JOIN US The first prerequisite in this journey is self confidence: “Self-belief is belief in God. It is self-belief that prompts us to go to temple. The lines of our past, present and future have already been written. Both the hardware (body) and the software (actions) have been scripted at birth.
We must love everything and everybody. When we have empathy for all things and for all people, they stay with us. We must guard what we have with care and love. Know that what we have is prasadam from God. Guard it carefully because that is what you bequeath to those who follow you.”
The second is being guided by a spiritual preceptor: “The Guru is a service centre. He dispels negativity and radiates positivity. The vedas and mantras ought to be your primary nourishment. By consuming them, you will be able to overcome the temptations of five senses. Constant meditation and penance are essential conditions for happiness, peace and contentment.”
Calmness of mind is essential: “You must be calm and composed when you enter the temple. If you are disturbed, you will not derive its benefits. It is important to remain grounded in your inner self. Only then will you be the recipient of positive energy .”
Third: “Know that prayer is essential. The morning must be spent in cleansing the dirt from the external world. This includes bathing the body and removing its impurities. Only after cleaning yourself should you go to prayer, light the lamp and begin your cooking.
We must feed God first before feeding ourselves. Know that this is essential. Our time must be spent in continuous remembrance of God. This is why the Sage Narada always has the sweet name of Hari on his lips. This is why Sudama always had the sweet name of Lord Krishna on his lips and this is why it is impossible for us to think of Lord Rama without Sri Anjaneya. Such is the exemplary nature of genuine devotion.”
“To indulge in prayer is a sign of divine grace. Know that there is nothing more precious in this world other than receiving an opportunity to serve God. It is therefore essential that we pray for such opportunities. Such prayer and such service constitute real wealth. People go searching for Vishwarupa darshan (visual experience of God in his cosmic aspect) outside themselves, not knowing that such darshan can be easily secured by standing in front of the mirror. You are that Self.”