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?" 

 

Value: Mindfulness - August 2025

Fourth Week: Leave the mind

The Patanjali Yoga Sutras state, "योगः चित्तवृत्ति-निरोधः," which translates to "Restraining the mind is Yoga." The practice of yoga involves a disciplined approach to both the body and the mind. Restraining the mind means mastering it and curbing its habitual tendencies. Discipline requires consistent practice, and regularity is essential.

 

On the other hand, the path of wisdom focuses on clarity of thought and commitment to knowledge. Keeping the mind engaged in selfless actions reflects the path of action, while surrendering the mind to God embodies the path of devotion. Ultimately, restraining the mind through discipline represents the path of Yoga, and challenging the illusions of the mind illustrates the path of wisdom.

Reduce the thought flow

Sri Ramana Maharshi advises us to question the reality of the mind. According to him, this inquiry into the mind is the direct path to liberation. The bondage we experience is caused by the mind, and we can release ourselves from this bondage by realizing that it is ultimately false.

Pujya Gurudev illustrated this concept with the following story: In an ashram, the students were assigned by the Guru to take the cows to graze every day after the morning class. They diligently carried out this duty. One day, however, it rained heavily, so the students brought the cows to the shed and tied them securely before the day ended. The next morning, when they went to untie the cows to take them out for grazing, one cow that had not actually been tied the previous day refused to move, despite the student's efforts. Frustrated, he complained to the Guru, who instructed him to do the gesture of untying the cow. When he did so, the cow began to move.

To the surprised student, the Guru simply explained, "Every day, you tied the cow, and it has grown accustomed to seeing you untie it the following day. This is merely a mindless belief!"

We also believe that there is a mind, but ultimately, there is only Consciousness. The mind is an illusion. We often fail to recognize this when we continuously follow the flow of thoughts. Reducing the flow of thoughts is emphasized in Vedanta as a way to transcend the mind. 

 

The thought "I am the body" arises shortly after you wake up from sleep and not before. This illusory thought is the root cause of all subsequent thoughts related to your relationships, responsibilities, and worries. If you start your day with the affirmation "I am Brahman," which has no ties to the material world, you can choose your next thought without feeling compelled. It is important to return to "I am Brahman" throughout the day. This will significantly reduce the number of thoughts.

Shift the attention from the object of the thought to the subject

Watch a leaf. Initially, the focus of your thought is the leaf as seen by your eyes. Now, shift your attention from the leaf to your eyes. Keep them open. This change in focus transfers your attention from the leaf to the eyes. Next, direct your attention towards your thought. At this point, the focus has shifted to the thought itself. There is no longer a leaf or watching eyes—only the thought: "I am." Remain in this state for as long as you can.

 

The thought "I am" will not give rise to another thought. If it does, return to the beginning until you arrive again at "I am." Maintaining a single awareness of "I am" is the path to transcending the mind. Initially, having an external object for support is important in your practice.

 

By shifting your focus from an external object to a thought, and then from that thought to "I am," you have renounced the illusory mind and arrived at the reality of "I am."

 

Value: Mindfulness - August 2025

Third Week: Love the mind

There is only one true love in our lives—our Self. Generally, we love only that which brings us happiness. In the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad (2.4.5), the teacher Yajnavalkya says to his wife Maitreyi, "आत्मनस्तु कामाय सर्वं प्रियं भवति," which means "Everything is loved for the sake of the Self."

You love your daughter simply because she is 'your' daughter. This idea extends to all your relationships with people and things. Currently, our strong identification with the mind leads us to focus on 'me' and 'mine,' influencing our actions based on these thoughts. Our attention tends to follow where the mind finds happiness.

Mind is an expressed form of the Self

The Self is imperceptible and incomprehensible, even to the mind. Why is this so? Because the Self is the very foundation and cause of the mind. According to established logic, the cause cannot be objectified by the effect; it can only be recognized as its own source. Similarly, the non-dual Self expresses itself as the limited mind. For there cannot exist another independent sentient entity other than the Self.

The mind is a continuous flow of thoughts, where each thought represents a relationship between a subject and an object. In all these thoughts, the subject remains constant—it's the Self. The Kena Upanishad (2.4) states, "प्रतिबोधविदितं मतम्" which means, "The Self is known (as the awareness that illuminates) through every thought." When we are unaware of the Self, we mistakenly identify the subject as our notion of 'I' or ego. This confusion leads us to cherish the mind and everything that brings happiness to it. Although the objects of our love may change, the pursuit of happiness never truly ends..

Mind is the means to reach the proximity of the Self

Upon realizing that the mind is only an external expression of the Self, the wise declare, "मनसा-एवमिदमाप्तव्यम्" – it is by the mind alone that the Self can be reached. This process consists of two steps.

 

The first step is to purify the mind. All the values we discuss in this forum aim to make our minds pure and calm, allowing us to remain immune to distractions from the senses and our inherent tendencies (vasanas). This also requires complete devotion to the higher Self.

 

The second step is to comprehend the illusory nature of the mind, often referred to as the phantom Self. As Sri Ramana Maharshi advised, "When you question the reality of the mind alone, it will disappear." Just as a pot is merely a term for a specific shape of clay, the mind is just a limited expression of the Self, designed for practical, worldly purposes.

When we start loving the mind as the pure Self, we start recognizing it as pure Awareness, even while it busily transacts in the wakeful state. 

 

Value: Mindfulness - August 2025

Second Week: Keep the mind

It is well known that every relationship requires maintenance. Just like a house or a personal vehicle needs care and upkeep, our minds also need attention to stay sharp. Mindfulness is not just about preventing the mind from wandering; it's also about ensuring that it remains alert and accessible when we need it.

Reduce the noise of 'opinions'

Every TV channel presents strong opinions on economic, political, and social issues occurring around the world. Viewers often form their own opinions based on what they watch. This constant stream of opinions can overwhelm our minds, making it difficult to find peace and quiet. It's important to remember that we don't need to judge or form opinions about everything we see or hear. A simple question to ask yourself is: Do my opinions, or those of others, change the ongoing situation?

You may have noticed that traditional Indian music artists often begin their performances with a calm prayer before gradually increasing the intensity of the music. This initial moment of quietude is essential for tuning both their own minds and the minds of the audience. The same principle applies to us. When we are about to engage in any activity that requires our full attention, we should actively work to reduce the inner noise in our minds.

One Japanese surgeon has made it his regular practice to remain quiet for a few moments along with his fellow surgeons and nurses before every surgical operation. He noticed that he and others could mindfully engage in the surgery whenever he practised it. Why not try this when you pick up any important task that needs full attention?

Cut down the unhealthy habit of wool-gathering

The mind serves as a storehouse of energy, driving our senses to engage in various activities. When our senses become disengaged, the mind becomes more active. A mind that conserves its energy should focus on positive thinking or spiritual contemplation. However, if we fail to direct our thoughts properly, the mind may fall into the habit of daydreaming, also known as wool-gathering. Even more detrimental is the tendency to worry.

How can we overcome this unhealthy habit? First, recognize that thoughts can lead to more thoughts, whether they originate from your memory or external sources. Second, understand that you have the power to stop the momentum of these thoughts. Third, be cautious; using substances to block thoughts can lead to addiction. Lastly, avoid lethargy or excessive sleep when trying to reduce your thought flow.

One effective spiritual practice is japa or deep contemplation on verses from sacred texts, ideally under the guidance of a qualified teacher. Additionally, listening to the chanting of the Vedas or reciting Vedic mantras and stotrams can be very beneficial in overcoming both worry and the habit of daydreaming.

 

Value: Mindfulness - August 2025

First Week: Find the mind

We often hear the phrase "never mind!" used when someone is unconcerned about a situation. However, many of us may not be aware of where our minds truly are. We are not referring to a state of swoon or unconsciousness; rather, it is the predicament where the mind is lost and never to be found.

Typically, teenagers are seen as preoccupied with video games and chat rooms, but adults are not exempt from this behavior either. When our minds are not present, how can we engage in any meaningful spiritual practice?

Find out where the mind gets trapped

To catch birds alive, a hunter uses a net. Similarly, our minds can become trapped on the internet! What is this trap? Our minds are overloaded with information, much of which is irrelevant to our personal growth. Children, in particular, are filled with information that they often repeat without fully processing or understanding it.

We are mind-full rather than mindful in our daily lives. While engaging in one task, we frequently allow ourselves to be distracted by multiple other tasks that demand our attention simultaneously. Many people experience FOMO (fear of missing out), even while on vacation. We walk, drive, and even sleep with our mobile phones in hand! The Upanishads warn us: "शब्दजालं महारण्यं चित्तभ्रमाणकारणम्" – The net of words (sounds) is a vast forest that causes the bewilderment of the mind.

Quietly observe where your mind is getting trapped. Every day, spend some time staying away from the regular routine of life, and see if you can remain free from being oppressed by the world around you.

Be alert about the negative influence

It is one thing to lose ourselves in the busyness of daily life, leaving no space for reflection and tranquility; it is quite another to allow negative thoughts and prejudiced views to cloud our minds. We must intentionally expose ourselves to positive influences to build resilience against negativity.

A well-known scientist was once asked if anyone had ever positively influenced him. He replied affirmatively, "Yes, my servant did!" He explained, "One winter, I was sitting near the heater and felt very warm. I called my servant to lower the heat, but he smiled and said, 'Instead of asking me to reduce the heat, why don't you move your chair a little farther away from the heater? That would solve the problem!' He taught me an invaluable lesson: whenever you feel deprived of something in life, mentally distance yourself from it, and you will feel relieved immediately!"

Even if you cannot avoid the company of those who have only negative thoughts and opinions, try to mentally distance yourself, like the way Lord Shiva drank the poison: he neither swallowed to pollute Himself, nor did He threw up to endanger others!

Value: Steadiness- July 2025

Fifth Week: Self-abidance Sthitaprajna

The most distinctive aspect of the Bhagavad Gita is its portrayal of an enlightened person who navigates a world filled with unpredictability and contradictions. Contemplating the description of a person with steady wisdom inspires one to engage in sadhana, or spiritual practice.

Daily chant verses from Bhagavad Gita chapter 2.54 to 2.72

To achieve true freedom, we first need a clear vision of our best selves. In management, there's a saying: "Picturize before you actualize." This principle also applies to the quest for liberation.

A detailed description of the mindset, perceptions, actions, and reactions of an enlightened person can guide our daily lives. For instance, it is noted in verse 2.64 that being free from attraction and repulsion when perceiving objects and beings can help us attain serenity, even without withdrawing into solitude. This serenity alleviates all sorrows, leading to a steady mind without oscillation (2.65).

Only a steady mind can engage in meditation, and through the stillness achieved in meditation, one can find peace. Lasting happiness cannot be attained without maintaining a steady inner peace (2.66).

If you chant these verses along with contemplation on the meanings, you will see a significant change in your attitude toward the world around you. The vision of realization will also become clear.

Maintain equanimity in all situations

There are two important assertions of the ego: one is 'I' and the other is 'My.' The first assertion demands attention from everyone. When it is deprived of this attention, it can feel angry, isolated, and lost. As a result, it may react with frustration and ignore those who do not acknowledge its presence. 

Recently, I was at an airport counter inquiring about my seat. The person behind the desk didn’t even bother to look at me while answering my question. Although I felt ignored, I reminded myself, "This person doesn't even know me; why should I feel insulted?" With strangers, we often don’t mind being overlooked, but it affects us differently when it comes to those who know us. In such situations, it is important to remain equanimous. This perspective is crucial if you want to be free from ego and stay as the calm, pure, and serene Self.

Pujya Gurudev frequently reminded us about the second assertion of the ego regarding ownership: "It is acceptable to possess things of the world; however, it would be a tragedy if those things ended up possessing us." What we own today once belonged to someone else, and eventually, it will belong to someone in the future.

A possessive ego is always insecure, and this insecurity leads to anguish, restlessness, and fear. Living in fear, we can neither find happiness in the world nor abide in our serene Self. 

Value: Steadiness- July 2025

Fourth Week: Be steadfast in sadhana

Spiritual paths are numerous, and so are the practices, known as sadhana. In the path of devotion, there are nine prescribed practices. In the path of yoga, the focus is on the daily practice of specific asanas and meditation. In the path of action, the emphasis is on transforming selfish actions into selfless acts dedicated to God. Meanwhile, the path of wisdom involves study, reflection, and contemplation, which lead to a deep abidance in the Self.
 
Regardless of the chosen path and practices, the most important element is steadfastness. Lord Krishna also described the qualities of one who is liberated while living as a person of 'steady' wisdom.

Sadhana is a constant self-effort

You are likely familiar with these two words: prarabdha and purushartha, which translate to destiny and self-effort. Destiny refers to the outcomes of your past actions, while self-effort is how you respond to those outcomes and work to overcome any misunderstandings about yourself and your life. In essence, every spiritual practice (sadhana) is an act of self-effort.
 
Since the results of your past actions come to you without your choice and without interruption, it is essential to engage constantly in the sadhana of self-effort. Imagine standing in the middle of a fast-flowing river; to remain steady, you need to either hold on to something firmly or sit in a boat that moves gently with the current.
 
The path of devotion encourages you to surrender completely to the feet of the Lord, while the path of wisdom can be likened to travelling in a boat of knowledge that helps you navigate the turbulent waters, preventing you from sinking. Lord Krishna advises Arjuna 'सर्वं ज्ञानप्लवेनैव वृजिनं सन्तरिष्यसि'  - you will cross over all the evils with the boat of Knowledge alone.

Be regular in what, when and how you do the sadhana

Once, Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa was approached by a distressed villager. The villager complained that, despite his many efforts, he had been unable to find groundwater in his field for irrigation. Sri Ramakrishna asked how many places he had dug to find the water. The farmer replied that he had tried 10 to 20 spots, digging 10 to 20 feet in each location. 
 
Sri Ramakrishna paused for a moment and said, "If you had dug in one spot as deep as 50 to 60 feet instead of trying many spots, you would have found the water!"
 
Most of us are impatient when it comes to persisting steadily with a chosen practice or sadhana. We want quick results. Our minds have become accustomed to obtaining everything quickly, much like buying desired items online. However, you cannot become proficient in maintaining a steady asana without daily practice. The same principle applies to worship, study, and selfless actions. 
 
Each of us carries the baggage of our past experiences. It will resurface on its own accord. Only through constant self-effort can we prepare ourselves to face the unpredictable and strive for personal freedom. There is no shortcut in sadhana. If you choose the path of action, continue without seeking recognition. In the path of yoga, work on perfecting your posture and often practice sitting with a calm mind. On the path of devotion, surrender everything to the Lord and let go of all worries. Lastly, on the path of knowledge, delve deeply into study and reflection to become fully free of inner urges and confusions.