Science and spirituality = Pujya Gurudev

Control and Refinement of Hormones

=Pt.ShriRam Sharma Acharya

The scientists of yore had adopted the approach of subtle science of spirituality to gain absolute knowledge about human mind and to creatively control the functioning of the brain. Modern scientists have started from an approach of gross analysis of the physico-chemical reactions and study of their effects manifested in behavioral changes. Progress of this research is now opening newer dimensions of the subtle aspects of human brain.

The study of hormones has offered amazing information to the researchers who consider physiological and biochemical processing to be the basic cause of different functions of brain. The front-line researchers now believe that the root cause of secretion of the enormous varieties of hormones is yet unknown because of the subtle nature of different levels of consciousness affecting the mind.

Even a single drop of some hormones secreted within the brain is found to bring drastic changes in the body-functions. The temperament and the emotional manifestations too are found to vary because of the fluctuations in specific hormonal levels. Many hormones and neuro-chemicals - contained in the tiny neurons - have now been identified and analyzed in the laboratories. These include, those found to be associated with the fatigue or energetic state of the body and the alacrity of mind, and those which can stimulate or suppress the expressions of love, compassion, cheerfulness etc. The hormone secreting glands seem to reveal even newer wonders before the endocrinologists to further accelerate research in the related areas of neuroscience.

It is a surprising coincidence that the existence of the mysterious neuro-chemicals came into light through the study of some diseases like aboulia and amnesia in which the mind goes into depression or becomes dull and dormant by losing memory and intellectual sharpness. Some scientists at the American National Institute of Mental Health had found that the activity or inhibition of an enzyme called MAO (Mono Amine Oxidase) is largely responsible for the changes in people’s temperaments. The normal as well as the unusual emotional expressions of different persons, cheerfulness and irritation, alacrity and lethargy etc, are found to depend on the inhibition or activation – by other enzymes and chemicals – of the neuro-hormonal secretions of MAO.

According to Dr. Andrew Baptist, a behavioral psychologist by profession, there are two major classes of neuro-chemicals: one, the group of MAO-enzymes and the other, that of different neurotransmitters such as, epinephrine, dopamine, serotonin, etc. The MAOs suppress the functions of the neurotransmitters. A third group of neurotransmitters has also been discovered which preserves the activity and blood-level of the neurotransmitters. This helper group mainly consists of the enzymes of endorphin category. The research findings of Dr. Andrew and others indicate that excessive secretion of MAO often triggers lethargy, dullness, mental restlessness and tension. The activation of the second group can suppress the effects of MAO and induce alacrity, enthusiasm, relaxation and cheerfulness. The enzymes like encephalon etc of the endorphin group further enhance the activity of the neurotransmitters and accelerate positive effects on mental and emotional conditions. People are found to show greater mental concentration and efficiency in their tasks-in-hand when the secretion and activities of the neurotransmitters and hormones of the latter groups are on.Acupuncture and Pain Alleviating Hormones:

Medical experts consider that the limbic system in human brain can secrete specific neuro-chemicals, which alleviate the sensation of pain or counter the tension caused by mental stress. Emotions are supposed to trigger the activities of the limbic system. As the sensory nerves carry the sensation of pain to the spinal cord, the efferent receptors of the limbic region in a healthy brain are activated and they secrete two phaline peptides that serve as natural ‘pain killers’. Betalypotramine (LPH) is found to be the forerunner of encephalin.

Experiments in neuro-immuno-histochemistry have shown that a large number of neurons - filled with encephalon - are clustered at different levels of the cerebrospinal axis; these clusters are denser near specific pain-sensing center on the gelatinosa of the spinal column. The neurons are also present near the nerves connected to the digestive system. The techniques like acupuncture invoke the secretion of encephalon at specific centers as and when required and thereby offer healing and remedy from pain without any medicine or other treatments. Many surgical operations are performed successfully by suppressing sensation with the help of acupuncture without using any anesthesia.

Frontline researchers in Parapsychology consider that the secretion and concentration of different hormones like encephalon, endogens – painkillers - can be regulated by harmonizing the activities of brain with the help of dhy³n (deep meditation). Dhy³n is a risk-free spiritual exercise, which offers enormous benefits. Experts of this science prescribe meditation as an effective remedy against pain and mental stress and strain instead of the killer medicines, steroids and intoxicating drugs.

Wonders of Disturbed Secretion of Growth Hormones

Imbalance of the hormone-secreting glands (the endocrine glands) creates amazing disorders in natural living system. The pair of a 25-inch ‘tall’ man, Tom Thumb and a 24-inch tall woman, Lebonia is counted among the great wonders of Nature in the human society. However, the experts know that such wonders are results of slight disorders in the endocrine system. Tom Thumb weighed 9 pounds 2 ounce at the time of birth; but, due to some deficiency in hormonal secretions, his body-weight remained the same. His body had become a source of earning for him through jugglery. He had married a matching dwarf woman and enhanced his business through their joint shows. The other extreme of hormonal imbalance leads to uncontrolled growth of height and /or weight. Robert Widelio’s height of 8 ft 11 inches was a live example of this effect. He used to look like a moving Palm Tree. A 7 ft tall man Tilwar lived like a ‘show piece’ for the people of Palamou in Bihar (India).

Czar Peter of Russia was very tall. He used to like tall people. When one of his favorite, exceptionally tall sergeant died, the Czar had ordered to preserve his skeleton in the Kuntz art museum. This specimen was about 200 years old when some scientists tried to investigate the cause of its abnormal height with the help of X-rays. The analysis carried out by them identified excessive secretions through the pituitary gland as the cause of this exceptional growth.

Alipus of Alexandria was a dwarf. His height was only 17 inches. Amira Zambilakas had kept him in his house to entertain the visitors. He used to carry Alipus in a small cage while traveling. Fanny Miles, a girl born in 1880 in Cincinnati, Ohio USA, had exceptionally long feet in her otherwise normal body. Her 2-ft long feet used to frighten people. Nobody married her because of this abnormality.

Alfred Lenzmann of Detroit Michigan (USA) had a peculiar ability to breathe through the eyes instead of the nostrils. During test experiments he used to quench candles by staring at them while his nose and mouth were covered. Fred Pagel’s voice was so loud that it could be heard from a distance of over 3 miles whenever he spoke at high pitch with force.The above examples present only a small sample of the varieties of abnormalities in the body-functions that could be caused by imbalance in the endocrine secretions.

Renowned psychoanalyst, Dr. Edgar has conducted research on effects of hormones on behavior and attitude. His findings indicate that many individuals, despite having excellent physique and charming appearance, do not have the natural masculine (or feminine) tendencies because of the abnormal levels of certain hormones. Impotency is also attributed to hormonal disorders in general.

As stated earlier, the endocrine glands are affected by the internal state of the mind and emotions and accordingly generate the feelings of joy, enthusiasm, courage and alacrity, or that of dole, dullness, despair and apprehension etc. Modern scientists are actively engaged in finding hormone-based therapies to control one’s physical and mental health. Partial success has been achieved in the cases where major cause of hormonal imbalance is identified as deficiency of certain chemicals as a result of some disease or known physiological disorder.

Key to Hormonal Regulation

Scientific investigations have revealed that hormonal secretions do not have any direct relationship with the quantity and quality of the food intakes and physical activities in general. Neither the geneticists have been able to establish any correlation between driven functions and hormonal regulation, nor has any psychological study yet confirmed any correlation model between specific functions of the endocrine system and the state of the conscious mind, which could be regarded as a universal model. Possibilities of some inherent tendencies of the subconscious and unconscious mind influencing the hormonal secretions do not find ground because of the lack of coherence. Then a natural question arises –– what is the reason of variation in the levels and types of hormonal secretions from the endocrine glands? We will have to look into the deeper depths of the subtle levels of human consciousness in order to find possible answers.

The third and the innermost component of human consciousness is the causal body which is also known as the eternal emotional core of the heart, the inner self, the abode of soul, etc. The natural beliefs, faith, inner emotions, intrinsic instincts and desires, and ascetic appetence etc emanate from this center. The feelings of ego, haecceity and afflatus also have their roots in this innermost core of human consciousness. The inherent characteristics – the reflections of the sins (p³pa) and the virtuous, pious, altruist deeds (puñya) of an individual are manifested in these expressions of the inner self. The intrinsic state, purity and spiritual level of these reflections are found to affect the activities of the endocrine system. Thus, the hormonal secretions appear to be subtly controlled by the pr³rabdha – destiny formed according to the collection of the p³pa and puñya of the previous births. Reactions of the p³pa and puñya of the present birth also get accumulated in the stock of pr³rabdha and play an important role in respectively deteriorating and ameliorating the order and efficiency of the endocrine system and thereby influencing both the physical and subtle bodies.

Thanks GOD,Thanks Sadguru,

Shiv Sharma

Nature & Life = Pujya Gurudev

Manifestation of Nature & Life – II

=Pt.ShriRam Sharma Acharya

The knowledge enfolded in the scriptures of the Indian Philosophy, appears imaginary (mythological) and baseless to an ignorant because of the rather allegoric, rhetoric and at times abstract style of presentation. Nevertheless, a little deeper study would reveal the contrary. The Vedas, Upanishads and the gamut of Shastric Literature that emerged there from contain absolute knowledge – including that of the genesis, manifestation, expansion and evolution of Nature and Life….

The descriptions (of the kinds cited in the last issue) in the Upanishads concerning – the manifestation of the eternal will of Paramatma in the creation of the Pinda of the sun, moon, other planets and the entire universe, and the subliminal presence of the divine powers and the Paramatma in the human self…, would become clearer if we note the following….

Dr. Allen Leo of “The Occult Anatomy” fame explains that –– “if we had understood the cosmic system, it would not have been difficult to see the intimate relationship of our body and mind with the sun, moon and other planets….”.

Dr. Corinne Helen discusses the complexity of the process of life in the human body under the topic “The Dual Brain Functions and Relation with Spiritual Development”. She further writes that – “It is amazing to note that all the natural instincts of artistic creativity, intellectual talents and knowledge acquisition are bestowed on human mind by the planetary system. This way all intellectuals are disciples of the planets and stars (cosmic centers)….”. The Occult Anatomy regards human beings to be constituted of two bodies. One is gross – made up of the panca tatvas (five basic elements) and the other is subtle – which is created by the divine powers emitted from the cosmic centers.

The gross components of our body, which are visible or tangible, are made up of the p—athvº tatva (source of the basic elements available on the earth). Interestingly the material components of the other planets too are found to be constituted by these elements gifted by the earth. The sun, moon and the other members of this family also bestow enormous energy and support on the earth in return. The same is true of the mutual cooperation and coexistence of the other planetary systems, the galaxies, and every entity of the ever-expanding universal ensemble…

The gross as well as the subtle body of the sun has been given special mention in the Indian scriptures in the context of human life. The vigor of the body and illumination of the intellect, both are said to have direct linkage with the cosmic source. The gross effects of the sun and its vital role in the maintenance of life on the earth are well known to us. Significant observations have also been made in the laboratories on these effects. If a sapling receives proper water supply and fertilizers but no sunlight, it certainly dies in a few days.

If sunlight is allowed to reach a tree partially and indirectly (after filtering or refraction through a colored glass for instance,) it might survive and grow into a tree, but it won’t blossom with its natural flowers and fruits. These kinds of observations on several crops of pulses, vegetables and fruits have revealed that the reception and absorption of natural sunlight is essential for healthy constituents and taste of the eatables (natural products). These results make us rethink about the ancient scientific findings that taste and vitality of elements exist in the cosmos. Further, as is successfully practiced by the yogis, one might attract the desired elements from the subliminal domains of the corresponding cosmic centers using the subtle force of his mind.

The shastrik literature sometimes refers the vital energy (praña) of sun by a name

“gau”. It is said that this gau is essential for the strength and energy in every element in the physical manifestation of the world. Thus, the human body being a gigantic ensemble of the gamut of these elements, could be justifiably referred as ‘generated’ or ‘constituted by’ the sun…. Its movements, internal processing, nothing could survive without the energy (praña) received from the sun.

Sublimation or ignition of different substances emits different colors (or shades) of light energy. These might appear to be white or light yellow to the naked eyes in general. However, the dispersion of these through a prism would decompose the spectra of constituent colors. Finer optical studies reveal that every element emits its unique spectrum of light. For instance, the spectrum of sodium shows bright yellow and that of potassium shows red. The study of spectrum enables identification of the substances or recognition of the constituents of a new substance. This intimate and unique relation of a substance with light spectra explains how a material component of the human body could be described as ‘made up of’ or ‘generated by’ the sun and the moon, etc.

Now we look at the optical properties of matter and their scientific analysis from a different angle. The coexistence of light and inflammation is well known. This is a common observation of how light could be generated from ignition or sublimation of any substance. In ordinary state as well, every element emits light radiation though at a subtle frequency. Recent scientific theories approve the possibility of conversion of light particles into atoms and molecules of gross (material) elements. This cyclic relation (of mutual generation and conversion) of light energy and matter accounts for a unified existence of the physical (perceivable) and subliminal constituents of the human body.

As science proceeds further in deciphering the complexity of the gigantic network of the nerves and the brain functions, the knowledge of the influence of other divine (cosmic) powers would also become more transparent. Whatever has been known or studied so far about the brain and the endocrine system, supports the intrinsic vision of reality elucidated in the Indian Philosophy.

Anatomically, our brain is made up of two layers – formed by white and gray matter. The white matter constitutes the nerves and the ganglions. The nerves bundled in the ganglions are rich in phosphorous and are deeply immersed in the protoplasm. Phosphorous is constituted by the agni tatva (element of fire – energy) as reported in the Upanishads. The agni tatva present here (phosphorous and ATP in scientific terminology) is important for metabolism and the maintenance of energy for the body functions. Deficiency of the agni tatva in the body results in indigestion, weakness, lack of stamina and body-resistance and in diminished glow of the eyes and of the aura around the body. This agni tatva is the same as that present in the core of the sun.

Scientific findings reveal that the maintenance of phosphorous and hence the vital energy in the body does not depend as much on the food intake and digestion as it does upon the mental condition. The same is the case with many of the other biochemical and physiological functions. These findings indicate the scientific implications of the above-cited scriptural descriptions (about role of sun, etc) and also affirm the vital dependence of the gross body upon the subtle and support the double-body (gross and the subtle) theory of the Occult Anatomy.

The material based science has been able to study only the gross structure of the human body. Integration of the physics based life-sciences with metaphysics would explain the existence and functions of the subliminal body. This would also unfold the secrets of how the energy currents immanent in the cosmos generate or strengthen the elements of the gross body and endow its subliminal counterpart with intellectual trenchancy and enlightened wisdom.

The conscious energy of light is pervading in every element of gross matter (p—athvº tatva) present in our body. However, since light is not constituted of gross matter and its dispersed components have distinct nature, it is regarded as being generated by the energy waves from the cosmic ensemble. The currents of subliminal eternal force (of the flow of praña) immanent in these is referred in the Upanishads as the flow of the spark of divine powers. Its ‘transmission’ from different nakshatras (planets and stars, as word-meaning) is referred there to imply that the nature of light is different from that of the earthy elements (p—athvi tatva). Also the word nakyatra has a wider meaning here. As the detailed deliberations of the Upanishads highlight, this world corresponds to the cosmic centers or domains of dense superposition of subliminal (conscious) energy waves.

The flesh, blood and bones in our body are generated from the p—athvi and jala tatvas by different chemical reactions of the material elements. But, the vital energy, intellect, desires, knowledge, mental inspirations, emotional currents, etc are subliminal in nature. These might influence the bioelectrical and biochemical reactions in the body but cannot originate from matter or by any such reactions. These are described in the Upanishads as constituted of the akasya tatva. The prakash (light) tatva is referred as a manifestation of the akasya tatva in energy form. All activity and creativity in living beings become possible because of this prakasya tatva, which is pervading in the cosmos with enormous varieties of natural manifestation (e.g. different kinds of energy waves). Dissipation of this subliminal light from the body, in the event of death, eventually converts the gross body into an inert peace of matter that disintegrates by the natural process of biodegradation.

It is said that what we eat also contributes to the development of our mind. Here again it may be noted that it is not the material substance of the food, but its nature, the type of the prakasya tatva absorbed in it, that influences our mental tendencies. The ‘nuclei’ of the constituent elements of food are therefore regarded (in the rhetoric style of presentation of the scriptures) as the ‘atoms’ radiated or energized by some nakshatra in the cosmos. These induce specific effects in the gross and the subtle components of the human being. These kinds of subliminal effects are mentioned in the Upanishads as – “the glow of moon existing in the mind…”, etc. The gross effects of sunlight and moonlight on the quality of vegetables, food grains etc, and the effect of the latter on one’s physical and mental health are being studied in the modern laboratories too.

Scientific investigations into the origin and the source of power of the nerves have shown that their functional center lies in the brain. Memory layers have been identified as the bundles of fibers connecting and conveying the impulses of sensation and motion between the brain, spinal cord, ganglionic organs and other parts of the body. Recent investigations in psychology and neurology reveal that the emotional impulses are more dominating in triggering the nerve-functions as compared to the more familiar (extensively studied) role of the bioelectrical signal processing of the sensory and motor operations. These findings have provided newer directions to brain research.

Of late, psychology has become an integral part of research in neuroscience being conducted at several reputed laboratories. It is now an acceptable notion of medical sciences that one could sustain good health and vigor by cultivating positive thinking and piety of sentiments. Apart from the psychological remedies of biofeedback, confession and healing, etc, for elimination of the malice and weaknesses of mind, restraining from passions and creative orientation of aspirations are also advised towards psychosomatic treatments.

Active collaboration between research on the psychological and neuro-chemical fronts has revealed important effects of the subliminal currents of consciousness on the neuronal system. Recording of the changes in the brain impulses and the spectrum of the emission through the ganglions with the intensity of willpower – are among the remarkable results in this direction.

The sympathetic nerves are referred as negatively charged in terms of the impact of emotional currents. These are said to manifest the effects of the soft sentiments of feminine nature. A huge bundle of these nerves emerges from near the heart. The subliminal core of the heart is also described as the emotional center or the ocean of sentiments of a person. This system of nerves is therefore of significant importance in psychology. Deeper understanding of the science of aspirations, intrinsic experiences, as well as that of the neuro-physiological and other brain functions demands greater research on the vast range of the functions and subliminal sensitivity of the sympathetic nerves.

The pains and pleasures of the body, mind and the heart (sentimental core) are experienced through the conscious faculties of the brain. A lot remains to be deciphered about the subliminal powers of consciousness expressed or hidden in the human brain. With the realization of the infinite complexity of the human mind, the brain-scientists have now begun to accept its limitless potentials and its intrinsic linkage with the cosmic consciousness. The importance of spirituality is also being recognized and the need for research in the cosmic science of spirituality is being felt for a comprehensive study of the human mind and the brain system.

Studies are also continuing on the possible manifestation of the responses of the unconscious mind in the cerebrospinal system. Structurally, the cells in the cerebrospinal region appear to be tiny bundles of delicate fibers. These tentacles spread along the spinal column serve for all sensory experiences. The subliminal flow of conscious power along the suÌumn³ n³Ãº is also processed through these fibrous elements. These are said to make a functional linkage between the mind and the heart – by which, the mental impulses are felt in the heart and vice-versa.

Purification and spiritual evolution of mental powers could enable upward orientation of the currents of praña through these fibers along the suÌumn³ n³Ãº. This results in the activation of the unconscious (inner) layers of mind and thus effectuates creative linkage of the individual self with the cosmic Self. Acquisition of the Gnostic knowledge of the mysterious powers immanent in the limitless expansion of the cosmos then emerges as a natural consequence. The cerebrospinal region thus seems to contain the vihati dwara described in the Aitereya Upanishad.

Research on the cerebrospinal system of the human brain is still in its initial stage. The one, who would learn the technique of activating and controlling its core (the vihati dwara), would be able to visualize (know) the invisible space and the cosmic depth without any scientific instruments or spaceships. The science of yoga and spirituality could offer excellent support in guiding and accelerating deeper research on human brain and its extrasensory powers.

Thanks GOD,Thanks Sadguru,

Shiv Sharma

Magnetic Personality = Pujya Gurudev

How to Make the Personality Magnetic?

=Pt.ShriRam Sharma Acharya

(Akhand Jyoti May-June 2007)

How to Make the Personality Magnetic?

“Priyam ma krnu devesu priyam rajasu ma krnu Priyam sarvasya pasyata uta sudra utarye.”Atharvaveda 19/62/1

O Lord! Make me dear to gods. Make me dear to kings. May I be dear to all the viewers, be they sudra or vaisya (the servitors or the professionals). Attractive personality is formed by the judicious mixture of strength and emotions. The better the synthesis of these two elements, the more magnetic and charming the personality will be. Both the attributes are doubtlessly essential but their real significance and meaning lies in their proper synthesis. In isolation, either of the two loses its effectiveness. Strength alone without emotion and sensitivity does make a person capable and competent, but simultaneously makes him cruelrhearted too.

Consequently, people, even as they feel attracted to the powerful person, also remain inwardly scared of him. The same is the case with emotions without strength. In this condition, the personality develops tender feelings but lacks in determination and competence. This type acquires "the poor fellow" image inviting from the people a patronizing attitude. Such a personality can be anything but attractive. It is true that the thinking and behaviour of such a person touch the inner chords of those who come in contact, but for want of sufficient capability he is unable to provide them any succor. All the tender emotions in life can not add up to power and strength, and such persons are generally forced to lead the life of an imaginative and emotional but weak person.

Therefore, if you are desirous of making yourself magnetic, combine your strengths with emotions and then see how soon you become the centre of everybody’s attraction. People of every age, class and qualification will vie with one another to be near you. The world will hold you up as a role model; it will talk about you, dream about you and want to become like you. Whether you are a man or woman, farmer or officer, student or housewife, it does not matter. In every condition and every situation, the doors to personality furbishing are open to you. You have only to make a start. The first step is to get ready to make the body and mind receptive and deserving. Remember, body becomes capable by selfrcontrol and mind by introspection and contemplation. A disciplined and regulated liferstyle and light physical exercises impart a certain beauteous luster to the body.

For proper expression of this beauty, the dress should be in tune with the place and occasion. In this connection, the important thing to always bear in mind is that the real source of the accentuated charm of the body is the subtle vital energy and this vitality comes only by tapa and continence. Purity and piety increase person’s vital force whereas unrestrained sensual proclivities sap it. To maintain attractiveness for a long time, one has to retain vitality and vigor for long too. To become capable and strong at mental plane, develop the habit of introspection because it helps promote one’s abilities and hidden talents. Identify what is your special talent, your innate aptitude and set about to work on that. It could by anything r music, sports, management, houserkeeping, or any other branch of knowledge and art. If you find yourself unable to identify it, consult your friends, or guardians, or even Shantikunj. Do not lag behind at any level in the rigorous striving for talent nurturing. Physical strength and mental prowess make one powerful.

Now the turn is of the virtuous qualities that give expression to this power. So, try your utmost to inculcate the qualities of courage, bravery, patience and fortitude in you. These attributes will make you the sinecure of all eyes, not only at home and in the immediate locality but the society at large. Only the virtuous and the righteous radiate real magnetic, not the vicious and the wicked. Even the latter need a cloak of virtues to look attractive. It is another matter that after the spurious fade is gone, they are in for great ridicule and derision. The truly virtuous, on the other hand, retain their pull till the last breath. Besides being strong and capable, one must be sensitive and emotional, because power without sensitivity makes a person arrogant. People will soon start running away from him.

The three expressions of sensitivity presently relevant here are;

(i) service to the needy,

(ii) generosity, and

(iii) tolerance.

You will be able to develop your abilities through the instrumentality of all the three. The one basic rule to be observed is r be a giver, not a beggar. Only he who gives, attracts; a beggar repels, and people just shun him. In this way, the sadhana of combining strength and emotion will continue to add charm to your personality. But you will have to remain continually vigilant for its full and effective expression.

Thanks GOD,Thanks Sadguru,

Shiv Sharma

Amrit Chintan = Pujya Gurudev

Some Thoughts on Religion and Spirituality

=Pt.ShriRam Sharma Acharya

·         Spirituality is the science of consciousness; and religion is the art of living.

·         Spirituality is the ‘knowledge’ aspect of creation; and religion is the ‘activity’ aspect of it.

·         Spirituality is idealism; and religion is the method of imbibing it in real life.

·         Spirituality leads to self-realization; and religion shows the way to attain it.

·         The focus of spirituality is the Supreme Spirit; and that of religion is the individual soul.

·         Religion is the sadhana (ritualistic modes / methods / traditions) of uplifting the human consciousness. The ultimate aim of all the methods of sadhana is same.

·         Religion is a sky which is open to all to fly in their own way irrespective of caste, color, creed, nationality, etc.

“Those, who know the essence of spirituality and follow the righteous path of religion, are sure to achieve the boons of peace and prosperity at the individual level; and contribute to social harmony at large.”

Thanks GOD,Thanks Sadguru,

Shiv Sharma

Amrit Chintan = Pujya Gurudev

Don’t run away from problems: Face them

Pt. Shri Ram Sharma Acharya

Very often it is observed that people try to avoid or run away from pressing problems, instead of finding solutions to them. The amount of time that we waste in searching the modes and methods of escaping from a problem is much more than what is required in finding a solution to it. In fact, we should cultivate foresight in anticipating problems, big or small, relating to our home or job and should also search for and keep handy possible solutions. When a problem does crop up, we should develop courage to face it. If your inner-self says ‘I can overcome this problem’, you have already won half the battle.

Every person feels that his / her problem is far more severe than that of others whereas this may not be true. People are often seized by the negative thought ‘What sins have I committed that I am not getting rid of my problems?’ Thus they waste all their time in blaming circumstances or fate for their problems. Have you ever calmly thought: what could be the real cause of these problems? Accept it or not, all your problems have been generated by your own unorganized actions, lack of farsightedness in planning, dearth of practicality and wrong assessment of your own strengths.

Always remember that once you firmly resolve to find a solution to the impending problem, the whole scenario and the concerned people would change. The circumstances or God do not help a person who runs away from the problems instead of facing them boldly and wisely. Therefore, don’t run away from problems; face them.

Thanks GOD,Thanks Sadguru,

Shiv Sharma

Faith in the Divine = Pujya Gurudev

Attainment of Goals through Faith in the Divine

=Pt.ShriRam Sharma Acharya

(Akhand Jyoti June-July 2007)

“Aum bhurbhuvah svah, tat saviturvarenyam Bhargo devasya dhimahi, dhiyo yo nah prachodayat.” - Rigveda 3/62/10; Yajurveda 3/35; Samveda 1462

"May we behold in our inner self the Supreme Being who is the embodiment of vital energy (prana), the destroyer of suffering, the annihilator of sin, the joy incarnate, the sublime, the resplendent, the Divine. May that Supreme Being inspire our minds towards the enlightened, righteous path." The Gayatri Mahamantra is not only helpful in attainment of noble goals in life, but in essence, is itself the ultimate goal of life. Only by beholding the Supreme Being in the inner self and by resolutely treading the righteous path, can mankind search for and find its sublime goal. An aimless life is a miserable life of wandering in the wilderness.

The absence of a worthy aim renders all the means and efforts meaningless. Unless the goal is clear, the internal energy and latent strengths can not be channelized in the right direction. All the potentialities begin to wither away in a life without a lofty purpose to pursue after. To prevent this eventuality, it is imperative that a goal be fixed. For selecting and fixing the goal, it is essential to minutely search ones inner being, because only such a close search will unravel the facts whose analysis will enable us to determine the goal. In connection with this inner investigation the first point is to identify the talents hidden within oneself.

That is, to know one by one all the latent qualities which are yearning to find expression. The second point is to pin-point that specific God-gifted spark or impulse which has been stirring us since our childhood. The third point is those challenges which have frequently surfaced before us and with which we are still surrounded. An intensive scrutiny of these challenges is very essential, because without surmounting them, we can not proceed towards our goal. The fourth is our own value-system of life which we have inculcated within us and cherish. Generally, this value-system abides in us in the form of some noble thoughts and duties, and we are not inclined to abandon them under any circumstances. The fifth point concerns those resources which we possess presently; it is this asset which will come to our aid in the course of our progression towards the goal. And the sixth prerequisite is those opportunities which destiny has bestowed upon us.

Only after reflecting well over these six points, should we choose and determine our goal. But even more important than the six points enumerated above is the seventh, which is our own vision or dream whose rainbowy glow has illumined our inner mindscape since the very beginning. To realize this dream could be the chosen goal of our life. It is a pleasant truth that a dream is born in every heart, we believe in its fulfillment, then our dream takes concrete shape, and a miracle is wrought. Whatever be the goal & career related, economic, material, mental, familial or spiritual & once it has been set, after careful consideration, it is not wise to change it frequently. At the same time, it is necessary that in selection of the goal, the above mentioned seven considerations are kept in view, because impossible ventures, such as settling down on the Mars or pulling down the Sun to the Earth can not be set as the goal in life. But if a feasible and logical goal has been set, there should be no question of going back. After fixation of the goal, the next requirement is total concentration on it. Total concentration means that the whole personality should merge in that, so much so that the one begins to be identified with the other. When firm resolve, full devotion and unwavering faith become combined, attainment of the goal is ensured. The seemingly impossible begins to be not only possible but attainable, successive steps start gaining momentum, and opportunities begin to emerge spontaneously.

Those whose search of a goal is over and who are advancing towards it with complete faith will ultimately succeed in realizing it. this much is certain. In this connection, the memoirs of the great seer Swami Vivekananda are instructive. Swamiji has written that after the Mahasamadhi of his guru Sri Ramkrishna Paramhansadev, all the guru-bhais (brother disciples) were left without money, home and means. There was no proper arrangement for even food. But, yet, their goal was crystal clear before their eyes. Also, they all had unwavering faith in the nobility and loftiness of the goal, i.e. the restoration of the sublime glory of Mother India and Indian culture, so that the banner of Indian culture would once again flutter in the world. But how would this lofty goal be achieved? To this, there was only one answer divine help, because those who have unwavering faith in the Divine would rediscover their innate strengths. They would be able to run and not get tired; they would keep walking and not feel exhausted. Swamiji says:
"The experience shows that the very thought of divine help generates in the mind a unique serenity which is beyond description. Whenever I have felt loneliness in the course of my sadhana, I have remembered Christs assuring words, Be not afraid, be not disappointed, because I, your Lord, your God, am always with you. I will accompany you wherever you go ". The inspiring moments of Gods help and experience of the Divine are always helpful in attainment of an exalted goal. If, however, the goal is vast and grand, it should be completed in stages. It will be better if it is broken down into yearly, monthly and fortnightly units, and we proceed towards it gradually, albeit steadily, determinedly and faithfully. We should look upon God as our benefactor and the Gayatri mantra as our anchor. This divine anchor imparts to the personality a mystic strength and enables it to cover the distance to the goal easily. One should not, though, neglect ones health during the course of this sacred journey.

Thanks GOD,Thanks Sadguru,

Shiv Sharma

Time Management= Pujya Gurudev

How to manage time?

=Pt.ShriRam Sharma Acharya

(Akhand Jyoti May-June2009)

Time is continuously flowing. This flow is irreversible. Nothing can be substituted for time. Worse, once wasted, it can never be regained. People have numerous demands on their limited time. Time keeps slipping away and they have trouble controlling it. No matter what their position, they cannot stop time, they cannot slow it down, nor can they speed it up. Thus, time needs to be effectively managed to be effective.

Every task has a value and importance when it is done at the right time. Those who know the value of time never waste it. They complete their work at the right time and reap the rewards. This is the only secret of success. But, this is only possible when we are fully alert and work towards our goals actively adhering to the laws of time.

Success is always interlaced with time. Every individual’s life and profession are deeply connected with the winding journey of time. It is the time that makes a man laugh or cry. These emotions are the result of meandering turns of time.

Wise men often say that time is almighty. A person who wisely utilizes time becomes successful. If time is not utilized properly then even with abundant resources the results will not be well-disposed. On the other hand if a person wisely uses his time he will succeed even with dearth of available resources.

Gandhiji remembered all the shlokas of Gita. How he remembered them is an interesting fact. In those days, he was very busy with the activities of freedom struggle. Even with so much work, he had kept a routine of learning a new shloka everyday and contemplating on it. The interesting part is that he used to think about the shloka while brushing his teeth. In those days people used to brush their teeth with a twig of Neem tree. He would memorize the shloka by the time he finished brushing his teeth. In due course of time he memorized the whole of The Gita. This just shows how nothing is impossible if you follow a set routine and skillfully plan your activities.

Managing time is the work of a professional. Being a professional implies that a person executes a task based on its merit to the best of his skills and ability. Today’s professional world requires that a person should skillfully complete his assignment in the least possible time. If somebody cannot complete his task in the stipulated time then he starts lagging in his business or work place.

This is how the business is done: to achieve the desired quality in the least amount of time. If there is lag in either the quality or the delivery time then it becomes very difficult to survive in the tough competition. If a person can be a partner with time then he can succeed, else he will be left far behind.

But does that mean that we should change our conduct in order to profit from bad dealings? That is not correct. The question of good or bad has to be decided by our intellect. Those who imbibe good values and follow them in accordance with time are respected wherever they go. Those who benefit through wrong dealings don’t deal with the time on its merit and do not value the time for its worth. The question is of following the ideal societal and moral yardsticks to achieve the result. Wise people know this fact and plan and execute their work in accordance with the legal and moral boundaries set by authorities and remain tension-free with this understanding.

Knowledge of opportune time for a task has a lot of significance. Lack of this knowledge leads to wastage of time. If there is knowledge of time and action is applied to complement this knowledge, then success is not far away. But this knowledge can be obtained only with awakening of inner wisdom.

The importance and value of life is understood through the management of time. The important question here is how to start effectively managing time? If a person can properly allocate time in his daily routine and steadfastly adhere to it, then amazing results can be achieved. The following are some effective tips for better time management:

·         Create a simple "To Do" list - This simple program will help you identify a few items, the reason for doing them and a timeline for getting them done.

·         Daily/weekly planner - Write down appointments, meetings and tasks on a chronological logbook or chart. If you are more visual, sketch out your schedule first thing in the morning; check what's ahead for the day; always go to sleep knowing you are prepared for tomorrow.

·         Long-term planner - Use a monthly chart so that you can plan ahead.
Long-term planner will also serve as a reminder to constructively plan time for yourself.

Sometimes a situation arises when there are a lot of tasks to be done and each task has its own significance. In this situation one should always start with most important task first then move on to the next task with a lower priority and so forth. As they say – first things first.

In the book tilted ‘First things first’, Stephen R. Covey et al [1] tell a great story:

“One day an expert in time management was speaking to a group of business students. As he stood in front of the group of high-powered overachievers he said, "Okay, time for a quiz." He then pulled out a one-gallon, wide-mouthed Mason jar and set it on the table. He produced about a dozen fist-sized rocks and carefully placed them one at a time into the jar. When the jar was filled to the top and no more rocks would fit inside, he asked, "Is this jar full?" Everyone in the class said, "Yes." Then he said, "Really?"

“He reached under the table and pulled out a bucket of gravel. Then he dumped some gravel in and shook the jar causing it to work down into the space between the big rocks. Then he asked the group once more, "Is the jar full?" By this time the class was on to him. "Probably not," one of them answered. "Good!" he replied.

“He reached under the table and brought out a bucket of sand and started dumping the sand in the jar until it filled the spaces left between the rocks and the gravel. Once more he asked the question, "Is this jar full?" No! the class shouted. Once again he said, "Good."

“Then he grabbed a pitcher of water and began to pour it in until the jar was filled to the brim. Then he looked at the class and asked, "What is the point of this illustration?"

“One eager beaver raised his hand and said, "The point is, no matter how full your schedule is, if you try really hard you can always fit some more things in it!" "No," the speaker replied, "that's not the point."

"The truth this illustration teaches us is that if you don't put the big rocks in first, you'll never get them in at all. What are the 'big rocks' in your life? Your children, your loved ones, your education, your dreams, a worthy cause, teaching others, doing things that you love, your health, your mate? Remember to put these BIG ROCKS in first or you'll never get them in at all. If you sweat about the little stuff then you'll fill your life with little things and you'll never have the real quality time you need to spend on the big, important stuff.”

So, tonight, or in the morning, when you are reflecting on this short story, ask yourself this question: What are the 'big rocks' in my life? Then, put those in your jar first.

Thanks GOD,Thanks Sadguru,

Shiv Sharma