HAPPY CHRISTMAS

Christmas is the historical encounter, the decisive encounter, between God and mankind. The real spirit of Christmas is not a time nor a season, but a state of mind, to cherish peace and goodwill, to be plenteous in mercy. It remembers me a giving heart, a wide open heart that thinks of others first. He who has faith knows this truly; let him rejoice. Christmas is all about god and love. Love is the key to peace among all mankind and happiness within all creation.

I am not a Christian in the conventional sense but I find very good values and message in this festival. Christ was born as a human being and lived throughout as GOD'S beloved child and he sacrificed his life for uplifting the sinners. He did not despise even the worst sinner but took him in to him and refined him. From this festival especially one can know to love selflessly and do something positive for others. Somehow, not only for Christmas, but all the long year through, the joy that you give to others, is the joy that comes back to you. And the more you spend in blessing the poor and lonely and sad, the more of your hearts possessing, Returns to you glad.

Christmas is a time of reflection and thanks. Remembering the true meaning of Christmas can be done in a variety of ways. This might mean taking time to pray and read passages from the Bible with your family. Regardless of how you choose to celebrate this wonderful holiday and this miraculous event, I hope it is a time that is full of joy and love with the ones you care about. I trust that your Christmas will be filled with warmth and meaning as you gather with your loved ones and reflect on the true meaning of this blessed day.

May the good times and treasures of the present
become the golden memories and moments of tomorrow.
Wish you lots of love, joy and happiness.
Merry Christmas and Divine Love to all of you

RESPECT LIFE(WORTH READING)

One morning, a monkey got seriously injured after getting hit by a speeding car on road. One autorikshaw driver stopped and shifted the injured animal from the road to footpath. Few poor labourers gathered around it, without knowing what to do. Blood was flowing from the injuries in the abdomen and neck. One person brought bread and water to feed the animal. They shifted monkey to a safe place, into the campus of a nearby hostel, which accommodated students pursuing their M.Sc. and Ph.D. in veterinary science. The hostel watchman who had a mobile phone, contacted the Animal Welfare department and requested for an ambulance for picking up the injured animal for treatment.

After people dispersed, a Ph.D student came out of his hostel room with a glass of water. He was looking for an appropriate place having sunlight. He came to a place, just a few feet away from where the injured animal was lying in pain, performed 'surya namaskar' facing the sun and went back to his room.

The student did not even care to give a look at the monkey lying near, crying in severe pain. The monkey also existed on this earth by the grace of Sun, the ultimate source of energy, to whom he had just prayed to.

He may definitely complete his Ph.D. with flying colours and be successful in life as a Veterinary Doctor. But, a doctor without a heart! Would you like to be one like him?

'Life' in any form, whatever it may be, is a gift from the Almighty. Let HUMANITY (Respect & compassion) towards Life be our first religion. Humanity is the highest religion.

(THIS IS A REAL INCIDENT THAT HAPPENED IN BANGALORE AND ONE OF MY FRIEND FORWARD THIS TO ME)

DHANURMASA THIRUVADHIRA ON 22 DECEMBER 2010.

The Thiruvathira Festival falls in the Malayalam month of Dhanu (December, January).In 2010 Thiruvathira is on December 22. The festival is mainly dedicated to Lord Shiva. The people of Kerala celebrate this festival with great Joy and respect. Thiruvathira is essentially women's festival and it is considered very auspicious to worship Lord Shiva on this day and pray for conjugal harmony and marital bliss. The other very interesting facet of the festival is the enchanting “Thiruvathirakkali” dance performed by women on this day. Oonjalattom, swinging on an oonjal (swing) is an item of amusement on this occasion. At night the women keep vigil for Siva and perform Thiruvathira kali or Kaikottikali.

Significance:-
Thiruvathira is being celebrated for ages now but there is no clear theory about the origin of the festival. There are numerous myths associated with this thiruvadhira fast. But the origin of this festival is obscure.

Some legends says that it is the birthday of Lord Shiva.

Some legends says that Lord Shiva merged all nine powers into him before initiation of creation, on this day.

Some legends says that Lord Shiva’s return to the world after ending the harsh austerities and tapas that he was performing after the death of Goddess Sati.

Some legends says that Parvathi performed rigorous penance to win the Lord Siva’s heart and after a long penance on the Thiruvathira day Lord Siva accepted her as his wife. Therefore, it is the holy day of marriage of God Shiva and Goddess Parvathi.

Some legends say that it is the day when Kamadeva, the mythological God of love was reborn. He burnt to ashes in the fatal flames of fire from the third eye of Lord Siva. The Lord pardoned him, on request of Sree Parvati and Rathidevi, later.

Another legend associated with this festival is that in tune with Narada Maharshi’s advice, Rukmini followed the fast following Sree Parvati, to become Lord Krishna’s bride.

Another legend associated with this festival is In accordance with Narada’s advice, Gopikas in Vrindavanam also opted for Karthiyayani fast during this dhanurmasa season. They longed to have Lord Krishna as their husband, made an idol of Goddess Karthiyayani and prayed for a mandala season. For this, Gopikas took early baths in river Kalindhi, singing hymns and tapping on the water, splashing rhythmically; praising the Lord. They conducted worship with flowers, submitted “naivedhyam” swinging and fasting, which yielded result in merging of their spirits and souls into the Lord on the moon lit night of Thiruvathira. Lord joined them and with Lord as the centre; they danced on the banks of river Yamuna. Gopikas attained eternal bliss on this thiruvadhira day. All these rituals have later become the customs of Thiruvathira.

Another legend associated with this festival is Long ago during the Mahakalakalpa, there was a severe war between Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu. Lord Shiva took an immobile form and from that emerged a Shiva Linga. As per advice of Lord Shiva, Brahma and Vishnu paid homage to this Linga with Omkaram and Panchakshari (OM NAMASHIVAYA). The Lord Mahadeva emerged and blessed them both. From then, devotees who worship the Lord on this Thiruvathira day receive immense blessings that are most precious. As per shivapurana this thiruvadhira day is remarkable than what is received by worshipping for over a year.

Whatever might be the true legend; Thiruvathira is holy day and devotees worship Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathi, submitting them to seek their blessings.

The festival of Thiruvathira is extremely popular among the women of Kerala and the Customs are based on age-old traditions. This festival begin a week before, commencing from Aswathi. The second last day is Rohini. On this day, fasting is done for overall welfare of the family and wellbeing of all members. The previous day is Makayiram. On this day, mothers observe fast for the well-being of their children. Married women who have difficulties in conceiving fast and spent this day praying Lord. They long for blessings in the form of a kid of their own.

In some places the previous day of thiruvadhira i.e. on the day of Makayiram, women/girls put mehandi on the palms which is considered as highly auspicious. The fact behind this ritual has a deeper significance. One such notion goes that the darker the color of the Mehndi, the more her husband will love her, and this darker colour indicates more love from her husband and inlaws.

On Arudra day, last day of the festive week, wife fast for the welfare of her husband. This encompasses prayers for his life longevity, togetherness, quick reunions or fame of their beloved husband; as the case may be, which would ensure simultaneously long and happy married life.

However, there is no compulsion on any of these fasting whatsoever. In generally, the procedure is different from place to place.

My maternal grandmother’s place is Kurrkampara, a small village of kunnamkulam.In this place one most famous ancient shiva temple "KANNESWARAN" Temple is there which has background of more than 500 years. Here thiruvadhira and shivrathri are the major festivals that are celebrated very grandly. Even in our father's side "SREE PANTHALLUR SHIVA BHAGAVATHY KSHETRAM" Chowannur, kunnamkulam, this thiruvadhira is celebrated grandly.

On this thiruvadhira day waking up by 4 A.M, after bath, have to visit Shiva temple at early hours, if possible before sunrise. This is Arudra Darshan. Unmarried girls fast on Thiruvathira aspiring for a compatible groom in future. Married woman fast on thiruvathira with a faith that it would bring long life to the husband and thereby prosperity and good life to the family. No food or drink till will be taken till the completion of 24-hours. Generally those who can’t fast fully can take tender coconut. Other items of their food include plantain fruits, tender coconuts, wheat etc. Once again I am reminding that the procedure is different from place to place.

While there are many festivals in India during which women fast for the welfare of her husband, this Thiruvadhira fast is observe for the lord Shiva. Lord Shiva is the god, to whom most Hindus turn to for good spouse and for a harmonious family life. Of all the gods of the Hindu pantheon, it is Shiva and Parvati who have the ideal family life. There are many stories of Shiva's passion and devotion for Parvati and their harmonious relationship. It is believed that those people who observe fast on this Thiruvadira day will have their desires fulfilled and will be blessed with Good family life and wisdom. In some areas, on this Thiruvadira day single girls keep fast for an ideal husband because Hindu mythology tells us that Parvati, Shiva's consort, won him over by meditation and fasting. This vratam is considered quite auspicious to please the God. This fast is called the King of fasts in Hindu Mythology.

Karacharana Kritham Vaa; Kayajam
Karmajam Vaa; Shravana Nayanajam Vaa;
Manasam Vaa Aparadham; Vihithama
Vihitham Vaa; Sarva Medha Kshamasvaa;
Jaya Jaya Karunabdhey ; Shree Mahadeva Shambo

Meaning: Oh Lord! Please forgive me for all the wrong actions that I have commited knowingly or unknowingly with my hands, feet, speech, body, ears, eyes and mind. Victory to you, Oh Lord of compassion and Mercy.

THE GENTLE ART OF BLESSING

On awakening, bless this day, for it is already full of unseen good which your blessings will call forth; for to bless is to acknowledge the unlimited good that is embedded in the very texture of the universe and awaiting each and all.

On passing people in the street, on the bus, in places of work and play, bless them. The peace of your blessing will accompany them on their way and the aura of its gentle fragrance will be a light to their path.

On meeting and talking to people, bless them in their health, their work, their joy, their relationships to God, themselves, and others. Bless them in their abundance, their finances ... bless them in every conceivable way, for such blessings not only sow seeds of healing but one day will spring forth as flowers of joy in the waste places of your own life.

As you walk, bless the city in which you live, its government and teachers, its nurses and street sweepers, its children and bankers, its priests and prostitutes. The minute anyone expresses the least aggression or unkindness to you, respond with a blessing: bless them totally, sincerely, joyfully, for such blessings are a shield which protects them from the ignorance of their misdeed, and deflects the arrow that was aimed at you.

To bless means to wish, unconditionally, total, unrestricted good for others and events from the deepest wellspring in the innermost chamber of your heart. It means to hallow, to hold in reverence, to behold with utter awe that which is always a gift from the Creator. He who is hallowed by your blessing is set aside, consecrated, holy, whole. To bless is yet to invoke divine care upon, to think or speak gratefully for, to confer happiness upon - although we ourselves are never the bestower, but simply the joyful witnesses of Life's abundance.

To bless all without discrimination of any sort is the ultimate form of giving, because those you bless will never know from whence came the sudden ray of sun that burst through the clouds of their skies, and you will rarely be a witness to the sunlight in their lives.

When something goes completely askew in your day, some unexpected event knocks down your plans and you also, burst into blessing: for life is teaching you a lesson, and the very event you believe to be unwanted, you yourself called forth, so as to learn the lesson you might balk against were you not to bless it. Trials are blessings in disguise, and hosts of angels follow in their path.

To bless is to acknowledge the omnipresent, universal beauty hidden to material eyes; it is to activate that law of attraction which, from the furthest reaches of the universe, will bring into your life exactly what you need to experience and enjoy.

When you pass a prison, mentally bless its inmates in their innocence and freedom, their gentleness, pure essence and unconditional forgiveness; for one can only be prisoner of one's self-image, and a free man can walk unshackled in the courtyard of a jail, just as citizens of countries where freedom reigns can be prisoners when fear lurks in their thoughts.

When you pass a hospital, bless its patients in their present wholeness, for even in their suffering, this wholeness awaits in them to be discovered. When your eyes behold a man in tears, or seemingly broken by life, bless him in his vitality and joy: for the material senses present but the inverted image of the ultimate splendor and perfection which only the inner eye beholds.

It is impossible to bless and to judge at the same time. So hold constantly as a deep, hallowed, intoned thought that desire to bless, for truly then shall you become a peacemaker, and one day you shall, everywhere, behold the very face of God.

And of course, above all, don't forget to bless the utterly beautiful person YOU are!

DECEMBER 17TH VAIKUNTA EKADASI

Ekadasi means 'the eleventh' in Sanskrit.Vaikunta Ekadashi is the major festival celebrated in Dhanur Masam in South Indian states like Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. This festival Vaikunta Ekadasi or “Mukkoti Ekadasi” and “Geeta Jayanthi is dedicated to lord Vishnu. It occurs in the month of Marghazhi (Dhanurmasam mid December to Mid January) and is observed on Dhanur Masa Shukla Paksha Ekadasi or on the 11th day of bright fortnight during Dhanur Masam. In 2010 it falls on December 17th, and it is also known as “Mukkoti Ekadasi” and “Geeta Jayanthi”.

There are 24 Ekadashis in a year, according to Vishnu Purana (the primary text among the 18 Puranas) observing fast on Vaikuntha Ekadasi day offers equal benefits of observing all the other 23 Ekadashis during the year. However, if it is not possible to fast completely, one can consume fruits and milk. Food made from rice is to be avoided during the day. The fast is to be broken on the following day Dwadashi.

Vaikunta Dwara Darshanam, visiting the Lord through Vaikunta Dwaram (Entrance to Heaven), is the main highlight during Mukkoti Ekadasi day in Vishnu temples. Vaikunta Dwaram is opened on only Vaikunta Ekadashi day which lies at North side to the temple. On this day, in Vishnu temples, Vaikunta Dwar or Vaikunta Dwaram or Vaikunta Vaasal (entrance to Heaven) is opened for Darshan of Lord Vishnu. This gate is open only on Vaikunt Ekadasi day in the whole year. The Vaikunta Dwaram or the gate to the heaven is opened on this day. This is the passage encircling the innermost sanctum of the Lord. Scores of devotees queue up to pass through the Gate of Vaikunta in the temples. In Kerala, this Ekadasi is celebrated as Swarga Vathil Ekadashi at Trivandrum Padmanabha Swamy Temple. In North India, it is known as Putrada Ekadasi.

The Padma Purana says:

"ekadasi vrata samam vrata nasti jagattrayeanicchaya'pi yat krtva gatir evam vidha'vayoh
ekadasi vratam ye tu bhakti bhavena kurvate na jane kim bhavet tesam vasudeva anukampaya",

Which translates as:

In the three worlds, there is no kind of fasting which is even comparable to the Ekadasi fast. Even if one performs this fast without a proper attitude, he achieves the Supreme Abode. If one fasts on Ekadasi day, with full devotion, what happens to him by the mercy of the Supreme Lord, I cannot say (the merit he achieves cannot be described).

Significance of Vaikunta Ekadasi:

Of all Ekadasis , The one connected with Dhanur Maasa Sukla Paksha Ekadasi is the most exalted and is known as Sri Vaikunta Ekadasi .There are number of reasons Assoicated with the special significance of this Ekadasi:

According to Padma Purana, the female energy of Lord Vishnu killed demon Muran in the form of a damsel named “Ekadashi” to protect Devas. This occurred during the month of Marghazhi (Margashira or Margashirsha) (mid December – mid January). Hence anyone who worships Lord Vishnu on this Ekadasi day would reach Vaikunth.

Hindu Puranas say that it was on this day that the churning of the ocean occurred and the Amrit (nectar of immortality) emerged out of the ocean and Bhagavan Dhanvanthri appeared thereafter with the Amrutha Kalasam (Nectar Pot) and Was distributed to the Gods. Hindus believe that those who die on this day are freed from the cycle of birth and death and that they would directly reach Vaikunta.

The most exalted of auspiciousness that happened on this day is the appearance of Maha Lakshmi.She appeared with the golden color.

Another importance of Vaikunta Ekadasi is that the Bhagavad Gita Upadesh of Lord Krishna to Arjuna during Kurukshetra War is said to have done on this day.

This day is also observed as “The Bhagavad Gita” Jayanthi. The Bhagavad Gita (in Sanskrit, "Song of the Lord") is the most famous poem in all of Hindu literature and part of the Mahabharata, the Indian epic masterpeice. The Gita consists of a dialogue between Lord Krishna and Prince Arjuna on the morning of a climactic battle. The main teachings of Bhagavad Gita are it teaches us the theory and values of path towards God. The Bhagavadgita teaches how to escape from this predicament, not by escaping from the burdens of the worldly life, or avoidance of responsibilities.

In his Gitopadesam to Arjuna, Sri Krishna describes the threefold path of austerity and says

"deva -dvija-guru-praajna-pujanam-shauchanam-arvajanam-
brahmacharyam-ahimsaa-cha-shariram-tapuchyate",

Which means one must worship the Supreme Lord, the Brahmans, the spiritual master, and superiors like the father and mother. Cleanliness, simplicity, celibacy and nonviolence are also austerities of the body (Bhagvada Geeta 17.14).

Truthful speech, which is not offensive to others and the regular recitation of scriptures, is austerity of speech (Bhagvada Geeta 17.15).

Serenity of thought, compassion, gravity, self-control, purity of purpose, are all austerity of the mind (Bhagvada Geeta 17.16).

This threefold path of austerity, practiced by men whose aim is not to benefit materially but to please the supreme, leads to a nature of goodness. Sri Krishna finally says that penances and austerities which are performed foolishly, by means of obstinate self-torture, or by destroying or injuring others, are the approach of the ignorant. It is also recommended that one must not perform austerities beyond his capabilities, lest the austerities become mechanical or offensive.

Yatra Yogeshwarah Krishno, Yatra Partho Dhanurdhara:
Tatra Shreer Vijayo Bhooti:, Dhruvaa Neetir Matir Mama. "

Where there is Yogeshwar Krishna and Dhanurdhar Arjuna,
there exists prosperity, success and justice.

Sarvam Sreekrishnaarpanamasthu

DHANURMASAM FROM 16-12-2010 TO 14-01-2011

Dhanurmasa, the coldest month of the year begins on December 16 and ends on January 14, 2011. Dhanurmasam or Dhanumasam is known as Margazhi month as per the Tamil calendar. Dhanurmasa which falls from mid December to mid January is considered as Shooonya Masam. Dhanurmasa is not an independent month in any Indian calendar except for the Malayalam calendar followed in Kerala – in this calendar the month during the period is known as Dhanu Masam. The start of the Dhanurmasam is marked by the entry of the Sun in the Dhanur Rashi (Sagittarius) called the Dhanuh Sankramana; hence the name Dhanurmasa for the period. The period is considered inauspicious in some regions. It is considered as inauspicious to do any good things other than Godly functions.

In South Indian states Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Kerala, vaishnavaite sect of people celebrate the Dhanurmasa month with worshipping Lord Vishnu and Andal (Godadevi or Neela devi). Thiruppavai, a divine text written by Andal, is recited by all devotees. The Tiruppavai, also spelt as Thiruppavai, is a collection of thirty paasurams or stanzas written and compiled by Andal. All the pasurams are written in Tamil praising Lord Tirumal or Vishnu or Perumal. Goda Devi Kalyanam is the major event celebrated during Dhanurmasam in Tirumala Tirupati.

Worship of Lord Vishnu during the morning hours in Dhanurmasa is considered highly auspicious. There is a belief that worshipping Lord Vishnu on a single day during Dhanurmasam is equal to worshipping him for thousands of years. Vishnu Sahasranama is chanted during the period. Other important mantras chanted are those dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi and Thiruppavai the most popular offering made to Lord Vishnu in the month is Rice added with Moong dal.

The `Suprabhatham,' which is synonymous with the temple of Lord Venkateswara all over the world, would be replaced during the Dhanurmasam with an equally sacred compendium of verses— `Tiruppavai' composed in Tamil by Goda Devi (Andal), celestial daughter of Periyalwar (Vishnu Chiththa). This has been the practice from time immemorial in the Venkateswara temple and in other Vishnu temples as well as a mark of reverence to Goda Devi.

Kayena vacha manasendriyairva
Buddhyatmana va prakrite swabhavath
Karoomi yadyad sakalam parasmai
Narayanayeti samarpayami

Whatever I do with my mind, body, speech or with other senses of my body,
Or with my intellect or with my innate natural tendencies
I offer everything to Narayana

11TH DECEMBER SUBRAMANYA SASTI

“Subrayana Shasti” December 11th 2010 it will be celebrated on Margashira Shukla Shasti. Subramanya likes this day very much, because it is on this day that he killed Tarakasura.

Lord Subramanya is a ray born of the Divine Consciousness of Lord Siva.They represent the power of action and the power of knowledge respectively.He is Godhead easily accessible in this dark age of ignorance and lack of faith.He gives material and spiritual prosperity and success in every undertaking of His devotees, even if they show a little devotion to Him.He is worshipped with great devotion in South India.

Lord Subramanya's other names are Kumaresa, Kartikeya, Shanmukha, Guha, Muruga and Velayudhan.
He is called as Kumaresa– as he always looks like a small boy
He is called as Shanmukha as he has six faces
He is called as Kartikeya as he was brought up by six sisters named Kruttika.

Lord Krishna says in the Gita: "Among the army generals, I am Skanda".

Lord Subramanya holds a spear in His hand, just as Lord Siva holds the trident. This is an emblem of power.It indicates that He is the ruler of the universe.

His vehicle is the peacock. He rides on it. This signifies that He has conquered pride, egoism and vanity.

There is a cobra under His feet, which indicates that He is absolutely fearless, immortal and wise.

Valli is on His one side, Deivayanai on the other

The six heads represent the six rays or attributes, namely, wisdom, dispassion, strength, fame, wealth and divine powers.
They indicate that He is the source of the four Vedas, the Vedangas and the six schools of philosophy.

They also indicate His control over the five organs of knowledge as well as the mind.
Subramanya Shashti celebrates the day when a great demon called Taraka was defeated.It falls in December. It is the day on which Lord Subramanya defeated the demon Taraka.

BACKGROUND:-
Tarakasura is the son of Vajranga (Son of Kashyapa-Diti) and Varangi. He did severe penance to Brahma and pleased him and sought the boon that no one shall be more powerful than him and with the second boon was that his death could come only from a son born to Shiva. Tarakasura knew that lord shiva had already lost his wife Satidevi and he was in deep penance and he thought the shiva can’t have son all of a sudden.

After getting the great boons, Taraka was killing all the kings and spoiling the hermitages of sages. All sages, celestials, unable to sustain the hindrance by Tarakasura, went to Brahma, who in turn sent Bruhaspati to negotiate with Tarakasura, but he refused and there was a war in between Gods and demons, in which Gods were defeated. All the gods then went to Brahma to appeal for help Brahma said to the gods, "O Devas, I cannot destroy Taraka, as he has obtained My Grace through severe penance.But let me give you a suggestion. Get the help of Manmadha, the God of Love. Induce him to tempt Lord Siva, who remains absorbed in His Yoga Samadhi.Let Lord Siva unite with Parvati. A powerful son, Lord Subramanya, will be born to them. This son will destroy the demon that harasses you."

Indra, the chief of the gods, thereupon requested Manmadha to go with his wife, Rati, and his companion Vasanta (the season of spring), to Mount Kailas, the abode of Siva and to stop the meditation of Shiva. Manmadha arrived in front of Shiva alongwith Ratidevi, and shot five arrows of flowers at the heart of Shiva. His intention was to make Shiva look at Parvathi and enable their marriage, which in turn would result in a son for the killing of Tarakasura (as per boon).
But when lord shiva’s penance was broken, he was terribly angry the Lord opened His "third eye", the inner eye of intuition, and manmadha was burnt to ashes by the fire that emanated from it.After burning manmadha, the Lord ascertained by His Yogic vision that the birth of Lord Subramanya was absolutely necessary to destroy the powerful Taraka.

Shanmukha became Kumara - the powerful virile adolescent who was also the beautiful and the handsome ( Muruga). He is the Lord of War and the most handsome among gods. He is the commander of the army of the devas. "Skanda received from his mother Parasakthi an all powerful Vel (lance).Hence He is also Sakthi Velan. He engaged the armies and fought with Simhamukha, Surapadman and Tarakasura on a six day battle and vanquished all of them on the sixth day. The Asuras were annihilated and the Devas were liberated. The sixth day (Sashti) in the month of Dec) is celebrated as Subramanya Sashti.

If one does the pooja or visit subramanya temple, on this day, he will be free from all his sins. If one performs skanda shasti prayers, then they will be relieved from difficulties from snakes, they will free from the malefic effect of the all evil planets, get free from skin diseases and the devotee will also be blessed with good children.

DECEMBER 6TH MARGASHIRSHA MASAM

Today is december 6th, starting of Margasirsha Masam, favourite month of lord
shri Krishna. Margashirsha Maas or Margashira masam is the ninth month as per traditional Hindu calendar. It is believed as one of the auspicious months for Hindus. In Puranas, Margashirsh Maas is mentioned as ‘Maasonam Margashirshoham’ which means there is no auspicious month as Margashiram.

The significance of Margashirsh month has mentioned in the Bhagwad Gita by Lord Sri Krishna. The below slokam tells about the significance and spiritual importance of margasheersha maas.

”Bruhatsama thatha samnam
Gayatri Chandasamaham
Masanam Margashoham
Ruthunam Kusumakarna” Bhagvat Geeta 10 chapter II 35 II
Meaning:-
“I, myself, stay in Bruhathsama in the Samaveda, Gayatri in Chandassu or literature, Margashirsha or Margashira in months and Vasant rithu in rithus or seasons”.

In 2010 Margasira Masam starts on December 6th and ends on January 4th 2011.Other important days in the month include Vaikunta Ekadasi/Geeta Jayanthi.Margasira Month (comes during December) is the favorite month of Krishna (as said in BhagavadGita and other Puranic/ancient verses).

It is said that performing ritual bath in the Ganga River during Margashirsh month gives the result of ten million grahan snan. Vishnu Puja during the month is highly auspicious. Lakshmi puja is observed on Thursday during margashira masam.
Vishnu Sahasranama parayana and visiting Vishnu temples in the month is most preferred deeds.

MAY LORD SHRI KRISHNA BLESS YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

GOOD THOUGHTS

Faith is the ability to not panic.

If you worry, you didn't pray. If you pray, don't worry.

As a child of God, prayer is kind of like calling home every day.

Blessed are the flexible, for they shall not be bent out of shape.

Silence is often misinterpreted, but never misquoted.

Laugh every day. It's like inner jogging.

The most important things in your home are the people.

There is no key to happiness. The door is always open.

A grudge is a heavy thing to carry.

He who dies with the most toys is still dead.

We do not remember days, but moments. Life moves too fast,
so enjoy your precious moments

Surviving and living your life successfully requires courage.
The goals and dreams you're seeking require courage and risk-taking.
Learn from the turtle -- it only makes progress when it sticks out its neck.

Be more concerned with your character than your reputation.
Your character is what you really are, while your reputation is
merely what others think you are.

Do the math. Count your blessings.

God wants spiritual fruit, not religious nuts.

Dear God: I have a problem. It's me.
When we get tangled up in our problems, be still.
God wants us to be still so He can untangle the knot.

QUOTES TO REMEMBER

1) “Be more concerned with your character than your reputation, because your character is what you really are, while your reputation is merely what others think you are.”


2) "Ability may get you to the top, but it takes character to keep you there.”


3) “The greatest barrier to success is the fear of failure.”


4) “Success means having the courage, the determination, and the will to become the person you believe you were meant to be”


5) “Take up one goal. Make that one goal your life - think of it, dream of it, live on that goal. Let the brain, muscles, nerves, every part of your body, be full of that idea, and just leave every other idea alone. This is the way to success, that is way great spiritual giants are produced.”


6) “Don't wait until everything is just right. It will never be perfect. There will always be challenges, obstacles and less than perfect conditions. So what. Get started now. With each step you take, you will grow stronger and stronger, more and more skilled, more and more self-confident and more and more successful.”


7) “Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful.”

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LIVE A LIFE THAT MATTERS

Ready or not, someday it will all come to an end. There will be no more sunrises, no minutes, hours or days. All the things you collected, whether treasured or forgotten, will pass to someone else.

Your wealth, fame and temporal power will shrivel to irrelevance. It will not matter what you owned or what you were owed. Your grudges, resentments, frustrations, and jealousies will finally disappear.

So, too, your hopes, ambitions, plans, and to-do lists will expire. The wins and losses that once seemed so important will fade away. It won’t matter where you came from, or on what side the tracks you lived, at the end.

It won’t matter whether you were beautiful or brilliant. Even your gender and skin colour will be irrelevant. So what will matter? How will the value of your days be measured?

What will matter is not what you bought, but what you built ; not what you got, but what you gave ? What will matter is not your success, but your significance .
What will matter is not what you learned, but what you taught. What will matter is every act of integrity, compassion, courage or sacrifice that enriched, empowered or encouraged others to emulate your example. What will matter is not your competence, but your character .

What will matter is not how many people you knew, but how many will feel a lasting loss when you’re gone . What will matter is not your memories, but the memories that live in those who loved you . What will matter is how long you will be remembered , by whom and for what .

Living a life that matters doesn’t happen by accident. It’s not a matter of circumstance, but of choice . Choose to live a life that matters.

EVERYONE CAN BE HAPPY

Even stones have a love, a love that seeks the ground."
-Meister Eckhart

Happiness is the aim of life. Be happy is its motto. All human beings want to be happy. The ultimate happiness is called by various names in various religions and cultures: Bliss, Liberation, Nirvana, Paradise, etc.

We all want to be happy! We search for some magic happiness formula; some happiness secret; and the happiness mantra.

But happiness is the natural state of human kind. God has given us, free of cost, unlimited and inexhaustible sources of happiness. Life evolved on earth against tremendous odds. This life itself is the greatest happiness. To be alive is the greatest happiness. To have a sound body and mind is a privilege which we hardly appreciate. God has seen to it that we are born in a family and later acquire a family which gives us great happiness and joy. God gave us beautiful sun and moon, stars and sky, mountains and forests, rivers and oceans, fruits and vegetables, and rain and snow and sunshine—all for our happiness and to keep us happy!

Humans rival God in everything. The motive behind human progress is happiness. Humans made all things for their happiness and enjoyment. They discovered fire and wheel, made houses and tools, engaged in agriculture and crafts. They made cars and airplanes, radio and TV and computers. They developed music and dance, fine arts and literature. All these things are not only useful; they are also great source of happiness to humankind.

But the ultimate happiness lies in mind. With a happy and positive attitude human kind can be happy in very difficult circumstances too. There is no use in worrying for past things and things to come.

The Happiness Guru’s happiness formula, happiness secret, and happiness mantra, is very simple—enjoy the unlimited happiness scattered all around us in unlimited quantity in God given and human made lives and things; be happy in your mind by having a positive and happy attitude; and keep your soul in a state of perfect happiness, bliss, and nirvana in communion with the universal soul.

But don’t forget, the greatest happiness is in giving and sharing, helping and assisting, and loving and caring. Make others happy and you will be happy!

DECEMBER 2 TRIPRAYAR EKADASI

Ekadasi is an auspicious day dedicated to Lord Vishnu on the 11th day of a fortnight in a traditional Hindu calendar.Thriprayar Ekadashi is observed on the 11th day after the full moon in the Malayalam month of Vrishchikam (November – December).

In 2010, Triprayar Ekadashi date is December 2.

Triprayar Temple is dedicated to Lord Ram and is a famous temple dedicated to Lord Ram in South India. The temple is noted for its architecture and for its calm and serene surroundings including a large pond. The temple is located around 25 km from Thrissur town and is about 23 km from the world famous Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple.

Thriprayar Sri Rama temple is located along the banks of Theerva River.The festival is celebrated for 14 days in Triprayar Sri Rama Temple near Thrissur town of Kerala. During the Ekadashi, a procession of Saasta takes place.

It is the only Rama temple which has a river adjacent to it. The greatness of Lord rama cannot be explained in words. Lord Rama was the one whose thoughts and words never went astray.The chanting of Rama’s name is so powerful and it itself soothes one’s entire soul and grants liberation. 'Ra' is taken from the Astakshari Mantra ‘Om Namo Narayanaya’ and 'Ma', from Panchakshari Mantra, ‘Namah Shivaya.’The word Rama has the triple power of destroying sins, conferring peace, and dispelling ignorance. .“Syllable ‘Ra’ in the word Rama cleanses all our sins and ‘Ma’ ensures that the wiped away sins do not dare to return to us.” Everyone should recognize the sweetness, sacredness, and divinity enshrined in the name Rama. It is good to utter the name Rama with full understanding of all that it signifies. But even without that understanding the chanting of the name has the power to destroy all sins.Even without knowing the importance of Rama Nama, even by chanting the Rama nama, in the reverse way like ‘Mara’, a notorious bandit Ratnakara got liberated of all his past sins and became known as Valmiki.

Lord Shankara Himself enlightened Goddess Parvati the significance of this mantra.

“Sree Rama Rama Ramethi Rame Raame Manorame
Sahasranama Tat Thul-yam Rama Nama Varanane.”

The essence is that it is only Rama nama which is equal to a thousand names of Vishnu. This mantra can be chanted anywhere, anytime and by anyone.

The experience of Rama Nama can only be felt but cannot be explained.

We must learn to chant the sweet name of Rama with a pure, unsullied heart, in a spirit of selfless devotion. Wholehearted chanting of the name of Rama even once can destroy mountains of sins. But the chanting should not be done mechanically, like a gramophone record. It should emanate from the depths of the heart. You must seek to redeem your lives, by living up to Rama's ideals and proclaiming them to the world. Remember the name of Rama with love. God can be realized only through love and by no other means.