the point to Man-Spirit. She pondered on what she should say.

“I’ve had enough,” said Man-Spirit. “Don’t think you are getting the better of me Corona-Spirit. I haven’t put my full strength yet in fighting you.”

“Can’t we co-exist?” the Corona-Spirit laughed merrily and the spikes on her round body jingled.

“You are pathetic!” Man-Spirit screamed. “I’ll stomp out the last of you from Earth soon. I’ve got medicines ready. My race will inoculate themselves against your viruses soon. It is but a matter of time. I’ll show you all.”

Nature-Spirit tried to say something, but Man-Spirit disappeared. She looked at God who had changed to his Monkey form. God was smiling at the Corona-Spirit. She laughed back happily. “Thank you for the life you have given me. Thank you, Nature-Spirit, for preserving me and allowing me to live on. I have work to do; I’ll see you all soon.”

The Corona-Spirit disappeared too. It had to be back on Earth to work directly with its viruses. Man-Spirit was on Earth too working through his people to fight the virus attack. Nature-Spirit fathomed what was going on. It was just a few moments in the Spirit-Domain but a year had passed by on Earth.

“Why doesn’t he learn?” asked Nature-Spirit.

God radiated soft white light as he spoke with a wide smile having assumed his Man-form, “He can if he wants to. He has free will and he has mind power.”

“You pamper him,” said Nature-Spirit.

“Just as much as I pamper anyone else,” God replied as he changed to his Sparrow-form. “He just has different capabilities. None like yours. You are incomparable in what you can do. But the other spirits love you. He wants to be loved but doesn’t know how to be loveable.”

The Nature-Spirit bowed and God took his Cobra-form.

“You should take away some of his powers,” the Bat-Spirit squeaked as it entered the Spirit-Domain. “He is out to destroy my race now. Just because the Corona virus passed into a man through a bat. If God doesn’t want to lessen his powers, at least you, Nature-Spirit can teach him a lesson.”

Nature-Spirit enveloped the Bat-Spirit with her leafy hands and calmed him down. “We Spirits have the power to direct our race as we like. Its best that you prepare your bats to stay away from humans. He can’t catch them all.”

“Yes. I’ll do that,” said the Bat-Spirit and disappeared back to Earth.

The Corona-Spirit came back laughing. “I know my purpose. I’ve lived on the men on Earth for long enough. In the last six Earth-months after our last meeting, I have lived my fullest. I won’t last too long. I am but a small part of your Grand Design, God. I will withdraw soon as per my role. But after a little more trouble for man. I have mutated my viruses on Earth. They will spread faster now. But I have made them less harmful. All he needs is to work harder to produce more vaccines and medicines.”

“At least that keeps him away from having wars within his species,” the Eagle-Spirit had flown in to say.

Nature-Spirit sighed again.

“You squeaky pest!” Man-Spirit came back running. “I find a vaccine and you make different strains. Wait. I’ll get you yet. It has been two years on Earth already that you have created trouble. I won’t stand it any longer.”

“Can’t we co-exist?” the Corona-Spirit laughed again with her spikes jingling.

Man-Spirit looked at Nature-Spirit and then God in his Light-form.

“Fine!” he said to God. “I know this is your doing. What do you want now? As if I haven’t done enough already. You wanted me to distribute power on Earth and I created democracy for people and have eliminated autocracy. You wanted me to preserve Nature and I have brought in so much awareness in people to help Nature. You make me do whatever you want and say I have free will. NOW what do you want!”

God assumed his Man-form and smiled benignly.

“Ok, as usual Nature-Spirit has to speak for you,” Man-Spirit said exasperated.

“All spirits respect each other,” Nature-Spirit said. “The spirits in this world are meant to govern their species on Earth in a manner which befits the Universe at large. Even those whose species feed on each other know they can’t exist without the other. As the most intelligent, with the best of abilities, we always hope you, Man-Spirit, will safeguard and enhance the existence of all species. However, you have to be reminded of this every now and then and hence the pandemic.”

Man-Spirit opened his mouth but stopped from saying anything.

“Kindness, gratitude, respect for other beings,” Nature-Spirit went on. “When these are restored in your species, you will be able to grow unhindered. Your powers are to enhance creation. You choose however, to control everything.”

“Ok. Ok. I get it,” said Man-Spirit, “But can you stop this one?” He pointed to Corona-Spirit.

“My work is over,” she said merrily and shrunk to a quarter of her size. She rolled up to God. He smiled at her and caressed her with a ray of bright light.

“Now she is favored, and I am not,” Man-Spirit said sulkily.

God signaled with his hand and Man-Spirit felt God’s embrace flowing to him as a soft breeze. He calmed down.

“All are my own,” said God. “All have their missions, their time span and their powers. I hope you will use yours wisely.”

Man-Spirit nodded. He looked down at Earth and people could walk out again without the fear of the Corona virus. The Corona-Spirit shrunk more and merged into the Nature-Spirit. On Earth, there was rejoicing. The doctors felt they had won the battle. The Governments restored their plans and were going full steam on advancing technology. Countries had started bickering on who won the battle over Corona and how each should benefit for their efforts. Man-Spirit was happy.

“Now that I have won over the Corona-Spirit, I will conquer air soon and then space,” Man-Spirit said excitedly. He looked down again and over the years, vehicles of air travel started covering the sky on Earth. Nature-Spirit let out a cough as dark smoke enveloped parts of Earth as a result of smoke from the air-borne vehicles.

“I have to be back to work with my race and enhance our flying methods,” Man-Spirit said and started to disappear.

“Don’t forget the messy air its creating,” Nature-Spirit called behind him. He didn’t seem to hear.

“He didn’t understand. Did he really win?” Bat-Spirit asked God.

“No. he didn’t,” said Nature-Spirit emanating the fragrance of jasmine. “Another disaster is in the making for him. If he continues this way, he will be eliminated sooner. If he changes, he will survive longer. I have to provide for him and for all beings, but he refuses to see that he isn’t meant to control but to enhance.”

“I gave him an Ego too,” God laughed in his Nature form.

The spirits all smiled.

It Is/n’t Easy

They say it isn’t easy,
To tame the head-strong stallion,
To teach it the do as it is bid,
To harness its strength to journey the way,
Before they meet the Bold One.
 
They say it isn’t easy,
To defang the snake and extract its venom,
To render it harmless and its weapon use,
To do good where harm was to be,
Before they meet the Kind One.
 
They say it isn’t easy,
To pull out the clinging leech,
Sucking the life blood causing pain,
Clouding one to think none else,
Before they meet the Positive One.
 
They say it isn’t easy,
To quieten the monkey and train it,
Running, jumping, swinging, jeering,
Unaware of its wastefulness and chatter,
Before they meet the Calm One.
 
They say it isn’t easy,
To let the bird free fly in the sky,
To free it from its golden cage,
Where it was put into by oneself,
Before they meet the Sage.
 
They say it isn’t easy,
To make the huge elephant bow,
Carry dwarves, ferry goods,
Be docile, faithful, loving,
Before they meet the Devoted One.
 
But it is all easy when one has found,
The Bold, Kind, Positive, Calm, Devoted, Sage, Swami,
The Stallion Body, Clinging Negativity Leech, The Venomous Senses,
The Elephant Mistrust, The Monkey Mind, The Bird Spirit,
All align to be One, One with the One Sage.
 
Notes: When I share my experiences about mindfulness and positivism, there are generally people who remark that it isn’t easy. The idea of this poem had started while I contemplated on this aspect. In His online Satsang on 28-Mar-2021, Om Swamiji stated that He would hand hold everyone on their journey. The words came and the poem took shape. Incidentally published on the day of Sri Hari temple consecration anniversary.

Recovering from an Outburst of Anger

We all get angry at some point of time. While we strive to be mindful, calm, gentle, in control of ourselves, there are always occasions when we lose our cool and burst out.

I’ve had a history of outbursts – from small ones to SUPER LARGE ones. Over time, the frequency and intensity have reduced considerably. Yet, there are times, especially when work stress builds up, when I do lose my head.

Here is some analysis from my past few ones.

1. Most outbursts aren’t even on the person/s who are related to the cause of the stress. Some innocent victim bears the brunt of the stress one allows to build up.
2. The worst impact of the outburst is actually on oneself.
3. An angry outburst is followed by several reactions within oneself:
   • Guilt
   • Ego
   • Blame
   • Complaint
   • Loss of confidence

On the path to leading a mindful life, I arrived that the below “formula” to get over the aftermath of an outburst quickly.

1. Accept yourself – Get rid of the guilt. We are all human. While it may not have been right to get angry and hurt someone, what’s done has been done and there is no point crying over spilt milk.
2. Accept the Other Person/s – They are human too and subject to the emotional waves we all go through.
3. Accept the Situation – Lots of issues are completely beyond our control. While things may not be as one would like them to be, acceptance opens the mind to ways of making the best of a given situation.
4. Apologize – The best way to put down one’s ego is to apologize. Easier said than done. The ego is a formidable opponent. But an apology goes a long way. Ideally, it ought to be genuine. But even a pretense apology is good enough to start with till it grows and becomes a genuine habit.
5. Look Ahead – Action is a big healer. Once you know you have taken restorative steps, things look positive both within and outside.

Accept – Apologize – Look Ahead.

This should work for any out-of-control situation and help get over those negative sentiments that can pull one down.