Serve Parents Serve God 

In this discourse given by Bhagavan Sri Sathya Sai Baba on Ladies day more than a decade ago, He emphatically urges his students and others to make their parents happy as therein lies the secret to making Him happy. 

This sacred land of Bharat is the birthplace of great women like Savitri, who could bring her husband back to life;
Chandramati, who demonstrated the power of truth by extinguishing the forest fire;
Sita, who demonstrated her chastity by coming out of blazing fire unscathed;
And Damayanti, who burnt a demon to ashes by her power of chastity and pristine purity.
In Bharat, there have been numerous such women, who were proverbial for their chastity.
Bharat is the teacher of these virtues to the whole world.

(Telugu Poem)

O foolish man, why do you go seeking Brahman when He is right within you?
Look within and there you shall find Him. Do not forget these profound words of Sai.

(Telugu Poem)

Embodiments of love!
Right from the olden days, Bharat [India] has given spiritual knowledge to other nations, thus ensuring peace and harmony worldwide. It is not only the kings that protect a country, but women of great chastity are also responsible for it. It is because of noble men and women that India has been able to achieve peace and prosperity. Indeed, all the prosperity and good that we find in this land of Bharat is due to the strength and courage of women of virtue.

Rama’s divinity blossomed under Kaushalya’s care;
Because of the tender feelings and austerity of Sita,
Lava and Kusha achieved name and fame;
Fostered with the love of his mother Putlibai, Gandhi became a Mahatma;
The care of Jijabai made Shivaji a great warrior.

(Telugu Poem)

Mother makes a man great

Sons become illustrious because of the goodness and greatness of their mothers. Mother is the very foundation for the entire world. One calls one’s own country as motherland, and not fatherland. Even the language is called mother tongue, and not father tongue. This land is the birthplace of many noble sons who got their goodness and strength from their mothers. In the past, mothers gave their sons good guidance by being ideals themselves.

Truly, the welfare of the son depends on the mother. It is because of the love of the mother that the son becomes great and eminent. So the foremost duty of the son is to be grateful to his mother, respect her, and serve her. Divinity is immanent in every being. But who is responsible for this divinity within? It is the mother alone. The mother, who bears you for nine months with many difficulties, is ready to sacrifice even her life for your welfare. You owe your very existence to your mother.

Purity of heart is important

Since time immemorial, human being has been called Nada Bindu Kala Swarupa. It is these three aspects that are responsible for the existence of humanity. What is the meaning of nada? It is the primordial sound Aum that emanates as a result of the combination of vital force and air. The combination of body, mind, and intellect is called bindu. Divinity that reflects in buddhi (intellect) is called kala. So man is the embodiment of nada, bindu, and kala.

The principle of atma transcends all these three aspects. That is why the sages, while offering prayers to God, used to say, Nada Bindu Kalatheeta Namo Namo (salutations to the One who is beyond nada, bindu and kala). These three aspects pertain only to nature. The potter makes pots by mixing water and clay, but that does not make him the creator. It is divinity latent in man that enables him to perform the task.

Spiritual knowledge helps us to undertake good actions and cleanse the mind. But that is not enough. The heart also should be pure. In the absence of purity of the heart, there is no purity of the mind and intellect. We should not give scope to the creepers of bad qualities to entangle the tree of the heart. A creeper that goes on covering the tree ultimately smothers the tree itself. One should ensure that the creepers of lust, anger, greed, and infatuation do not get entangled to one’s self.

It was lust that caused the downfall of Ravana, a person endowed with great penance and mastery of 64 types of knowledge. He ruined himself and his kingdom. Without purity of heart all the spiritual practices are of no use. That is why Thiruthonda Alwar [a saint] said, “Oh! Lord, I worship You not with flowers, but with purity of heart.” Purity of heart is very essential for man.

Hiranyakasipu [a demonic king who was also the father of a well-known devotee named Prahalada] had total control over the five elements. Such an all-powerful person was ruined because of his anger. Despite being a great warrior, Duryodhana, a king of kings, was ruined because of greed. His entire clan was destroyed. It was infatuation of Dasaratha [father of Lord Rama] toward Kaikeyi [step-mother of Lord Rama] that was responsible for Rama’s exile. Kaikeyi loved Rama even more than her own son, Bharata. But Manthara [Kaikeyi’s maid] poisoned her mind.

Consequently, she not only lost her husband, but also the respect of her own son. Due to this delusion, she earned a bad name for herself and put the entire kingdom to shame. Today, no woman bears the name Kaikeyi because she distanced herself from God. Likewise, no man bears the names Duryodhana, Ravana, or Hiranyakasipu as they lacked good qualities and developed hatred and enmity towards God.

Hiranyakasipu was a great scientist. Ravana was a great engineer, and it was he who invented the airplane. He had mastered the language of animals, birds, and insects. He had so much to his credit. But does anyone bear the name of Ravana? No. People value purity of heart more than these achievements. It is the foremost duty of every individual to keep his/her senses under control. One can escape from the house on fire, but not from the senses, which are ignited by the fire of evil qualities.

Intellect is of four types: (1) Swartha Buddhi, (2) Swartha Parartha Buddhi, (3) Parartha Buddhi and (4) Niswartha Buddhi. One with Swartha Buddhi is solely interested in his own welfare and fulfillment of his desires. One with Swartha Parartha Buddhi is equally interested in his own welfare as well as that of others. One with Parartha Buddhi does not desire anything for himself. Surrendering himself to God, he craves for His love alone. He believes that God is the indweller of all beings and desires the welfare of the entire world (Loka Samastha Sukhino Bhavanthu). One with Niswartha Buddhi has no sense of I and mine. The feeling of I (body) is ego, and the feeling of mine is attachment. The root cause of all sorrow and suffering of man is this feeling of I and mine; by giving up that man can purify his heart. Purity of heart is the greatest achievement of human endeavor.

Divine origin of Bharat

What is the difference between nara [man] and Narayana [God]? Nara is one who is endowed with the three aspects: nada [sound], bindu, and kala. Narayana transcends all these three. The former corresponds to pravritti [social action] and the latter to nivritti [inward contemplation]. Nivritti refers to the state of desirelessness. One who treads along the path of nivritti completely surrenders to God. Such a man has absolutely no trace of selfishness. This sacred land of Bharat is the birthplace of many such unselfish souls. Though you call yourselves the children of Bharat, you tend to be selfish and full of desires. This is responsible for leading you away from the culture of Bharat. The culture of Bharat is pure, unsullied, and selfless. This country [India] will prosper only when young boys and girls follow this sacred culture. A nation bereft of noble men and women can never progress.

The country [India] needs virtuous men and women. That is why I have established these educational institutions. I willed that out of these institutions should emerge noble boys and girls. In a short time, all of you will realize and experience this happiness. Wait for the golden moment.

Discharge your duties sincerely. Do not forget your mother. In the world today there may be a wicked son, but never a wicked mother. You owe your blood, food, and strength to your mother. What is the gratitude you are offering to the mother for the sacrifice she has made? She is the one who fostered and nourished you. So, never forget the love of the mother. First and foremost, love your mother. Then love your father, teacher, and God. The mother shows the father; the father shows the teacher; and, the teacher shows God.

This day is being observed as Mothers Day and Ladies Day. From time immemorial, mother is considered synonymous with God. The Goddesses Durga, Lakshmi, and Saraswati are worshipped as mothers. Saraswati is the Goddess of Learning. Another name for Saraswati is Bharati. Our country Bharat has derived its name from Bharati. There is a misconception that Bharat refers to the name of Bharata, the son of King Dushyanta [in classical Indian Literature]. In that case, what was the name of this land prior to Bharata? On enquiry you will know that this name has originated from God.

Purpose of Ladies day

Today women are being looked down upon as mere workers in the kitchen. Women can study, undertake jobs, but they should not neglect their household duties. If both husband and wife go to office, who will look after the household responsibilities? If women go to schools to teach others’ children, who will teach their own children? Mothers are responsible for the well being of their children. They also show the spiritual path to their children. So never forget your mother.

To set an ideal in this regard, I visit the Samadhi [cemetery] of My parents on My birthday. To inculcate this good feeling in the hearts of people, even Sai Baba has undertaken this sacred activity. Every individual should adore, respect, worship, and love his/her mother. I have initiated this Ladies Day in order to foster respect and love for the mother. Some states are observing the 19th of every month as Ladies Day. Whatever may be the circumstances, good or bad, do not forget your mother. Due to the effect of Kali Age [the Iron Age], people consider their mothers as mere cooks. Indeed, they have even degraded mothers to the level of servants. This is the misfortune that has befallen on man today.

The beggar comes to the house and calls out, Bhavathi Bhiksham Dehi (Mother! give me alms). He cautions, “Oh! Master and the mistress of the house, in my previous birth I had not given alms to beggars. As a result, I am standing at your doorstep today begging for alms. Do not commit the same mistake. I am a beggar for three births. In my previous birth, I never gave alms to beggars. In this birth, being myself dependent on others, I am unable to give anything in charity and, as a result, I will again be a beggar in my next birth.

Beware! Whom is he asking for alms? He says, Bhiksham Dehi. Dehi refers to the indweller (God). This body made of five elements is bound to perish one day or the other. The indweller has neither birth nor death, and no attachment whatsoever. Truly speaking, the indweller is God Himself. So, the beggar addresses the indweller, not the master or mistress of the house. He asks alms from God. All have to ask for alms from God. God can give us all types of alms—money, education, knowledge, intelligence, etc. Whatever you have acquired from God has to be shared with one and all. Only when you share your wealth and knowledge with others will it remain with you forever. Sacrifice is very essential for man. It is the stepping-stone to immortality.

Mother is prepared to give up her own life for the sake of her children. Mother is the very embodiment of sacrifice. That is why in this land of Bharat mother is given such an exalted place. Lord Rama said that the mother and the motherland are greater than heaven itself. Such an ideal set forth by Rama is forgotten today. Mere chanting of Rama’s name will not suffice; it is only when you follow His command that you can be called a true devotee. The Ladies Day serves as a reminder that one should revere and love one’s mother and never hurt her feelings.

Love and worship your parents

Sankaracharya [an expounder of Vedas] posted two sentinels in his ashram who went round repeating Tasmat Jagrata Jagrata (beware, beware). It so happened that one day Sankaracharya was thinking of his worldly achievements and wealth of his mutt [the spiritual establishment]. As he came to the doorstep, he heard the sentinels repeating Tasmat Jagrata Jagrata that made him realize his folly. Then he declared:

Janma Dukham Jara Dukham Jaya Dukham Punah Punah,
Antya Kale Maha Dukham, Tasmat Jagrata, Jagrata.

[Beware! Birth, old age, and death are filled with misery.] In this context, the Vedas declare, “Arise, awake and do not stop until the goal is reached.”

Students! Boys and Girls!
Always remember your mother’s love. Do not hurt your mother in any way. You say that Swami’s love is that of a thousand mothers. When you are unable to comprehend and experience the love of a single mother, how can you understand the love of thousand mothers? If you are unable to please your mother, how can you make Swami happy? Swami will be happy when you make your mother happy. Swami does not want anything.

Many people wish Me Happy birthday. You need not wish Me a happy birthday since I am always happy (cheers). Give happiness to your parents, friends, and relatives. God is the embodiment of supreme bliss and wisdom; He is beyond dualities; He is One without a second; He is eternal, and pure; and He transcends the mind and the three attributes. How can you wish Him happiness? I often tell the students, “Happiness is union with God.” God is pleased only when parents are respected. I do not desire anything. My happiness lies in you being happy and in making your parents happy. Love and worship your parents.

Your welfare lies in the happiness of your parents. God showers His grace on those who make their parents happy. The respect and love you receive from your children depends on the respect and love you show to your parents.

Have you ever visualized the Vishwaviraat Swaroopa [cosmic form]? Earth, water, sky, etc., can be seen in it. The universe is made of five elements and the same five elements are present in you. So, you are also Vishwaviraat Swaroopa. God is in you and in everybody. So, hurting others amounts to hurting God. Do not criticize and find fault with others. Love all, and serve all. Respect, adore, and worship your parents. They constitute the real wealth of your life. The blessings of your parents will confer health and wealth on you. God comes to you Himself when you love and serve your parents.

Pundarika [devotee of Lord Krishna] used to visit the temple of Lord Panduranga [another form of Lord Krishna] everyday. One day he was engrossed in serving his parents and hence could not visit the temple. So, Lord Panduranga Himself came to Pundarika. At that time, Pundarika was pressing the feet of his parents. As Pundarika was busy serving his parents, he requested Lord Panduranga to take His seat and wait. So saying, he passed a brick to the Lord as there were no chairs and sofas in those days. After attending to his parents, Pundarika offered his due respects to the Lord Panduranga.

The Lord was immensely pleased with his devotion to his parents, and blessed him profusely, saying, “God comes to you on His own when your behavior is good. There is no service greater than service to parents. Consider service to parents as service to the Lord.” We need not go to God, but should make God come to us. One can choose one’s wife, but not one’s parents. Only God chooses His parents. I wish that you obtain the blessing of your parents and set an ideal for the rest of the world.

Please parents, please Swami

Our Jayamma (previous speaker) said that only Anantapur [refrence to Swami’s college in Anantapur] girls were good. What about our Prasanthi Nilayam boys? (Cheers). These boys are also good. She said that on many occasions, the girls asked her to speak more and more about Swami, and show them the way to please Swami. Even our boys here, day in and day out, are engaged in pleasing Swami and attending to His needs (cheers). Nobody is less or more; both girls and boys are equally good. There may be a few lapses here and there, but all those who have been nurtured and fostered in Sai Institutions are good. (Cheers)

It is not that you and I say this, but it is what the parents are saying. The parents notice a transformation in their children after they had joined Swami’s institutions. Parents should be satisfied; that is what I want. It is only then I feel satisfied. So, boys and girls should make their parents happy. You do not need to enquire what pleases Swami. Satisfaction of parents is what pleases Me. I do not require anything. When you make your parents happy I am also happy. I wish that you develop these qualities and set an ideal to the whole world.

Do not try to satisfy Swami; make efforts to satisfy your parents. If your parents are not convinced about your views, try to explain the rationale behind them. Speaking harshly to them will not help them understand your views. Be calm and give them a patient ear. Only then, you will be able to convince them. Try to inculcate sacred feelings; only then your study in this institute will fructify.

Source: Sanathana Sarathi, Dec. 1998