Mu Guru, My Goddess, My Mother!

496. Om vadana-traya-samyutayai namah: I bow down to Amma who has three faces

The Guru. The Goddess. The Mother. Even while placing it, I wonder what order to write it in. Does the Goddess come first because it traditionally means the mysterious power of the universe? Or should I write Mother first as it reflects the loving nature of Amma? I settle on Guru because the word manifests everything Amma stands for. She's our daily Guide who teaches us on how to best live life. She's the Master who teaches us a daily lesson on unquestioning faith. She's the ultimate teacher who gives us life lessons about how we and only we can be held responsible and thus accountable for everything that happens in our lives. As a Guru, Amma plays Her strongest part in our lives, gently correcting and carefully nudging us onto the right path. Through our many journeys, the only constant is really Amma, with the three faces. Depending on our mental state and where we stand on the spirituality chart, we are the ones who chose which face to companion with for the day. Some days, I need an all powerful Goddess who will completely take over the reins of my life and steer me on from the depths of despair. Some days, I need the loving hand of the Guru to help choose, decide and then walk on a path I know She has etched out for me. Some days all I am looking for is the Mother who will indulge in my rantings about the injustices of life.
As a disciple, child and devotee, what more could we ask for?
Om Amriteswariye namah!  

In Amma's service!

495. Om manipurabja-nilayayai namah: I bow down to Amma who resides in the ten-petaled lotus in the Manipuraka chakra

An excerpt from https://sathyasaibaba.wordpress.com/tag/amma/

"....for 35 years, this daughter of a poor Keralan fisherman has been dispensing hugs as the central gesture of her life. As a child pulled out of school to work for her family, Amma felt compelled to ease the suffering of elderly neighbors. She washed their clothes and bathed them.

Experiencing physical abuse at home, she says she always knew there was a higher reality beyond the physical. As a girl, she spent hours in meditation and composing devotional songs. She decided not to marry but to devote her life to embracing the world.

Amma – who has also traveled to Europe, Africa, and Australia on that mission – has been coming to the US since 1987. Many at this three-day retreat at a Marlborough, Mass., hotel have seen her before. “Friends recommended I go five years ago because her amazing presence tends to open people’s hearts,” says Monica Martynska, a singer from Princeton, N.J. “She’s changed my life.”

Ms. Martynska has taken up meditation and chanting. “It’s designed to quiet the chattering mind and turn us inward … so we can act from the center of the heart instead of being so reactive,” she explains.

As Amma receives individuals or couples in the main hall, a swami teaches her meditation method in another room. Born within a Hindu context, she emphasizes that love and compassion are the essence of all religions. Amma set up temples in India, stirring controversy by consecrating women priests as well as men.

“She wants womanly qualities to rise up and take their rightful place in the world,” says Beverley Noia, now known as Janani. Formerly a professor of comparative religion at Regis University in Denver, a Catholic institution, she serves as Amma’s videographer and archivist, recording the guru’s global experience. “She’s taught me to be a feminist without anger.”

An independent filmmaker has produced a documentary on the teacher titled “Darshan.” Premiered at the 2005 Cannes Film Festival, it will be released in the US in August. Darshan is Sanskrit for “audience with a holy person” and is the name given to the lengthy hugging sessions.

Amma’s inclusive outreach has brought her stature on the world stage. She was invited to speak at the UN’s 50th anniversary in 1995 and at the Millennium World Peace Summit in 2000. In 2002, she won the Gandhi-King Award for Nonviolence, and in May 2006, an interfaith award previously given to the Dalai Lama and Bishop Desmond Tutu. Many compare her to Mother Teresa.

While some people tend to deify her, the guru says that everyone is divine, and that each one must seek to get rid of the ego and find “their real Self.”

“We human beings are just instruments of God so we should not be egoistic,” Amma emphasizes in an interview. “We should have the awareness that ‘I am just like a pen in the hand of a writer, or a brush in the hands of a painter.’ “

The tireless teacher responds to questions through an interpreter (her native tongue is Malayalam). With each query she turns to smile and communicate eye to eye even as she continues to embrace the faithful. Afterward, she bestows on this reporter a warm hug, a gentle backrub, and a laughing kiss on the cheek.

In addition to the three regional centers, there are small groups across the US, called satsangs, where devotees meet weekly for meditation and singing. But they must also live out their spiritual practice through seva – selfless service.

Chinmayi Ruiz, for instance, who hosts a satsang in Concord, Mass., joins with other volunteers for Mother’s Kitchen. On a regular basis, they cook food at home and take it to serve at various community shelters.

In Amma’s words: “It is through selfless sharing that the flower of life becomes beautiful and fragrant.”

Om Amriteswariye  namah!

Purity in our lives!

494. Om rakinyamba-svarupinyai namah: I bow down to Amma who is in the form of Mother Rakini described in the nine previous names

Swamiji's words are still haunting me. It's like he had known my question and was ensuring that he answered it for me. "See all of life as an examination hall," he said. Just as we never walk into an examination hall and start cribbing about what the examiner is wearing or what the room looks like, in exactly the same way we need to treat life as an examination hall. We just need to do our duty and not blame others for what happens to us. We are the masters of our own fate. Only we can create happiness for ourselves. Moving houses, countries will never give us more happiness. Swamiji was emphatic that no one else can hold the key to our happiness except we ourselves. There is no point holding anyone accountable except ourselves. And the only true refuge we will find is in God. Amma says that difficulties are God's way of presenting us an opportunity to build our skills. When everything is going good, we get lazy. But the true test of our character is when we are faced with a difficult situation. How we handle it speaks a lot for what we are made of and how much faith we repose in Amma. The finest quality Amma says we can possess is not intelligence, but purity. If and only if we live in purity, will the universe conspire to give us everything we have. Swamiji told the sweet story of how Kubair invited Lord Ganesha and attempted to feed him to his hearts content. But Ganesha's appetite was insatiable and at one point He ever ran after Kubair! But when Lord Shiva fed him beaten rice, He was appeased. We can search the world over for happiness, but we will eventually find it taking shelter within. Swamiji's beautiful voice helped convey these messages in the most effective manner possible! What a beautiful satsang!

Om Amriteswariye namah!

Thank You, Amma!

493. Om maha-virendra-varadayai namah: I bow down to Amma who bestows boons on great warriors.

On thanksgiving day, I would like to thank Amma for the numerous boons She has granted me. The very fact that I was born into a good family and have grown up with a strong support; the fact that my father introduced me to Amma when I was 19; the fact that Amma has been my guide and guardian for all these years; the fact that She has monitored my path and corrected me at every juncture; the fact that Amma continues to be my biggest spiritual and moral strength; the fact that I am able to always walk in Amma's shadow of grace; the fact that She has bestowed on me a family that is loving and supportive: absolutely everything is so wonderful Amma. THANK YOU! I am filled with gratitude towards the universe that You are the Keeper of Morals, in my life:) May You always be there to show me the path ahead. And may I walk on it with blind faith.

Om Amriteswariye namah!

Awaiting Your blessings!

492. Om snighdaudana-priyayai namah: I bow down to Amma who is fond of food offerings containing ghee, oil and other fats.

While I await Your blessings, Amma, all I can write today is that I am riding the low wave of disillusionment. And only You can pull me out of it. I know that we create our own destinies with our thoughts but I doubt I ever rode...or even created this wave. For me, everything has happened because You deigned it to happen. I'm finding the road bumpy and the ride, tough. Only You can smoothen it for me. I await Your blessings so that everything becomes more bearable. So that the hazy horizon clears up and I can see the future clearer. So that helping hands stretch forward to help. So that every breath I take is a reminder that You are always there for me.

Om Amriteswariye namah!

Our spiritual progress!

491. Om kala-ratryadi-saktyaugha-vrtayai namah: I bow down to Amma who is surrounded by Kalaratri and other shaktis

These are details from Amma's Europe yatra. But more importantly, Amma's thoughts are so beautiful. Just what we need to introspect at night and walk ahead on the spiritual journey:

"A huge group of volunteers waited for Amma to welcome her on her arrival in Malpensa Fiere in Milano, which was the venue for Amma’s programme in Italy from November 8 to 10. On arrival, Amma straight away went to the Dining hall to serve food to all her children present, answered their questions, and sang bhajans with them. In response to the question of a devotee, Amma said, “We should introspect at the end of each day and ask ourselves, “Did I go out of my way and help somebody? Was I selfish in my actions or was I able to maintain a selfless attitude? Did I hurt anybody with my words and actions? Was I mature with my emotions?” These are questions that will help us to gauge our progress and help us make resolutions for the next day. My children, never lose your awareness of the goal. If the awareness stays with you, you will never be distracted by anything in the world.”

Om Amriteswariye namah! 

Amma's spirituality!

490. Om rudhira-samsthitayai namah: I bow down to Amma who presides over the blood in the bodies of living beings

An article I read in manoramaonline:

Swami Amritaswaroopananda (Vice Chairman, Mata Amritanandamayi Math)

I consider being with and travelling around the globe with Amma as a blessing acquired through many births. During such journeys, we meet different people from different races, with different colours and speaking different languages. All of them have one common question to ask me- What prompts Amma to provide the numerous social services that she is offering to people?

Mata Amritanada Mayi Devi, who has been a helping hand to thousands for more than four decades, has only one emotion when dealing with people from different strata of the society- equanimity. This has helped her to deal with a variety of people under a variety of situations and has helped her to deal with everyone in the same manner.

The spirituality that Amma teaches preaches equal importance for physical and spiritual needs . " There is no meaning in preaching philosophy to a person who is hungry. First you have to feed him. After that you should talk about spirituality, " she says.

Amma has set herself as an example to what she preaches. Otherwise, how would it be possible for her to listen to thousands of people's pleas throughout the day with the same passion and interest?

Amma says that kindness is the remedy to all worldly problems. All initiatives by Amma including rehabilitation of tsunami-hit people, renovation of villages in Bhuj or the takeover of orphanages in Parippally, reflect kindness and care that she professes in her sayings.

Amma says, "Generosity and kindness is most important. If you have it, other qualities will come to you."

What makes Amma different from others? It is her sincerity to her karma. Amma teaches you to mould your mentality. For Amma, everybody carries a spiritual flame that is part of the supreme consciousness. Therefore everyone has the potential to grow spiritually and materially. What Amma does is waking it up by touching it with loving kindness. 

Om Amriteswariye namah!

Amma's sayings!

489. Om aksa-maladi-dharayai namah: I bow down to Amma who is wearing garlands of rudraksa beads and other things

Some more beautiful life altering quotes by Amma:


1.  "In order to attain this grace, cry and pray, hold on to the feet of the Guru, no matter what happens."

2.  "Love makes you innocent like a child. A child is the most receptive person."

3.  "If we continuously maintain self awareness, we will be able to experience peace and happiness."

4.  "A child's expressions have a beauty of its own. Purely natural and spontaneous they are free of ego."

5.  "Keep a close watch on the mind! It is a clever liar that stops you from being aware of your true nature, the Self."

6.  "Isn't it because there is darkness that we know the greatness of light?"

7.  "Look upon others as being part of yourself."

8.  "If you want a certificate of approval from others, you won't receive a certificate from God."

9.  "Every male being first lies in a woman's womb, as a part of the woman's very being."

10.  "Engage in work that will benefit others."

11.  "Pray to God in times of both joy and sorrow, then you will no longer suffer."

12.  "We give physical exercise to the body, but neglect the heart. The exercise for the heart is uplifting the destitute and the suffering."

13.  "A life of renunciation is the greatest form of satsang - others can see and emulate it."

14.  "Children, each and every object in life around us teaches us sacrifice."

15.  "The greatest strength of women lies in their innate motherhood, their creative, life-giving power."

16. "Everything in Nature is a wonderful miracle. Isn't the little bird flying through the vast sky a miracle?"

17.  "The light of Guru's grace helps us to see and remove the obstacles in our path."

18.  "If we focus on the eternal, we will remain unaffected by the changing experiences of life."

19.  "The mind which is attached to a thousand different things, pulls you in all directions."

20.  "If women reject their feminine qualities cultivating only masculine qualities, the imbalance in the world will only become greater."

Om Amriteswariye namah!

A Guru like Amma!

488. Om damstrojjvalayai namah: I bow down to Amma who has shining tusks

Yet another day when the quest has been to discover my own journey and wonder how to find my spirituality quotient. And for the nth time, so grateful to have someone like Amma in my life. A Guru is the only way we remain grounded and refuse to succumb to the pain that life throws like confetti at us. A Guru like Amma is the only reason we an see the sunlight on days clouded with darkness. Amma is the only reason why we are able to see the wonder in most things and see life as a wonderful spiritual journey. May Amma always be my journey, my quest, my destination.
The following is Amma's advice to the residents in the tsunami hit are a in Japan:

Amma addressed the refugee residents, with the following words of inspiration, “You have just been through painful experiences, and you have yet to come out of that shock. The situation is such that no words can give you peace. Amma is here just to part take in the grief that you are going through. There are certain situations in life where you cannot do anything but accept. This is one of those situations. If you ask a musician where the music is coming from, he would say ‘its from my fingers, or from my throat, or from my heart’. If you operate the finger, the throat or the heart you will not find music. Actually music is coming from beyond. We have to understand the limitations of our actions, and the place of God’s Grace in our life. Keeping faith in that power, my children, pray for the Grace. Like any other decision, happiness is also a decision. Have a resolve, let any thing happen, I will be happy, I will be courageous. Without losing the self-confidence or faith in God, move forward”.

Om Amriteswariye namah!

Total surrender to Amma!

487. Om vadana-dvayayai namah: I bow down to Amma who has two faces

This is one of the best stories of faith I have read in ages. It is by Geeta Bhadran, Amma's ardent devotee. It is long but worth the full read:

Being a firm believer in the cause-and-effect relationship, questions arose within me as I watched the crowd around Amma: "Who is Amma? What is so special about Her? Why are people thronging around Her?" For my part, it was only curiosity that had taken me to Gayatri Gardens, Sikh Village, Secunderabad, the site of Amma’s visit. Amma arrived at the scheduled time and, fortunately, I had a very clear view of Her from where I was seated. From the moment I saw Her, I felt a magnetic attraction drawing me to Her. I could not take my gaze off Her. This made me feel uneasy, for I considered myself a person of clear and studied convictions.

Amma then spoke for some time. This was followed by bhajans and meditation. During this time, I mentally listed some doubts that I wanted Amma to clarify during darshan. When I reached Amma, She hugged me. But for me, it was not just a hug. The exhilaration and vibrations that I experienced took me to a world of ecstasy. The questions for which I wanted answers had vanished into thin air. I also experienced a burning sensation at specific points on my right breast, as if pieces of red-hot charcoal had been placed there. Amma then took my face into Her hands and asked, "Are you not Amma’s muthu (meaning, "pearl," a name that Amma calls me whenever we meet)?" I did not respond but kept smiling. Amma asked me once again, "Are you not my darling daughter?" This time, I answered in the affirmative. Amma then said, "Amma reassures you that this smile will always remain on your face." She then asked me whether I was staying near the programme site. In hindsight, I feel that I should have grabbed that opportunity to invite Amma home. But I did not realise the significance of Her question then.

When I reached home, I recounted what had happened, to my father. When he heard what Amma had told me, he said, "Daughter, you are really blessed to have come under the protective wings of a mahatma like Amma." That remark, together with the darshan, created a sea change in my outlook.

Hardly a fortnight had passed when I received a call from my husband, who was working in Ernakulam, who informed me that he had met with an accident and had to undergo emergency surgery on his right knee. Even though I felt upset when I heard the news, I remember vividly the inner strength that I experienced then.

Soon after this episode, I started experiencing severe pains on those two points where I had felt the burning sensation during Amma’s darshan. I consulted various doctors who advised me to take some tests. Based on the results of those tests, the doctors recommended lumpectomy. But because of the charred lumps in my right breast, the doctors felt that I had to undergo mastectomy of my right breast. In the meantime, my husband who had not completely recovered from his injuries had come down to Hyderabad to be with me. I also received a lot of support from other family members, friends and well-wishers.

The day of the operation finally arrived. I was wheeled into the operating theatre. As I lay on the operating table, I could hear snatches of a conversation: "What happened? The patient is sinking… There is no pulse… I’ll inform her people about the state she is in." At that point, I saw Amma walking into the room with a smile on Her face. I could smell the fragrance of jasmine mingled with vibhuti (sacred ash), camphor and incense. Amma placed my head on Her lap and, gently caressing my head, asked me, "Do you still doubt Amma’s presence?"

I replied, "Amma, please forgive me. Please do not forsake me. Be with me every moment of my life.." I do not remember anything else that happened after this point. Nevertheless, the bond of affection that had bound me to Amma strengthened immeasurably.

The next day, when I was relaxing in the company of family and friends, I told them about my divine experience the day before in the operating room. Everyone present was moved to tears.

My trials were not over yet. Shortly before my discharge from the hospital, my husband’s knee injury started acting up. He was in intense pain, and left for Ernakulam where he had been receiving medical treatment. The doctors there advised a second surgery that very evening to remove a rod that they had implanted earlier. When I heard this, I could do nothing but surrender everything mentally at Amma’s feet.

I wanted to meet my husband as soon as possible. And so I left for Ernakulam even before the sutures on my wounds had been removed. As soon as I reached Ernakulam, I firmly told my husband that I wanted to visit Vallickavu the same day. He relented.

We reached Vallickavu at about 11:30 p.m. I had anticipated some private time with Amma. But what I saw made me feel despondent: there were so many vehicles parked outside the ashram premises. When we reached the hall, we were calmed by the serene, blissful sight of Amma in Devi Bhava. Since both of us were just out of surgery, we did not have to wait in line to see Amma. As I moved towards Amma, tears were streaming down from my eyes. As She stretched out Her hands to embrace me, Amma said, "Daughter, I knew that you would be coming and I was waiting for you." My husband informed Amma that I had been advised to undergo chemotherapy. Amma replied, "Daughter, do as the doctor advises. Amma is with you. Why do you worry?" When I heard Amma’s words, I felt reassured. My faith in Amma proved to be the beacon light amidst these trying situations.

Although there have been many trying situations in my life, my faith in Amma has kept me going. Now, when I take a look behind at my life, I realise that Amma’s grace alone has helped me tide over all the daunting circumstances in life. My pain and suffering were stepping-stones to Amma, the embodiment of love. Her love has, with the potency of an elixir, renewed and rejuvenated the strength within me to make my life more meaningful. The unquenchable thirst for this divine bliss has also made me a frequent visitor to Amritapuri. Today, all my family members are ardent devotees of the universal mother. Whatever we may have to undergo, the ultimate solace remains the holy feet of our Amma.

Om Amriteswariye namah!

Walk beside me, Amma!

486. Om syamabhayai namah: I bow down to Amma who is black n complexion

Sometimes do you ever get the really strong feeling that Amma is right by your side? That Amma's strong presence is walking alongside you? What glorious moments those are. I think meditation, prayer and sadhana on Amma's form is what we need to have this feeling 24/7. Right now we have it in spurts and our moods do a roller coaster purely based on this. I wish I could actually feel Amma's presence beside me every minute of the day. Which I guess is another path of faith. When we know Amma is there, we would never commit any wrong. Through the resulting security and reassurance, we would never say anything hurtful. We are always on our best behavior in Amma's presence. How wonderful it will be if we can always behave like Amma's there. Well, technically, Amma is omnipresent and so maybe that is the approach we should take. Amma would be so happy then. For then, we will be true believers. We will have taken a strong and definitive step towards spiritual cleansing and towards strengthening our faith.

Om Amriteswariye namah!

The strong love!

485. Om anahatabja-nilayayai namah: I bow down to Amma who resides in the anahata lotus in the heart

Love in its purest form, will always be a powerful legacy of Amma's. Given below are some of Amma's beautiful sayings:

"Love is our true essence."
"You can only feel love by expressing it."
"The more you give, the more your heart is filled. Love is a never ending stream."
“Real love is the complete absence of any negative feelings towards anyone.”
"Be like the honeybee who gathers only nectar wherever it goes. Seek the goodness that is found in everyone."
"When love overflows and is expressed through every word & deed, we call it compassion. That is the goal of religion."
“Love is the only medicine that can heal the wounds of the world.”

"If we have love and compassion in our hearts, then we will wholeheartedly serve those who suffer from lack of food, clothing and shelter.”
"May your thoughts, words and actions arise from love.”
“Love one another without any expectations. Then,there is no need to go anywhere in search of heaven.”
Even the most purest of love gets tempered with a bit of ego and a dash of materialism. t's only really the love we feel towards Amma that seems to be born at the most divine level. May this love only grow stronger and stronger every day.
Om Amriteswariye namah!

"You can only feel love by expressing it."

"You can only feel love by expressing it."

"You can only feel love by expressing it."

"You can only feel love by expressing it."

"The more you give, the more your heart is filled. Love is a never ending stream."

“Real love is the complete absence of any negative feelings towards anyone.”

"Be like the honeybee who gathers only nectar wherever it goes. Seek the goodness that is found in everyone."

"When love overflows and is expressed through every word & deed, we call it compassion. That is the goal of religion."

“Love is the only medicine that can heal the wounds of the world.”

"If we have love and compassion in our hearts, then we will wholeheartedly serve those who suffer from lack of food, clothing and shelter.”

"May your thoughts, words and actions arise from love.”

“Love one another without any expectations. Then,there is no need to go anywhere in search of heaven.”

- See more at: http://amma.org/teachings/ammas-own-words#sthash.wmWCD8XJ.dpuf

"Love is our true essence."

"You can only feel love by expressing it."

"The more you give, the more your heart is filled. Love is a never ending stream."

“Real love is the complete absence of any negative feelings towards anyone.”

"Be like the honeybee who gathers only nectar wherever it goes. Seek the goodness that is found in everyone."

"When love overflows and is expressed through every word & deed, we call it compassion. That is the goal of religion."

“Love is the only medicine that can heal the wounds of the world.”

"If we have love and compassion in our hearts, then we will wholeheartedly serve those who suffer from lack of food, clothing and shelter.”

"May your thoughts, words and actions arise from love.”

“Love one another without any expectations. Then,there is no need to go anywhere in search of heaven.”

- See more at: http://amma.org/teachings/ammas-own-words#sthash.wmWCD8XJ.dpuf

Amma's light in our lives!

484. Om dakinisvaryai namah: I bow down to Amma who is the Dakini deity described by the nine preceding names

Amma, why is it that sometimes it becomes so difficult to keep the faith? Given below are some of Amma's teachings on faith:
"During her childhood, Mother and the children from the nearby houses used to play a game. Everyone would hit one person’s palm and then run. The person who comes to catch us cannot do anything if we reach a certain coconut tree and stand there touching it. He can catch us only when we stand away from the coconut tree. The one who comes to catch us will stand waiting for us to let go of the coconut tree. Now and then, we will run, leaving the tree to be chased by the person who comes to catch us. But again, if we hold on to the coconut tree, he cannot catch us. In the same manner, nobody can do anything to us if we keep holding on to God. Then there is nothing to fear. But if we let go of God, then the objects of the world will haunt us.”
“A person endowed with faith in the Supreme holds on to that principle when a crisis occurs. It is this faith, which gives him or her a strong and balanced mind to enable him or her to confront any trying situation.”

“It does not really matter whether you are a believer or a nonbeliever or a sceptic. You can be a nonbeliever, but at the same time lead a happy and successful life, if you have faith in you. You do not have to believe in Amma, or in a God who resides up above in the sky on a golden throne. It is enough if you have faith in yourself. If you don’t have faith in yourself, then there is not much to gain even if you believe in God. Faith in God is to strengthen your faith in you, the faith in your own Self. This is, in other words, called Self-confidence, confidence in your own Self. If that is not there you cannot succeed in life, whatever your field may be. Self-confidence is nothing but mental balance, courage and control over your own mind to confront the problems of life. You cannot escape from the problems of life; they are inevitable, unavoidable. How are you going to face them if you do not have faith in yourself? You cannot.”

“My child, never lose courage. Never lose your trust in God or in life. Always be optimistic, no matter what situations you find yourself in. It’s very important to be optimistic. Pessimism is a form of darkness, a form of ignorance that prevents God’s light from entering into your life. Pessimism is like a curse, an illusory curse created by the illusory mind. Life is filled with God’s light, but only by being optimistic will you experience that light.”

May all our lives be filled with this light. Om Amriteswariye namah!

A significant presence!

483. Om amrtadi-mahasakti-samvrtayai namah: I bow down to Amma who is surrounded by Amrita and other shaktis

Somedays you want to remove clutter from your life. You want to clean up and spit, polish your entire surrounding. That's when you realize that whatever you touch in your prayer area that is connected to Amma, always has a significance in your life. Whether it be that locket that's possibly slightly frayed at the edges or the 108 bead meditation mala or even a bookmark from a previous Amma programme: each of these will find their purpose in our lives. It's tough to remove and throw away anything to do with Amma because She forms such an integral part of our life. It goes beyond just putting pictures of Amma everywhere; it's a space where everything connected with Amma makes a difference in our lives. Where the mere thought of Amma is enough to fill us with a sense of security and love. Where little souvenirs from an erstwhile programme brings back beautiful memories of our time with Amma and that's enough to sustain us till the next time we see Her!

Thank You Amma for being so wonderful. Your mere presence is truly overwhelming. And we are glad that You have chosen us as Your disciples.

Om Amriteswariye namah!

In Her shadow!

482. Om pasu-loka-bhayankaryai namah: I bow down to Amma who fills with fear the mortal beings bound by worldly existence

I am still searching for answers, Amma. Still wondering about the how and the why. Still working out why You put us into certain situations. Maybe a clue perhaps? I am keeping the trust; just hoping that You would provide me a map to the journey ahead. Somedays when I look at the way life has panned out, I realise just how thankful I should always be to You. Your shadow over me has always helped me tremendously. You have kept so many people on the right path when we could have wandered away in so many different directions! Thank You Amma for always being there and for correcting everything. For righting every wrong. For putting the upside down world back up again on its feet. We are all lost souls out there looking for answers. We each walk our roads in the only way we know. Some way it with happiness; some, companionless. Yet others, on the most rugged terrain possible. Thank You for teaching us to walk ours with complete faith and gratitude. Thank You for holding our hands always through every journey.

Om Amriteswariye namah!

Safe in Your hands!

481. Om tvaksthayai namah: I bow down to Amma who is the deity of the organ of touch (skin)

A poem I found on amritapuri.org:

O! Amma, now I’m safe in Thy hands,
I now know not, “What is sorrow?”

O! Amma, now I’m safe in Thy hands,
I now know not, “What is unrest?”

O! Amma, now I’m safe in Thy hands,
I now know not, “What are ‘hell’ and ‘hellish fire’?”

O! Amma, now I’m safe in Thy hands,
I now know not, “What are ‘delusion’ and ‘fear’?”

O! Amma, now I’m safe in Thy hands,
I now know not, “What are ‘disease’ and ‘worry’?”

O! Amma, now I’m safe in Thy hands,
I now know not, “What are ‘war’ and ‘enemy’?”

O! Amma, now I’m safe in Thy hands,
Carefully watched over by the Omniscient glances.

O! Amma, now I’m safe in Thy hands,
Calling Thy name, “Amma, O! Darling Mother”

- Sridhar

Yes, Amma has the safest hands in which I can repose my trust in Her forever!

Om Amriteswariye namah!

In Amma's path of grace!

480. Om payasanna-priyayai namah: I bow down to Amma who is especially fond of sweet rice

I wish I had the good grace to have You enter my home, Amma so I could make sweet rice for You! I wish I had the good grace that You could enter my home, bless it and keep its inhabitants all safe. I wish I could forever have the good grace and blessing for You to permanently live in my home! Please bless all our homes and please stay with us, Amma, in our heart and home. Please keep us under Your grace and protection always. Please envelop us with the cotton wool of Your love and keep us safe from ego, worldly desires and the vices of others. May we always cherish Your presence in our lives and therefore treat our heart as a temple. May we always see the world only through Your eyes and never sit in judgment of anyone or anything. May we always love people not because of what they have achieved but because of what they are. Show us the right path Amma and help us walk on it. For the truthful, honest path is painful to walk on. It is wrought with lies that are hurled at us and insults. Yet walk we must, in absolute faith that You will ensure the truth gets out one day. May we always have the universe's blessing to walk safely in Your grace. Om Amriteswariye namah!

Only Amma!

479. Om vadanaika-samanvitayai namah: I bow down to Amma who possesses only one face

In a world filled with two faced people, Amma only has the one filled with love and compassion towards all of us. And it never changes based on who is in front of Her. We are all treated equally; given the same amount of love and attention. If She sees someone in a programme who comes to Her with a lot of suffering, Amma will not hesitate to reach out and hold them for a long time. She will console them and pray for them. And never have I seen anyone leave Amma unhappy. Crying, yes, for those are nothing but tears of gratitude, relief and happiness. Of having unburdened years of unhappiness and distrust in life, at Amma's feet. And only Amma can help us. There is little point carrying our tales to anyone else. People will listen and only add their own spice to our woes. Amma, my non judgmental Amma, will listen with extreme compassion and pray for us. She will work at removing the sadness from our lives. Where mere mortals will laugh and enjoy our sorrow, Amma will feel our pain and help smoothen the creases in our life. Let us all only pray to Amma and worship this incredible Goddess.

Om Amriteswariye namah!  

In Amma's arms, always!

478. Om khatvangadi-praharanayai namah: I bow down to Amma who is armed with a club and other weapons

I bow down to Amma with my ego at Her feet. May She crush it; may She turn it into ash. May She always do what is best for me. When I send a prayer up to the universe, I have to do so with the unshakeable belief that Amma has heard me and will conspire with the universe to make it happen! I have to do so with the utmost belief that the gears of fortune have already begun turning in my favor. And I know that the universe will make it happen because Amma is the Goddess of the universe. Amma loves me. QED. I prefer to now think that my God is a loving God. She does not resort to punishment. Neither does She hope to teach me 'lessons'. Instead, She surrounds me with so much love that I will have no choice but to change my ways for a better spiritual life. Thank You Amma for all You mysterious ways. I can never see the bigger picture. You can. And so, in Your vision, I absolutely must trust. Just as Amma is holding this baby so lovingly, so also will She hold me in Her arms lovingly, trustingly.
Om Amriteswariye namah!

My selfless God!

477.  Om tri-locanayai namah: I bow down to Amma who has three eyes.

 More sayings of Amma's. These should always be preserved and carried close to our hearts. Like guidelines for a better life!

41. "We should learn to love everyone equally, because in essence we are all one, one Atman, one soul."

42. "God is the one who gave; He alone has the right to take back." 

43. "Always have a smile on your face, kind words on your lips and a compassionate heart."

44. "Only the attitude 'I am nothing, I know nothing' will help you reach the final state."

45. "Without wetting our hearts with the tears of love, there is no hope for us or for the world."

46. "Know the nature of this world, do not lose your equanimity."

47. "Do not imagine that sitting with eyes closed alone is meditation."

48. "If you are unable to meditate, try to repeat your mantra or sing bhajans."

49. "Finding fault in others, just for the sake of finding fault, we will pollute our own minds."

50. "No external power can possibly obstruct woman or her innate qualities of love, empathy, and patience."

51. "Only God loves us selflessly."

52. "Pray for a peaceful and contented mind in all circumstances."

53. "Whenever you get angry, you lose energy through every pore of your body."

54. "The main purpose of education should be to impart a culture of the heart."

55. "God is deep within us. He dwells there as pure and innocent love."

56.  "Innocent prayer, is a very powerful way to please the Lord. You don't need to be a scholar to do that."

57.  "Get rid of the ego to know the reality."

58.  "Have the conviction that God is your only real relative and friend."

59.  "Along with an understanding of the outer world, it is essential that we also come to know the inner world."

60.  "Only when human beings are able to perceive and acknowledge the Self in each other can there be real peace." 

Om Amriteswariye namah!

Amma's pearls of spiritual wisdom!

476. Om arakta-varnayai: I bow down to Amma who is of slightly red (rosy) complexion.

A few more of Amma's sayings. My favorite (I mean, they all are...but my absolute favorite that resonate so much with me) are emboldened:
21.  "It is the same Consciousness that pervades everything."

22.  "If we focus on the eternal, we will remain unaffected by the changing experiences of life."

23.  "Married life, if lived with the proper love and understanding, helps awaken the feminine within a man, and the masculine within a woman."

24.  "A real yogi is one who can maintain a peaceful mind in the midst of any crisis."

25.  "When people live in accordance with Nature, the song of life becomes sweet."

26.  "The beauty of our ears is not in our earrings, but in listening to the distressed."

27.  "Keep the child within alive. A child never tires of hearing the birds sing, never gets bored looking at flowers."

28.  "Death of the ego leads to deathlessness. When the ego dies, you live eternally in bliss."

29.  "Leading life without discrimination is like shooting without taking aim."

30.  "Past is over. What is needed is to mould the future by surrendering everything to God."

31.  "Faith is a strong feeling in the heart that cannot be logically proven."

32.  "See God in everything."

33.  "Be a symbol of undying optimism." 
34.  There is a man in the inner depths of every woman, and a woman in the inner depths of every man."

35.  "Instead of using a magnifying glass to look at others' faults, use a mirror to look at our own."

36.  "Lead lives imbibing spirituality, only then will it become meaningful, full of joy and beauty."

37.  "Love sustains everything."

38.  "Everything in Nature has a purpose to fulfill. There are no mistakes in creation."

39.  "Stop identifying with the world created by your mind, and a new world will open up before you."

40.  "Fill your hearts with compassion, then alone God can shine within." 

Wherever we live, wherever we are and whatever our circumstances, may we always live by what Amma deems fit for us. Om Amriteswariye namah!

Amma's words of wisdom!

475. Om visuddhi-cakra-nilayayai namah: I bow down to Amma who resides in the Visuddhi chakra

At www.sulekha.com, I found 101 quotes by Amma. Reproduced below are 20 of them. Sometimes I think that living purely by Amma's teachings is adequate to live a good life. We have no need for our traditional religious teachings for hidden in Amma's words is the entire intelligence of the universe:

1. "Look carefully at what is of value in others and respect that."

2. "Our duty towards God is compassion and love towards the poor and needy."

3. "Beware; your actions in the present determine your future."

4. "All your problems arise because you don't stand firm within your Self."

5. "We should never forget that after every night, there is a dawn. We should never lose our optimistic faith."

6 . "God's power is not something outside. It is within us. We need to awaken that power."

7. "A Mahatma's life is like a cool breeze that caressed everybody and everything."

8. "Only when human beings are able to perceive and acknowledge the Self in each other can there be real peace."

9. "Wherever you see men endowed with noble qualities and good dispositions, you will find a great mother who has inspired them to become what they are."

10. "Plants and trees also have emotions and can feel fear. You can sense that if you have a compassionate heart."

11. "Does the sun need the light of a candle? God needs nothing from us."

12. "There is no difference between the Creator and creation, just as there is no difference between the ocean and its waves."

13. "Just as ABC is the beginning of the alphabet, the quality of motherhood is the foundation of a woman's expressed actions."

14. "If we are able to develop the right attitude, we can drastically reduce the burden of our sorrows."

15. "To awaken spiritual unity-and to spread to others the love that is our inherent nature-is the true goal of human life."

16. "If we have been able to give happiness to a soul-even for a minute-it makes our life blessed."

17. "We are not afraid of death. We are afraid of the loss we will incur when we die."

18. "Women should let go of their fear and distrust - they are simply illusions."

19.  "If the desires are not controlled now, later they will control you."

20.  "When a ship is in the sea, it has to weather storms, rough seas and may even encounter whales or sharks." 

Om Amriteswariye namah! 

Amma, of unequalled renown!

474. Om yasasvinyai namah: I bow down to Amma who is of unequalled renown

My Mother who has taught me to stay true to my inner self, my Mother who has given me some of the bets friends ever, my Mother who always showers me with Her grace is truly of unequalled renown. There is no parallel to the vast ocean of Love that my Mother is. The rest of the world is but drops in the ocean compared to my Mother. She has hugged, healed and helped thousands and thousands of people all over the world. She truly sees all of humanity as one. She steers our destiny in ways we could never have imagined. Once Amma touches our lives, there is a hint of magic to it. We know that nothing will ever be the same again. She will work such incredible wonders in our lives once we keep the faith. When we are also aligned with the universe, Amma will make each and every one of our dreams come true. She will move mountains to keep us on the straight and strong spiritual path. Because this Goddess of unequalled renown, cares for us.

Om Amriteswariye namah!

Bowing to the self!

473. Om siddha-matre namah: I bow down to Amma who is the mother of Siddhas

Absolutely everything in this life is ephemeral. If there is a constant, it is Amma's presence in our lives. And that is the reassurance that we wake up and go about our business with. The reassurance that we seek out another day with. Amma says that even the next step for us is an uncertainty. Given that, we need to hold on to the one certainty. The presence of God in our lives. The presence of Amma, the most powerful Guru and God. And here are some beautiful and insightful short replies from Amma to questions we have thought of many a times:

Q: Amma, when somebody prostrates to you, why do you touch their body and salute them?

Amma:- Is not everything one and the same Truth? Amma bows down to the Truth. I bow down to my own Self.

Q: Does one take birth even after attaining Atmajnana

Amma:- One may do so for the protection of the world by one’s own will. Amma is ready to accept any number of births to serve the devotees and the suffering.

Q: Is it possible for us to get liberation in this birth?

Amma:- Do not say ‘for us.’ There is no group liberation. Liberation is attained in different births according to each one’s course of karma.

Q: I have been worshipping God for a long time, but there is no peace of mind. What should I do?

Amma:- Is it not the mind that has no peace? Eliminate the mind. Thus the problem is solved.

Q: I have no interest in sustaining the body, but I have the desire for God-Realisation. What should I do?

Journalist:- How did you feel speaking in Malayalam to a foreign audience? (After Amma spoke at the UN General Assembly, Geneva in 2000)

Amma:-I never felt any difference. Just like I am talking to you, I was talking to them.

Q: What would you do if you were to rule the world?

Amma:- I would be the sweeper. I would sweep everyone’s mind clean.

On this note, may we pray that Amma sweeps our mind clean of all ego. Om Amriteswariye namah! 

A language of love and compassion!

472. Om siddha-vidyayai namah: I bow down to Amma who is in the form of the fifteen-syllabled mantra

 

When I read about Amma's various programs, I just marvel at Amma's super human and divine presence in all our lives. She is there for all of us at once. 33 million of Her children can feel Her beautiful presence all at the same time. We can call out to Amma and no geographical boundary can rein Her in. So much is Amma in tune with the universe that She is everywhere. The beauty about being an Amma devotee is that this is the same mother who hollywood actors have hugged as has an extremely poor labourer in India. And to both of them, Amma has shown the same level of love and concern. The only language Amma wishes to talk in, is the language of love. And compassion. There is a thread that binds all of Amma's children together. It isn't Amma's love for us. Instead, it is the love that She awakens in us, that holds us together. May we always walk such a beautifully righteous path that everywhere we go, we sow seeds of love and contentment.

Om Amriteswariye namah!

The chain of Amma's love...!

471. Om siddhesvaryai namah: I bow down to Amma who is the goddess worshipped by spiritual adepts

This is an article in www.amritapuri.org in which both, an MP and the Mayor, have so effectively spoken about the sheer power of Amma's love. Mr Pringle is right: if we can keep the chain of Amma's compassion and love going, the world would be such a better and changed place to live in.

"Ireland welcomes Amma with open arms and hearts

31 Oct – 1 Nov, Dublin, Ireland — Europe Yatra 2014

Amma’s children in Ireland welcomed her to the country with open arms and hearts as she arrived in Dublin for a two-day programme on the 31st October and the 1st of November. The Irish hospitality was at its best and evident to everyone who participated in the program. The beautifully decorated National Show Centre was buzzing with people on both the days of the programme.

On the 31st evening, welcoming Amma to the country, Mr. Thomas Pringle, Member of Parliament of the Government of Ireland, thanked Amma for the support and encouragement she has given her Irish supporters to keep the Irish culture and language alive and celebrate that culture. He added, “Amma has directly touched the lives of 33 million people around the world, passing on a message of love, respect and positive energy to each and every one of those people. If each of those 33 million people could pass on the same message in their daily lives, just by doing the simple things, making time for each other, and sharing compassion, I think we could effect a real change in the world.” Mr. Pringle also said, “I think I speak for everyone here tonight when I say, Amma, we know you are extremely busy, but please find time to visit Ireland every year from now on.”

Also present on this occasion was the Mayor of Fingal, Mrs. Mags Murray whose speech also drew roaring applause from the gathering. In reflecting on Amma’s significance in today’s world, she remarked, “In this world, and in the busy lives that we lead, we all need something to believe in. That belief can make us feel better, happier, and stronger and give us something to look forward to. That’s an incredible power for one person to carry around and to touch the lives of so many people.”

One of the highlights of the Irish programme has been the traditional music and dance performances. This year as well, many well-known bands enthralled the audience with their songs and music and had the whole hall up on their feet, swaying to the beat and dancing in joy.

As the programme came to an end, one could see teary eyes all around the hall. Devotees lined up all the way to Amma’s vehicle with a collective prayer in their hearts and lips, “Amma, please come to Ireland every year.”

Om Amriteswariye namah!

Amma, the real deal!

470. Om vayovastha-vivarjitayai namah: I bow down to Amma who is exempt from changes due to age and time

An article I read by Arielle Ford, former president and founder of The Ford group...(I normally tend to look at pictures of Amma when I read the sahasranamavalli)

"Nearly 20 years ago Deepak Chopra told me a story about a hugging saint from India named Amma.  He told she was the “real deal” and if I ever had a chance to see her in person, not to miss it.

A month before I met Brian, I received my first hug from Amma.  While she was hugging me, I whispered in her ear and asked her to heal my heart of anything that would stop me from manifesting my soulmate.  She laughed and hugged me tighter. That night I had dreams that gave me very clear clues about Brian and she also sent him dreams about me.  On the day that we met we recognized each other and a year later Amma married us.  Our 15th anniversary is in a few weeks.

Amma is known for her selfless love and compassion toward all beings. Her entire life has been dedicated to alleviating the pain of the poor and those suffering physically and emotionally. Amma inspires, uplifts and transforms through her physical embrace, and her spiritual wisdom. Throughout her life, Amma has embraced and comforted more than 32 million people.

 When asked where she gets the energy to help so many people while simultaneously running a massive humanitarian organization, Amma answers:

“Where there is true love, everything is effortless.”

Amma is now on an American tour and if you would like a little assistance on your quest to manifest a soulmate, I would suggest you arrange to have a hug from Amma. There is no charge to attend the public sessions and receive a hug although you generally will wait several hours as thousands will be in attendance.

Trust me, it is worth the wait!

While you are waiting for your hug you will have the opportunity to see unconditional love in action.  As Amma looks at each individual, she does so with the most amazing amount of love beaming from her eyes. It’s truly something to experience and witness."

We are so fortunate to have received Amma's healing hug. It's the one thing I look forward to every year. May we continue having this good fortune and blessing forever and ever. Om Amriteswariye namah!