Train the Mind: Selections from “Sad Vani – A collection of the teachings of Sri Anandamayi Ma (vegetarian),” Part 2 of 2

Let us continue sharing selections from the book “Sad Vani: A collection of the teachings of Sri Anandamayi Ma” recorded and translated by her devotees Bhaiji and Atmananda respectively, where the devoted Saint challenges us to see opportunities in our daily life to practice spirituality.

“Equally, to cure man of the diseased condition that causes the perpetual recurrence of birth and death, there are elaborate prescriptions to be found in the Sastras (scriptures) and many rules and regulations to be learnt directly from sages and saints, yet all have the same purpose. The diverse paths followed by Hindus, Mohammedans, Vaisnavites, etc., all ultimately lead to the threshold of the Eternal.”

“The real servants were Hanuman, Garuda and others like them, who identified themselves so wholly with their Masters that they had no longer independent existences. Complete subjection of oneself in service, is what is required. He who is incapable of unreservedly offering to his Lord his all - his wealth, family, friends, mind, heart and body - cannot claim to be recognized as the Lord's true servant.”

“Those who pass their days on this Earth in happiness which is only a tiny fragment of the real Joy, are not interested in knowing Him, the Source of all delight. Seek Him Who is the Fountainhead of everything. This is real tapasya (austerity), this is real sadhana (spiritual exercise).”

“Parental affection, the fondness between brothers and sisters, the love between husband and wife, the reverence and devotion of children for their parents, the companionship between relatives and friends, the blessings of dependents and of the poor and suffering, are all potent aids towards a life that ultimately aims at Self-realization. Think it over and you will understand! Tossed about incessantly between the ordeals and pleasures of family life, the spirit of renunciation sometimes awakens in man together with a desperate yearning for God. Where this is so, the householder has a better chance, even than many an anchorite who has left home and family.”

“If once you rouse yourself to enthusiasm, you will be able to concentrate well enough. You spare no pains to make your body healthy, strong and beautiful; if you try equally hard to educate your mind, you will see how wholehearted, how fervent your aspiration grows. Merely to sit down and philosophize will not take you anywhere; it is necessary to apply theoretical knowledge in practice and to engage in sadhana. To be one-pointed in all you do, will of itself teach you the secret of how the goal can be attained through action.”