Value: Seva - September 2025

First Week: Selfless Seva

Seva is more than just a service; it differs significantly from the services provided by any private or public institution. For example, at an airport or a hotel, you can visit a "service center" where your needs are addressed, but only if you have paid for their services. In this context, the value of seva is not comparable to such transactional services.

Sign of seva is sacrifice

A mother selflessly sacrifices her personal needs to carry her child in her womb and, after the child is born, dedicates countless hours to raising him or her. Is she compensated for that effort? Parents work tirelessly to educate their children and instill the right values to help them mature.

We must recognize that many known and unknown members of our family and community have made sacrifices to shape who we are today. Beyond expressing gratitude to our family members, each of us has a responsibility to give back to the community. Seva is an expression of gratitude to those who have sacrificed for us.

Put others first

Did anyone ask Pujya Gurudev Swami Chinmayanandaji to deliver daily discourses on Hindu scriptures? Did they request him to start Balavihar for children and study groups for adults? He keenly observed the lack of awareness about religion and philosophy among Hindus, which could jeopardize the ancient Hindu tradition and culture. 

For over 40 years, he tirelessly worked to enhance the spiritual, religious, and cultural awareness of everyone in his audience through lectures, personal letters, and interviews. He sacrificed his personal needs and health and put others first. He personally answered every mail that came to him and met every one who came with a hunger for spiritual knowledge.

Each one of us can contribute to improving the lives of those around us through our service. At the end of each day, let us reflect: "Today, whom did I help to become better?"