INCREDIBLE JAPAN -10 LESSONS TO LEARN FROM A GRIEVING BUT GREAT NATION!

INCREDIBLE JAPAN - 10 LESSONS TO LEARN FROM A GRIEVING BUT GREAT NATION!

1. THE CALM!

Not a single visual of chest-beating or wild grief. Sorrow itself has been elevated.

2. THE DIGNITY!

Disciplined queues for water and groceries. Not a rough word or a crude gesture.

3. THE ABILITY!

The incredible architects, for instance. Many Buildings swayed but didn't fall.

4. THE GRACE!

People bought only what they needed for the present, so everybody could get something.

5. THE ORDER!

No looting in shops. No honking and no overtaking on the roads. Just understanding.

6. THE SACRIFICE!

Fifty workers stayed back to pump sea water in the N-reactors. How will they ever be repaid?

7. THE TENDERNESS!

Restaurants cut prices. An unguarded ATM is left alone. The strong cared for the weak.

8. THE TRAINING!

The old and the children, everyone knew exactly what to do. And they did just that.

9. THE MEDIA!

They showed magnificent restraint in the bulletins. No silly reporters. Only calm reportage.

10. THE CONSCIENCE!

When the power went off in a store, people put things back on the shelves and left quietly.

LET'S ALL SALUTE THE SPIRIT OF JAPAN AND HER PEOPLE! THEY ARE IN OUR PRAYERS!


Courtesy: George @ WORLD MALAYALEE.COM


Aano bhadra krtavo yantu vishwatah.(- RIG VEDA)
"Let noble thoughts come to me from all directions"

DEATH WHAT A WONDERFUL WAY TO EXPLAIN IT ..

A sick man turned to his doctor as he was preparing to Leave the examination room and said,'Doctor, I am afraid to die. Tell me what lies on the other side.'
Very quietly, the doctor said, 'I don't know..' 'You don't know? You're, a Christian man,and don't know what's on the other side?' The doctor was holding the handle of the door; On the other side came a sound of scratching and whining, And as he opened the door, a dog sprang into the room And leaped on him with an eager show of gladness.

Turning to the patient, the doctor said, 'Did you notice my dog? He's never been in this room before. He didn't know what was inside. He knew nothing except that his master was here, And when the door opened, he sprang in without fear.

I know little of what is on the other side of death,But I do know one thing...
I know my Master is there and that is enough.'

May today there be peace within you.
May you trust God that you are exactly
Where you are meant to be.
I believe that friends are quiet angels
Who lift us to our feet when our wings
Have trouble remembering how to fly.

courtesy:peterHilder

SELF DENIAL DEVELOPS FRUSTRATION

Self Denial Develops Frustration..

In the front there is fire; at the back there is sun. In the night with knees struck to the chin, one receives alms in scooped palms; lives under trees; yet, the bondage of desires does not leave one!

From the above description, it is evident that true renunciation is not physically giving up comforts and pleasures but it is a mental state.

What matters is not reducing the number of possessions but dealing with your possessiveness. You may have less possessions but the possessiveness towards that possession still remains. You may develop maximum possessiveness towards your minimum possessions. Your possessiveness to one item could be far greater than that of a man who has many objects of comforts.

It is like giving up a thousand copper coins to pick up one gold coin. Therefore, it is renouncing possessiveness that matters, not the mere denial of possessions. Thus, he says that mere physical asceticism or abstinence, however great, is not the way to reduce the desires.

COURTESY: “Value Systems for Success” By M K Angajan

THE SECRET OF PEACE AND BLISS!

Living in temples, under trees, sleeping on the naked ground, wearing deer skin, renouncing all possessions and enjoyments, to whom will not dispassion bring happiness?

The formula for peace is the attitude of detachment, spirit of dispossession in your possessions, a sense of mental resignation to a higher power even while you are enjoying the world.

What is the difference between a happy man and an unhappy man? Can you say that a happy man has fewer problems?

The happiest of people do not necessarily have the best of everything. They just make the most of everything that comes their way. Everyone has problems and difficulties to make them unhappy. What makes a person happy despite his problems and challenges, however, is his attitude, approach and mental disposition.

Having enunciated in detail the wrong approach to the spiritual journey, and condemning the external paraphernalia of religious practices, a true sanyasi (man of renunciation) is described. Renunciation is a state of mind of a developed human being. It is a state when your sentiments and emotions gain maturity, desires are controlled and your intellect gains clarity.

The result of true renunciation is happiness. Richness and accomplishments that you desire cannot make you any happier than your present state unless you develop renunciation.

The true key to peace and happiness is dispassion, relinquishing the hunger and thirst for enjoyment.

The only way to enjoy anything is to realize that you can do without it.

The attitudes and intrinsic being of such a great soul help overcome the pressures of desires and passions......


Courtesy: “Value Systems for Success” By M K Angajan

Aano bhadra krtavo yantu vishwatah.(- RIG VEDA)
"Let noble thoughts come to me from all directions"

MARCH 23RD TRIBUTE TO BHAGATH SINGH, RAJGURU, SUKHDEV

An indebted nation pays rich tribute to its martyrs Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev and Rajguru who sacrificed their lives for the country sixty nine years ago on March 23, 1931. March 23 is observed as Martyrs’ Day to remember the significant contribution of Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, Rajguru and other important revolutionaries, who paved the way for the independence of the country.

Whenever we recall the freedom struggle in India, the sacrifice of Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev and Rajguru will automatically comes to our mind. They were great patriots of the country who had launched an effective struggle to root out the British rule from the country. They undergone a lot of hardships and sacrificed their lives for the motherland. They were the real sons of this soil and fought till death, without giving up before the oppressing British rule. Many followed their footsteps and further accelerated the freedom movement, which ultimately culminated into Independence. It was only because of their sacrifices that our country has attained its present status.

“Bhagat Singh, along with Sukhdev and Rajguru were hanged to death on March 23, 1931.On his way to gallows he said to the officer, you are very fortunate to witness how revolutionaries smilingly embrace death for the love of their country. “Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev and Rajguru will be remembered forever for their selfless service to the mother India. They took up the armed struggle, and fought against the British administration, but they never caused any harm to the common people. They fought for the people and for the freedom. The heroic spirit of Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev is an unfailing source of inspiration for the youth of the country. These three inspired the theme of young and modern India and millions of youths in the country see them as icons and role models even today. Their contribution, ideals, slogans and thoughts are as relevant today as they were earlier. Their courage, spirit of adventure and patriotism are an example to be followed by one and all.”

We are very fortunate and we should be proud that we are born in this great country where brave youth like Shaheed Bhagat Singh, Shaheed Sukhdev, and Shaheed Rajguru sacrificed their lives for the sake of our freedom. The sacrifices of such great people could not be ignored, which had secured freedom for the country and its people. We have to learn a lot from the life of Shaheed Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev and Rajguru. We should also imbibe the qualities of the great martyr in their day to day life.

Take a pledge on this day and always to protect the hard earned freedom of the country at any cost and frustrate the evil design of the forces that are bent upon to destroy the integrity of our country. Shun evils like Dowry, poverty, gender inequality, drugs, human inequality, child labour, prostitution, and many more. Every individual needs to take steps in order to make India a better place to live. Come on; let’s help to make a clean and green country, and work for national integrity and peace for the development of the country”. “This would be the true tribute to our martyrs,

My mind raced back to my school days when I learnt a Hindi poem by Pt. Makhanlal Chaturvedi called "PUSHP KI ABHILASHA".The lines of the poem have got etched in my mind. The poem accurately represents the pride and passion for the nation. I find these lines very close to my heart. This poem tells us dedication and patriotism towards our country. The stanza of the poems are really soul stirring. Salute to him who wrote these lines and salute to them who shed their blood for our great motherland

Pushp Ki Abhilasha

Chah Nahin Mai SurBala Ke
Gehnon Mein Guntha Jaaon
Chah Nahin Premi Mala Mein
Bindh, Pyari Ko Lalchaon
Chah Nahin Samraton Ke
Shav Par, He Hari Dala Jaaon
Chah Nahin Devon Ke Sar Par
Chadhon, Bhagya Par Itraoon
Mujhey Tod Lena Banmali,
Us Path Par Tum Dena Phaink
Matra Bhoomi Per Sheesh Chadhaney,
Jis Path Jaayen Veer Anek
Translation:
The Yearning (desire) of a Flower

I don't want to be a part of the necklace of the beautiful girl,I don't want to woo the lady love,I don't want to be spread over dead bodies,I don't want to act snob, after someone offers me to the Gods.
Just pluck me Gardner and throw me on the road,which is taken by the brave soldiers to give away their lives for the Motherland !

I pray for the flower’s wish to be granted.*Peace*

How great were those patriots, How great was their pride, For those who sacrificed their lives for the motherland.

Let us pay our rich tributes to the martyrs.

Perhaps this tribute of mine won't be able to add anything new or glorious to their life but yet my heart rending love & respect and it shall remain till the last breath.

FOR A GIFT TO BE VALUED

When you want to gift some food
Gift it to the hungry ones

When you want to gift some money
Gift it to an entrepreneur

When you want to gift a book
Gift it to a knowledge-seeker

When you want to gift your love
Gift it to someone who yearns for it

When you want to gift a kiss
Gift it to an orphan child

When you want to gift a caress
Gift it to a prostitute

When you want to gift a word
Gift it to a wounded heart

When you want to gift an action
Gift it to your consciousness

When you want to gift a blessing
Gift it to a new born baby

When you want to gift a prayer
Gift it to a dead sinner

When you want to gift some time
Gift it to the Almighty

It is the most precious
It is a small part of the life he gave you
It can never be erased by the future


No great deed is achieved without the guidance of the Lord.
But then, there is no greater achievement than getting his guidance.


Courtesy:Sri Ramesh Sadasivam

THE PACE OF LIFE!

Ho Chi Minh, the National Hero of Vietnam wrote in one of his reminiscence, “When I was nine years old I failed in the school examination. I was very sad to see my poor exam results. My life seemed worthless and the entire world appeared to be dry and unstimulating, because of this mental turmoil and despair I thought of committing suicide. All my family members loved me a lot and they were all pained to see my disappointment. My father counseled me and tried to talk some sense into me, mother showed me great affection, the family priest gave many spell proven fruits, but everything proved futile and meaningless. I passed the days in discomfort and nights without sleep. One day I quietly ran away from home.

When I was passing near a Buddhist Monastery I heard a monk singing a melodious poem, which touched my heart. He was singing, ‘Why the water doesn’t get muddy? Because it flows. Why do not the obstacles come in the path of water? Because it flows. Why does a drop of water becomes a waterfall, a waterfall becomes a stream, a stream becomes a river, and a river becomes a sea? Because it flows. Therefore my life you do not stop, keep flowing, keep flowing.’ For a long time I kept standing speechless. When I returned I was like flowing water, even today I am like flowing water. I go all over the place and spread whatever pace is left in me because I am like flowing water, I am on the move.”

Moral: Never get disheartened on the failure of an achievement and never let the negative thoughts dominate you instead taking lesson from your failure progress towards another better goal. Being in motion is life and being motionless is death.

Aano bhadra krtavo yantu vishwatah.(- RIG VEDA)
"Let noble thoughts come to me from all directions"

OUR CHOICE REFLECTS OUR ATTITUDE TO LIFE!

When faced with difficulties we have options out of which we choose one. Our choice reflects our attitude to life. What is important primarily is not to make any choice in anger as the mind does not think logically when a person is angry.

The second most important thing is optimism. If we believe that problems can be solved, solutions do appear, usually. This might be partly because an optimistic.person never gives up trying.

The third factor is believing in oneself. Self-confidence often makes the difference between success and failure. No matter what others say, if you believe in a cause sincerely or have a dream, hold it very close to your heart. The very act that you respect your ambition or dream, will help you in realizing it.

The use of ethical means is a must when dealing with obstacles to our success.If the means are dishonest, no lasting happiness can be the result. It is better to choose failure than choosing corruption because for an honest person true success comes in the long run.

Troubles come in every person’s life. How you deal with them determines how successful you are in making your own way.

Courtesy: Ayesha Parveen SOUL TALK.

Aano bhadra krtavo yantu vishwatah.(- RIG VEDA)
"Let noble thoughts come to me from all directions"

SPRING CLEAN YOUR SPIRIT!

Spring is the time when many people deep clean their homes, unload unwanted junk, pull out the lawn furniture and spruce up the landscaping. It's also a great time to do a spring-cleaning of your spirit, especially pulling the weeds of unforgivingness.

I'm often amazed at the kind of garbage we humans choose to willingly drag around with us in the form of grudges, painful memories, and other types of mental and spiritual debris from the past that we refuse to release. We won't forgive the ex-spouse who treated us shabbily.

We refuse to let go of the slights and unfairness of a situation at work, church or some other group we're a part of. We continue to beat ourselves up for past mistakes.

The costs of our unwillingness to let go are huge. On a metaphysical level what we focus on tends to expand. So if you have something from the past that you've refused to let go of, you've probably recreated a similar experience for yourself if you've focused on it intently. When you continue to "lick the wound" you bring more misery upon yourself.

On a more rational level, why let someone from your past (whoever it is) continue to hurt you and potentially rob you of an extraordinary present and future? Remember, that which you hold onto (your hurt, resentment, grudge, unforgivingness, pain) is actually holding onto you...keeping you stuck. From a health standpoint, need I remind you that there have been studies—enough to fill volumes—on the health risks of unforgivingness: ulcers, heart problems, eating disorders and more...virtually any physical ailment has the potential of being rooted in an unforgiving spirit.

Ask yourself the following questions:

How am I benefiting by holding onto the past?
(Remember there's always a "pay–off" to your behavior.)

How would I benefit by letting go of the experience and practicing forgivingness?

Who is really paying for my unwillingness to forgive?

What is the lesson for me here?


Many are still dragging around old business, allowing the past to drain them of present energy and future possibilities. It's a bit like trying to drive forward while constantly keeping your foot on the brake and your eyes on the rear-view mirror.

If you're ready to do a thorough spring-cleaning, start with your spirit. Let go of the past, forgive people (including yourself!) so you can learn your lessons and finally move on. Prepare to watch new growth unfold in your life. Why not take nature's cue and start anew?

(An Excerpt from Betty Mahalik's Book 'Living a Five Star Life'!)

Aano bhadra krtavo yantu vishwatah.(- RIG VEDA)
"Let noble thoughts come to me from all directions"

THE FRUIT

There were once a group of three lost men in the mountain and they only had a fruit to feed all of three, who were almost fainting from starvation. Then God appeared to them and told them he would test their wisdom and depending on what they would show would save them. So God asked them what may they ask Him to fix that problem and get everybody fed.

The first one said: "Then make appear more food", God answered that it was an answer with no wisdom, since you should not ask God that magically make appear the solution to problems without working with what we have.

The second one said then: "So make the fruit grow to make it enough", to which God answered no, since the solution is not to ask always the multiplication of what we have to fix the problem, since the human being can never be satisfied and therefore it would never be enough.

The third one then said: "My good God, even though we are hungry and we are proud, make us small ourselves so the fruit would be enough". God said: "You have answered right, since when man makes himself humble and small before my eyes, he will see prosperity".

Know that it is always taught that somebody else fix the problems or to look for the easy way out, always asking God to fix everything without us changing or sacrificing anything.

That is why so many times it seems God does not listen to us since we ask without letting anything be left aside and always wanting to win. Many times we are selfish and want always everything for us.

We will be happy the day when we learn that the way to ask God is by seeing ourselves as small, and by being humble leaving our pride aside. And we will see that by making us small in luxuries and by being humble at heart we will see prosperity from God and see the way how He does listen.


Courtesy: Smitha @ WORLD MALAYALEE.COM


Aano bhadra krtavo yantu vishwatah.(- RIG VEDA)
"Let noble thoughts come to me from all directions"

TRUE STORY

This is a true story that had happened in 1892 at Stanford University. It's moral is still relevant today.

A young, 18 year old student was struggling to pay his fees. He was an orphan, and not knowing where to turn for money, he came up with a bright idea. A friend and he decided to host a musical concert on campus to raise money for their education.

They reached out to the great pianist Ignacy J. Paderewski. His manager demanded a guaranteed fee of $2,000 for the piano recital. A deal was struck. And the boys began to work to make the concert a success.

The big day arrived. Paderewski performed at Stanford. But unfortunately, they had not managed to sell enough tickets. The total collection was only $1,600. Disappointed, they went to Paderewski and explained their plight. They gave him the entire $1,600, plus a cheque for the balance of $400. They promised to honour the cheque soonest possible.

"No" said Paderewski. "This is not acceptable" He tore up the cheque, returned the $1,600 and told the boys "Here's the $1,600. Please deduct whatever expenses you have incurred. Keep the money you need for your fees. And just give me whatever is left" The boys were surprised, and thanked him profusely.

It was a small act of kindness. But it clearly marked out Paderewski as a great human being. Why should he help two people he did not even know? We all come across situations like these in our lives. And most of us only think "If I help them, what would happen to me?"

The truly great people think, "If I don't help them, what will happen to them?" They don't do it expecting something in return. They do it because they feel it's the right thing to do.

Paderewski later went on to become the Prime Minister of Poland. He was a great leader, but unfortunately when the World War began, Poland was ravaged. There were over 1.5 million people starving in his country, and no money to feed them.

Paderewski did not know where to turn for help. He reached out to the US Food and Relief Administration for help.

The head was a man called Herbert Hoover - who later went on to become the US President. Hoover agreed to help and quickly shipped tons of food grains to fee the starving Polish people. A calamity was averted.

Paderewski was relieved. He decided to go across to meet Hoover and personally thank him. When Paderewski began to thank Hoover for his noble gesture, Hoover quickly interjected and said, "You shouldn't be thanking me, Mr. Prime Minister. You may not remember this, but several years ago, you helped two young students go through college in the US. I was one of them."

The world is a wonderful place. What goes around, usually comes around.

THREE HUNDRED GOLD COINS! - AN INSPIRING BIRBAL STORY!

The wisdom of Birbal was unparalleled during thereign of Mughal Ruler Akbar in India.

But Akbar's brother-in-law was extremely jealous of him. He asked Akbar to dispense with Birbal's services and appoint him in his place. He gave ample assurance that he would prove to be more efficient and capable than Birbal.

Before Akbar could take a decision on this matter, this news reached Birbal. Birbal resigned and left. Akbar's brother-in-law was made the minister in place of Birbal.

Akbar decided to test the new minister. He gave three hundred gold coins to him and said, "Spend these gold coins such that, I get a hundred gold coins here in this life; a hundred gold coins in the other world and another hundred gold coins neither here nor there."

The minister found the entire situation to be a maze of confusion and hopelessness. He spent sleepless nights worrying over how he would get himself out of this mess. Thinking in circles was making him go crazy. Eventually, on the advice of his wife he sought Birbal's help. Birbal said, "Just give me the gold coins. I shall handle the rest."

Birbal walked the streets of the city holding the bag of gold coins in his hand.

He noticed a rich merchant celebrating his son's wedding. Birbal gave a hundred gold coins to him and bowed courteously saying, "The Emperor Akbar sends you his good wishes and blessings for the wedding of your son. Please accept the gift he has sent."

The merchant felt honoured that the Emperor had sent a special messenger with such a precious gift. He honoured Birbal and gave him a large number of expensive gifts and a bag of gold coins as a return gift for the Emperor.

Next, Birbal went to the area of the city were the poor people lived. There he bought food and clothing in exchange for a hundred gold coins and distributed them in the name of Emperor Akbar.

When he came back to town he organized a concert of music, dance and merry making. He spent a hundred gold coins on it.The next day Birbal entered Emperor Akbar's court and announced that he had done all that the Emperor had asked his brother-in-law to do. The Emperor Akbar wanted to know how he had done it.

Birbal repeated the sequences of all the events and then said,

"The money I gave to the merchant for the wedding of his son - you have got back while you are on this earth.

The money I spent on buying food and clothing for the poor - you will get it in the other world.

The money I spent on the musical concert and merry making - you will get neither here northere."


Moral:This is true even today. The money you spend on friends is returned or reciprocated in some form or the other.Money spent on charity gets converted into blessings from The Almighty which becomes your eternal property.Money spent on pleasures is just frittered away and in return you will be held responsible for wasting in thehereafter!

So when you spend your hard earned money, be careful how do you do it !!!

FAITH

Oshchev was a famous Stunt Pilot of Roose. He mesmerized everyone, his officials and friends with his fighting skills. Oshchev had full faith and trust in God and believed he could accomplish great tasks with this faith. Once while fighting with the enemies the engine of his fighter plane failed and crash into a small mountain nearby. Oshchev got terribly hurt and lost both his legs. All his friends who came to visit him had tears in their eyes and one of them said to him in choked voice, 'We will never be able to see you fly again'.

Oshchev smiled and said, 'Lord has saved me to live and remain as a fighter otherwise I would have died then and there'. Everyone took it as a false consolation but soon after recovering from hospital Oshchev got artificial limbs fitted and practised walking day and night. His friends tried to explain him that this could worse his wounds but he ignored them all. Friends asked him on what basis is he talking about being a Stunt Pilot again? He simply replied, 'My trust and faith is with me'. Soon he started walking without sticks and seeing his progress and confidence he was taken back in army. His faith and confidence won and handicapped Oshchev once again became a Stunt Pilot.

Moral: Any work done with complete faith in God and trust in oneself leads to success.

TWAYINSKI GAVE THE MESSAGE OF LOVE AND EFFECTION

Twayinski, a very big patriot of Poland, was greatly famous for his philosophical ideas. People highly honored him for his ideals and thoughts. One day when it was raining heavily, only then Twayinski had to go out for some important work. When he stepped out of his house, a dog came running towards him and started showing him affection. Twayinski also responded to its affection with great love and started dandling it. At the same time Twayinski's friend came there and was amazed to see him soaked in mud. He saw that a dog was bouncing on Twayinski messing his clothes and Twayinski too was enjoying with the dog without even caring that he was covered in mud.

Seeing Twayinski's happiness, his friend said, "Brother, your behavior towards this dog is surprising me. This dog is splotching your expensive and precious clothes and instead of shooing it off you love him." Twayinski smiled and said, "This dog got me the first time and expressed great closeness considering me his friend. His feelings are admirable. If I brush him away in fascination of my precious clothes his feelings will get hurt. My expensive clothes are of no value in front of his love."

Moral: Every creature is the creation of God therefore considering God's presence in every creature and keeping a friendly behavior towards one, and everyone is preferable. Such feeling is the true worship of God.

PROGRESS OF A WOOD CUTTER

Once there was a woodcutter who lived in a village with his family. Inspite of toiling day and night his life was encircled with scarcities. Observing his financial condition for many days, one day a Saint said to him, "My child! Move ahead - move ahead - move ahead...!" Listening to him, the woodcutter moved a little ahead from the place where he used to work and found a sandal wood forest there. He began cutting and selling sandal wood earning a good amount of money from it. One day again the Saint met him and explained him, "Do not stop at one level of progress in life or else you will putrefy like the water of lake. Therefore, keep moving, keep progressing."

The woodcutter again moved ahead from the sandal wood forests and this time he found copper mines. He earned a lot of money from that mine. Later, with continuous progress and efforts he found a silver mine and became affluent. Again the Saint explained him, "My son! Do not stop here. As you have earned so much money and riches with constant progress in life likewise happens in state of religion and good deeds." Now the woodcutter progressed on the path of good deeds and religious works. As a result he found gold and diamond mines and became very rich. Now there was no scarcity in his life and he was pleased and delighted.

Moral: Progression is another name for life which can be achieved only with continuous efforts. Stopping at one place will not only restrict our progress but will also make us feel discontented and unhappy. The feeling of satisfaction and fulfillment can be achieved only with the innovation and continuity of actions. Stagnation is the father of inertia and depression whereas progress leads to development, growth and happiness.

A HUMBLE REQUEST

Kindly put a pot full of water in the balcony for birds to protect them in hot summer. Irrespective of your house type, request to do the same for animals.

We must protect our birds & animals, those who can’t speak their troubles.

Please keep a mug / vessel full of water for birds round the year
especially in Summer when over 60% of urban birds die due to dehydration.

Change the water every day. Otherwise it may become breeding ground
for mosquitoes. Also give the birds clean water.

Kindly forward this message to all your friends & relatives.

PUNCTUALITY

George Washington, the former President of America, was a very punctual man. He used to do all his routine work at a scheduled time. His meal time and sleeping time were all fixed. Being familiar with his temperament the servants were also accustomed to work promptly. Washington was very strict in the observance of this rule. Once, after the U.S. Congress elections were held, Washington invited the elected new Congress members to dinner. His main aim was the mutual acquaintance amongst the members and also to allocate them their duties, but the members did not arrive at the appointed time. They arrived with some delay. On coming, they saw Washington having the dinner. Members were surprised to see Washington, and thought how the President could take dinner without even waiting for his guests.

Seeing their surprise Washington said, "Brothers, why are you so surprised? I do all my works on time therefore my cook doesn't wait for all the appointed guests to come, and lay the table at the predetermined time." The members realized their mistake and asked for an apology. In this way, Washington gave the lesson of punctuality to the new members of the U.S. Congress.

Moral: The time that has past never comes back. Each moment of this life is precious therefore do your works on time so that good results can be achieved.

LAST BUT NOT LEAST BEING PUNCTUAL IS NOT ONLY POLITE......
IT DOES NOT WASTE OTHER PEOPLE'S TIME.

SUBASH CHANDRA BOSE GARLAND FUNCTION

Once, a big rally was organized by the Indian Independence League at Singapore to welcome Netaji. A research states that as the huge gathering of Indians in Singapore garlanded Netaji, nearly a truckload of garlands accumulated there. Netaji humbly thanked all the present there for their kind and lovable gesture. Later he announced that he would like to auction the garlands that had been put around his neck. He said he would use that amount to build an undauntable army – Azad Hind Fauz.

The bid started with Rs. 25, 000. The first garland was auctioned for Rs 1 crore and 3 lakh. The garland was purchased by a Muslim industrialist of Malaya, Habibur Rehman. Women gathered in the event offered their valuables and gold ornaments. Total collections at this auction were about Rs 25 crore.

One young man in the crowd also wanted to bid a garland. He just had 7 lakhs with him. It was the savings of all the he earned in his entire life. His name was Shekar a native from Banaras. However to his dismay some other man in the crowd offered Rs.25, 000 more. To this Shekar walked near the dice and pleaded Netaji to give the garland to him. He said, “Seven lakhs is all the money that I have. Please give it to me. I want to be a part of this freedom struggle by sacrificing all my life’s earning.” Subash Chandra Bose was moved by the Shekar’s patriotism and gave the garland to him with great pride and honour.

Subash collected donations from Indians throughout Asia. Once in Penang a small flower vase was presented to Netaji. He announced his intention to auction it for Rs.25, 000. His eyes were filled with tears when the first bid was for Rs.51, 000. Great were those men in olden days that had a clear vision for their country. They gave their life, their earnings and everything to make our future secure and free. Let’s take a minute to salute those wonderful souls, who could stand against fierce and mighty British Empire.

A PLACE FOR PEACE

Do you want to live in a peaceful world? Then regularly make a place for peace in your life. Get in the habit of spending some time each day that's not filled with frenzied activity. Make some peaceful moments in each day and you'll begin to see more peaceful qualities in the people, places and events around you.

Peace is not something that can be squeezed in between appointments. To know peace is to commit some time to it.

Find a place of serenity and solitude, and just listen. Let go of the need to fill every second with activity, and, for a while, just be.

Allow the tension to melt away. Relax your body, quiet your thoughts, and experience how it is to be fully in the moment, with all worries and anxieties far, far behind you.

A peaceful world comes from peaceful people. Make a place for peace each day, and a real sense of peace will start to flow from you, right into your world.

REJECTION, A PART OF LIFE

Everyone in life, at some time or other, faces rejection or feels rejection. It is a standard part of learning to cope with disappointment. Those who are smart will analyze the cause of the rejection, and those less smart will continue to bang their head against a stone wall. Rejection is a form of teaching.we learn by negative things as well as positive things. It doesn't matter in what form the rejection come, it is still rejection. Rejection in love can be as simple as not the others type. Rejection in job seeking can come from a multitude of reasons. Our job is to find the reason for the rejection and proceed if we find we can present in a different way to answer the rejections.

Most people let rejection affect them adversely but the fact remains that rejection is an integral part of various human experiences. None can expect to be accepted by one and all, wherever he goes.

Since rejection at some point or the other in life is inevitable, one should take it in his stride and not let it affect his self-esteem. You are the same person, whether someone accepts you or rejects you. Moreover, being rejected does not mean having something wrong with you. It usually depends upon the opinion and choice of the other person and can also be conditioned by some prejudices or circumstances.

Most people who are considered great have had to deal with serious rejection. However, this did not stop them from continuing there work. Raja Ram Mohan Roy was disowned by his mother when he propagated against ‘sati-daah’. Abraham Lincoln was repeatedly taunted by his wife who found him unattractive. M.K. Gandhi was thrown out of a train and Jesus Christ was crucified.

Rejection is part of life. Learnn to accept and move on. Always remember that some things are not meant to be.

Last but not least Know that rejection is going to happen repeatedly throughout our lifetime; accept rejection as a part of life. If you choose to be yourself, if you dare live a life based on your values, if you have the courage to stand up and fight for what is right by your conscience, chances are that you will be rejected by many.

But should you let that rejection stop you? The decision is yours.

COURTESY:SOUL TALK.

Aano bhadra krtavo yantu vishwatah.(- RIG VEDA)
"Let noble thoughts come to me from all directions"

ALBERT EINSTEIN GIVEN SUGGESTION BY HIS SERVANT

Mr Laal Bahadur Shastri was a very simple and down to earth person, he respected all humans equally. He had one very fine quality that while discussing the important matters with his colleagues he would often ask his servants and even gardener about their opinion on the related matter. People found this behaviour of Shastriji somewhat weird. One day a friend asked him, 'Shastriji, we are unable to understand this behaviour of yours. Political talks are of complicated nature and beyond a common man's understanding, is it logical to take servants and gardeners opinion on it? Do these people have the knowledge of such serious talks?'

Shastriji smiled and said, 'I will answer this question narrating you a true incident. A cat gave birth to kittens at Albert Einstein the inventor of Special Theory of Relativity ( E=mc²).At night when all the doors of the house were closed cat and its kittens would uproar to come out. So Einstein told his servant to make two holes in the door, one big for cat and one small for kittens. The servant suggested that one big hole would be enough because if cat can pass through it, kittens also can easily pass through the same hole. Hearing this Einstein was surprised that why didn't this simple thing came into his mind.' Shastriji concluded saying that sometimes even a lay-man's advice can be of great help.

Moral: Sometimes even less educated, less intellectual, less knowledgeable people on the basis of their experience put forward useful thoughts which can be of great help in taking big decisions.

Aano bhadra krtavo yantu vishwatah.(- RIG VEDA)
"Let noble thoughts come to me from all directions

ISWAR CHANDRA VIDYA SAGAR

In the city of Calcutta,there lived a mother and her son. For the education of the son, the mother made many a sacrifice. She, however, impressed upon the son a lesson, "Dear son, do not be concerned about worldly education.The foolish ones acquire all kinds of scholarship, but have no understanding ofwhat they are. By study alone a man does not get rid of his lowly ways. Through scholarship, one learns only to engage himself in controversy but does not acquire complete wisdom. Why pursue studies which end up only in death. One should study that which frees him from death. Only spiritual knowledge can lead to immortality. It is enduring.  Worldlyknowledge is temporary. For earning one’s livelihood, worldly education is necessary. But this education should be acquired only to lead an independent life, with limited desires. Therefore, dear son, while pursuing your studies,embark also on the spiritual quest."

The boy completed his education and took up a small job. One day, in that village, there was a folk festival. The womenfolk of the village donned their best clothes and jewellery to attend the festival. The mother also went, but with tattered clothes. The son could not bear to see that sight. He said, "Mother,you have no good clothes or any jewellery. I am distressed to see you like this. Please let me know what ornaments you wish to have, mother!". The mother replied, "This is not the right time. I shall let you know at the proper time".

Thanks to the good behaviour and diligence of the lad, he rose to higher positions in services. Once again, he returned to his mother and asked what ornament she desired. I shall get them as fast as I can, he said. The mother told him that she wished three ornaments,but she would disclose what they were later on.

The son in the course of years reached a very high position. Once again he entreated her, "Mother, I have some money now. Please let me know what jewels you would like. I shall get them for you." The mother said, "Dear Son! I am now not in a state when I can wear jewels. However there are some ornaments in which I am interested and I shall tell you what they are." Drawing the son nearer, she said, "In our small village, I am grieved to find that the children have to go to distant places for education. The first ornament I desire is that you should set up a primary school in the village. Secondly, our people have no facilities for medical care. Set up a health care center. That will be your second ornament for me. The third ornament is something which you have to do by yourself. In the days to come, your reputation may grow. If anybody asks, who is your mother? You may mention my name. Your conduct must be such that you must share with others the benefits of the education you have received. Do not go after wealth. The worshipper of Mammon will not yearn for God. The observance of this is third ornament I desire from you."

Theyoung man who heard these words from his mother and later became famous and earned the people’s esteem was none other than Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar. Vidyasagar was a well-known writer, intellectual and above all a staunch follower of humanity. He used to spend a part of his scholarships and salary for the welfare of those poor people. He would also buy medicine for the sick. He earned a great name in Calcutta. Once he was proceeding to a neighbouring village to deliver an address. People used to gather in large numbers to listen to his lectures. A young officer, who wanted to listen to Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar’s lecture, got down from a train with a suitcase to go to the lecture hall. Vidyasagar also got down from the same train with a suitcase to go to the Lecture hall. The young officer was shouting for a coolie. Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar went to him and said, "Why do you need a coolie to carry this small suitcase?Can’t you carry it yourself and save the money?". He replied "It is not in keeping with my dignity to carry my suitcase. I am an educated person." Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar told him, "The hall mark of education is humility and not pride. If you cannot carry your own bag how are you carrying your body? If however, you cannot carry your bag I shall do so." Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar carried the officer’s bag. He acted on the motto "simple living and high thinking" Ishwar ChandraVidyasagar left the bag where the officer got off. They young man wanted to offer money to his porter. Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar told him, "To serve you is my reward."

The young officer left and was later proceeding to the venue of the meeting. There people were offering garlands to Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar to welcome him to the meeting. The young officer realised that the man who had offered to carry his bag at the station was none other than the respected lecturer of that evening,Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar. He felt ashamed that he had made such a great man carry his bag. He reflected." What is his education and what is mine? I have behaved like a little monkey. I am like a glow worm before the sun ".

Once Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar, happened to travel by train in a compartment with some Englishmen. He sat between two of them. One of them asked, "Who is this donkey?" The other man asked, "Who is this pig?" A third English man asked, "Who are you?" Ishwar Chandra coolly replied, "I am a human being sitting between a donkey and a pig." The two Englishmen felt ashamed of themselves. They felt even more ashamed when they saw a large crowd of persons with garlands waiting to receive Ishwar Chandra when he got down from the train. The Englishmen then realised that though Indians might appear simple and unlettered, they were inherently noble and gentle.

Aano bhadra krtavo yantu vishwatah.(- RIG VEDA)
"Let noble thoughts come to me from all directions

YOU ARE UNIQUE

Don't ever forget that you are Unique.

Be your best self and not an imitation of someone else.
find your strength and use them in a positive way.


Don't listen to those who redicule the choices you make.
Travel the road that you have chosen and don't
look back with regret.

You have to take chances to make your dreams happen.
Remember that there is plenty of time to travel another
road - and still another in your journey through life.

Take the time to take the route that is right for you.
You will learn something valuable every trip you take,
so don't be afraid to make mistakes.

Tell yourself that you're okay as the way you are.
make friends who respect your true self.

Take the time to be alone, too, so you can know
just how terrific your own company be.

Remember that being alone doesn't always mean
being lonely, it can be beautiful experiance of
finding your creativity, your heartfelt feelings,
and the clam and quiet peace deep inside you.

Don't ever forget that you are special and you have
within you the ability to make your dreams come true.

~Jacqueline Schiff~

Aano bhadra krtavo yantu vishwatah.(- RIG VEDA)
"Let noble thoughts come to me from all directions"

THE STRANGEST SECRET!

An excerpt from The Strangest Secret
by Earl Nightingale

George Bernard Shaw said, "People are always blaming their circumstances for what they are. I don't believe in circumstances. The people who get on in this world are the people who get up and look for the circumstances they want, and if they can't find them, make them."

Well, it's pretty apparent, isn't it? And every person who discovered this believed (for a while) that he was the first one to work it out. We become what we think about.

Now, it stands to reason that a person who is thinking about a concrete and worthwhile goal is going to reach it, because that's what he's thinking about. And we become what we think about.

Conversely, the person who has no goal, who doesn't know where he's going, and whose thoughts must therefore be thoughts of confusion, anxiety, fear and worry - his life becomes one of frustration, fear, anxiety and worry. And if he thinks about nothing...he becomes nothing.

How does it work? Why do we become what we think about? Well, I'll tell you how it works, as far as we know. To do this, I want to tell you about a situation that parallels the human mind.

Suppose a farmer has some land, and it's good, fertile land. The land gives the farmer a choice; he may plant in that land whatever he chooses. The land doesn't care. It's up to the farmer to make a decision.

We're comparing the human mind with the land because the mind, like the land, doesn't care what you plant in it. It will return what you plant, but it doesn't care what you plant.

Now, let's say that the farmer has two seeds in his hand - one is a seed of corn, the other is nightshade, a deadly poison. He digs two little holes in the earth and he plants both seeds - one corn, the other nightshade. He covers up the holes, waters and takes care of the land...and what will happen? Invariably, the land will return what was planted. As it's written in the Bible,

"As ye sow, so shall ye reap."

Remember, the land doesn't care. It will return poison in just as wonderful abundance as it will corn. So up come the plants - one corn, one poison. The human mind is far more fertile, far more incredible and mysterious than the land, but it works the same way. It doesn't care what we plant...success...or failure. A concrete, worthwhile goal...or confusion, misunderstanding, fear, anxiety, and so on. But what we plant it must return to us.

You see, the human mind is the last great, unexplored continent on earth. It contains riches beyond our wildest dreams. It will return anything we want to plant.

Aano bhadra krtavo yantu vishwatah.(- RIG VEDA)
"Let noble thoughts come to me from all directions"

FORGIVENESS

Leo Tolstoy was not only a renowned writer but was also a very good human being. He always kept a good and kind behaviour towards everyone and had a forgiving nature towards people with bad behaviour. Tolstoy never stored bad feelings for anyone in his heart and taught his daughter the same. One of the examples of this is presented here.

One day while Tolstoy was doing the writing work in his room he suddenly heard his daughter crying. He came out of his room and held his daughter in his arms, wiping her tears he asked her that why was she crying? Still sobbing, his daughter told him that when she was playing with the boy in the neighbourhood they both had a fight and the boy hit her. While narrating the incident to her father the little girl got filled with agitation and she asked her dad for a whip to hit that boy. Calming down her daughter's anger, Tolstoy gave her a glass of soft drink and asked her to give it to that boy. The girl did as she was told. The boy got startled with this behaviour of hers and since that day they both became good friends.

Moral:
Forgiveness always brings in positive results, instead of anger. Basically, vicious behaviour towards an amoral person fills him with vengeance and leads him towards more viciousness. Whereas, good behaviour will inspire him for reformation. Therefore, keep a big heart and learn to forgive.

Aano bhadra krtavo yantu vishwatah.(- RIG VEDA)
"Let noble thoughts come to me from all directions"
SHAIJA VALLIKATRI BHASKARAN

ANOTHER CHOICE

You don't have to buy from anyone.
You don't have to work at any particular job.
You don't have to participate in any given relationship.

You can choose.

You alone steer the course you choose in the
direction Of where you want to be today,
tomorrow or in any distant time to come.

You hold the tiller.

You can decide to alter the course of your life
at any time.
No one can ever take that away from you.
You can decide what you want and go after it.

It's always your next move.

COURTESY:UNKNOWN

Aano bhadra krtavo yantu vishwatah.(- RIG VEDA)
"Let noble thoughts come to me from all directions"

SHAIJA VALLIKATRI BHASKARAN

BEST DAY IN MY LIFE

Today, when I awoke, I suddenly realized that this is the best day of my life, ever!
There were times when I wondered if I would make it to today; but I did!

And because I did I'm going to celebrate! Today, I'm going to celebrate what an
unbelievable life I have had so far: the accomplishments, the many blessings,
and, yes, even the hardships because they have served to make me stronger.

I will go through this day with my head held high, and a happy heart.
I will marvel at God's seemingly simple gifts: the morning dew,
the sun, the clouds, the trees, the flowers, the birds.
Today, none of these miraculous creations will escape my notice.

Today, I will share my excitement for life with other people.
I'll make someone smile.

I'll go out of my way to perform an unexpected act of kindness
for someone I don't even know. Today, I'll give a sincere compliment to someone who seems down. I'll tell a child how special he/she is, and I'll tell someone I love
just how deeply I care for her and how much she means to me.

Today is the day I quit worrying about what I don't have and start
being grateful for all the wonderful things God has already given me.
I'll remember that to worry is just a waste of time because my faith in God
ensures everything will be just fine.

And tonight, before I go to bed, I'll go outside and raise my eyes to the heavens.
I will stand in awe at the beauty of the stars and the moon,
and I will praise God for these magnificent treasures.

As the day ends and I lay my head down on my pillow,
I will thank the Almighty for the best day of my life.

And I will sleep the sleep of a contented child, excited with expectation
because I know tomorrow is going to be the best day of my life, ever!

COURTESY:UNKNOWN

Aano bhadra krtavo yantu vishwatah.(- RIG VEDA)
"Let noble thoughts come to me from all directions"
SHAIJA VALLIKATRI BHASKARAN

CHANGE THE PEOPLE YOU'RE AROUND

Not everyone is healthy enough
To have front row seats in our lives.

There are some people in your life
That need to be loved from a distance.

It's amazing what you can accomplish
When you let go of,
Or at least minimize,
Your time with draining,
Negative, incompatible,
Not going anywhere relationships/friendships.

Observe the relationships around you...
PAY ATTENTION!!!
Which ones lift and which ones lean?

Which ones encourage
And which ones discourage?
Which ones are on a path of growth uphill
And which ones are going downhill?

When you leave certain people
Do you feel better or worse?
Which ones always have drama
Or don't really understand,
Know, or appreciate you?

The more you seek quality, respect, growth,
Peace of mind, love, and truth around you,
The easier it will become for you to decide
Who gets to sit in the front row and
Who should be moved
To the balcony of your life.

You cannot change
The people around you,
So change the people you're around!

COURTESY:UNKNOWN

Aano bhadra krtavo yantu vishwatah.(- RIG VEDA)
"Let noble thoughts come to me from all directions

SHAIJA VALLIKATRI BHASKARAN

MARCH 8TH WOMEN'S DAY

Yatra nari pujyate ramante tatra devata
Wherever women are honored, there the gods delight.
- The Code of Manu

women have strengths that amaze men.

They bear hardships and they

carry burdens, but they hold happiness, love and joy.

They smile when they want to scream.

They sing when they want to cry.

They cry when they are happy and laugh

when they are nervous.

They fight for what they believe in.

They stand up to injustice.

They don't take "no" for an answer when they

believe there is a better solution.

They go to the doctor with a frightened friend.

They love unconditionally. They cry when their

children excel and cheer when their friends get awards.

They are happy when they hear about a birth or a wedding.

Their hearts break when a friend dies.

They grieve at the loss of a family member,

yet they are strong when they think there

is no strength left.

They know that a hug and a kiss can heal a broken heart.

Women come in all shapes, sizes and colors.

They'll drive, fly, walk, run or e-mail

you to show how much they

care about you. The heart of a woman is

what makes the world keep turning.

They bring joy, hope and love.

They have compassion and ideas.

They give moral support to their family and friends.

Women have vital things to say and everything to give.

HOWEVER, IF THERE IS ONE FLAW IN women,

IT IS THAT THEY FORGET THEIR WORTH.

Message on women's day

I often listen to this “The world is a better place because of the presence of a woman”. I completely agree and this one line can speak a million feelings.

On the eve of the International women’s day,
I’ve a small message for all of you.

Men,

Recognize the efforts of the lady of your life.
Understand her way of expressing her love towards you.
Best love is ensured when you can understand
the mood swings of her.
And always do remember,
Whatever you do, you can not give back the same
what a girl/woman gives to you.

Women,

People of all kinds exist;
just that the way everyone is different.
Never compare. Never humiliate unnecessarily.
Just understand, love and believe.
Respect what the world has given to you.
Be respected for what you only can give to the world.

I believe these lines so much.
I often tell myself the same being an Indian women
and proud to be so.

Time passes.Life happens.Distance separates.
Children grow up.Jobs come and go.Love waxes and wanes.
Men don't do what they're supposed to do.Hearts break.
Parents die.Colleagues forget favors.Careers end.

BUT - Sisters are there, no matter how much time and how many miles are between you. A friend is never farther away than needing her. The willingness to listen, the patience to understand, the strength to support,the heart to care &
just to be there.that is the beauty of a lady!

When you have to walk that lonesome valley and you have to walk it by yourself, the women in your life will be on the valley's rim, cheering you on, praying for you, pulling for you, intervening on your behalf, and waiting with open arms at the valley's end.

Sometimes, they will even break the rules and walk beside you, or come in and carry you out.

Girlfriends, daughters, granddaughters, daughters-in-law, sisters,sisters-in-law, mothers, grandmothers, aunties, nieces, cousins and extended family all bless our life.

When we began this adventure called womanhood, we had no idea of the incredible joys or sorrows that lay ahead, nor did we know how much we would need each other.

Every day, we need each other still.
Pass this on to all the women who help make your life meaningful.

I just did.

Last bot not least, Let me wish all the women's in the world
a very happy women's day with the oft quoted words of the
great Vivekananda swamiji:-

I should very much like our women to have your intellectuality, but not if it must be at the cost of purity. I admire you for all that you know, but I dislike the way that you cover what is bad with roses and call it good. Intellectuality is not the highest good. Morality and spirituality are the things for which we strive. Our women are not so learned, but they are more pure. [swami Vivekananda Talking to an American audience]

We should not think that we are men and women, but only that we are human beings, born to cherish and to help one another.

HAPPY WOMEN'S DAY TO YOUR MOTHER,SISTERS, WIFE......

I AM PROUD TO BE AN INDIAN WOMEN.

shaija vallikatri Bhaskaran

SHIVRATHRI MARCH 2ND 2011

AS USUALLY MY FIRST POST OF THIS MONTH ABOUT GOD.I ALWAYS KEEP GOD FIRST.SO ASUSUAL I AM POSTING ABOUT GOD, MY FAVOURITE LORD SHIVA.

Today is Pradosha vratham (Saumya Vaara Pradosha vratham) and Maha shivrathri. Today is the great day of Lord Shiva and a big day for his followers for prayers, fasting and vigil. Shivrathri is one of the major Hindu festivals, where people across the country observe the rituals for this auspicious day. Lord Sadaashhiva is the Lord of all deities due to whose grace the entire universe exists. Lord Shiva is also one who bestows his grace on all and instills into them fearlessness and power.

The secret of Creation is evident from the description of the form of Siva. The crescent moon on Siva’s head symbolizes the consciousness in human beings, the Ganga symbolizes the Life Force and the snakes on Sivas body represent the myriad of living beings. He resides on a silver mountain. His dearest friend is Kubera, the Lord of Wealth. Despite being endowed with all these, why was He obliged to carry the begging bowl? To demonstrate to the world that every kind of wealth is a hindrance to spiritual advancement, Siva renounced everything. It is through renunciation Siva became the eternal embodiment of supreme bliss.

Shivaratri is one of the holiest nights of the year. It is the night dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva. Literally, Shivratri means, “The great night of Shiva.” It is celebrated on the 13th or 14th day of the dark half of the month of February - March. Maha Shivaratri 2011 date is MARCH 2nd, 2011. Devotees observe fasting and Keep vigil during night on Shivratri to get blessings of Lord Shiva. There is a reference to this in one of the Puranas, where Shiva himself tells Parvati Devi [the Divine Mother] that this day is particularly dear to him, and that those who perform the prescribed austerities on this day will be freed from all sins.

Many stories are there about the shivrathri. Some says that the first Shivaling originated in the night of Shivaraatri. Some says that it on this night that Lord Shiva married Goddess Parvati. This is why the day is also called Shiv Gouri Divas. There are numerous legends about Shivarathri. Here're a few popular stories of Shivarathri.

Origin:-

NOTE:I POSTED THE STORIES IN MY PREVIOUS POST IN THE YEAR FEB 2010.
SO NOT REPEATING THE SAME.

How to celebrate:-

POSTED THE STORIES IN MY PREVIOUS POST IN THE YEAR FEB 2010.
SO NOT REPEATING.

While most of the Hindu festivals involve feasting and rejoicing, Shivratri is about fasting and prayer, and is observed for one's progress in spirituality The Shiva temples are busy and crowded with people gathering for worship throughout the day, where special poojas are offered to the Lord from day break. People offer Bilva leaves to the Lord, which is considered auspicious.

Message Of shivrathri:-

Mahashivratri imparts the need to bring about a right balance in our lifestyle, in order to realise the highest truth of Self realization. Spending the day in prayer, meditation and fasting, conveys the truth to curb excessive of activities. Further keeping vigil on Shivaratri also compliments the truth of a pure mind. A pure mind can be achieved through a moderation in food, sleep and activities. Such a mind becomes the tool to achieve Self realization.

Shivaratri, in its essence, beneath all the religious rituals, thus carries the truth of Self realization. The night of Shivratri is especially auspicious for winning this same battle within ourselves – the battle between good and evil, between right and wrong, between poison and nectar, between death and immortality.

All the rituals on the night of Shivratri are meant to cleanse the ignorance and for the self realization. The fasting, rituals and chanting are meant to kill desire, greed, illusion, arrogance, jealousy, and anger. This will make you a better person and prepare you to face the challenges.

It is said that Shiva showers all his blessings on people, who remember him with an honest and true heart. There is a story that old timers nar­rate. In the olden days if you went to a vil­lage and asked “Can you direct me to the house where daily shiva puja takes place”, the bystanders will tell you to look for the house in front of which an ele­phant is tied”. Lord Shiva is known to be very generous giving away boons, although, he would test his devotees to the core. Shiva not only finds no faults with oth­ers, but if some­one has even a lit­tle good qual­ity, he mag­ni­fies it greatly.” That is why Shiva is glo­ri­fied as one who imme­di­ately ful­fils every ones desires.

It is in fact to be noted that Lord shiva is worshipped by the devas like Vishnu, Brahma, Indra, by asuras like bana, ravana, tripura, surapadma, by humans like shankara bhagavatpada, by other creatures like jatayu, sampadi (eagles), vali (monkey) and the list goes on and on. One finds in the puranas the variety of people of different backgrounds and qualities worship the Lord shiva. There are many histories of temples which talk of the cranes, bees, elephants, spiders, snakes worshipping the Lord and getting blessed. So the Lord as the Supreme blesses anyone who worships in sincere devotion. There is no discrimination on who the seeker is. The Lord is so merciful that He showers the boons one look for when there is a determination to seek Him. It is evident from the history of asura bana who attained a great fame of his valor and got the place in the abode of Lord shiva all due to his determined worship of the Lord. So anybody who worships the Lord sincerely could get blessed with Its Grace irrespective of the caste, creed, race, power, status and qualities.

On this night of Shivratri, as we worship Bhagwan Shiva, it is also the night that we must pray for the strength to take his message to heart! Let us not only worship him, but let us emulate him. He who is willing to peacefully swallow the poison, he who is willing to sacrifice for the family, for the community and for humanity is the true Mahadeva.

Let us use our puja, our prayers, our meditations on this night to pray for divine intervention so that within ourselves the good might vanquish the evil, the nectar within us might emerge, rather than poison, and that we too may be carried from death to immortality.