Krishna Katha - Story for meditation - 13/11/2009 - sorry for the delay - I was out of station
From the story below we can understand the power of words. Not only specific words affect our mental pictures, but words are a powerful programming factor in lifelong success.
Once there was a boy who was eight years old. As a kid, he was always climbing trees, poles, and literally hanging around upside down from the rafters of his lake house. So, once it came to no surprise for his dad to find him at the top of a 30-foot tree swinging back and forth. His little eight-year-old brain didn't realize the tree could break or he could get hurt. He just thought it was fun to be up so high.
His older cousin, Tammy, was also on the same tree. She was hanging on the first big limb, about ten feet below him. Tammy's mother also noticed them at the exact time his dad did. About that time a huge gust of wind came over the tree. The boy could hear the leaves start to rattle and the tree begin to sway. The Boy could hear the voice of his father over the wind yell, "Bart, Hold on tightly." So He did.
The next thing he heard Tammy screaming at the top of her lungs, laying flat on the ground. She had fallen out of the tree.
The boy scampered down the tree to safety. Boy's father later told him why she fell and he did not. Apparently, when Tammy's mother felt the gust of wind, she yelled out, "Tammy, don't fall!" And Tammy did fall.
Boy's father then explained to him that the mind has a very difficult time processing a negative image. In fact, people who rely on internal pictures cannot see a negative at all. In order for Tammy to process the command of not falling, her nine-year-old brain had to first imagine falling, then try to tell the brain not to do what it just imagined. Whereas, the boys eight-year-old brain instantly had an internal image of him hanging on tightly.
This concept is especially useful when you are attempting to break a habit or set a goal. You can't visualize not doing something.
Another example, of a boy who was thirteen years old and played for his junior high school football team. He tried so hard to be good, but he just couldn't get it together at that age. He remembered hearing the words run through his head as he was running out for a pass, "Don't drop it!" Naturally, he dropped the ball.
Examples:
* Toxic phrase: "Don't drop the ball!"
* Likely result: Drops the ball
* Better language: "Catch the ball!"
* Toxic phrase: "You shouldn't watch so much television."
* Likely result: Watches more television.
* Better language: "I read too much television makes people stupid. You might find yourself turning that TV off and picking up one of those books more often!"
By the above examples we need to understand 2 things:
1. Power or Words i.e.: Chanting. - We need positive engagements to get rid of negative habits in our lives. We need to hold on to Chanting of Hare Krishna Mahamantra so that the wind of Maya may not drop us down from the tree of Material World.
2. Develop Positive Habits - To not try to give up bad things but to accept good things and the bad will automatically go away. Even if we have unlimited bad habits and impressions but if we try to give them up, we will never be able to give them up as we will always be contemplating on the habits and they will keep us bound to them, So we have to be positive and accept the cleansing process of Chanting of Mahamantra given by Chaitanya Mahaprabhu and be in association of devotees and this will automatically remove the unwanted attachments from our hearts.
S.B 1.2.18
nashta-prayeshv abhadreshu
nityam bhagavata-sevaya
bhagavaty uttama-sloke
bhaktir bhavati naishthiki
By regular attendance in classes on the Bhagavatam and by rendering of service to the pure devotee, all that is troublesome to the heart is almost completely destroyed, and loving service unto the Personality of Godhead, who is praised with transcendental songs, is established as an irrevocable fact.
Thanks to Chetan Prabhu (from Melbourne) for forwarding the nice story.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited
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Lalu and Kalu
A grocer had two sons named Lalu and Kalu. He wanted them to be trained in the use of
weights and measurements so that they'd be of help to him in his business. And so he hired a tutor to educate them. But these boys were incorrigibly naughty, and the tutor quit in disgust. So the grocer hired another—with the same result. And another, who fared no better than his predecessors.
Finally the grocer announced that the tutor who could just accomplish two things with his
boys--that they learn to count to one hundred and they quit the bad habit of smoking that they'd developed at an early age--would be given one half of his business assets.
An elderly and experienced brahmin volunteered to the challenge. The father arranged that
the boys would remain always in the teacher's sight. The brahmin then took the boys for a walk. He pointed out a cow to them and asked Lalu, "Can you tell me how many legs that cow has?"
Lalu replied, "Surely" and began to count: "One, two, three.."
Just then Kalu put his hand over Lalu's mouth. "Brother!" Kalu cried. "Now stop! That crafty
brahmin is just trying to teach you how to count! So Lalu became silent.
After more such futile efforts at teaching them numbers, the old brahmin finally decided it was
time for recess. So he led them to a room where they all might rest. The two boys immediately laid themselves down and feigned sleep, snoring loudly. The brahmin thought, "Now that these two young rascals are asleep, I may also safely sleep." He happily took a nap, being tired fromminding the grocer's sons all day.
When Lalu and Kalu were sure their teacher was asleep, they rose and started smoking. After a while they saw the brahmin stirring, so they again pretended to sleep. When the brahmin sat uphe immediately smelled cigarette smoke in the room. He shook the boys; they pretended to be groggy and yawned.
"You bad boys!" he chastised them. "You've been smoking in here. The rooms stinks of cigarettes."
"What? Oh, no sir, we know nothing about this."
The teacher took their hands and smelled them. "See here, boys, your fingers reek of tobacco smoke. What's your explanation?"
In unison Lalu and Kalu exclaimed, "Oh, sir, we were sound asleep and don't know how this smell came to our hands. Probably some stranger entered this room as we all napped and smoked using ourfingers to hold the cigarettes!"
Similarly, those who are determined not to accept training in spiritual life go to the most
illogical extremes in defending a life of sense gratification. Even if they get the association of
a saintly teacher, they expertly avoid being changed by him. And when he points out their faults, they say that they've done nothing wrong, it was someone else.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited
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Krishna Katha - Story for meditation - 27/11/2009 - ADVENT OF Srimad BHAGAVAD GITA
The Glories of Chapter One of the
Bhagavad Gita from the Padma Purana
Parvati said "My dear husband, You know all the transcendental truths, and by your mercy I have heard the glories of the Supreme Personality of Godhead, Lord Krishna. Oh Lord, now I long to hear from You the glories of the Srimad Bhagavad-gita, which was spoken by Lord Krishna, and by hearing which, one's devotion to Lord Krishna increases"
Lord Shiva replied "That person, Whose body is the color of a dark rain cloud, whose carrier is the king of birds, Garuda, and Who is lying on Ananta-Sesha, the thousand headed serpent, that Lord Vishnu, Whose glories have no limit, I am always worshipping. My dear Parvati once after Lord Vishnu had killed the demon Mura, He was resting peacefully on Ananta-Sesha, when the bestower of all good fortune of the universe, Sri Lakshmi, respectfully inquired from Him.
"Bhagavan, You are the controller and maintainer of the whole universe, but yet You are sleeping unhappily on this ocean of milk What is the reason?"
Lord Vishnu said, "My dear Lakshmi, I am not sleeping, but I am watching how wonderfully My energy is working. It is by this wonderful energy of Mine, by which I am controlling all things, and yet remain separate. And it is by remembering these divine activities of Mine, that the great devotees and yogis manage to free themselves from the wheel of birth and death, and attain that transcendental nature of Mine, which is eternal and free from all qualities."
Lakshmi said, "O, controller of all things. You are the goal of the meditation of great yogis. Nothing can go on without You. And yet You are separate. You are the cause of creation, maintenance and destruction of all the material universes. Kindly inform me about the workings of Your wonderful energies, which are so attractive, that even You are lying here, meditating upon them"
Lord Vishnu said, "My dear Lakshmi, the workings of My multi-fold energies, and how to become free from the bonds of birth and death, and attain My eternal Nature, can only be understood by one of pure intelligence, who has an inclination to render service unto Me. This transcendental knowledge is fully explained in the Srimad Bhagavad-gita"
Lakshmi inquired, "My dear Lord, if you yourself are amazed, by the workings of Your energies, and are ever trying to fathom their limit, then how is it possible that the Bhagavad-gita can describe those unlimited energies of Yours, and how to cross over them, and attain the transcendental nature?"
Lord Vishnu said, "I Myself have manifested in the Form of Bhagavad-gita. Please understand that the first five chapters are My five heads, the next ten chapters are My ten Arms, and the Sixteenth Chapter is My stomach. The last two chapters are My lotus-feet. In this way you should understand the transcendental Deity of the Bhagavad-gita. This Bhagavad-gita is the destroyer of all sins. And that intelligent man who daily recites one chapter or even one shloka, one half shloka, or at least one quarter shloka, will attain the same position as Susharma had attained."
Lakshmi inquired, "Who was Susharma? What class did he belong to? And what destination did he attain?"
Lord Vishnu said, "My dear Lakshmi, Susharma was a very wicked and a most sinful man. Although he was born in a brahmana family, his family had no Vedic knowledge. And he only took pleasure from hurting others. He never engaged in the chanting of My names, in giving charity, or receiving guests. In fact, he never performed any pious activities. For his livelihood he collected leaves, and sold them in the bazaar. He especially enjoyed drinking wine, and eating flesh. In this way he passed his life.
"One day that foolish Susharma had gone to the garden of one sage for collecting leaves, when a snake came and bit him, and he died. After his death he was cast into many hells, where he suffered for a long time. After which he attained the body of a bull. That bull was purchased by a crippled man, who engaged him in his service. For about seven or eight years he was carrying extremely heavy loads. One day that crippled man had piled a very heavy load onto the back of his bull. Very quickly he was forcing that bull along when suddenly the bull fell over and became unconscious. Many persons gathered there, to see what was happening, feeling sorry for that bull. One pious man bestowed upon that bull the results of some of his pious activities. Seeing that, other persons standing there started remembering their pious activities, and offered the results of some of those activities to that bull. In that crowd there was also one prostitute who did not know if she had ever performed any pious activities, but seeing everyone else offering their pious credits to that bull, she also offered the results of any pious activities she might have performed After that, the bull died, and was taken to the abode of Yamaraja, the God of Death.
There, Yamaraja informed him, "You are now free from the reactions of all your previous sinful deeds, due to the pious credits given to you by that prostitute." Then he took birth in a very high brahmana family. In that birth, he was able to remember his past lives. After many days, he decided to search out that prostitute, who had been the cause of freeing him from his hellish situation.
After he had found and introduced himself to that lady he inquired from her "What were the pious activities performed by you, the fruits of which freed me from my hellish situation?" The prostitute replied to him, "My dear sir, in that cage is one parrot, which recites something everyday. Hearing that recitation, my heart has become completely pure. The results of hearing that recitation I had given to you." Thereafter they both inquired from that parrot about that recitation. That parrot, remembering his previous life, started to narrate his history. "Previously, I had been a very learned brahmana. But due to my pride, I used to insult other learned persons. I was also extremely jealous. After I died, I was cast into many hells, and after a long time of suffering, I achieved this body of a parrot. Due to my past sinful activities, my mother and father died while I was a baby. One day, while I was lying on the hot sands, with no protection, some rishis saw me, and took me to their ashram, and put me in a cage. At that same place, the children of those rishis were learning the recitation of the First Chapter of the Srimad Bhagavad-gita, Hearing them repeat those Shlokas, I also, started repeating those shloka along with them.
"Shortly after, one thief stole me from that place and sold me to this pious lady." Lord Vishnu continued, "By reciting the First Chapter of the Bhagavad-gita, that parrot had become completely pure. And by hearing that recitation that prostitute also became completely pure. And by receiving some of the pious results of hearing that recitation, Susharma also become completely pure.
After discussing for some time the glories of the first chapter of Bhagavad-gita, Susharma returned to his home, and the three of them individually engaged in reciting the First Chapter of Srimad Bhagavad-gita, and very quickly attained the supreme destination, Vaikuntha." Anyone who recites, who hears, or studies the First Chapter of Bhagavad-gita, will very easily cross over the ocean of material miseries, and attain the service of the lotus-feet of Lord Krishna.
Thanks to Manoj Prabhu (Melbourne) for forwarding the nice story.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited
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Glorification of the HolyName
We are all chanting for so many years but still we don't realize the value of chanting and its potencies. Chanting is the beginning of our spiritual life. To remain in the path of devotional service - chanting is a must and chanting is what we need to do at the end of our lives as well. Still our faith in holy names is very weak. We don't even theoretically accept Lord Krishna exists as we don't understand the temporary features of this gigantic material manifestation. Nor have we realized that there is life after death. This is the true perspective of our current situation.
We all knew that Sankarcharya means impersonalism and we always tend to decry the followers of Sankarcharya. But actually speaking Adi Sankarcharya has composed so many verses on Supreme Lord like Balamukundashtakam, Ranganathaashtakam, Krishnaashtkam, Jagannathashtakam and so on. All these verses are describing wonderfully the various transcendental features of the Lord. So instead of decrying, we must understand the purpose of advent of Adi Sankarcharya. In that disciplic succession there was one exalted acarya whose name is Sri Bodhendra Saraswati swamigal who was 59th Sankarcharya of Kanchi Kamakoti pitha. He was also known as Bhagavan Naama Bodhenra. His only aim was to propagate the Holy name of Hari everywhere.
Once Shri Bodhendra Swamigal was going from village to village to bless the people with spiritual gains by initiating them into the continuous chanting of the Lord Ram. He was chanting ceaselessly "Shri Rama, Rama, Ramaa" with his eyes drenched with tears of spiritual joy. He was seen in a state of ecstasy, hairs standing on end. Seeing Shri Bodhendra Swamigal in this state, a brahmana paid his respects to him and humbly invited him to have a meal in his house. Shri Bhagavan Nama Bodhendra accepted the request of the large-hearted brahmana and went to his house. That blessed brahmana bathed the feet of the swamigal and offered him worship, with tears of joy drenching his face. He then fed Bodhendra Swamigal with all earnestness and respect. While the sage was having his meal, he was sitting near him reciting the Upanishads.
In the mean time the five-year old dumb son of that brahmana sought various dishes by gestures. The compassionate Swami became very sad to see that dumb child and he shed tears of sympathy. `Alas! How will this child be able to do kirtan of the Holy names of Shri Pathi (the Lord of Lakshmi Devi), the Ocean of mercy ?. Is not the chanting of the Holy Names the only panacea for men in this Kaliyuga who engage in varied sinful activities ? Oh! This dumb boy will not be able to sing the Holy Names of Shri Hari. How will he attain spiritual well-being here and now ?' Thus becoming sad, Shri Bodhendra Swamigal got up from his seat, washed his hand and went to the verandah of the house.
At that time, the brahmana prostrated himself before the Swamigal with ardent devotion and tried to console him, saying that all the beings of the world reap what they have sown in their previous births. After the swamigal left that place, without delay that dumb boy eagerly took the remnants of his prasad. Immediately that boy gained transcendental knowledge and started dancing, singing the Holy names of "Rama" and "Krishna" with abiding devotion. Finding the young boy chanting the holy names ,the brahmana was surprised and he became immensely happy. From that day, that boy rendered the swamigal in all possible service with affection and became blessed with spiritual well being.
This reminds us of a beautiful verse in Srimad Bhagavatham 6.3.31 which glorifies the potency of holy names.
tasmaat sankirtanam vishnor / jagan-mangalam amhasaam
mahataam api kauravya / viddhy aikaantika-nishkrtam
Sukadeva Gosvami continued: My dear King, the chanting of the holy name of the Lord is able to uproot even the reactions of the greatest sins. Therefore the chanting of the sankirtana movement is the most auspicious activity in the entire universe. Please try to understand this so that others will take it seriously.
I therefore pray to our beloved Spiritual master that I should develop the unflinching faith in chanting the holy names by understanding its unlimited glories.
Thank you very much.
Your humble servant in the service of Srila Prabhupada and Gurudev,
Sajjanapriya Krishna Das, Abudhabi.
Thanks to Sajjanapriya Krishna Prabhu (Abudhabi) and Kripasindhu Prabhu (Chennai)
for sharing / forwarding the nice story.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited
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Krishna Katha - Story for meditation - 08/01/2010
Shipwrecked Prayers
A voyaging ship was wrecked during a storm at sea and only two of the men aboard were able to swim to a nearby small, deserted island.
The two survivors, not knowing what else to do, agreed that they had no recourse but to pray to God. However, to find out whose prayer was more powerful, they agreed to divide the territory between them and stay on opposite sides of the island.
The first thing they both prayed for was food. The next morning the first man saw a fruit-bearing tree on his side of the land and was able to eat its fruit. The other man's parcel of land remained barren.
After a week, the first man was lonely and decided to pray for a wife. The next day, another ship was wrecked, and the only survivor, a woman, swam to his side of the island. On the other side of the island, nothing.
Soon the first man prayed for a house, clothes, and more food. The next day, like magic, all these requests were fulfilled. However, the second man still had nothing.
Finally, the first man prayed for a ship so that he and his wife could leave the island. In the morning he found a ship docked at his side of the island. The first man boarded the ship with his wife and decided to leave the second man on the island. He considered the other man unworthy to receive God's blessings since none of his prayers had been answered.
As the ship was about to leave, the first man heard a voice from heaven booming, "Why are you leaving your companion on the island?" "My blessings are mine alone since I was the one who prayed for them," the man answered. "My companions prayers were all unanswered, so he does not deserve anything."
"You are mistaken!" the voice rebuked him. "He had only one prayer, which I answered. If not for that, you would not have received any of my blessings."
"Tell me," the first man asked the voice, "what did he pray for that I now owe him for my success."
"He prayed that all your prayers be answered."
For all we know, our blessings are not the fruits of our prayers alone but those of another praying for us.
Thanks to HH Sacinandana Swami Maharaj and his website organizers wherein nice devotional / moral stories are published. Please visit their site at http://www.saranagati.net/
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
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Legend of Emperor Akbar
Once, Emperor Akbar was sitting in a mosque, reading the Koran. He posted his guards before the mosque because he wanted absolute peace. At some point during his reading he glanced out the window and saw a young woman running desperately back and forth. She seemed to be looking for someone or something.
Suddenly, this young woman entered the mosque and began to search. In her desperation to find whatever she was looking for, she did not see the emperor and tripped over him as he sat, bumping him so hard that the Koran flew out of his hands and landed on the floor.
Akbar was so disturbed that he called for his guards: "Bring me that young woman!"
When the guards brought the woman before him, Akbar was furious: "Before I have you hanged, tell me what you were so preoccupied with that you did not even notice when you ran over me. "
The woman shook with fear to hear her death sentence. But then she collected herself and said: "My dear emperor, please excuse me, but I was searching for my lover. I had heard that he had come to town, and because I love him, I was so fixed on finding him that I was looking everywhere without seeing anyone or anything else. I did not mean to offend you."
This made Akbar even angrier: "How dare you disturb me while I am reading the holy Koran! Looking for a lover! Hang her immediately!"
Since she had nothing left to lose, the young woman spoke out: "Dear emperor, may I ask you whether you were actually reading the Koran? If I am so attentive to searching for my lover—who is, after all, merely a mortal man—that I cannot see anything or anyone else, how much more fixed would you be if you were actually searching for the supreme lover, God? If you had actually been reading the Koran, you would not have noticed my tripping over you. So I think you were not actually reading but were only making a show of it!"
Akbar saw the woman's point and set her free.
The lesson:
Absorbing the mind in Krishna while rendering devotional service is the whole point of bhakti-yoga, and those who become mentally absorbed have an excellent chance at purification. Shri Krishna speaks about this in the Bhagavad-gita, chapter 18, text 58: "If you become conscious of me, you will pass over all the obstacles of conditioned life by my grace. If, however, you do not work in such consciousness, but act through false ego, not hearing me, you will be lost."
Shrila Prabhupada wrote: "For one who acts in Krishna consciousness, Lord Krishna becomes the most intimate friend. He always looks after his friend's comfort and he gives himself to his friend, who is so devotedly engaged twenty-four hours a day to please the Lord.... One should note very carefully that one who is not active in Krishna consciousness is losing himself in the material world, in the ocean of birth and death."
How wisely Srila Prabhupada chose the phrase "Krishna consciousness," which means nothing less than absorption in Krishna.
Thanks to HH Sacinandana Swami Maharaj and his website organizers wherein nice devotional / moral stories are published. Please visit their site at http://www.saranagati.net/
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
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Story on material attachment
Because of lack of transcendental knowledge, one is thinking, "Oh because of Krishna Consciousness, I will give up some happiness, like going to the movies at night." Some kind of attachment is there.
There is a story about Sanatana Goswami's servant. He asked Sanatana Goswami, "There is a party going on in the forest...there is a big festival. Could I go and participate?"
Sanatana Goswami said, "Festival?...in the middle of the night???...I don't think you should go there."
"No, no, no, they are having a good time...."
"All right if you want to go, what can I say? You go, but no eating whatever they give you. Whatever they give you to eat, you just wrap it up and bring it back here."
So the devotee went to the festival in the forest and they sat him down, "Please take some food."
They gave him some nice preparations...some rice and so many things, but he wrapped it all up in his cloth, didn't take it, and he went back to the Ashrama and took rest.
Next morning, Srila Sanatana Goswami asked, "How was the festival?"
"Oh, it was quite interesting. Everyone was having a good time."
"Did they give you anything to eat?"
He said, "Yes, but I didn't eat it. I kept it in my cloth."
"Bring your cloth. Let me see what they gave you. I am sure it has got some nice preparation."
So he brought it and when they opened the pot, instead of all the nice delicacies he had seen the night before, there was bones, and rotten flesh, and pus and blood, stool and all kinds of horrible things.
"Oh, what is this?"
"Those were ghosts having a ghost festival. They had transformed all these horrible things to make it seem like nice things. If you had eaten...oof!"
Then when the servant realized that, he said, "Oh, how did you know?"
"Who has a festival in the middle of the night, in the middle of the forest?"
So the spiritual master could understand, but the disciple was still attached to some material things. Once he has the knowledge, "Oof! Look at this horrible stuff!" Then naturally you get some detachment."
Story told by HH Jayapataka Swami Maharaja
Thanks to CaruCaitanya Prabhu (Melbourne) for sharing this nice story.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
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Deepaka was a naishthika Brahmachari. He was once doing shastra-adhyayanam and saw this sentence — "For a pativrata, her bharta is the only Daivam. For a putra, his parents are only Devatas. For a shishya Guru is himself Parabrahma. There are no teerthas, vratas, upavaasas greater than Guruseva". He immediately decided to approach a Guru, do seva to him and learn all shastras.
On the great Godavari-nadi-teeram, there used to be the ashramam of Vedadharya. He used to teach many shastras, Vedopanishats to his shishyas. Deepaka approached Vedadharya, did saashtaanga-pranaamam to him and asked him to accept him as a shishya. Seeing the Vinayam of Deepaka, Vedadharya accepted him as his shishya. Because of his Guruseva and interest in learning Vidya, Deepaka in no time learnt all shastras.
One day Vedadharya, seeing the Adhyaatmika Vidya-tejas in Deepaka, asked him "Vatsa! I did prayashchittam for my previous janma paapas. However two more paapas are left and they are very frightening. I must go to Kaashi Kshetram and do praayashchittam. In Kaashi the phalitam for a Karma will be 10 times. Hence I will go there and do aavaahana of these paapas. Then I will get dreadful diseases like leprosy, my body will be oozing blood and puss. I will get a ghora-rupam and become blind. My svabhaavam also will change: Saadhutvam will go and I will become a Kathinaatma. There will be no sahanam in me. In that pitiable situation can you help me and do my seva?"
Deepaka, who only had Guruseva in his mind, was very happy to do his Guruseva and said "Guruuttama! Since I am young, I will do the aavaahanam of the paapas and experience the leprosy, blindness etc." Vedadharya replied "O my son Deepaka! One is responsible for his own paapas. They must be experienced by the karta only. It is not very difficult to experience it, the more difficult thing is to do seva to a paapa-piidita. You need a have a lot of sahanam".
Deepaka and Vedadharya reached the great Kaashi Kshetram. They arranged a place for their living near Kamaleshvara Mahadeva Mandiram, which is to the North of Manikarnikaa-Ghat. After doing Kaashi Vishvanaatha, Jaganmaata Annapurna puja, Vedadharya did aavaahanam of the 2 previous janma paapas. He started suffering from the diseases as he explained before.
He had no sahanam and used to show it on Deepaka. Deepaka used to cry seeing the Dusthiti of his Guru. He used to take great care of his Guru: neatly wash his wounds, clean blood and puss, apply medicine, tie bandages. He even used to clean the mala-mutras and put new clothes for his Guru. He used to do Bhikshaatana and get food for his Guru. Vedadharya used to eat the whole of it and used to blame Deepaka for not bringing sufficiently more. Deepaka never used to get angry and without any viraamam and with great care he used to do his Guru's seva.
One day, impressed by the Guruseva of Deepaka, Lord Vishveshvara appeared before him and said "Vatsa! Your Guruseva is amogham. Please ask me what you want". With great aanandam Deepaka replied "Sarveshvara! In this world I dont know anything except my Guru. I will ask him after he wakes up from his sleep and tell you". After Vedadharya woke, Deepaka told him what happened and asked him "I will go to Shiva and ask Him to heal you". Vedadharya didnt accept and said "One must experience the result of his paapam. Then only they will be destroyed. Only in that I will have trupti".
The next day, Deepaka went to Vishveshvara sannidhi and didnt ask for any varam. Seeing the Aadhyaatmika-saadhana of Deepaka, Parameshvara took him to Nirvaana-mandapam along with Parvati Devi. There Shrimannarayana and other Devatas were there. There Shiva told everyone about the Guruseva and Sevaasakti of Deepaka and praised him. Shrimannarayana said "Please tell Us your abhishtam. We are ready to grant it". Deepaka did saashtaanga-vandanam and replied with gadgada svaram "Devaadideva! I never did your Naama-smaranam. Neither did I do your puja or archana. Why are you ready to give me varam?".
"O Vatsa! Guruseva is equivalent to doing seva to all Devatas. Hence please ask Us what you want" said Shrimannarayana. "Then please grant me achanchala Guru-Bhakti" said Deepaka. All the Devatas were happy with Deepaka and granted him the same.
Morals in the Story:
1. Guruseva is equivalent to seva to all Devatas. Deepaka, with his unparalled Guruseva, had the Durlabha-darshanam of all the Devatas.
2. Vinayam, Guru-Bhakti and interest in learning are very important for a Vidyarthi. One who has these qualities can learn all shastras in no time, like Deepaka.
3. One must experience the result of his paapam some or the other time. This was told by Vedadharya many times in the story. Hence one must be very careful not to do paapa-karyas.
Thanks to CaruCaitanya Prabhu (Melbourne) for sharing this nice story.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
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Please forgive me
Hare Krishna Dear Friends and Devotees!
You may have read this before….but please read this again with changes below.
There once was a little boy who had a bad temper. His Father gave him a bag of nails and told him that every time he lost his temper, he must hammer a nail into the back of the fence.
The first day the boy had driven 37 nails into the fence. Over the next few weeks, as he learned to control his anger, the number of nails hammered daily gradually dwindled down. He discovered it was easier to hold his temper than to drive those nails into the fence.
Finally the day came when the boy didn't lose his temper at all. He told his father about it and the father suggested that the boy now pull out one nail for each day that he was able to hold his temper.
The days passed and the young boy was finally able to tell his father that all the nails were gone.
The father took his son by the hand and led him to the fence. He said, "You have done well, my son, but look at the holes in the fence. The fence will never be the same. When you say things in anger, they leave a scar just like this one. You can put a knife in a man and draw it out. It won't matter how many times you say I'm sorry, the wound is still there."
A verbal wound is as bad as a physical one. Friends are very rare jewels, indeed. They make you smile and encourage you to succeed. They lend an ear, they share words of praise and they always want to open their hearts to us."
YOU ARE MY FRIEND AND I AM YOUR SERVANT!
Please forgive me if I have ever left a hole in your heart.
Please forgive me if I have committed any offenses knowingly or unknowingly.
Thanks to Manoj Prabhu (Melbourne) for forwarding the nice story and thanks to Sri Krishna Hari Prabhu (Delhi) for posting this message on the Google Groups "Hare Krishna Professionals Forum".
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited
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Tycoon trades high life for bedsit
February 10, 2010
Giving it all away ... Karl Rabeder.
PARIS: An Austrian tycoon is giving away every penny of his £3 million ($5.3 million) fortune, having realised that his riches made him unhappy.
Karl Rabeder, 47, a businessman from Telfs, near Innsbruck, is selling his villa with lake, sauna and spectacular mountain views over the Alps, valued at £1.4 million.
Also for sale is his old stone farmhouse in Provence, on the market for £613,000. Already gone is his collection of six gliders valued at £350,000.
Mr Rabeder has also sold the interior furnishings and accessories business - from vases to artificial flowers - that made his fortune.
''My idea is to have nothing left. Absolutely nothing. Money is counter-productive - it prevents happiness.''
He will move out of his Alpine retreat into a small wooden hut in the mountains or a simple bedsit in Innsbruck, surviving on £800 a month while the proceeds go to a charity he set up in Latin America. He will draw no salary from it.
''For a long time I believed that more wealth and luxury automatically meant more happiness. I come from a very poor family where the rules were to work more to achieve more material things, and I applied this for many years.''
But over time a conflicting feeling developed. ''More and more I heard the words: 'Stop what you are doing now - all this luxury and consumerism - and start your real life'. I had the feeling I was working as a slave for things that I did not wish for or need.''
For many years, he said, he was not brave enough to give up his comforts. The tipping point came during a three-week holiday with his wife in Hawaii.
''It was the biggest shock in my life when I realised how horrible, soulless and without feeling the five-star lifestyle is.
''In those three weeks we spent all the money you could possibly spend. But in all that time we had the feeling we hadn't met a single real person - that we were all just actors. The staff played the role of being friendly and the guests played the role of being important, and nobody was real.''
Mr Rabeder decided to raffle his Alpine home, selling 21,999 tickets at £87 each. The Provence house, in the village of Cruis, is on sale at the local estate agent.
All the money will go into his microcredit charity, which offers small loans and advice to self-employed people in El Salvador, Honduras, Bolivia, Peru, Argentina and Chile.
Since deciding to sell up, Mr Rabeder said he had felt ''free, the opposite of heavy''. But he did not judge those who chose to keep their wealth. ''I do not have the right to give any other person advice. I was just listening to the voice of my heart and soul.''
Telegraph, London
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From Srila Prabhupada's teachings to understand things in proper perspective:
All these perfections and precautions are perfectly executed when one is directly in Krsna consciousness, because direct Krsna consciousness means self-abnegation, wherein there is very little chance for material possessiveness. Srila Rupa Gosvami characterizes Krsna consciousness in this way:
anasaktasya visayan
yatharham upayunjatah
nirbandhah krsna-sambandhe
yuktam vairagyam ucyate
prapancikataya buddhya
hari-sambandhi-vastunah
mumuksubhih parityago
vairagyam phalgu kathyate
"When one is not attached to anything, but at the same time accepts everything in relation to Krsna, one is rightly situated above possessiveness. On the other hand, one who rejects everything without knowledge of its relationship to Krsna is not as complete in his renunciation." (Bhakti-rasamrta-sindhu 2.255-256)
A Krsna conscious person well knows that everything belongs to Krsna, and thus he is always free from feelings of personal possession. As such, he has no hankering for anything on his own personal account. He knows how to accept things in favor of Krsna consciousness and how to reject things unfavorable to Krsna consciousness. He is always aloof from material things because he is always transcendental, and he is always alone, having nothing to do with persons not in Krsna consciousness. Therefore a person in Krsna consciousness is the perfect yogi.
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anasaktasya visayan
yatharham upayunjatah
nirbandhah krsna-sambandhe
yuktam vairagyam ucyate
The liberated person has no attachment for anything material or for sense gratification. He understands that everything is connected with the Supreme Personality of Godhead and that everything should be engaged in the service of the Lord. Therefore he does not give up anything. There is no question of renouncing anything because the paramahamsa knows how to engage everything in the service of the Lord. Originally everything is spiritual; nothing is material. In the Caitanya-caritamrta (Madhya 8.274) also it is explained that a maha-bhagavata, a highly advanced devotee, has no material vision:
sthavara jangama dekhe, na dekhe tara murti
sarvatra haya nija ista-deva-sphurti
Although he sees trees, mountains, and other living entities moving here and there, he sees all as the creation of the Supreme Lord and, with reference to the context, sees only the creator and not the created. In other words, he no longer distinguishes between the created and the creator. He sees only the Supreme Personality of Godhead in everything. He sees Krsna in everything and everything in Krsna. This is oneness.
(c) 1991 by Bhaktivedanta Book Trust
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Once there was a small kid on earth. One fine day it came to know that God
is distributing apples to humans in His place at heaven. The kid was so
happy to receive that news and it went with lot of enjoyment to heaven to
get the apple from God. There was a big queue standing to get apple from God
and this kid also joined in that queue. While it was standing, it was fully
excited and thrilled for the fact that it is going to receive in person from
God's hands. It's turn too came and the kid showed its both the hands to
receive apple. God gave the apple but unfortunately the tiny hands couldn't
hold that big apple. Apple fell down and got wasted in mud. The kid got so
disappointed. The ministers near the God informed that if the kid likes to
have an apple from God again then it has to again follow the queue. Having
waited for so long the kid didn't want to return back to earth with empty
hands so it decided to wait again in the queue.
This time the queue has become even more longer than the previous one. While
waiting in queue, the kid could see lot of people who returns back with
apple in hands and utmost satisfaction on their faces. The kid was so much
disappointed and thought why me alone didn't get the apple in hand when all
others were easily able to get it. What is the sin I did that I alone should
suffer like this. Now the kid was so scared that it should not miss the
apple again. Again its turn came and God gave the apple to the kid's hands
and after giving the apple God spoke to the kid.
"My dear child, last time after giving you the apple only I noticed the
apple I gave to you was a rotten apple and that's why I made that to fell
down from your hands. Having given you a rotten apple, I felt bad for you
and I wanted to give you the best apple in the farm and that time the best
apple in the farm was growing and that's why I made you to wait such a long
time in the queue. Here it is. Now the apple that you have in hand is 'The
Best' apple in the farm till to date. "
Moral of the story and its practical application in our life
So, friends, sometimes it happens as even after we put our 100% dedication
and commitment things may get delayed or things may go wrong. Believe that
God has something great for us and that's why this has happened.
Principles to learn and apply in our own life :
1) We must have rock-like faith in God and His divine plan for us.
2) God loves us unconditionally and infinitely.
3) He wants to give us the best that He has for us.
4) We should be ever grateful to Him for His gifts to us.
5) Whatever God does, He does it for our own good.
6) Whether we know His plans or not, we need to put implicit faith in Him
and His loving plans for us. Then and then alone we will be eternally
blissful in life.
Believe this and see the world..... Your world will also look happy......
Chant Hare Krishna and Be Happy...
Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare
Hare Rama Hare Rama Rama Rama Hare Hare
Thanks to Koti Prabhu (Melbourne) for forwarding the nice story.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited
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When Yudhistar Maharaj was ruling this planet, Bhima used to help in solving
problems of people, hence people who ever has any questions/problems would
come to Bhima and ask him for help. One day, one citizen came and asked
Bhima that he noticed a strange thing that day that his fence is moving into
other's place and he is wondering why it happened like that. Bhima can help
if a demon is troubling but not these kind of puzzles so he asked him to
approach Yudhistar Maharaj.
On the same day, another citizen came and told that he came across with a
strange thing that he had a big pot with full of water, he poured that
water into small pots then he poured back from the small pots to
big pot but surprisingly only half is filling into that big
pot. Bhima not knowing what to say, he asked them to contact Yudhistar
Maharaj. Another person came to Bhima and said that he saw a strange thing
that a big elephant is passing through from a needle hole but surprisingly
it's tail got stuck in that hole. Bhima again referred him to Yudhistar
Maharaj. Another person came and said that he saw big rock in the street and
big big personalities are not able to move but a sadhu came and by waving
his Sanyasa danda, it moved. Bhima thinking that it's bad day for him and
all are coming with these strange questions which he cann't help, so he
referred them to Yudhistar Maharaj.
They all went to Maharaj Yudhistara and asked about these questions, then
Yudhistar Maharaj said that, all these qualities shows that kali yuga is
coming and he explains ......
The first symptom is one of the citizen's fence is moving into other's area
shows that people are interested in what other's have and feel unhappy why
they don't have, then think a way to aquire them either hook or crook.
The second symptom is the big pot with full of water when it is poured into
small pots and pour back into big pot, he noticed only half only, which
means that one can expect 50% love/affection/help from others compared what
you did to the same person.
The third symptom is big elephant is going through a needle but the tail is
stuck, it means that people are ready to spend a huge chunk of their
income/strength/resource for the sense satisfaction of thier family, friends
and love(Personal sense gratification) but when it comes to Bhagavan and
Bhagavatha seva they are not ready to spend a little bit also.
The fourth symptom is, big rock not moved by persons who are having lot of
strength but a sadhu moved that rock just by waving his danda, which means
that one can get rid of all their unlimited sins, just by performing
Namasankirtanam.
Though there are so many faults in this kaliyuga, the good thing is, just by
chanting the holy names of the lord, one can get upto the highest benefit of
liberation as mentioned in SB 12.3.51 that
kaler dosa-nidhe rajann
asti hy eko mahan gunah
kirtanad eva krsnasya
mukta-sangah param´ vrajet
My dear King, although Kali-yuga is an ocean of faults, there is still one
good quality about this age: Simply by chanting the name of Lord Sri Krsna,
one can become free from material bondage and be promoted to the
transcendental kingdom of Vaikunta.
PS:I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone
can be benefited
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Value of Vaisnava Association
Once the great sage Narada was intrigued by a doubt. He was sure that Lord Vishnu would clear it for him. He proceeded to the Ocean of Milk and found his Lord reclining on the giant hooded serpent-bed Shankarshana, His beautiful consort, Lakshmi devi beside Him.
Sage Narada made his obeisances to Lord Vishnu and put his question to Him.
"Oh Lord, what is the value of Vaishnava Satsang, the Association of Vaishnava Devotees?"
Lord Vishnu smiled charmingly and said, "I will answer your question. But first you must do something for me. Look at that village on planet Earth. Can you see a small worm crawling on the ground over there?"
With his yogic vision, Sage Narada perceived it and nodded.
"Go over there and ask your question of that worm. I'm sure you'll get your answer."
Sage Narada was puzzled, but he nevertheless did as instructed. In response, the worm looked up at him, promptly rolled over and died.Sage Narada was shocked. He hurried back to Lord Vishnu and told Him what had happened.
Lord Vishnu merely smiled and told him, "Oh, is that so? Never mind. Now do one more thing. Go over to that cow-shed you see over there, in that town. A calf was born there a while ago. Please ask the same question of that calf."
Sage Narada was still recovering from what had happened earlier.
"Oh no, my Lord! What if that calf dies as well? I cannot risk committing the unforgivable crime of `go-hatya'!"
Lord Vishnu however, was able to persuade him and sage Narada left on his new mission. Warily, he made his way into the cow-shed. It was in the middle of the night and he approached the calf unnoticed. He put the same question to the calf. In response, the calf looked at him with its large brown eyes. And then rolled over and died!
Sage Narada was horrified. Using all the yogic powers at his disposal, he fled the scene and arrived at the abode of Lord Vishnu, shaking with fear.
"Oh my Lord! What have I done! The worst sin expected of anyone; the killing of the animal most dear to you!"
Lord Vishnu pacified the trembling sage and assured him that no sin would accrue to him.
"And in the bargain, my Lord, I haven't even got the answer to my question?!" sage Narada complained.
Lord Vishnu smiled and told him that he would have to do just one last thing for him.
"You see that vast kingdom over there? The Queen has just given birth to her first child. All you have to do is ask that child your question and you will get your answer."
"No, my Lord! Please don't ask me to go there. I have no doubt that some harm will befall that child as well. I simply cannot take that chance."
But Lord Vishnu remained adamant. What could the sage do? Nervously, he set forth towards planet Earth.
Arriving on the balcony where the young prince was lying unattended, sage Narada cautiously approached him. The baby looked at him and gurgled with joy.
Hesitatingly, the great sage asked the child, "What is the value of Vaishnava Satsang?'
The child looked at sage Narada, and to his surprise, began to speak.
"O great Sage. Your question has already been answered. When you, the greatest of Vaishnavas, had first granted me your association, I was an insignificant worm. As a result of my contact with you, I left that body and was awarded the body of the most pious animal, the calf.
You graced me with your association once more, and I left that body to gain the birth of the prince and heir of this vast kingdom. And by your causeless mercy, you have granted me your exalted association yet again.
Now I have no doubt that this is my last birth on this Earth. Your association will help me attain that Supreme Destination; the abode of Lord Hari Himself!"
And this is the value of Vaishnava Association.
Thanks to SachinKumar Gupta Prabhu for forwarding the nice story.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited
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Who is great?
We came across a very nice past time of the Lord and wanted to share this with all of you. On one occasion, Narada went to Lord Narayana. In the course of their conversation, Narayana asked Narada, "You move around the three worlds, what news have you brought for Me from your wanderings? Have you seen anything great in My creation?" "What can be greater than You in the three worlds!" replied Narada. On hearing this, Narayana said, "I am asking you about My creation and not about Myself."
Puzzled by the Lord's reply, Narada said, "I do not understand the question." Sensing Narada's confusion, Narayana then asked him, "There are the Panchabhuthas (five basic elements). Which is the greatest among them?" "The earth is the biggest , Narada replied. But not satisfied with the reply, Narayana asked, "But in the earth, is not three-fourths of the area occupied by water?"
On hearing this, Narada agreed that water was indeed greater than the earth. But Narayana observed, "But since all the water in the oceans was drunk by the sage Agasthya in one gulp, who do you think is greater, water or Agasthya?" Narayana obviously had something in his mind. Narada had to but agree that Agasthya was greater. Afterall the person who could drink all of the ocean's water in one gulp had to be greater than water! But Narayana had more in store. After Narada was convinced that Sage Agasthya was the greatest, Narayana quipped, Agasthya is but a star in the sky. In the vast firmament, Agasthya is merely twinkling as a small star! Is not the firmament greater than the star then?"
Again, Narada had to agree with Narayana. He was now convinced that the firmament was greater than Agasthya. But Narayana obviously wanted to teach Narada something and did not stop with that. He then said, In My Avatar as Vaamana I had covered the entire earth and sky with just one foot of Mine. So is the firmament greater or My foot?
Narada replied, 'Your Foot, Lord. That is greater. Narayana then asked, "If My foot itself is so great, am I not greater than My foot?" Narada was beginning to get the Lord's point. He nodded in agreement. Narayana then observed, "Although I am great, I am confined in the hearts of My devotees. So, dear Narada, My devotees are greater than Myself. And therefore, wherever My devotees sing My Name I am there".
When Durvasa muni approaches Lord Vishnu to protect him from Sudarshana cakra, Lord assures the same in Srimad Bhagavatam verse 9.4.63 also.
shri-bhagavaan uvaaca
aham bhakta-paraadheeno / hy asvatantra iva dvija
saadhubhir grasta-hrdayo / bhaktair bhakta-jana-priyah
The Supreme Personality of Godhead said to the brahman?a: I am completely under the control of My devotees. Indeed, I am not at all independent. Because My devotees are completely devoid of material desires, I sit only within the cores of their hearts. What to speak of My devotee, even those who are devotees of My devotee are very dear to Me.
Lord Siva the greatest Vaishnava, also tells us the mantra about association of devotees in Srimad Bhagavatam verse 4.24.57 as follows.
kshanaardhenaapi tulaye / na svargam naapunar-bhavam
bhagavat-sangi-sangasya / martyaanaam kim utaashisah
"If one by chance associates with a devotee, even for a fraction of a moment, he no longer is subject to attraction by the results of karma or jnaana. What interest then can he have in the benedictions of the demigods, who are subject to the laws of birth and death?"
In the purport, Srila Prabhupada has wonderfully explained "As stated in Srimad-Bha gavatam (1.2.6): yayaa tmaa supraseedati. One can be fully satisfied simply by devotional service, and that is the result of association with a devotee. Without being blessed by a pure devotee, no one can be fully satisfied, nor can anyone understand the transcendental position of the Supreme Personality of Godhead."
We all must have personally experienced the change after associating with Maharaj and our wonderful devotees. At times, I am really surprised how small kids who are in the nursery they recite all the toughest slokas with perfect pronunciation. These kids are able to sit in the Bhagavatam classes for hours together understanding Bhagavatam in their own devotional way. As Srila Prabhupada explains in his 12.18-19 purport about the devotees. He is very patient. He does not speak of anything but the topics about Krishna; therefore he is called silent. Silent does not mean that one should not speak; silent means that one should not speak nonsense. One should speak only of essentials, and the most essential speech for the devotee is to speak for the sake of the Supreme Lord.
Whenever we would want to communicate with devotees, we just need to apply this rule, "Am I talking sense or nonsense?"
Thank you very much,
Yours in the service of Srila Prabhupada and Gurudev,
Sri Purushottam Krishna Das and Sharada Devi Dasi,
Bangalore
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Thanks to Sri Purushottam Krishna Prabhu and Sharada Devi mataji for sharing the nice pastime with references from Srimad Bhagavatham.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited
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Does the lion ever have bad breath?
One lion was residing in the jungle. One day he killed a young deer. He ate it and still he was not satisfied. So, the lion thought for a plan. He went and sat leisurely beside a huge tree. Meanwhile, a sheep was passing by. The Lion asked the sheep, "O sheep, tell me the truth. Does my mouth have bad breadth? Lion opened his mouth, and sheep replied "Yes, O king, your mouth has a bad breadth."
Lion was angry and said "what did you say? Does anyone say that to king of the jungle. Do you have etiquettes or not?"
Saying so, the lion slapped the sheep with his paws and the sheep lost her life. After a while, a jackal was passing by. The lion asked him, "O jackal, tell me the truth. Does my mouth have bad breadth?"
Saying so, the lion opened his mouth. Jackal thought "If I say that your mouth smells, then angrily the lion will tear me apart." At that moment, the jackal saw the dead sheep.Seeing this, the jackal said "O king, can your mouth ever have bad breadth? Your mouth does not stink of flesh even a bit." The lion furiously said "I just now ate a young deer and I have not even drank water. How is it possible that my mouth does not stink? You have lied and there is no place for a liar in my kingdom."
Saying this, the lion slapped the jackal with his paws and sent him to the abode of Yamaraj.
After a while, a fox was passing by. The lion called him and asked. "O fox tell me the truth. Does my mouth has bad breadth. The fox saw that the sheep and the jackal were lying dead near the lion. Fox went near the lion and smelled his mouth. Then he kept his hand on his head and raising the nose he said, "O king please forgive me. I have such bad cold that I cannot even understand whether your mouth has bad breadth or not?" Hearing this, the lion was bewildered. He did not know what to do. Meantime, the fox bowed down and quickly walked off.
Moral: One has to deal intelligently with people who have power
--- A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada
Thanks to Tripti Madhavi Devi mataji for sharing the nice story.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited.
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Alexander The Great
Alexander, after conquering many kingdoms, was returning home. On the way, he fell ill and it took him to his death bed. With death staring him in his face, Alexander realized how his conquests, his great army, his sharp sword and all his wealth were of no consequence. He now longed to reach home to see his mother's face and bid her his last adieu.
But, he had to accept the fact that his sinking health would not permit Him to reach his distant homeland. So, the mighty conqueror lay prostrate and pale, helplessly waiting to breathe his last.
He called his generals and said, "I will depart from this world soon, I have three wishes, please carry them out without fail."
With tears flowing down their cheeks, the generals agreed to abide by their king's last wishes.
"My first desire is that", said Alexander, "My physicians alone must carry my coffin."
After a pause, he continued, "Secondly, I desire that when my coffin is being carried to the grave, the path leading to the graveyard be strewn with gold, silver and precious stones which I have collected in my treasury".
The king felt exhausted after saying this. He took a minute's rest and continued. "My third and last wish is that both my hands be kept dangling out of my coffin".
The people who had gathered there wondered at the king's strange wishes. But no one dared bring the question to their lips..
Alexander's favorite general kissed his hand and pressed them to his heart. "O king, we assure you that your wishes will all be fulfilled. But tell us why do you make such strange wishes?"
At this Alexander took a deep breath and said: "I would like the world to know of the three lessons I have just learnt.
Lessons to learn from last 3 wishes of King Alexander...
I want my physicians to carry my coffin because people should realize that no doctor can really cure any body. They are powerless and cannot save a person from the clutches of death. So let not people take life for granted.
The second wish of strewing gold, silver and other riches on the way to the graveyard is to tell People that not even a fraction of gold will come with me. I spent all my life earning riches but cannot take anything with me. Let people realize that it is a sheer waste of time to chase wealth.
And about my third wish of having my hands dangling out of the coffin, I wish people to know that I came empty handed into this world and empty handed I go out of this world".
With these words, the king closed his eyes. Soon he let death conquer him and breathed his last. . .
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited
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The devas, the celestial beings, had all the comforts they could aspire for and led a life of pleasure. Though they were free from hunger, thirst, old age and death, they were not really happy. They felt that they lacked something. So, they decided to seek advice and guidance from Prajapati Brahma. They all left for the abode of Brahma.
Unlike their counterparts in heaven, The maanavas – human beings were leading a hard life. They toiled hard to obtain money. But, on no account, would they part with what they had gained. Yet, despite all the riches they had earned and stored away, they, too, were far from happy. They also felt they lacked contentment and peace of mind. So, they decided to approach Prajapati Brahma for guidance.
The asuras (demons) meanwhile inspired fear among both the human beings and devas. They too were overcome by a feeling of dissatisfaction. Although they were powerful and feared by all, they were not at all happy. They too decided to go to Prajapati Brahma for guidance.
The demigods, demons and humans simultaneously reached the abode of Prajapati Brahma. They unanimously asked him for a solution to their discontentment and absence of peace from their lives. Prajapati Brahma just uttered one symbol – "da" .
Everyone was perplexed. They contemplated on what it could mean. They concluded that it was the first syllable of a secret word which would be an answer to the problems faced by them. They all left for their respective homes to ponder over the syllable.
On returing to heaven, the devas were about to resume their life of pleasure , when one deva got up and said, "I ve got it. I know what 'da' means. It means 'damyata', which means that we have to exercise self control." All the devas put aside their pleasures. Then they began to practise self control and experienced a satisfaction never known before.
The humans, meanwhile had also gone back to their work. As a group of farmers were sitting next to a huge pile of their harvest grain, they noticed a few birds trying to eat the grains. The men were angered and one man got up and was about to fling a stone at the birds, when he had a realization dawned on him. He exclaimed that he had understood the meaning of the syllable 'da'. He said that it meant 'datta', meaning to give away. They decided to stop hoarding and allowed the birds to eat the grain. They began practicing charity and realised that there was a joy in giving away and gave away whatever they can.
When the demons were about to resume their activities by tormenting others, they suddenly felt that the syllable "da" indicated 'dayaadhvam', meaning compassion. They stopped tormenting others and started being merciful to other beings. Their hearts were filled with a new kind of joy that they had never experienced before. They concluded that Prajapati Brahma wanted them to practice compassion.
The above story reminds us of a beautiful verse from Srimad Bhagavatam (SB 4.31.19)
Thanks to Krpana Vatsala Krsna Prabhu (Abu Dhabi) for sharing the nice story / pastime.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited
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Story of Govinda - Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu's servitor
Letter to: Satsvarupa -- Los Angeles 14 November, 1968
The story is like this: Caitanya Mahaprabhu after taking His lunch would rest for a while and Govinda was daily massaging His feet. So one day Caitanya Mahaprabhu fell asleep very soon and keeping His head on the threshold. So while He was sleeping, Govinda came crossing the body of Caitanya and massaged His Feet. But he was sitting there, so when Caitanya Mahaprabhu was awake He saw that Govinda was sitting there although it was too late. So He inquired, "Govinda, you have not taken your Prasadam, you are sitting here?'' So he replied, "Yes, I shall go now to take Prasadam.'' Caitanya Mahaprabhu inquired, "Why so late?'' He replied, "I could not go on the other side because You were lying on the threshold.'' Caitanya Mahaprabhu said, "How did you come in?'' He flatly replied, "By crossing You.'' Then He inquired, "Why did you not go out by crossing Me?'' Govinda said, "That I cannot do. I came crossing You inside the room for Your service, but I cannot go out crossing You for taking my lunch. That would be for my sense gratification.'' The idea is for service of the superior sometimes such violation appears to be in the scene. Ramanujacarya violated the order of the Spiritual Master to advance the cause of the Spiritual Master. The Spiritual Master's mission was to deliver fallen souls, therefore Ramanujacarya considered that if the mantra was so powerful to deliver the persons, why not deliver it to everyone as soon as possible. That was a little tactic to advance the cause of the Spiritual Master. So everything has to be judged by the motive, and as the motive of such apparent violation was very good, Ramanuja's Spiritual Master embraced him. This is not actually violating the order of the Spiritual Master. But such actions are very rarely to be done.
Thanks to Tripti Madhavi Devi mataji for sharing the nice story.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited.
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Dads Blessings
A young man was getting ready to graduate from college. For many months he had admired a beautiful sports car
in a dealer's showroom, and knowing his father could well afford it, he told him that was all he wanted.
As Graduation Day approached, the young man awaited signs that his father had purchased the car.
Finally, on the morning of his graduation, his father called him into his private study.
His father told him how proud he was to have such a fine son, and told him how much he loved him.
He handed his son a beautifully wrapped gift box. Curious, but somewhat disappointed, the young man
opened the box and found a lovely, leather-bound Bible, with the young man's name embossed in gold.
Angry, he raised his voice to his father and said "With all your money, you give me a Bible?"
and stormed out of the house, leaving the Bible.
Many years passed and the young man was very successful in business. He had a beautiful home and wonderful
family, but realized his father was very old, and thought perhaps he should go to him. He had not seen him
since that graduation day. Before he could make arrangements, he received a telegram telling him his father
had passed away, and willed all of his possessions to his son. He needed to come home immediately
and take care of things.
When he arrived at his father's house, sudden sadness and regret filled his heart.
He began to search through his father's important papers and saw the still new Bible, just as he had left
it years ago. With tears, he opened the Bible and began to turn the pages. And as he did, a car key dropped
from the back of the Bible. It had a tag with the dealer's name, the same dealer who had the sports car he
had desired. On the tag was the date of his graduation, and the words PAID IN FULL.
How many times do we miss answers to our prayers because they do not arrive exactly as we have expected?
Thanks to Tripti Madhavi Devi mataji for sharing the nice story.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited.
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THE TIGER AND THE MONKEY A STORY TOLD BY LORD RAMACHANDRA
HH Sri Srimad Gour Govinda Swami Maharaja
The Ramayana describes how Lord Rama built a bridge and crossed the ocean to Lanka. Before the battle with Ravana began, Ravana's youngest brother Vibhishan came to take shelter of Rama. Rama immediately gave him shelter. That is the duty of a king, a ksatriya. If someone seeks shelter, you must give him protection. But the advisors of Lord Rama said, "No! Don't give him shelter. He's from the enemy's camp. He has come here as a spy." Lord Rama then told his advisors a story:
Once, a man was passing through a dense jungle. In that forest were many tigers, lions, and ferocious animals. One tiger came to attack that man, so he climbed a tree and saved his life. But the tiger had developed greed to drink human blood. So the tiger sat down underneath the tree to wait. He then noticed a monkey in the tree. He told that monkey, "You are my brother. This human is your enemy. When you jump from one tree to another to get fruit, the human beats you and throws stones at you. And when you come down to the ground he sends his dog to catch you. Also, human beings cut down trees. So they are your constant enemy. You should understand this. You are very intelligent; you are my brother and my friend. Don't stay with such an enemy. It is very dangerous. Push that man down from the tree. I am hungry. If you do this then I'll get food. I'll satisfy my hunger and our friendship will remain forever. I'll be very, very grateful to you."
The monkey replied, "O my brother tiger, I understand what you have said. But the human being has dharma. Although I am an animal with no dharma, still my conscience says that it is wrong to put one in danger who is trying to save himself."
Then the tiger thought of another plan. He gave assurance to the man, "O my brother, you have dharma, you are a human being. Is it not your dharma that you should give food to one who is very hungry? I am very hungry now, you must give food to a hungry jîva. You should push down this monkey, then I'll get food. The man thought, "Yes, very good", and he pushed down the monkey, who fell in front of the tiger. But the tiger didn't eat him and the monkey climbed back up the tree. The tiger had developed greed to drink human blood, so he didn't eat the monkey. No one eats the flesh of a monkey.
Then the tiger said, "O my brother monkey, you see, we are friends! I didn't harm you. I spared you because we are friends. But see what that irreligious man did. He pushed you down right in front of me. So now you should push him down so that I can satisfy my hunger, and thereby he will get a good lesson. The monkey said, "This man may be adharmic. Although I am only an animal, I am not adharmic. I cannot do this."
It is considered that the human birth is a rarely achieved, superior birth. But they have a history of irreligiousness which is not even found in the society of animals.
Bhagavan Ramachandra told this story, and said, "This is my mission. I have come to establish ideal behavior in human society." Therefore he is known as maryâdâ-purusottama, the topmost example of and enjoyer of Vedic propriety. He never transgressed veda-maryâdâ, Vedic regulation and etiquette. Lord Ramachandra was the ideal king, father, son, friend, brother, and husband. He was ideal in every respect.
Lord Ramachandra said, "If someone comes to take shelter of me, I never think of his past history. I immediately give him shelter. Vibhishan has taken shelter of me. I have given him shelter and he is our friend. No one should have any doubt about him. He has been made the commander-in-chief." This is the nature of Lord Ramachandra.
— From a class on Srîmad Bhâgavatam. Bhubaneswar. 6 February 1995.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited.
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Five Lessons from a Pencil - HH Sacinandana Swami
When I was walking today, on the Island Mali Losinj, I felt my mind
reach out over the blue sea to an island shimmering in the distance.
When my mind returned, it brought a story with it, a story of
spiritual instruction. Strange are the ways of inspiration.
Here is the story:
When Mohan returned from his journey to Jagannatha Puri, he was a
changed man. Those who had never met him were impressed with his
character, but those who had known him before were suspicious. Why was
Mohan so clear-minded and suddenly so happy? There seemed to be no
good reason, because while Mohan was on his way to Puri, his spiritual
master, Gurudeva, had left his body.
Mohan had become Gurudeva's disciple while they were both in the
Himalayas near Devaprayag. Mohan was a slow learner, and he had been
too busy with his agricultural fields and his two cows to spend much
time on spiritual practices. Still, he had a deep interest in the
spiritual tradition of his fathers, so he had continued to go from
time to time to learn from Gurudeva.
Then misfortune struck twice. First, Mohan's wife died from
tuberculosis. Second, the cows, who were as good as dependent
children, as the couple had none, were killed by a tiger one day.
Mohan was grief-stricken to have lost so much within one year.
Then Gurudeva asked Mohan to accompany him to Puri. While inviting
Mohan, Gurudeva had looked long into Mohan's eyes and said
mysteriously, "There is an ocean at Puri. I feel that my ship will
come and take me back to the land of my origin."
Mohan could not understand what that meant. He knew that Gurudeva was
from South India, but why would he want to return to South India from
Puri by ship? There were more comfortable ways to travel.
As Gurudeva and Mohan were walking to Puri, Gurudeva continued on
occasion to mention the ship that would take him to the land of his
birth and Mohan continued to think that Gurudeva would probably find
it more convenient to travel by train. But he did not suggest this to
his master; he did not think his guru's travel plans his business and
did not want to be presumptuous.
When they finally reached the town of Puri, the aged guru showed Mohan
many holy sites, but the most impressive among them was the Jagannatha
temple, home of the Lord of the universe. They always entered the
Lord's home through the eastern gate, the lion gate.
Two weeks after their arrival, Gurudeva contracted a fever that
wracked his aged frame. It was then that Mohan finally understood what
Gurudeva had been trying to tell him. The day after Ratha-yatra,
Gurudeva called Mohan to his side. His feverish eyes were filled with
joy as he said in a tremulous voice, "My ship has come, my son. Sing
our Lord's names to create the wind that will carry me to my eternal
home." Then Gurudeva himself lovingly called out "He Gopal!" and rode
the receding wave back to the spiritual world.
Mohan helped carry his spiritual master's body to the Svarga-dvara,
where he was cremated and his ashes were thrown into the sacred ocean.
Then he returned to his home village near Devaprayaga.
People had heard the news of Gurudeva's departure, of course, and
that's why they now suspected Mohan's happiness. Mohan had lost his
wife, his two cows, and now his guru within one year. He had also lost
his home; the land he had been working had not been his own, and he
had only been able to pay the rent on it by selling the milk from his
two cows.
Rumors began to circulate. The worst accused Mohan of poisoning his
guru to take his money. Finally, two of the villagers confronted
Mohan: "There is something you have not told us. The villagers have
sent us to discover how you can be so happy in the face of so much
traumatic loss."
Mohan was grateful to have the opportunity to talk about what was
inspiring him. His life had changed because of a lesson Gurudeva had
given him just a week before his departure. Actually, Gurudeva had
given him more than verbal instruction—he had given him a pencil.
The sun was beginning to set and the temperature was dropping. Mohan
invited the two men into his cottage. With uncertainty, they followed
him into his hut and took the seats he proffered them next to the
fire. Then he began.
"Please listen carefully to what Gurudeva taught me. It has changed my
life. I thank you for allowing me to speak about it. After you have
had the chance to hear and think about what I am about to tell you,
please explain it to the other villagers. The gift of a pencil can
change everyone's life here.
"Gurudeva noticed quite early in our relationship that I was a slow
learner. Although the Lord had taken everything from me, I remained
attached to my material plans. Only when Gurudeva invited me to
accompany him to Puri, where he said a ship awaited him, was I
prepared to leave our village and experience something new. I felt he
needed help on his journey, and since I had nothing left here, I
thought, 'Why shouldn't I carry his bag?'
"But he became ill in Puri. He was preparing for his 'ship journey'
home. Not long before he died he gave me an envelope and said, 'Open
this only after I have boarded my ship.'
"After his death I opened the envelope and found a pencil and a
handwritten message. I will read this message to you; Gurudeva wrote
it with his own hand and probably with this pencil: 'My dear disciple,
I feel I can best tell you what you need to know in life by way of an
analogy. You have not been the quickest of my students, but you have a
good heart and I feel you will learn what you need to learn if you
think deeply about this pencil.
"'The pencil teaches you to stop from time to time to sharpen your
tools, meaning your mind, body, and spirit. Just as a pencil needs to
be sharpened, so we need to sharpen ourselves by spiritual practice.
Only then can we become one-pointed enough to give full attention to
the Lord.
"'Second lesson: Don't be afraid to be yourself. Learn to make your
own contribution in life with joy. Each pencil has its particular line
to draw. This line will become words—specific words—and these words
form a unique mission, your own life story. Never be afraid to draw
your specific line, live your life.
"'Third: The pencil teaches you that what is inside is more important
than what is outside—in other words, that the soul is more important
than the body. When we have a pencil we value the graphite at its
center more than the dead wood that surrounds it. Never forget that
you are an eternal soul inhabiting a temporary body, just as the
graphite and the message it can create inhabit the wood.
"'Fourth: Whenever you make a mistake, correct it immediately. Every
good pencil —and this one is no exception—has an eraser at the end.
Whenever one makes a mistake with one end of the pencil, one can
immediately erase it with the other end. Learn from the pencil that it
is not dishonorable to correct mistakes. No, correcting your mistakes
is actually your duty. It should be done as soon as you notice the
mistake. Truthfully, it is not only a duty to correct mistakes but an
honor.
"'Fifth: You may do big things in life, but never forget the hand that
guides you. Just as the pencil is never proud, thinking how it has
written a book, so we should always give credit to God and strive to
become humble and willing instruments by surrendering to His plan.
"'My dear disciple, think daily about my gift to you—the five lessons
of the pencil. As you apply these teachings, you will see their wisdom
unfolding more and more. Ultimately, you will be guided to much
greater teachings than the ones the pencil can give you. At that time
you might like to make a gift of the pencil to another spiritual
learner who is slow but who has a good heart.
"'Always your well-wisher,
Jagannatha-nandana Swami, whom you know as Gurudeva.'"
Mohan looked up from the piece of paper on which Gurudeva had written
his simple message. "Now you know why I am so happy," he said in a
voice trembling with emotion. "I am practicing Gurudeva's teachings
and am making new discoveries every day. If the villagers have
questions, they are welcome to ask me."
From that day on several villagers a day came to Mohan's cottage and
asked for spiritual advice. Somehow, Mohan was able to give them
realized answers. He had made it a point to sharpen his tools of body,
mind, and spirit by regularly chanting God's holy names and reading
holy books. But the simple lessons of the pencil worked wonders for
everyone in the village.
Soon, one of the mountain people wrote down these five lessons, showed
his work to Mohan, and asked him to make any necessary corrections. On
his next visit to Haridwar, this man asked a friend who owned a simple
hand-printing shop to print them.
These five lessons contain nothing less than the profound wisdom of
the ancient Vedic culture, offered in a format that is simple to apply
and that gives immediate benefits. Therefore, these quaint slips of
paper were copied and recopied, and those who applied them saw their
lives miraculously uplifted.
Here are the five lessons of the pencil for you:
· Lesson 1: Regenerate regularly—physically, mentally and spiritually.Live in sattva.
· Lesson 2: Discover and execute your unique mission and purpose. Live your dharma.
· Lesson 3: Always remain connected with your deepest self, the soul.Live in the atma.
· Lesson 4: Listen to your conscience and correct mistakes. Stay with the higher connection, guided by the paramatma.
· Lesson 5: Develop your love for God. Live in bhakti.
Epilogue
My own spiritual master, Srila Prabhupada, gave me a "pencil"—simple
instructions by which I could change my life. Three years before he
passed away, he called me into his room and gave me the opportunity to
serve him in a menial way. At that time he told me, "You should be a
good disciple, a good teacher, a servant who helps others in their
spiritual development, and you should be autonomous in your spiritual
life—fully dependent on Krsna."
I pray these instructions form my life forever.
Sacinandana Swami
Thanks to SriGurusevanandini mataji (Chennai) for sharing the nice story. Thanks to HH Sacinandan Swami maharaja for this nice story.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited.
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When Dharmaraja Yudhishthira was ruling over Indraprastha, one day a Brahmin
came to meet him. He met Dharmaraja, and after a while he returned back. As
the Brahmin was going out of the main gate, Bhimasena saw him. He saw the
Brahmin while going in also, but he did not talk to the Brahmin because it
was usual for several people to come and seek from Dharmaraja what they
wanted. But this Brahmin was empty and did not appear to have received
anything from his elder brother.
So Bhimasena asked him, Sir, you are returning empty handed. Have you met
my brother? Or shall I take you to him?
The Brahmin was happy at this courteous enquiry from Bhima. He replied,
Yes, I met your brother. As he did not have with him what I asked
immediately now, he asked me to come tomorrow. He promised to keep it ready
by tomorrow.
Bhimasena was surprised. His elder brother postponing a good deed till the
next day! He thought over for a minute and smiled. He went near the big drum
kept at the main gate and started beating the drum thunderously. The drum at
the main gate was not usually used. It was meant for special occasions when
something very important happened and all had to be immediately informed of
it. When the big drum was beaten, it was a summon for all in the palace to
stop doing whatever work they might be engaged in and rush to the main gate.
When the drum went on sending loud sounds played by the powerful hand of
Bhimasena, Dharmaraja hurried towards the main gate from the court, Draupadi
from the kitchen, Arjuna from his weapons, the twins from their studies, all
people big and small gathered there. Still Bhimasena did not stop beating
the drum. In great ecstasy he was playing with vigour, until Dharmaraja put
a hand over his shoulders and said, Stop it, Bhimasena. All of us are here.
Now tell us why you summoned us all here.
Bhimasena saluted his elder brother and then turned towards the others who
gathered there. I have gathered you all here to make an announcement about
the greatest victory obtained by our elder brother here. The victory is so
great that all of us should rejoice and celebrate it.
Dharmaraja was surprised. What victory was Bhima talking of? Today he did
not even leave the palace. He asked in bewilderment, What are you talking,
Bhima? I did not have any victory at all.
Bhima laughed and said, Let me announce your victory. Hear you all, my
brothers and kinsfolk; today our brother conquered the unconquerable death.
Who else can have greater victory? When the Brahmin asked for some favour,
our elder brother promised to keep it ready by tomorrow. Now, our brother is
sure that he will be alive till tomorrow.
As soon as he heard the words of Bhima, Dharmaraja understood what his
mistake was. He admitted his mistake and said, Yes Bhima, you were correct
to remind me. Postponement of good deeds is very bad. I should not have done so.
He took the Brahmin inside and gave what all he wanted and sent him away fully satisfied
Thanks to Tripthimadhavi mataji for sharing the nice story. Thanks to HG Sudhir Caitanya prabhu for this nice story.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited.
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Once a hungry wolf was in search of his prey. He spotted a goat. He thought, "Oh! It will be wonderful to have this fat goat as my meal."
The goat seeing the wolf started to run. Before the poor goat can escape, the wolf pounced and instantly killed him. He started to enjoy the flesh of the goat. While relishing the flesh of the goat, suddenly he felt pain in his throat. He thought "It is a piece of bone of the goat. It is neither coming out nor going in. I am helpless. It is hurting me. It I try to eat it pain me even more."
Then he spotted a crane. He taught, "This crane has a long beak. Let me take his help to remove the bone that is stuck in my throat. I can than enjoy the goat's flesh.
The wolf approached crane and said, "My dear crane do not worry. I will not harm you. I need your help. If you help me, than I will gift you something very useful. The crane said "What help do you want from me?"
The wolf replied, "There is a painful bone stuck in my throat. Can you please remove it with your long beak."
The crane said "I will remove the bone piece but you will have to reward me nicely."
The wolf opened his mouth wide. The crane immediately pulled out the bone piece.
Swiftly the wolf started to walk away. The crane told the wolf "Hey! Where is my gift? You are not even thanking me for relieving you of the painful bone."
The wolf replied, "Thank me that I let you go alive. If you want the reward then you will have to eneter my stomach."
Crane replied, "Forget the gift. I better save my life."
Moral: Expect no reward for serving the wicked. A materialistic is attached to his sense enjoyment. In order to enjoy, he will make friend with everyone. Once his work is done he will not keep his word. He will threaten and even kill the person who has helped him if that satisfied his senses. Never put faith on the materialist who is always attached to his senses.
Thanks to Sidu Prabhu for sharing the nice story.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited.
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Krishna Katha - Story for meditation - 21/05/2010 - neglect the mind
Once Buddha was walking from one town to another town with a few of his followers. This was in the initial days. While they were traveling, they traveling, they happened to pass a lake. They stopped there and Buddha told one of his disciples, "I am thirsty. Do get me some water from that lake there." The disciple walked up to the lake. When he reached it, he noticed that right at that moment, a bullock cart started crossing through the lake. As a result, the water became very muddy, very turbid. The disciple thought, "How can I give this muddy water to Buddha to drink!". So he came back and told Buddha, "The water in there is very muddy. I don't think it is fit to drink."
After about half an hour, again Buddha asked the same disciple to go back to the lake and get him some water to drink. The disciple obediently went back to the lake. This time too he found that the lake was muddy. He returned and informed Buddha about the same. After sometime, again Buddha asked the same disciple to go back. The disciple reached the lake to find the lake absolutely clean and clear with pure water in it. The mud had settled down and the water above it looked fit to be had.. So he collected some water in a pot and brought it to Buddha. Buddha looked at the water, and then he looked up at the disciple and said, "See what you did to make the water clean. You let it be. and the mud settled down on its own - and you got clear water. Your mind is also like that! When it is disturbed, just neglect it. Give it a little time. It will settle down on its own. You don't have to put in any effort to calm it down. It will happen. It is effortless."
Srila Prabhupada writes a punching statement in his purport to SB 5.11.17: "There is one easy weapon with which the mind can be conquered — neglect." If we neglect its useless demands it will calm down. If we keep encouraging it to demand more and more, then it will eat us away.
Our real test for devotional service is not based on how we behave when things are going favourably, but on how we react in adverse situations. If we are getting angry, agitated or blaming each other then it is a sure warning sign for us from the Lord to wake up to our senses and sincerely endeavour to improve our behaviour - and take shelter of the 2 important qualities - peace and patience, which the Lord is insisting to the demigods, when they took shelter of Him in fighting with the demons in the pastime of churning the milk ocean.
In Srimad Bhagavatam verse 8.6.24, the Lord says,
yuyam tad anumodadhvam / yad icchanty asuraah suraah
na samrambhena sidhyanti / sarvaarthaah saantvayaa yathaa
"My dear demigods, with patience and peace everything can be done, but if one is agitated by anger, the goal is not achieved. Therefore, whatever the demons ask, agree to their proposal."
Thanks to Kalacakra Krsna Prabhu and Sudarshana devi mataji (from granthraj yahoo group)
for sharing the nice story.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited.
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Krishna Katha - Story for meditation - 28/05/2010 - Krishna's mercy
There was one sincere devotee. One day Krishna was very pleased with his devotional service and appeared in front of the devotee. Krishna told the devotee to join Him for a walk in the town. Taking the form of Brahmanas, both walked on the street. Krishna told the devotee that He is very hungry. On the way they saw a house of a rich merchant. The merchant was giving a feast as he was very happy due to the money he earned in his new business. Krishna and devotee entered in the house and requested for some food. The merchant saw them and got very angry with his watchman for allowing the poor Brahmanas in the house. Both were asked to leave immediately. After coming out of the house, Krishna said "I bless this merchant so that he gets more wealth". The devotee was surprised but did not say anything. They went further and saw one Sanyasi on the boundary of the town. Both approached him and requested for some food. Sanyasi had one roti with him. He said "I have this one roti in prasadam. We will share this one. I also have a cow so I will get you a glass of milk. That should fill your stomach". After taking prasadam and milk, both thanked the Sanyasi and left. After walking some distance, Krishna said "Let this Sanyasi's cow be stolen tonight".
Now the devotee was bewildered. He said "Prabhu, how is it? You gave more money to the rich merchant who had thrown us out and You are taking away the cow from that poor Sanyasi."
Krishna replied "The rich merchant is very much caught in Karma that he is going to suffer after his death. So from his past good deeds, let him enjoy in this life. But the Sanyasi is already free from all Karma and very close to coming back to me. I do not want him to get attached to that cow and enter again in the cycle of birth and death".
Thanks to Paramanand Krishna prabhu and Laxmi Devi mataji (from granthraj yahoo group)
for sharing the nice story.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited.
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Krishna Katha - Story for meditation - 04/06/2010 - Tragedy or a Blessing?
Years ago in Scotland, the Clark family had a dream. Clark and his wife worked and saved, making plans for their nine children and themselves to travel to the United States. It had taken years, but they had finally saved enough money and had gotten passports and reservations for the whole family on a new liner to the United States.
The entire family was filled with anticipation and excitement about their new life. However, seven days before their departure, the youngest son was bitten by a dog. The doctor sewed up the boy but hung a yellow sheet on the Clarks' front door. Because of the possibility of rabies, they were being quarantined for fourteen days.
The family's dreams were dashed. They would not be able to make the trip to America as they had planned. The father, filled with disappointment and anger, stomped to the dock to watch the ship leave - without the Clark family. The father shed tears of disappointment and cursed both his son and God for their misfortune.
Five days later, the tragic news spread throughout Scotland - the mighty Tittanic had sunk. The unsinkable ship had sunk, taking hundreds of lives with it. The Clark family was to have been on that ship, but because the son had been bitten by a dog, they were left behind in Scotland.
When Mr. Clark heard the news, he hugged his son and thanked him for saving the family. He thanked God for saving their lives and turning what he had felt was a tragedy into a blessing.
Although we may not always understand, all things happen for a reason.
Thanks to Ramapiyare Prabhu for sharing the nice story.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited.
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Chanting the Holy Name
Chanting should never stop whether clean or not as Caitanya Mahaprabhu (who is the hidden avatar of Lord Krishna in the Kali Yuga) has taught us. Even if you are passing stool and urine - Hare Krishna Hare Krishna - you can still chant.
If anyone takes the Name of Rama, then Shree Hanuman goes to that place. There was once a person who never had time to chant the Name of the Lord. Narada Muni went and told him, "Why don't you chant the Name of the Supreme Lord?" He answered, "I have no time, I am always busy." (Hmm doesn't this rings a bell in many people today) Narada then asked him, "Are you always busy, even at the time of passing stool and urine?" That person said, "Oh, no, not at that time." Narada Muni told him, "Then at that you should chant." He replied, "That I can do."
When he went to pass stool, and he was chanting, "Hare Rama Hare Rama", Hanuman came at once. He was upset and thought, "This bogus person is impure, passing urine and stool." And he gave him a kick. Hanuman is so powerful that even if he would kick Ravana, Ravana would fall over. Even Kumbhakarna and Meghnath would not be able to bear his kick. However, when he kicked this person who was chanting Hare Krishna, it was though nothing had been done. Then Hanuman thought, "This is very wonderful! What happened? I have never seen anything like this. Although he is passing stool and urine and chanting, there is no difficulty or problem." He was in amazement. Then, in the evening, when he returned to Rama and knocked on the door, he heard Rama lamenting. Hanuman entered and asked, "Prabhu, why are you moaning?" Ramacandra told Hanuman that he had done this to Him. Hanuman asked, "O Prabhu, how could I have done this?" Ramacandra said, "You know that Nama and nami are both the same. When that person was passing stool and chanting, 'Rama Rama Rama', I went there in his heart. I was in his body. You kicked him, that kick came to My back, and now it has been broken. That is why I am moaning." Hanuman then told Ramacandra, "From today I will not ever do this."
Shree Caitanya Mahaprabhu did it as well. In the Caitanya Caritamrita there's an incident. Shree Caitanya Mahaprabhu once went to pass stool, and Gopala-guru was carrying water. Mahaprabhu caught hold of His tongue very tightly, and Gopal-guru, like a boy, asked, "Prabhu, why are you doing like so?" Mahaprabhu told him that His tongue was out of control. "When I am going to pass stool, this chanting of 'Hare Krishna Hare Krishna' will not stop. I want to stop, but it never stops. So I am doing like this." Gopala-guru told Mahaprabhu, "If anyone is going to die, and stool and urine are coming uncontrollably, should he not chant? I think it is better to chant." Mahaprabhu said, "Oh, you are not only Gopala. You are Gopala-guru." He left His tongue and began to chant. Anyone can do this. Here Mahaprabhu is telling that there are no rules and regulations. It is not that you should only chant in a certain way. It is not that you cannot chant sitting on a bed or walking. You can remember the Name, you can chant it, you can sing it - in any way you can do it.
(Ramayana)
As forwarded by Sudanitai Pr & Sudakar Pr
Thanks to Tripti Madhavi Devi mataji for sharing the nice story.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited.
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(This narration is based on an interview of Ustad Bismillah Khan , reported by Dr.Madhu Vasudevan of Malayala Manorama daily ) .
Ustad Bismillah Khan, the Shahnai maestro, had a personal encounter with Sri Krishna. In spite of being a Muslim, the legendary Ustad have had great respect for Sri.Krishna ; and that could have prompted the merciful Lord to appear in person .
Once Ustad Bismillah Khan was traveling by train from Jamdshedpur to Varanasy . It was a coal run passenger train and Ustad was traveling in the third class compartment . From an intermediate rural railway station , a young cowherd boy boarded the bogey in which Ustad was sitting . He was a dark and lean boy ; and he was holding a flute in his hands . Slowly the boy started playing his flute . The supreme quality of his music surprised the maestro Ustad who didn't even know the 'Raga' the boy was playing . Ustad Bismillah Khan immediately recognized that , the boy is none other than Sri Krishna , the Supreme God Himself . The nectarin Nada-Brahman ( Brahman in the form of music) flowing out of Krishna's flute filled Ustad's heart with ecstasy ; and tears of joy started pouring out of his eyes .
After the stunning performance , Ustad called the boy near and presented him with a coin requesting him to play the song again . Krishna obliged. This repeated again an again until Bismiillah Khan's wallet became empty. Young Krishna got down at the next railway station and disappeared .
In fact , Ustad was en route to participate in a music concert related to Kumbha mela ( a Hindu religious gathering of millions of devotees ) . In that concert , Ustad presented the newl 'Raga' ( which he learned that day from Krishna ) . This melodious 'raga' was greatly appreciated by the audience who begged Ustad to sing it many times . The music scholars around couldn't make out the name of the 'Raga' and they asked about it to Bismillah Khan . Ustad replied that the name of the Raga is 'Kanhaira' .
Next day's news papers contained headlines about the melodious new 'Raga' invented by Ustad Bismillah Khan . Having read it , Hariprasas Chaurasya, the legendary Musician (Flutist) , asked about 'Kanharira Raga's' details to Bismillah Khan . Ustad revealed the truth and sang Kanharira ; and Hariprakash Chaurasya , the topmost Flutist in the world , burst into tears of joy .
'Kanharira' is a divine gem in Indian music , as it originated from the lotus lips of Sri.Krishna , the God of Gods !!!.
Thanks to Manoj Prabhu (Melbourne) and Sri Krishna Hari Prabhu (Delhi) for sharing the nice pastime.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited.
===========================
The Cause of Greed
A man with his wife used to live very happily in their small hut. Very happy they were.
The man used to work all day long and get a pittance to make the two ends meet. He had no other
worldly ambition, no other desire, no feeling of envy or hatred, a good honest worker he was. He had a
neighbour who was a very wealthy man. This wealthy man was always immersed in anxiety, he
was never happy. A Vedantin monk once visited the houses of the rich man and his poor neighbour, and
told the rich man that the cause of his worry and anxiety was his possessions. His possessions
possessed him and kept him down, his mind wandering from this object to that. The monk
pointing to the poor neighbour said "Look at him, he owns nothing, but on his face you find the bloom
of happiness, and you find his muscles so strong and his arms so well built. He goes about in such a
happy, cheerful, jolly mood, humming tunes of joy." This happiness the rich man could never enjoy. He
had his property fashioned and moulded in the way other people liked it. Then the rich man wanted to
test the truth of the monk's remarks. According to the advice of the monk, the rich man stealthily threw
into the house of the poor man Rs. 99. The next day they saw that no fire was lit in the house of the poor
man. In the house of the poor man there used to be a good fire and they used to cook certain things
purchased with the money earned by dint of the poor man's labour. That night they found no fire in
the house, they did not cook anything;, they starved that night.
The next morning the monk taking the rich man with him went to the poor man and enquired
as to the cause of his not lighting fire in his house. The poor man could make no excuse in the
presence of the monk; he had to tell the truth. He said that before that he used to earn a few annas,
and with those few annas they used to purchase some flour and vegetables, and cook and eat them
but on that day when they lit no fire, they received a little box containing Rs.99. When they saw these Rs.
99, the idea came into their mind that there was only one rupee wanting to make them full Rs. 100. Now,
in order to make up that Re. 1, they found that they might forego food on alternate day, and thus they
might scrape up some annas and in a week or so would save up Re. 1, and thus they would have Rs.
100. Hence they were to starve. This is the secret of the niggardliness of the rich people.
The more they get the poorer they become. When they get Rs. 99, they want more, if they have Rs.
99,000, they want Rs. 1,00,000.
MORAL: The more you get, the more you become greedy, niggardly and less happy. Happiness lies not
in accumulation of wealth but in content only.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited.
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The whole world is a dharmashala
Being the ruler of Bharatvarsha and always being flattered by his ministers, Akbar became very proud and bit arrogant. Birbal was minister in Akbar's court and he was also a great devotee of Lord. As a well-wisher of Akbar, he wanted to teach him a lesson. So he disguised himself as a sadhu and dressed in torn clothes, he was lying in Akbar's garden. When Akbar saw him he thought how come his guards could allow this to happen in his garden and he walked over to that Sadhu and prodded him with the tip of his embroidered slipper.
"Here, fellow!" he cried. "What are you doing here? Get up and go away at once!"
That Sadhu opened his eyes. Then he sat up slowly. "Huzoor," he said in a sleepy voice. "Is this your garden, then?"
"Yes!" cried the Emperor. "This garden those rose bushes, the fountain beyond that, the courtyard, the palace, this fort, this empire, it all belongs to me!"
Slowly that Sadhu stood up. "And the river, Huzoor? And the city? And this country?"
"Yes, yes, it's all mine", said the emperor. "Now get out!"
"Ah", said the Sadhu. "And before you, Huzoor. Who did the garden and fort and city belong to then?"
"My father, of course", said the emperor. In spite of his irritation, he was beginning to get interested in the Sadhu's questions. He loved philosophical discussions and he could tell, from his manner of speaking, that the Sadhu was a learned man.
"And who was here before him?" the Sadhu asked quietly.
"His father, my father's father, as you know."
"Ah", said the Sadhu. So this garden, those rose bushes, the palace and the fort all this has only belonged to you for your lifetime. Before that they belonged to your father, am I right? And after yours time they will belong to your son, and then to his son?
"Yes", said the Emperor Akbar wonderingly.
"So each one stays here for a time and then goes on his ways?"
"Yes."
"Like a dharmashala?" the Sadhu asked. "No one owns a dharmashala. Or the shade of a tree on the side of a road. We stop and rest for a while and then go on. And someone has always been there before us and someone will always come after we have gone. Is that not so?"
"It is", Emperor Akbar quietly.
"So your garden, your palace, your fort, your empire... these are only places you will stay in for a time, for the span of your lifetime. When you die, they will no longer belong to you. You will go, leaving them in the possession of someone else, just as your father did and his father before him."
Emperor Akbar nodded. "The whole world is a dharmashala", he said slowly, thinking very hard. "In which we mortals rest awhile. That's what you are telling me, isn't it? Nothing on this earth can ever belong to a single person, because each person is only passing through the earth and must die one day?"
The Sadhu nodded solemnly. Then, bowing to the ground, he removed his white beard and saffron turban and his voice changed. "Jahanpanah, forgive me!" he said, in his normal voice. "It was my way of asking you to think about..."
Akbar realised his mistake and thanked Birbal (who was disguised as the sadhu), for helping him to understand the truths of life.
Thanks to Sudarshana devi mataji (from Granthraj) and Manoj Prabhu (Melbourne) for sharing the nice story.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited.
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Story from Panchatantra
Once there was a Brahmana who had a very nice garden and in that garden he grew so many nice things and when everybody asked who did this, the Brahmana was very happy and he proudly proclaimed, 'I did this. I did that. I have green fingers' so on and so forth. So he was very happy and for everything he was taking all the credit for himself. One day a cow entered the garden and started chewing all the plants. So the Brahmana was so angry that all his hard work is being destroyed. He took a stick and started beating the cow. A Brhamana is supposed to protect the cows but now he lost all his common sense. When you take credit for everything, you lose all common sense and you start beating those persons who are showing you the constructive reason why you should not take the credit. He beat the cow until it died. The village chief summoned him and told him that he was to be hanged for the crime. The Brahmana started thinking how to get out of this problem. He thought that there must be something in the scriptures to save him. The Brahmana approached the village chief and accepted that he beat the cow but he did not kill it. The village head wondered how it was possible. He started explaining, 'you see, in the shastras it is said that each part of the body is under the control of a demigod. Thus the demigod has a higher control. I am just an instrument. So it is Indra who is to be blamed because he is the presiding deity of the hand. 'Now word started spreading that Indra killed the cow, until it reached svargaloka and Indra got disturbed about this reverse publicity. He was wondering that he has never even seen the cow. Indra came down in the form of a small boy and walked into the garden of the Brahmana. He met the Brahmana and very much appreciated him for the beautiful garden. As usual the Brahmana started explaining how with hard endeavor he is watering and taking care of then plants. Eventually Indra got fed up and he said, 'Stop Brahmana. For everything you are saying that your hands has done everything. But when it comes to killing the cow, it is my hand that killed and not yours. This is absolute nonsense.'
When things are good we take credit for ourselves and not care about GOD. But when things are bad we try to blame others and pass the buck.
Thanks to Vaijayanthimala devi mataji (from Granthraj) for sharing the nice story.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited.
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Once a poor hermit went to the palace of Nawab for alms.
The man asked the security guard "I wish to see Nawab."
The guard replied "You will find him in prayer room. Go silently.
The hermit went to the prayer room and heard the Nawab praying.
The hermit thought "I will wait for him till he finishes his prayers."
The Nawab was just completing his prayers "My Lord! I beg you to please me with money."
The hermit said "Oh! I have come to wrong place" and he turned away. The Nawab said to the hermit "You came to me with some purpose.Why are you now going away?"
The man replied "I came for begging some money. But I saw you kneeling and begging to the Lord for money. So why should I beg from a beggar. Better I beg from the Lord."
Moral: Even if you have material desires, beg from Lord—the source of everything.
Thanks to Sidharth Prabhu for sharing the nice story.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited.
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The Real Poverty - Who is the poorest of the poor
A monk had some copper pieces and he wanted to give them away to the poorest man. Many poor people
came to him to get them, but he would not give them. Finally, there came before the monk a king
seated on an elephant. The monk threw the copper pieces into the howdah on the top of the elephant
where the king was seated. The king was astonished at this unexpected act of the monk. The monk said
the money was for him, the poorest man. The king enquired how he could be the poorest man. The
monk said he was the poorest man, because of his possessions and of his continual hunger and thirst
for more kingdoms. Hence he was the poorest man.
MORAL: The real poverty does not consist in want of riches but in an unsatiated want or greed for more and more.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited.
A howdah is an elephant mount, a carriage which is positioned on the back of an elephant used most often in the past to carry wealthy people or for use in hunting or warfare. It was also a symbol of wealth for the owner, and as a result was decorated with expensive gems.
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brahma-bhutah prasannatma
na socati na kanksati
samah sarvesu bhutesu
mad-bhaktim labhate param
"One who is thus transcendentally situated at once realizes the Supreme Brahman. He never laments or desires to have anything; he is equally disposed to every living entity. In that state he attains pure devotional service unto Me." (Bg. 18.54)
These are the signs of liberation. The first symptom of one who is liberated is that he is very happy. It is not possible to find him morose. Nor does he have any anxiety. He never frets, "This thing I don't have. Oh, I must secure this thing. Oh, this bill I have to pay. I have to go here, there." One who is liberated has no anxieties at all. He may be the poorest man in the world, but he neither laments nor thinks that he is poor. Why should he think that he is poor? When we think that we are these material bodies and that we have possessions to go with them, then we think that we are poor or rich, but one who is liberated from the material conception of life has nothing to do with possessions or lack of possessions. "I have nothing to lose and nothing to gain," he thinks. "I am completely separate from all this." Nor does he see anyone else as rich or poor, educated or uneducated, beautiful or ugly, etc. He does not see any material dualities, for his vision is completely on the spiritual platform, and he sees that every living entity is part and parcel of Krsna. Thus seeing all entities in their true identity, he tries to take them back to Krsna consciousness. His viewpoint is that everyone--whether he be brahmana or sudra, black or white, Hindu, Christian, or whatever--should come to Krsna consciousness. When one is situated in this way, then: mad-bhaktim labhate param--he becomes eligible for becoming a pure devotee of Krsna's.
caitanyacandre prakate yo dino dina eva sah
"A person who does not take advantage of the nectar of devotional service overflowing during the presence of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu's cult is certainly the poorest of the poor."
avatirne gauracandre vistirne prema-sagare
suprakasita-ratnaughe yo oino oina eva sah
"The advent of Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu is just like an expanding ocean of nectar. One who does not collect the valuable jewels within this ocean is certainly the poorest of the poor."
(c) 1991 by Bhaktivedanta Book Trust
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Soldier and Horse
We never know in what form death will arrive for us. Whether it is going to be
sudden heart-attack, prolonged illness, accident or anything worser. Whether we
would die in the morning or evening or when we are alone or when people are
around us. We simply don't have any clue. Only the sadhana and service that we
do throughout the life counts a lot for our consciousness at the end of our
life.
In this regard there is a short story about a soldier and a horse. The
soldier took utmost pains to care for the horse. As long as the war lasted, he
looked upon the horse as his fellow-helper in all emergencies and fed him
carefully with hay and corn. But when the war was over, he only allowed him to
eat chaff and made him carry heavy loads of wood and ill-treated him. War was
again pro-claimed. Then the soldier put on the horse, its military trapplings
and mounted being clad in his heavy coat. The horse fell down
straight-away owing to the weight, as it was no longer able to bear the burden
and said to his master - "You must now go to the war on foot - for you have
transformed me from a horse to an ass. How can you expect that I can again turn
in a moment from an ass to a horse ?"
Our senses are like the horse in the hands of the soldier. Like the soldier,
when there is some danger, we behave like a very good child of the Lord and pray
very sincerely. But the moment the danger vanishes, we just relax and hardly
care to nourish our senses spiritually. So in that situation, when danger/death
strikes suddenly how will it be possible to remember the Lord ? Gurudev always
recommends that - "To prevent any of the senses from losing its normal
capacity, we must keep them in constant use - specifically in use for Krishna".
He would also say, "The more we use our senses in Krishna's service, the longer
they will function properly. Because Krishna sees that we are using the senses
given by Him for what they are meant to be used, He will prolong their
lifespan."
Thanks to Sudarshana devi mataji (from Granthraj) for sharing the nice story.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited.
In Bhagavad Gita verse 8.5, Lord Krishna declares to Arjuna
anta-kaale ca maam eva / smaran muktvaa kalevaram
yah prayaati sa mad-bhaavam / yaati naasty atra samshayah
"And whoever, at the end of his life, quits his body, remembering Me alone, at
once attains My nature. Of this there is no doubt."
We might wonder what will happen if we remember something else. Lord clarifies our doubts in next verse as follows
yam yam vaapi smaran bhaavam / tyajaty ante kalevaram
tam tam evaiti kaunteya / sadaa tad-bhaava-bhaavitah
"Whatever state of being one remembers when he quits his body, O son of Kunti,
that state he will attain without fail."
There is a proverb that whatever we make as habit since we are in the cradle,will continue till our grave. So it is important that we practise bhakti right
from childhood. In his powerful purport to verse 8.5, Srila Prabhupada very nicely elaborates on the importance of smaran. He says -"Remembrance of Krishna
is not possible for the impure soul who has not practised Krishna consciousness in devotional service. Therefore one should practise Krishna consciousness from the very beginning of life. If one wants to achieve success at the end of his life, the process of remembering Krishna is essential. Therefore one should constantly, incessantly chant the maha-mantra
Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare
Hare Rama Hare Rama Rama Rama Hare Hare
=====================================================
The Story of Ramadasa Vipra
When Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu arrived at southern Mathura (Madhurai), He met a brahmana. The brahmana who met Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu invited the Lord to his home. This brahmana was a great devotee and an authority on Lord Sri Ramachandra. He was always detached from material activities. After bathing in the river Kritamala, Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu went to the brahmana's house to take lunch, but He saw that the food was unprepared
Seeing this, Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu said, "My dear sir, please tell Me why you have not cooked. It is already noon." The brahmana replied, "My dear Lord, we are living in the forest. For the time being we cannot get all the ingredients for cooking. When Laksmana brings all the vegetables, fruits and roots from the forest, Sita will do the necessary cooking." Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu was very much satisfied to hear about the brahmana's method of worship. Finally the brahmana hastily made arrangements for cooking. Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu took His lunch at about three o'clock, but the brahmana, being very sorrowful, fasted.
While the brahmana was fasting, Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu asked him, "Why are you fasting? Why are you so unhappy? Why are you so worried?" The brahmana replied, "I have no reason to live. I shall give up my life by entering either fire or water. My dear Sir, mother Sita is the mother of the universe and the supreme goddess of fortune. She has been touched by the demon Ravana, and I am troubled upon hearing this news. Sir, due to my unhappiness I cannot continue living. Although my body is burning, my life is not leaving." Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu replied, "Please do not think this way any longer. You are a learned pandita. Why don't you consider the case?"
Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu continued, "Sitadevi, the dearmost wife of the Supreme Lord Ramachandra, certainly has a spiritual form full of bliss. No one can see her with material eyes, for no materialist has such power. To say nothing of touching mother Sita, a person with material senses cannot even see her. When Ravana kidnapped her, he kidnapped only her material, illusory form. "As soon as Ravana arrived before Sita, she disappeared. Then just to cheat Ravana she sent an illusory, material form. Spiritual substance is never within the jurisdiction of the material conception. This is always the verdict of the Vedas and Puranas."
Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu then assured the brahmana, "Have faith in My words and do not burden your mind any longer with this misconception." Although the brahmana was fasting, he had faith in the words of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu and accepted food. In this way his life was saved.
After thus assuring the brahmana, Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu proceeded further into southern India and finally arrived at Durvasana, where He bathed in the river Kriamala. At Durvasana Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu visited the temple of Lord Ramachandra, and on the hill known as Mahendra-shaila He saw Lord Parasurama. Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu then went to Setubandha [Rameshwara], where He took His bath at the place called Dhanushtirtha. From there He visited the Rameshwara temple and then took rest.
There, among the brahmanas, Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu listened to the Kurma Purana, wherein was mentioned the chaste woman's narration. Srimati Sitadevi is the mother of the three worlds and the wife of Lord Ramachandra. Among chaste women she is supreme, and she is the daughter of King Janaka. When Ravana came to kidnap mother Sita and she saw him, she took shelter of the fire-god, Agni. The fire-god covered the body of mother Sita, and in this way she was protected from the hands of Ravana.
Upon hearing from the Kurma Purana how Ravana had kidnapped a false form of mother Sita, Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu became very much satisfied. The fire-god, Agni, took away the real Sita and brought her to the place of Parvati, goddess Durga. An illusory form of mother Sita was then delivered to Ravana, and in this way Ravana was cheated. After Ravana was killed by Lord Ramachandra, Sitadevi was brought before the fire and tested. When the illusory Sita was brought before the fire by Lord Ramachandra, the fire-god made the illusory form disappear and delivered the real Sita to Lord Ramachandra.
When Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu heard this story, He was very much pleased, and He remembered the words of Ramadasa Vipra. Indeed, when Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu heard these conclusive statements from the Kurma Purana, He felt great happiness. After asking the brahmanas' permission, He took possession of those manuscript leaves. Since the Kurma Purana was very old, the manuscript was also very old. Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu took possession of the original leaves in order to have direct evidence. The text was copied onto new leaves in order that the Purana be replaced.
Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu returned to southern Mathura [Madurai] and delivered the original manuscript of the Kurma Purana to Ramadasa Vipra. "When he was petitioned by mother Sita, the fire-god, Agni, brought forth an illusory form of Sita, and Ravana, who had ten heads, kidnapped the false Sita. The original Sita then went to the abode of the fire-god. When Lord Ramachandra tested the body of Sita, it was the false, illusory Sita that entered the fire. At that time the fire-god brought the original Sita from his abode and delivered her to Lord Ramachandra." Ramadasa Vipra was very much pleased to receive the original leaf manuscript of the Kurma Purana, and he immediately fell down before the lotus feet of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu and began to cry.
After receiving the manuscript, the brahmana, being very much pleased, said, "Sir, You are Lord Ramachandra Himself and have come in the dress of a sannyasi to give me audience. My dear Sir, You have delivered me from a very unhappy condition. I request that You take Your lunch at my place. Please accept this invitation. Due to my mental distress I could not give You a very nice lunch the other day. Now, by good fortune, You have come again to my home." Saying this, the brahmana very happily cooked food, and a first-class dinner was offered to Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu passed that night in the house of the brahmana. Then, after showing him mercy, the Lord started toward Tamraparni in Pandya-desa.
Thanks to Stoka Krishna prabhu for sharing the nice story.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited.
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How long one remains in lusty desires?
Srila Prabhupada's lecture - Vrindavana - DEC 10, 1975
Harikesa: Translation: "Persons with uncontrolled mind and senses become more and more attached in family life on account of never satiable lusty desires, which are very strong. The balance ten years of life of such madmen is also wasted because they cannot engage themselves in devotional service."
Prabhupada:
durapurena kamena
mohena ca baliyasa
sesam grhesu saktasya
pramattasyapayati hi
[SB 7.6.8]
So our lusty desires, sense gratification, cannot be satisfied even throughout the whole life. The account is being given of the whole life, hundred years. So out of hundred years, fifty years wasted by sleeping, twenty years wasted by playing like boy and young man, and twenty years as old man, diseased, invalidated, and balance ten years... Because ninety years he has been so much attached to materialistic way of life, naturally the balance ten years, sesam, he cannot utilize in any other way. He can simply engage himself in that lusty desire for material existence. Aduratmanena kamena. In this connection there is a very instructive story-it is fact-that the Emperor Akbar, he enquired from his minister... He had one very big minister; I forget just his name.
Devotee: Birbal.
Prabhupada: Birbal? Maybe. Yes. That "How long one remains in lusty desires?" This was Emperor Akbar's question, and the minister replied, "Up to the last point of death." So Akbar did not believe it. Akbar said, "No, no. How it can be?" So the minister said, "All right, I shall reply, time." So one day, all of a sudden, he approached the emperor and said, "Sir, you immediately be ready to come with me with your young daughter." So Akbar, he knew that this minister is very intelligent; there must be some purpose. She went with him, and he took him to a person who was going to die. And the minister asked the emperor that "You kindly study the man who is going to die, on his face." So in the Akbar (indistinct), and his young daughter was entering, the dying man was seeing to the face of the young girl. So Akbar-after all, he was emperor; he could study-he, that "Yes, Birbal, what he said, that up to the last point of death this desire is there to see the face of a young girl."
This is called durapurena. It is never fulfilled. This attraction of man and women in family life continues.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited.
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A Rumour Takes Wing
A pandit crossing a field felt that there was something in his mouth and spat it out. It turned out to be a heron's feather. He could not understand how it had got into his mouth and it perplexed him a great deal. When he reached home he told his wife about it but asked her not to tell anyone lest somebody put a bad interpretation on it.
His wife was even more intrigued by the strange occurrence and felt the need to confide in someone. So she swore her neighbour to secrecy and told her what had happened.
Perhaps it was the way she told it, but her neighbour got the impression that several feathers had come out of the pandit's mouth. She was shocked. However, she assured the woman that such things could happen and advised her not to worry about it.
"Please don't tell anyone," said the pandit's wife.
"My lips are sealed," said the woman. But she was longing to tell someone and when she saw the dhobi's wife going past, called her in and told her the whole story. Only, she made it sound as if a whole heron had come out of the pandit's mouth.
"Never have I heard of such a thing," said the dhobi's wife, her eyes popping with excitement, "and he being a vegetarian and all that, but one can never tell..."
She went away promising not to tell anyone but on the way she met her friend and the whole story sort of tumbled out of her mouth. Perhaps in her excitement she said 'herons' instead of 'heron' or perhaps her friend just imagined she had said herons but when she told her husband the story sometime later, she was emphatic that a whole flock of herons had come out of the pandit's mouth.
And as the story spread "herons" became "herons and other birds" and then "hundreds of birds of all shapes and sizes".
By evening the whole village and several other neighbouring villages had heard the story and people began to arrive in droves at the pandit's house to witness the miraculous happenings there.
The pandit steadfastly denied that any bird had come out of his mouth but nobody would believe him and everybody begged him to demonstrate his wonderful power of producing birds from his mouth.
Finally in exasperation, he asked them all to sit in front of his house and when they had done so ran out of the back and hid in the jungle where he remained several days till the excitement had died down and the people had realised that the news was false.."
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited.
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God Provides
A generous king once ruled in the land of Andhra. Every day two beggars used to come to him for alms and he always gave them food and money.
On receiving the alms one of them, the older one, used to say: "God provides." The other beggar, the younger of the two, would say: "Our king provides."
One day the king gave them more money than usual, whereupon the older man cried out lustily: "God provides." This annoyed the king who thought: "It is I who am feeding him and he keeps saying: 'God provides, God provides'. It is time he learnt who his real benefactor is."
The next day after he had given them alms he asked the beggars to go by a little-used road instead of their usual one.
"I have provided for one of you," he said. "God will provide for the other."
He made sure that the one who always praised him went first. He had ordered that a purse of gold be kept on the road in the beggar's path so that he would find it.
But as the beggar walked down the road he wondered why the king had sent him that way.
"Perhaps he wants me to enjoy the privacy of this road," he thought. "It is indeed a beautiful road and so broad. One can walk with eyes closed." And he closed his eyes. As a result he missed seeing the purse. It was spotted and picked up by the other beggar who was coming behind him.
The next day the king asked the beggars whether they had found anything on the road he had sent them by and he looked meaningfully at the younger man. But the beggar shook his head.
"It was a beautiful road," he said. "But I did not find anything on it."
"But I did," said the other man. "I found a purse of gold. God provides.".
Now the king became even more determined to show the older beggar that he was their true benefactor. So while the beggars were going away he called the younger one back and gave him a pumpkin.
The pumpkin had been hollowed out and filled with silver coins. But the beggar did not know that. On the way he sold it to a baniya for a few coins.
The next day the king asked the beggars if anything eventful had happened the previous day, looking meaningfully at the younger beggar.
"Nothing," said the beggar. "Except that I earned a few more coins than usual by selling the pumpkin you had so generously given me."
The king tried hard not to show his dismay.
"And you?" he said to the other beggar. "Did you too earn more than usual?"
"I certainly did," said the beggar. "As I was passing by a baniya's shop he called me and gave me a pumpkin. When I went home and cut it I found that it was full of silver. As I always say, God provides."
Thanks to Ramapiyare Prabhu for sharing the nice story.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited.
Katha Upanisad 2.2.13
nityo nityanam cetanas cetananam
eko bahunam yo vidadhati Kaman
nityah-the singular eternal; nityanam-of the plural eternals; cetanah-the singular conscious being; cetananam-of the plural conscious beings; ekah-that one; bahunam-of the many; yah-He who; vidadhati-supplies; kaman-all desired necessities of life.
The Supreme Lord is eternal and the living beings are eternal. The Supreme Lord is cognizant and the living beings are cognizant. The difference is that the Supreme Lord is supplying all the necessities of life for the many other living entities
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Triple Filter Test
In ancient Greece (469 - 399 BC), Socrates was widely lauded for his wisdom.
One day an acquaintance ran up to him excitedly and said, "Socrates, do you know what I just heard about Diogenes?"
"Wait a moment," Socrates replied, "Before you tell me I'd like you to pass a little test. It's called the Triple Filter Test."
'Triple filter?" asked the acquaintance.
"That's right," Socrates continued, "Before you talk to me about Diogenes let's take a moment to filter what you're going to say. The first filter is Truth. Have you made absolutely sure that what you are about to tell me is true?"
"No," the man said, "Actually I just heard about it."
"All right," said Socrates, "So you don't really know if it's true or not. Now let's try the second filter, the filter of Goodness. Is what you are about to tell me about Diogenes something good?"
"No, on the contrary..."
"So," Socrates continued, "You want to tell me something about Diogenes that may be bad, even though you're not certain it's true?"
The man shrugged, a little embarrassed. Socrates continued, "You may still pass the test though, because there is a third filter, the filter of Usefulness. Is what you want to tell me about Diogenes going to be useful to me?"
"No, not really."
"Well," concluded Socrates, "If what you want to tell me is neither True nor Good nor even useful, why tell it to me or anyone at all?"
The man was bewildered and ashamed.
This is an example of why Socrates was a great philosopher and held in such high esteem.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This was the instruction of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu to Raghunatha dasa Gosvami:
gramya-katha na sunibe, gramya-varta na kahibe
bhala na khaibe ara bhala na paribe
["Do not talk like people in general or hear what they say. You should not eat very palatable food, nor should you dress very nicely." (CC Antya 6.236)]
amani manada hana krsna-nama sada la'be
vraje radha-krsna-seva manase karibe
["Do not expect honor, but offer all respect to others. Always chant the holy name of Lord Krsna, and within your mind render service to Radha and Krsna in Vrndavana." (CC Antya 6.237)]
Thanks to Chetan Prabhu (Melbourne) for forwarding the nice story.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited
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Dirty Pig!
The tiger had had a good day at hunting and had eaten to his heart's content. Now he wanted
a drink of water and made his way to a pool. A young pig was drinking at the pool and when
he saw the tiger approaching, froze in terror. But the tiger ignored him and bent to drink,
only to recoil in disgust — the water smelt foul. He decided to go to another pool.
The pig, puzzled by his behaviour, jumped to the conclusion that the tiger was going
away without drinking, out of fear of him.
Suddenly feeling as strong as an elephant, he ran after the tiger and
challenged him to a fight. "Not today," said the tiger, looking over his shoulder.
"Meet me here tomorrow and we'll fight."
The pig took his reluctance to fight as further evidence of his fear of him
and his spirits soared. He rushed home and began to boast that soon he would be king
of the jungle instead of the tiger.
When his family and friends heard he had challenged the tiger, they were appalled.
They guessed why the tiger had turned away from the pool, and took the pig to task
for his foolish action.
The pig soon realised that he had made a terrible mistake and was seized by a cold panic. Seeing his distress,
his aged grandfather hastily worked out a plan to save him.
"Keep your appointment with the tiger," he advised his grandson,
"otherwise he will come here looking for you and slaughter us all.
But before going to meet him, roll in the dirt and mud so that you stink to high heaven."
Came the day of the big fight. The pig rolled in the mud and in elephant's dung and in
all the other rubbish he could find and then went to meet the tiger.
The tiger was waiting impatiently for him, but when the pig drew near, stepped back in disgust.
"What have you done to yourself?" he snarled. "You...you stink! Yeecch!"
He had come with the thought of feasting on delicious pig meat, but now he felt
nauseated and his appetite vanished.
"I've come to fight," squeaked the pig, stepping forward.
"Get away from me!" growled the tiger. "Go!"
The pig turned and ran.
The pig and his family and friends realised that being dirty was good for them,
so they began to wallow in mud every day before going out.They continue to do so to this day!
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited.
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The Generous Student
Lin Piao used to absent himself from classes very often and one day the principal of the
college made up his mind to expel him. So he sent for the young man.
Lin arrived just as the principal was about to go for lunch.
"Is this the time to come!" said the principal, sternly.
"Forgive me, Sir," said Lin, "but I got to college very late today.
You see, I found a lump of gold in our field."
"A lump of gold!" said the principal, his eyes popping out.
"Oh, my, what are you going to do with it?"
"I decided to build a palatial house, buy several acres of land and several head of cattle," said the student.
"I also decided to give you a small sum for the trouble you have taken in educating me."
The principal was pleased and invited Lin to eat with him. The young man ate ravenously
but the principal hardly touched his food. He was wondering how much Lin would give him and if it
would be enough to buy that small paddy field he had always wanted.
"I hope you've kept the gold in a safe place," he said, suddenly coming out of his reverie.
"I never got a chance to do that," said Lin. "It disappeared the moment my mother shook me awake."
"What!" screamed the principal. "You mean it was all a dream?!"
The young man nodded.
The principal controlled himself with a great effort of will.
"I'm happy you remembered me in your dream," he said, finally. "I hope you remember me when
you really get some gold. Now please leave."
It was only when the young man had left that the principal remembered why he had sent for him.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited.
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The Fisherman Who Rose Too High
A fisherman, enfeebled with age, could no longer go out to sea so he began fishing in the river. Every morning he would go down to the river and sit there fishing the whole day long. In the evening he would sell whatever he had caught, buy food for himself and go home. It was a hard life for an old man. One hot afternoon while he was trying to keep awake and bemoaning his fate, a large bird with silvery feathers alighted on a rock near him.
It was Kaha, the heavenly bird.
"Have you no one to care for you, grandpa?" asked the bird.
"Not a soul."
"You should not be doing such work at your age," said the bird. "From now on I'll bring you a big fish every evening. Sell it and live in comfort."
True to her word, the bird began to drop a large fish at his doorstep every evening. All that the fisherman had to do was take it to the market and sell it. As big fish were in great demand, he was soon rolling in money.
He bought a cottage near the sea, with a garden around it and engaged a servant to cook for him. His wife had died some years earlier. Now he decided to marry again and began to look for a suitable woman.
One day he heard the royal crier make an announcement.
"Our king has news of a great bird called Kaha," said the crier. "Whoever can give information about this bird and help catch it, will be rewarded with half
the gold in the royal treasury and half the kingdom!"
The fisherman was sorely tempted by the reward. Half the kingdom would make him a prince!
"Why does the king want the bird?" he asked.
"He has lost his sight," explained the crier. "A wise man has advised him to bathe his eyes in the blood of a Kaha bird. Do you know where it can be found?"
"No...I mean...no, no...."
Torn between greed and his sense of gratitude to the bird, the fisherman could not give a coherent reply. The crier, sensing that he knew something about the bird, informed the king. The king had him brought to the palace.
"If you have information about the bird, tell me," urged the king. "I will reward you handsomely and if you help catch it, I will personally crown you king of half my domain."
"I will get the bird for you," cried the fisherman, suddenly making up his mind. "But Kaha is strong. I'll need help."
The king sent a dozen men with him.
That evening when the bird came with the fish, the fisherman called out to her to wait.
"You drop the fish and go and I never get a chance to thank you for all that you've done for me," he said. "Today I've laid out a feast for you inside. Please alight and come in."
The Kaha was reluctant to accept the invitation but the fisherman pleaded so earnestly that she finally gave in, and alighted.
The moment she was on the ground, the fisherman grabbed one of her legs and shouted to the soldiers hiding in his house to come out. They rushed to his aid but their combined effort could not keep the Kaha down. She rose into the air with the fisherman still clinging onto her leg.
By the time he realised he was being carried away, the fisherman was too high in the air to let go. He hung on grimly, and neither he nor the Kaha were ever seen again
Thanks to Ramapiyare Prabhu for sharing the nice story.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited.
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The Consequences of Desires - (The Man Who Invited Death)
There was a man carrying a heavy weight upon his shoulders; he was old, weak, and feverish, and lived
in a hot country. He sat down under the shade of a tree and threw off his burden from his
shoulders and rested a while, and cried, "Oh Death! Death!! Death!!! come, Oh Death! Relieve me, relive
me."
The story says that there appeared the God of Death unto him on the spot, when he looked at
Him, he was astonished, he was surprised. He trembled, what is that hideous figure, that
monstrous something? He asked the God of Death, "Who are you"? The God of Death said, "I am he
whom you called; you have called me just now and I have come to satisfy your wish." Then the old man
began to tremble and said, "I did not call you to put me to death, I called you simply to help, me to
lift this burden and put it on my shoulders." That is what the people do. All your, difficulties, all
your troubles and sorrows, what are called sorrows, are brought about by your own self; you are the
master of your own destiny, but when the thing comes, you begin to cry and weep; you invite Death,
and when Death comes, you begin to cry. But that cannot be. When once you bid the highest price in
an auction, you will have to take the thing. When you make the horse run, the carriage follows the
horse. So when once you desire, you will have to take the consequences.
MORAL: Troubles and sorrows are the inevitable consequences of your desires.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited.
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WHO IS THE GREATEST PERSON
A simple village man once wanted to serve the greatest person. He approached
the mayor of his town and asked to be given some work. While serving the mayor,
the village man noticed the mayor giving tax money to a visitor. He asked who
the visitor was, and the mayor told him that he was a representative of the
governor. "Is the governor greater than you?" "Oh yes, he is greater than me,"
the mayor said. "Then I want to serve him," said the village man. The mayor
appreciated the man's honesty and recommended him to the Governer. The village man
served the governor for some time. Then one day a visitor arrived accompanied
by some horsemen. The governor welcomed the visitor graciously and treated him
with all respect. When he had a chance, the village man asked the governor who
the visitor was. "He is the king's viceroy," said the governor. "And who is
the king?" the man asked. "He is the ruler of the whole land," said the
governor. "He is very great." "Is he greater than you?" the man asked. "Oh
yes, I am just his servant." "Then I would like to serve him." The village man
was talented and so, to please the king, the governor sent the village man to
him. The man served the king for some months, and then one day the king told
him to ready the chariot. A great sage had arrived in the kingdom and the king
wanted the sage's advice on how to rule. The village man watched as the king
approached the saintly person and offered respect. The king then sat and
listened to the sage discourse for some time. Then, as the king was preparing
to return to his palace, the village man approached the sage and asked if he
were the greatest person. The sage said, no, he was only a menial servant. "So
please tell me, who is the greatest person?" "To find the greatest person, you
must go to the temple of Narayana," the sage told him. Without a moments delay,
the man set off walking. It was evening when he arrived, and the temple doors
were closed. The man knocked on the door for a long time. Finally a temple
priest came and told him to go home and return the next day. Not having any
place to go, the man lay down by the gate and went to sleep. Before sunrise,
some brahmanas from a nearby village passed the temple and saw the man sleeping.
They noticed that covering the man's body was one of the Deity's chadars. "He
is a thief!" they said. In anger they woke the man and asked them where he got
the chadar. The man was mystified and told them he did not know where the
chadar had come from. The brahmanas then tried to open the temple door and
discovered it was locked. They then realized that Lord Narayana Himself had
placed the chadar over his servant to keep him warm while he slept. The
brahmanas asked the man where he came from, and he told them his story. The man
was then accepted into the temple and trained to serve the Deity. In this way
the man came to serve the greatest person.
MORAL: We should understand what we are doing in this Krsna consciousness
movement, and that this is the culmination of all work and endeavour, devotional
service to Lord Krsna.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited.
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THE OLD MAN, THE YOUNG BOY AND THE DONKEY
Once there was an old man and a young boy who were travelling with a donkey.
The young man was leading the donkey and the old man was riding on the donkey.
When they passed through a small village, some of the townspeople yelled abuse,
"Look at this old man taking advantage of this poor young boy! What a rascal!"
After they had passed through the village, the old man said, "We had better swap
over, otherwise they will abuse us in the next village." So then they swapped
with the old man leading and the young boy riding.
But in the next village also they got criticized,
"Look at this selfish boy, taking advantage of his grandfather.
He should let the old man ride on the donkey." So then they both
got off and led the donkey.
But in the next village the people yelled out, "Look
at these two stupid people! They have a donkey, but they are choosing to walk
instead!" Then the old man concluded, "Actually, it doesn't matter what you do,
people will always be critical."
Moral: It is typical in the material world whatever activities we do, we will
be criticized. Better to do our activities as prescribed by Sadhu, Sastra & Guru
and do not worry about the critics. Also in this world we cannot make everyone happy.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited.
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THE TWO HOLY MEN AND THE WOMAN
There is a story of two sadhus who were walking on a road. They came to a chest
deep river which had no bridge. As they were about to wade through, a pregnant
woman came up and asked, "Sadhuji, please carry me across to the other side." So
the sadhu looked at the other sadhu who said, "Oh! Don't do it. We are sadhus,
what do we have to do with women?" The sadhu said, "That's right, but this poor
lady is pregnant." "Pregnant or not, it is no business of ours. So then the
other sadhu said, "Anyway, I will help her." "Well if you want to fall into maya
then don't let me stop you."
So the sadhu carried her across the river on his shoulders. They crossed the
river, and when they were over he put her down and they went their separate
ways. For about 2 miles they walked without talking. Then the other sadhu said,
"It was very bad that you carried that lady across the Ganges on your shoulder.
Very bad." The sadhu said, "I only carried her across the river, but you are
still carrying her. Why don't you drop her? It is 2 miles already. I forgot her
when I put her down, but all this time in your mind it's just been, "Lady, lady,
lady."
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited.
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THE FISHERMAN AND HIS BASKET
In previous times the grhasthas were habituated to asking if anyone was
hungry before taking their meals. And so one grhastha - who is a flower seller -
went outside and called out to see if anyone was hungry. He saw a fisherman and he said,
"Have you taken your meal?" And the fisherman said "No," so he took him inside.
Then he said, "Please leave the basket outside. It is too smelly."
After he fed him he asked the fisherman, "Do you have a place to sleep tonight?"
He said, "No." He allowed him to sleep there. About one or two o'clock in
the morning the grhastha had to get up to answer nature's call and when he
looked to see how the guest was doing, he found him tossing and turning.
He asked, "How are you sleeping?" The fisherman replied, "My sleep is
very disturbed. I cannot get to sleep!"
"Why is this? What is the difficulty?" the grahasta asked.
And the fisherman said, "You have so much flowers in the house and the flower smell
is disturbing me. The difficulty is that I cannot sleep without my fish basket. I am used to the smell.
Without smelling that fish basket, I cannot go to sleep." So then he said,
"All right, bring your basket, and you can go to sleep." Then the fisherman slept soundly.
MORAL:
- Even though the flower smell's good - the person who is used to fish smell cannot stand it - it is a typical
example of conditioning in the material world.
- People got so much used to the bad habits and they cannot live without them.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited.
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Becoming an instrument
Brother Hammer served as the chairman. The other members of the tool belt informed him that he must leave, because he was too noisy. But brother Hammer said, "If I have to leave this carpenter's shop, then brother Gimlet must go too. He's insignificant and makes a very small impression." (A gimlet is a small tool with a screw point, grooved shank, and a cross handle for boring holes).
Little brother Gimlet arose and said, "All right, but brother Screwdriver must go also. You have to turn him around and around to get anywhere with him."
Brother Screwdriver turned to the other tools in the belt and said, "If you wish, I will go, but brother Plane must leave too. All of his work is on the surface; there's no depth to what he does."
To this brother Plane leveled his terse reply, "Well, then, brother Saw will have to depart too. The changes he proposes always cut too deep."
Brother Saw complained, saying, "Brother Ruler will have to withdraw if I leave, for he's always measuring other folks as though he were the only one who is right."
Brother Ruler then surveyed the group and said, "Brother Sandpaper doesn't belong here either. He's rougher than he ought to be, and is always rubbing people the wrong way."
In the midst of the discussion, the Carpenter of Vrindavana walked in. He had come to perform his day's work. He put on His tool belt and went to the workbench to make a treasure box. He employed the ruler, the saw, the plane, the hammer, the gimlet, the screwdriver, the sandpaper, and all the other tools. When the day's work was over, the box was finished, and the carpenter went home. All the accusations against each of these tools were absolutely true, yet the carpenter used every one of them. No matter which tool He used, no other tool could have done the work better.
Moral: We are "tools" in the hands of Krishna. He knows how to use us and make us useful. Let us stop rejecting others. Krishna has a greater purpose with all of us. If we allow ourselves to be used by Krishna, the way, He wants, we too can become successful and purposeful.
Hari bol.
Thanks to GuruSevanandini mataji (Chennai) for forwarding the nice story.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited.
Some interesting reading material from Srimad Bhagavad Gita AS IT IS - about becoming an instrument in the hands of Lord Sri Krishna
BG 11.33
tasmat tvam uttistha yaso labhasva
jitva satrun bhunksva rajyam samrddham
mayaivaite nihatah purvam eva
nimitta-matram bhava savya-sacin
TRANSLATION
Therefore get up. Prepare to fight and win glory. Conquer your enemies and enjoy a flourishing kingdom. They are already put to death by My arrangement, and you, O Savyasaci, can be but an instrument in the fight.
PURPORT
Savya-sacin refers to one who can shoot arrows very expertly in the field; thus Arjuna is addressed as an expert warrior capable of delivering arrows to kill his enemies. "Just become an instrument": nimitta-matram. This word is also very significant. The whole world is moving according to the plan of the Supreme Personality of Godhead. Foolish persons who do not have sufficient knowledge think that nature is moving without a plan and all manifestations are but accidental formations. There are many so-called scientists who suggest that perhaps it was like this, or maybe like that, but there is no question of "perhaps" and "maybe." There is a specific plan being carried out in this material world. What is this plan? This cosmic manifestation is a chance for the conditioned souls to go back to Godhead, back to home. As long as they have the domineering mentality which makes them try to lord it over material nature, they are conditioned. But anyone who can understand the plan of the Supreme Lord and cultivate Krsna consciousness is most intelligent. The creation and destruction of the cosmic manifestation are under the superior guidance of God. Thus the Battle of Kuruksetra was fought according to the plan of God. Arjuna was refusing to fight, but he was told that he should fight in accordance with the desire of the Supreme Lord. Then he would be happy. If one is in full Krsna consciousness and his life is devoted to the Lord's transcendental service, he is perfect.
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THE WOODCHOPPER
There was once a man chopping wood in the forest. He was splitting the wood,
stacking it in piles etc. "It's very exhausting work," he thought. So he sat
under on particularly nice tree, and he thought to himself, "I just wish all
this wood would chop itself." So suddenly all the trees chopped themselves and
stacked themselves up very nicely. "What is this?" he thought. "I just wished
that it would happen, and it happened." So then he looked up at the tree he was
under, and he realized that it was a kalpa-vrksa tree.
"This is wonderful! Now I desire a beautiful woman." Poof!
The most beautiful woman appeared to him.
"Now I desire a beautiful palace to live in, I desire so many servants, an
opulent feast.." On and on he went for many hours, and every single thing
appeared because he was sitting under a desire tree.
But then he thought, "The sun is going down, it's getting dark now.
I know what's going to happen. Because this is a jungle, a tiger's going to appear
and that tiger's going to eat me." So lo and behold, because he thought it,
and he was sitting under a desire tree, a tiger appeared and gobbled him up.
MORAL: We have to be very careful what we desire.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited.
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Appreciation :
One young academically excellent person went for an interview for a managerial position in a big company. He passed the first interview; BUT in that Company, the director did the last interview, made the last decision.
The director discovered from the CV, that the youth's academic result was excellent all the way, from the secondary school until the postgraduate research, never was there a year he did not score. The director asked, "Did you obtain any scholarship in school?" and the youth answered "no".
The director asked, " Did your father pay your school fees?". The youth answered, "my father passed away when I was one year old and it was my mother who paid my school fees".
The director asked, " Where did your mother work?" the youth answered, "my mother worked as cloth cleaner." The director requested the youth to show his hands and the youth showed a pair of hands that was smooth and perfect to the director.
The director asked, " Did you ever help your mother wash clothes before?" The youth answered," never, my mother always wanted me to study and read more books, furthermore, my mother could wash clothes faster than I could"
The director said, I have a request, when you go back today, go and help to clean your mother's hand, and then see me tomorrow morning.
The youth felt that the chance of landing the job was high and when he went back, he happily wanted to clean his mother's hands. His mother felt strange. With happiness mixed with fear, she showed her hands to the kid.
The youth cleaned his mother's hands slowly and his tears fell as he did that. It was the first time he noticed that his mother's hands were so wrinkled, and that there were so many bruises in her hands. Some bruises were so painful that she shuddered when his mother's hands were cleaned with water.
This is the first time that the youth realized and experienced that it is this pair of hands that washed the clothes every day to earn him the school fees and that the bruises in the mother's hand were the price that the mother paid for his graduation and academic excellence and probably his future.
After finishing the cleaning of his mother's hands, the youth quietly washed all the remaining clothes for his mother.
That night, the mother and son talked for a very long time.
Next morning, the youth went to the director's office. The director noticed the tear in the youth's eye and asked: " Can you tell what you did and learnt yesterday in your house?"
The youth answered, " I cleaned my mother's hands and also finished washing all the remaining clothes'
The director asked, "Please tell me what you felt"
The youth said:
"Number 1, I know what appreciation is now'. Without my mother, I would not be successful today.
Number 2, Now I know how to work together with my mother. Only now do I realize how difficult and tough it is to get something done.
Number 3, I know the importance and value of family relationship."
The director said, " This is what I am asking, I want to recruit a person that can appreciate the help of others, a person who knows the suffering of others to get things done, and a person that would not put money as his only goal in life to be my manager. You are hired.
Later on, this young person worked very hard, and received the respect of his subordinates, every employee worked diligently and as a team and the company improved tremendously.
The Lessons from this anecdote:
A child who has been protected and habitually given whatever he needs, develops "entitlement mentality" and always puts himself first. He is ignorant of his parents' efforts. When he starts work, he assumes every person must listen to him, and when he becomes a manager, he would never know the suffering of his employees and always blame others. These kinds of people, may/will achieve good results and may be successful for a while, but eventually would not feel a sense of achievement or satisfaction.
If we happen to be this kind of (protective) parent, this is the time to ask the question- whether we did/do love our kids or destroy them.
-You can let your kid live in a big house, eat a good meal, learn to play the piano, watch a big screen TV but when you are cutting grass, please let them experience it.
-After a meal, let them wash their plate and bowl together with their brothers and sisters.
-It is not because you do not have money to hire a maid, but it is because you want to love and show them the correct way.
-You want them to understand that no matter how rich their parent are, one day they will grow old, become weak and that their hair too will grow grey,.
-The most important thing is for your kid to learn how to appreciate, experience and learn the effort and ability needed to work with others to get things done. They should also value, appreciate what the parents have done and love them for who they are!
Thanks to Chandrasekar Prabhu (Melbourne) for sharing the nice story / episode.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited.
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A CHANGE OF HEART
In the Puranas there is a story of one old man who was addicted to sinful
activity, a very cruel person. But when he was on his death bed, at the last
minute he had a change of heart. He said, "Well, why not try it? All my life
I've seen these Vaishnavas chanting Hare Krsna. I'm going to die anyway, so I
might as well try it."
He called his servant and told him "Go to the marketplace and purchase some of
those beads I see the devotees chanting on, those japa malas."
His servant was surprised. "You want japa-mala? What are you going to do with them?"
"I'm going to chant Hare Krsna. Give it a try."
So the servant went to the marketplace, but unfortunately the old man died
before his servant returned. So at that time the Yama-dutas came, and the
Vishnu-dutas also came at the same time. Both questioned the other's presence.
The Yama-dutas said, "This man was a very sinful person. He never did one pious
activity. There is nothing in his record to show that he did anything pious or
transcendental. So what are you doing here?" The Vishnu-dutas replied, "We
have come to take this man back to Godhead simply because he had a desire to
chant Hare Krsna.
MORAL: If nama-abhasa, contaminated chanting of the holy name is so powerful
then what of those devotees who are chanting the pure name?
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited.
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Romasa Muni about the duration of life
Just after the demigods had been successful in a battle with the demons, Indradeva decided to make some renovations to his
home. He called Visvakarma, the architect of the demigods, and began to instruct him how he wanted the palace to look. After
some time Visvakarma became very anxious to get back to his home, and so he prayed to Brahmaji to make some arrangement, as
Indradeva was keeping him there for a long duration. Brahmaji then prayed to Lord Visnu, and Lord Visnu made an arrangement
to come to the court of Indra along with the sage Romasa Muni. Romasa Muni appeared there carrying an umbrella.
The Lord arranged that he would have a conversation with the muni while Indra was listening. When Visnu looked at his chest he saw
that although it was covered with hair, there was a bald patch in the middle. The Lord inquired from the sage, "Tell me great
sage, what is the reason for this curious phenomenon on your chest?"
"At the end of every cosmic annihilation," the muni replied, "one Indra dies, and when one Indra dies one of these hairs
falls out. When all the hairs have fallen out, then I will be able to go back to Vaikuntha."
"And what is the reason for this umbrella," Visnu further inquired.
The sage answered, "I see no necessity for making any sort of permanent home here, because my stay in the material world is short.
I simply carry this unbrella. This is my home."
Indra then understood that there was no use in making any permanent plans in this material world, and so he released Visvakarma.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
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Odana Sasthi
Srila Prabhupada briefly described the ritual of Odana Sasthi in his purport to Caitanya-caritamrta, Madhya lila 16-78:
"At the beginning of winter, there is a ceremony known as the Odana-sasthi. This ceremony indicates that from that day forward, a winter covering should be given to Lord Jagannatha. That covering is directly purchased from a weaver. According to the arcana-marga, a cloth should first be washed to remove all the starch, and then it can be used to cover the Lord."
Odana Sasthi is also described in Caitanya Bhagavata, Antya lila:
Around this time, the festival of Odana Sasthi began at Puri and Lord Jagannatha was dressed in new clothes--all starched. Although starched cloth is considered improper and impure, the purjaris nevertheless dressed Him in this way. On this day the ceremony of 'wearing new starched clothes' was being celebrated with pomp and grandeur. Sri Gaurasundara watched the ceremony along with the devotees. Lord Jagannatha was dressed in various bright colored starched clothes (white, pink and green), and was decorated with garlands and flowers. Varieties of festive music played and Mahaprabhu enjoyed the festival with great pleasure until late in the evening. He then returned to His residence along with His devotees. On the way home the two friends, Svarupa Damodara and Sri Vidyanidhi, raised a discussion regarding the Lord's starched clothes.
Vidyanidhi said, "In this part of the country there is considerable discussion regarding Sruti and Smrti, yet how is it that the Lord is dressed in un-holy starched clothing?
Svarupa Damodara replied, "Perhaps it is the custom of this place.
If it is the custom, then where is the fault? Had it not been the wish of the Lord, the King would have forbidden it."
Vidyanidhi replied, "God can do whatever He likes, but why should His priest attendants put starched clothes on Him.? Starched cloth is so un-holy that the hand which has touched it has to be washed. These things are not decided by the estate officers. I see that the King also wore starched cloth on his head today."
Svarupa Damodara said, "Brother, perhaps there is nothing wrong in using this cloth on the day of Odana Sasthi. Because the Lord Himself has appeared on this earth in the form of Jagannatha Deva, rules and regulations are not applicable to Him."
Vidyanidhi protested, "Jagannatha Deva is the Lord, He is omniscient. But can these people be like Him? Are they beyond all rules and regulations?" In this way the two friends discussed in a jovial mood until reaching their residence, then took rest.
That night Vidyanidhi dreamed that Jagannatha and Balarama were very annoyed with him. They slapped Vidyanidhi on his two cheeks and said, "I have no caste, and neither do my attendants. It is I who have made the rules which you think there is deviation from." Weeping, Sri Pundarika Vidyanidhi put his head on the feet of Jagannatha and said, "Oh Lord, I have been rightly served according to my offence. Today is very auspicious for me, Your good hand has touched my forehead. I do not now what good deed I performed in my previous birth to have such a benediction." The Lord then disappeared. When Vidyanidhi awoke in the morning, he found that his two cheeks were swollen as a result of the slapping by Sri Jagannatha and Balarama.
Every morning Svarupa Damodara came to Vidyanidhi's place and they went to the Jagannatha Mandira for darsana together. That morning Svarupa Damodara arrived as usual, but found Vidyanidhi still lying in bed. When he inquired as to why he was still in bed, Vidyanidhi called him to his side and explained his extraordinary dream. Hearing this and seeing Vidyanidhi's swollen cheeks, Svarupa Damodara was overwhelmed with joy. He said, "I don't know of any other such instance where the Lord has punished a man in his dream, but today I have seen this with my own eyes. Is there any man so fortunate as you in the three worlds?" Svarupa Damodara joyfully praised Sri Vidyanidhi. As a friend feels delighted at the well-being of his friend, so Svarupa Damodara thought himself extremely lucky because of Pundarika Vidyanidhi's fortune.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited.
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Hands
An old man, probably some ninety plus years, sat feebly on the park bench. He didn't move, just sat with his head down staring at his hands. When I sat down beside him he didn't acknowledge my presence and the longer I sat I wondered if he was ok.
Finally, not really wanting to disturb him but wanting to check on him at the same time, I asked him if he was ok. He raised his head and looked at me and smiled.
Yes, I'm fine, thank you for asking, he said in a clear strong voice.
I didn't mean to disturb you, sir, but you were just sitting here staring at your hands and I wanted to make sure you were ok I explained to him.
Have you ever looked at your hands he asked. I mean really looked at your hands?
I slowly opened my hands and stared down at them. I turned them over, palms up and then palms down. No, I guess I had never really looked at my hands as I tried to figure out the point he was making.
Then he smiled and related this story:
Stop and think for a moment about the hands you have, how they have served you well throughout your years. These hands, though wrinkled, shriveled and weak have been the tools I have used all my life to reach out and grab and embrace life. They braced and caught my fall when as a toddler I crashed upon the floor. They put food in my mouth and clothes on my back. As a child my mother taught me to fold them in prayer. They tied my shoes and pulled on my boots. They dried the tears of my children and caressed the love of my life. They held my rifle and wiped my tears when I went off to war.
They have been dirty, scraped and raw, swollen and bent. They were uneasy and clumsy when I tried to hold my newborn son. Decorated with my wedding band they showed the world that I was married and loved someone special. They wrote the letters home and trembled and shook when I buried my parents and spouse and walked my daughter down the aisle. Yet, they were strong and sure when I dug my buddy out of a foxhole and lifted a plow off of my best friends foot. They have held children, consoled neighbors, and shook in fists of anger when I didn't understand. They have covered my face, combed my hair, and washed and cleansed the rest of my body. They have been sticky and wet, bent and broken, dried and raw.
And at one point I realized that my hands have been serving me and people around me but they did not serve Supreme Lord Krishna. I had hardly folded them in prayer. I was too busy in my material pursuit. And then everything changed in my life. I started serving Krishna in whatever little way I could. I understood that when I leave this body Krishna will hold my hands and take me back to Godhead. I will be able to serve Him eternally. I would be able to touch His lotus feet. Now I am fully convinced about it. I was simply thanking Krishna for His mercy and His love for me.
Realization of devotee:
No doubt I will never look at my hands the same again. I never saw the old man again after I left the park that day but I will never forget him and the words he spoke. When my hands are hurt or sore or when I stroke the face of my children and wife I think of the man in the park. I have a feeling he has been stroked and caressed and held by the hands of Krishna. I too want to touch the lotus feet of Krishna and feel His hands upon my face. Now my hands feel so nice washing the dishes in the temple kitchen, scrubbing the floor, plucking the flowers for Him and folding it in prayers.
Thanks to KrishnaPrasad Prabhu (now in USA - previously in Melbourne) for sharing the nice story.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited.
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THE THIEF WHO BECAME A SADHU
There was one thief, one robber. He was robbing businessmen and murdering
people, and then one day he heard that the king of the country of the country
had invited all the sannyasis, sadhus and ascetics for a big meeting. The thief
was thinking, "Maybe the king will be giving help to them, so I will see if I
can rob someone and get some money." So he went to the meeting and hid himself
away. The king then came out onto his balcony, and he began to speak. "O great
sadhus, I have a daughter and she is very inclined to marry a saintly person.
So I am offering half of my kingdom with this girl, so someone please marry my
daughter." As soon as he said this, fifteen people in the front row got up and
left.
They were sannyasis, they were not interested. They came because they
thought, "The king has called for a saintly meeting, so maybe there will be an
opportunity to preach."
But the king said, "No no, I am giving my daughter." So they left.
And then the other row came forward next. The king said, "Look, I will give 75% of my kingdom.
I will only keep a little part for myself. Please accept my daughter."
The first person said, "My dear sir, the thing is that we are saintly persons.
And we are not sannyasis, we are married persons. I have my wife and I have my ashram.
I do not want to marry your daughter.Since you are the king, in order to respect
you I have attended your meeting. So please give me permission and I am going."
And he left. The thief in the back was hearing this and he was thinking,
"this is a good chance. I don't have to do any hard work and I can get
75% of the kingdom." So he disguised himself,covering himself with tiger skin and
he went and sat with the others. He was sitting in a very uncomfortable position with
his eyes half-closed.
The king went to the next man and said, "Did you hear what I said to the last man?" "Yes
I did," the person replied. "And I am also going." And he left. So then he
asked five people in all, and the sixth person was the thief. The five people
all said the same thing. "What will we do with the country? We are not here
for ruling, we are trying to rule over our senses. Let us do this first, and if
I make it then I will come and rule over the world."
So then the king came to the sixth person, who was the robber, and said to him, "O great saintly
person..." "You are wrong, " the thief interrupted. The king was surprised.
"What? To address you as a saintly person is wrong?" "Yes, because I am a
robber, not a saintly person. But I ask you, who wants your country? Who wants
your kingdom? If it has got any value, why is it that these people got up and
left? So I would rather pursue on this path. I will neither rob any more, nor
will I marry your daughter. I am sorry but I am going."
MORAL: He had accrued the nature of a thief by his previous activities, but by
association he developed the nature of a sadhu, in just a very short time. Lava
matra sadhu sanga sarva siddhi haya. Just a moment's association brings all
perfection.
Thanks to Ramapiyare Prabhu for sharing the nice story.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited.
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Value the Precious Human Life & Utilize It
A group of alumni, highly established in their careers of being courtiers in rich kingdoms, got together to
visit their old gurukula teacher. Conversation soon turned into complaints about stress in work and life trying to please the royalty. The Gurudev's wife wanted to offer the guests some badam flavoured milk in a few cups. Being an elderly lady, she initially got the empty cups out. Some of the cups were brand new and made of gold, some were middle-aged and made of silver and others were very old & were made of bronze or copper. The Gurudev accompanied the Guru Maatha (Gurudev's wife) into the kitchen to assist her in getting the pot of hot badam flavoured milk. Gurudeva & Guru Maatha slowly started offering their guest the milk.
They requested the students to help themselves. When all the students had a cup of milk in hand, the Gurudeva said,"If you noticed, all the nice looking expensive cups were taken up, leaving behind the plain and cheap ones.. While it is but normal for you to want only the best for yourselves, that is the source of your problems and stress. What all of you really wanted was milk, not the cup, but you consciously went for the best cups and were eyeing each other ' s cups Now if life is milk, then the jobs, money and position in society are the cups. They are just tools to hold and contain Life, but the quality of Life doesn't change. Sometimes, by concentrating only on the cup, we fail to enjoy the milk in it."
Moral: Don't let the cups drive you.. Enjoy the milk instead. Human Life is precious. For maintenance of the body and family certain material benefits are required. But having go this rare human life better concentrate on enjoying it. The greatest source of enjoyment is Krishna Consciousness. Let us all chant, dance & sing the Glories of the Lord.
Thanks to Srivas Nimai Prabhu (currently in Hyderabad / previously in Melbourne) for sharing the nice story.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited.
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Story for meditation - Krishna Katha
Hare Krishna Prabhus and matajis.
Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
Thanks for your continued support by sending the moral stories. I have made 2 TXT files
which are attached with this e-mail. They contain all the stories we have sent so far
on this "Story for meditation" subject.
I humbly request all of you to please start sending more moral stories so that the same can be distributed among devotees. This will enhance our own Krishna conscious understanding and the preaching efforts.
Thanks a lot - once again.
Your humble servant
Karunanidhi Krishna dasa
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Right time
There was once a disciple of a Guru who went to his Guru and said, "Guruji, I want to live a spiritual life. I want to live in the service of God. I want to go beyond the binding chains of this mundane, materialistic world. But, I feel that I am not quite ready. My desires for a family, for wealth and enjoyment are still too strong. Grant me some time to fulfill these wishes and then I will come to your holy feet
So the Guru said, "No problem, my child. Go. Get married, have a family and earn wealth. In ten years I will come back for you. My blessings are with you."
With the blessings of his Guru, the man went out and quickly found a beautiful girl to marry. They had 3 beautiful children, and the man become financially successful. After 10 years, there was a knock on the door of their home. The man's wife opened it to see a haggard-looking beggar standing on the doorstep. The beggar asked to see her husband. At first she started scolding the beggar, thinking that he was just there to beg for money. But, the husband realized that the beggar was his Guru so he lovingly invited him inside.
"I have come to take you away from this world of illusions now that you have fulfilled your desire of having a wife, family and earnings. Come with me, my son, let me show you the way to God."But, the man looked at his Guru pitifully and he said, "Dear, Beloved, Guru. Yes, you are right. You have given me my 10 years ever so generously and with your blessings I have prospered. But, my children are very young and my wife is again with child. She would not be able to handle the burden of all of them alone. Allow me to stay another ten years until the children are old enough to care for themselves."
A true Guru will guide you to the path, show you the light and help when help is requested, but will never force a disciple -- against the disciple's will -- to follow any particular path. Thus, the man's Guru compassionately agreed, saying, "So be it, my son. Stay another 10 years until you feel that your mission is fulfilled."
Ten years later, the Guru returned to the home to find a large bull-dog out front guarding the house. Immediately he recognized his disciple in the dog and saw -- with his divine vision -- that the man had passed away several years prior but, due to his intense protectiveness over his family and wealth, he had reincarnated as a guard dog. The Guru put his hand on the dog's head and said, "My child, now that you have regressed from a human to a dog due to your attachment to these worldly
things, are you finally ready to come with me?" The dog licked the hand of his Guru lovingly and said, "My beloved Guruji. You are right that it is my own attachment which has driven me to take birth as a dog, but you see my children have many enemies who are envious of their wealth and power. These enemies are very dangerous to my children and I must stay here to protect them. However, I am sure that within a few years everything will sort itself out and they will be fine. Give me just
seven more years to protect them, then I am yours."
The Guru left and returned 7 years later.
This time, there was no dog out front and the home was filled with grandchildren running around. The Guru closed his eyes and saw with his divine vision that his disciple had taken birth in the form of a cobra, wedged into the wall near the family safe to guard the money. He called the grandchildren of the house: "My children," he said. "In the wall to the right of your safe, there is a cobra curled up in a small nook. Go there and bring the cobra to me. Do not kill it. It will not harm you, I promise. But, just break its back with a stick and then bring it to me." The children were incredulous, but went to the wall where the old man had directed them. Incredibly they saw that -- just as the Guru had said -- a cobra was curled up in the wall. Following his orders, they broke the cobra's back and carried it outside to the Guru. The Guru thanked the children, threw the cobra over his neck and left.
As he walked away carrying the cobra over his neck, the Guru spoke to the cobra, injured and aching, "My child, I am sorry for hurting you, but there was no other way. Twenty seven years and three births ago you left to taste the material world of sensual pleasures. But the ways of Maya are so alluring and so subtle that they trap us instantly. You have wasted these lifetimes in the futile pursuit of material success and in attachment to people who also are only actors in the Cosmic Drama. My child, all here is Maya - Cosmic Illusion. It lures us into its trap, convincing us that it is real, permanent, everlasting and significant. But, in reality, the only thing which is real is Him, and the only true purpose of life is to get close to Him. These attachments merely divert our attention and focus away from the true purpose of life. I had no choice but to come to your rescue as I saw you sinking deeper and deeper into the deep clutches of Maya."
****************************************************************************************************So frequently in life we think, "Just one more year" then I will cut back on my luxuries and cut back on my time at the office. "Just one more year" and I will dedicate more time to meditation and spiritual pursuits. "Just one more year" and then I will go to India, sit at my Guru's feet and delve into the divine depths of spirituality. "Just one more year" and then I will cut down on my sensual pleasures."....and on and on. But, that "one more year" never comes. Our intentions are good. We want to be more spiritual. We want to devote more time to spiritual pursuits. We want to spend less, need less and serve more. We want to be the master over our lust, anger and greed rather than vice versa. But, the power of Maya is stronger than the power of our will. Thus, we continue to find excuses for why we must continue to work 50 or 60 hour work-weeks, why we still have no time for meditation, why we can't squeeze a visit to the holy places of India into our year's planning, and why we must continue to satiate our insatiable sensual urges.
The only way to break free from the veil of illusion that Maya wraps around our minds is to surrender to God and beg Him to show us the true light. The only way to break free is to make AND STICK TO concrete vows of how we are going to be better people next year. Rather than saying "I will find time to meditate" we must say "I will not leave for work without sitting in meditation and I will not sleep at night without doing my nightly introspection." Rather than saying, "I will try to come to India and visit holy places whenever I can," we must say "I will take my vacation this year in India and nowhere else."
Rather than say, "I will try to cut back on my expenses so that my financial needs are less," we must say, "I will not buy another jacket or pair of shoes [or anything] until the ones that I have are broken, torn or no longer fit me." Rather than say, "I will try to overcome my anger, lust and greed," we must commit to having daily appointments with God in which we introspect on all the times we allowed ourselves to be overpowered by these emotions and we must pray for strength, DAILY, to
be remain calm, peaceful and sattvic in our lives."
If we wait for the right time, that time will never come. The only time is now.
May God bless you all with the clarity of vision to realize that the external world is Maya and with the strength, fortitude and dedication to remove the veil and attain the Divine Truth.
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In an Indian temple, when the priest had gone for lunch, the Deity and the Stepping Stone were conversing.
Stepping Stone: Oh! What a good fate you have. We both
were the same lump of rock for millions of years. The
sculptor carved a Deity out of you and every one is
worshipping you. And look at me, I am a stepping stone
and every one stands on me and stamps on. What kind of
life is this?
The Deity kept smiling and never bothered to answer
this, now, routine murmur from the stepping stone. But
the stepping stone ( stone used as a step, that is )
will never stop his constant bickering.
The Deity replied: Oh! But do you remember that when the
sculptor set out to carve a Deity, it was you he
chose, first. You were so impatient. In one strike,
you broke into two . But when he tried on me, I
grinned and bore all the hammers and chisel strikes
with PATIENCE. Here I am the worshipful and happy
Deity and you are the Stepping Stone.
The difference between success and failure is patience
and persistence
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Of course the Deity form of the Lord is not stone. Deity is
Lord Himself in Archa Vigra form (made out of some material elements).
Out of His causeless mercy that Lord appears in that
form to accept the humble service of the devotee.
Thanks to HG Srinidhi Govinda Prabhu for contributing the story
===========
Here you find a very nice story (pastime) of Sri Kuresa (great Sri Vaisnava Acharya) and his devotion and dedication to his guru. There is one pastime which I have heard about his great quality which I have heard in the classes given by HH Jayapatakaswami Maharaja.
To save his guru Srila Ramanujacharya, Kuresa went to the Chola king and was blinded. Later on when Srila Ramanujacarya returned back, he asked Kuresa to go to Lord and get back his vision. I think it was Kanchi Sri Varadaraja Swamy which Kuresa was worshipping at that time. He went prayed to the Lord and Lord appeared and asked about what boon does he want?
Kuresa requested the Lord to please forgive the king and other people who have commited attrocities on him and Srila Ramanujacharya. Like this many occasions when he had darshan of the Lord, he did not ask for anything for himself and continued to ask for blessings/forgiveness for others. When Srila Ramanujacharya came to know about this - he asked Kuresa to pray to the Lord in the following way.
"My guru's property has a defect and I request you to please correct the same"
Next time when Kuresa had the darshan of the Lord, he prayed in the same way Srila Ramanujacharya told. The Lord was very pleased with the prayer and granted the vision back to Kuresa.
Since Kuresa was not asking for anything himself, his guru had to force him to ask in a particular way. Since Kuresa has given everything and surrendered to Srila Ramnujacharya, he is a property of guru. So that property has a defect - eyes are blind. Thus Srila Ramanujacharya induced Kuresa to pray to Lord and get his vision back.
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A great disciple of Srila Ramanujacharya
KURESA OR Kurathazhwar was the foremost disciple of Sri Ramanujacharya.
The story of Kuresa's life has been told many times over the centuries. Nonetheless, it is a life-story of such nobility and inspiration that it will bear repetition any number of times.
Kuresa hailed from the hamlet of ``Kura'' (or ``kooram'') near Kanchipuram. He belonged to the clan of the Haritas, to a wealthy, land- owning and propertied family. Kuresa was regarded with great respect as the elder in his community. He and his wife, Andalamma, were renowned for their philanthropy and public service. They were ardent devotees of Kanchi Varadaraja.
Early in his life, Kuresa came under the spell of Ramanujacharya who at that time was living in Kanchi. It was the time when Ramanuja was slowly emerging as the propagator of a new school of thought.
Kuresa, although senior in age, became a disciple of Ramanujacharya. He was soon initiated into a rigorous study of the ancient Vedic scriptures and more especially the ``meemamsa- sutras''. A strange but strong bond of kinship developed between the young Master and the elderly student over the many years they spent together in Kanchi.
In his mid-life, due to a variety of personal and social reasons, Ramanuja took to ``sanyasa'' and was called away by the community of Sri Vaishnavas in Srirangam to rally them all into a cohesive force there against the onslaught of religious bigotry waged by the Saivite State at that time.
Kuresa's close relationship with Ramanuja thus drew to a close. Seeing off Ramanuja to Srirangam, Kuresa returned to his hamlet with his wife Andalamma.
One evening, after they had completed their daily routine of charity - feeding the poor who had gathered at their doorsteps at dusk - they retired for the day. Kuresa banged the big brass doorway to his home shut. This banging was so loud in the quiet of the night that it was heard some distance away in Kanchi. On being told that the sound of the door closure was heard by the Lord, Kuresa said, ``What?! Did thatdisturb the Lord and His Consort in Kanchi?! What a conceited wretch am I that I should let my charity be announced thus to the whole world! What a vain sinner am I''!
It was a turning point in the life of Kuresa who decided to renounce all his wealth and join Ramanuja in Srirangam where he and his wife were received with great joy.
Kuresa used to take down the dictation of `Sri Bhashya' by Ramanuja. One day, Ramanuja stated that the distinguishing attribute of the atomic soul (``jeeva'') was its cognitive power. At this point Kuresa put his writing-quill down and ceased writing. He looked up at his guru.
Ramanujacharya looked at Kuresa and flew into a temper. ``Sir, if you mean to write the ``Bhashya'' on the ``Vyasa-sutras'' yourself, you may do so!'', thundered Ramanuja at Kuresa, and stomped out in a fit of rage.
After a while Ramanuja reflected carefully upon the incident. And he realised that Kuresa was right in finding fault with his dictated passage. The definition of the ``jeeva'' as a cognitive entity was an essential but not sufficient description in as much as the most important characteristic of the soul viz. its allegiance or leigeship to God (`seshatva') was a serious omission.
Ramanuja realised that if his original definition of the jeeva had gone unchallenged by Kuresa then the very superstructure of Visishtadvaita's theology would have proceeded to be built on a wobbling premise. Ramanuja grew repentant.
He told Kuresa ``My son, you are absolutely right! Now please write down the true nature of the soul as that which is God's... and let us proceed with the rest of the work.''
In Srirangam, although Ramanuja and Kuresa succeeded in the stupendous task of systematising an exciting and epochal new philosophy, they both knew that the `Sri Bhashya' still needed a final coat of brilliant polish.... the polish of irrefutability... before it could go into and earn an unchallenged place in the annals of Vedantic history. Ramanuja knew he must access an ancient parchment or document called ``Boddhayana vrutti'' - a rare exegetical treatise on Vyasa's ``Brahmasutras'' incorporating the insights of other great commentators of distant past. The ``Boddhayana vrutti'', Ramanuja learnt, was lying somewhere in a musty library in the royal library of the then king of an obscure Kashmiri State.
Daunting as the task appeared to him, Ramanuja went to Kashmir in pursuit of the ``vrutti''. The King gave Ramanuja and Kuresa permission to access the archives in the royal library. The royal pundits however, were none too happy and created many obstacles. Ramanuja was not allowed to take the vrutti or notes out. Kuresa, endowed with a photographic memory, memorised the whole book. Back in Srirangam, Kuresa and Ramanuja completed the ``Sri Bhashya'' by incorporating authentic references to the ``Boddhayana vrutti'', the growing influence of Sri Vaishnavism once again stoked the malevolent fires of religious bigotry in the land. Amongst some sections of the Saivite population which at that time was concentrated around Gangaikondachozhapuram, near Chidambaram, hatred towards Sri Vaishnavism and of Sri Ramanuja began to flare up.
The King of Chozhanad at that time was a Saivite fanatic. His name was Krimikanta Chola of the clan of the Kollutunga kings. He was hell-bent on rooting out Vaishnavism from his kingdom and the best way to do that, he thought, was to destroy Ramanuja. He issued royal summons to Ramanuja to appear in his court for the ostensible purpose of engaging him in a scholarly debate with his royal pundits. The real intention however was to coerce Ramanuja to recant from Sri Vaishnavaism and if he refused ... to have him murdered.
Ramanuja's followers dissuaded him from going to Gangaikondachozhapuram. Kuresa volunteered to go as Ramanuja's proxy and respond to the royal summons. With great reluctance, Ramanuja left Srirangam with a small band of acolytes and fled to Melkote or Tirunarayanapuram where he lived in exile for 12 long years... a difficult period in life for the aged Acharya.
It was at Melkote that Ramanuja heard about what had happened to Kuresa and Mahapurna. In the court, the King said, ``Nothing higher than Siva exists'', and commanded them to agree to it. Kuresa refused. He contended that Narayana was the Supreme Principle and none was higher than He.
The Chola King was incensed. He commanded Kuresa again to swear allegiance to Siva. ``If you refuse, we shall have your eyes pulled out here and now!'' On hearing this Kuresa flew into a rage. ``Let me save you the trouble, you tyrant, for I shall pluck out my eyes with my own hand! These eyes that have set sight on a sinner such as you have no further use for me!''. So saying Kuresa plunged the sharp writing-quill into his own eyes. Mahapurna too suffered a similar fate but died a little later.
One day, the blind Kuresa tottered on his way from home to the temple of Ranganatha to have the `darshan' of the Lord. The temple guards, however, stopped him at the gates saying, ``We have instructions from the King to let people in only if they swear that they willingly renounce Ramanuja as their guru.'' Kuresa told them blandly, ``Please tell your King that Kuresa is prepared to forsake Lord Ranganatha in this world and even in the next. But denounce Ramanuja, never!'' The blind Kuresa then took his wife and children and lived at Tirumalirunjolai (near Madurai) till Ramanuja's return.
King Krimikanta died of a deadly rash in his neck. After his death, the fanatic fringe of Saivism in the kingdom quickly lost its militant edge and the land of the Cholas again reverted to sanity. Krimikanta Chola's successor turned out to be a wise king. He discouraged religious bigotry in his kingdom. Ramanuja then decided to return to Srirangam.
At the age of well over 100 years, after his triumphant return to Srirangam from Melkote, Sri Ramanujacharya with the help of Kuresa, once again set about resurrecting Sri Vaishnavism and restoring its soaring spirit to its former glory. The temple of Srirangam had faced ill- fated days; many centres of worship belonging to the faith had been vandalised too; Vaishnava associations, libraries, schools and trusts had all been systematically looted and destroyed as well. Corruption, indiscipline and laxity of faith had also set in amongst many Sri Vaishnavas.
Kuresa ably assisted his guru in setting right all the wrongs of the Sri Vaishnava faith. Together they worked tirelessly to bring order, vigour and rectitude back to their faith.
Kuresa passed away peacefully in the presence of his loving family, Andalamma and their two young sons Vyasa and Parasara Bhattar. All of Srirangam gathered and performed all the due obsequies and honours that one so great a soul as Kuresa richly deserved. Ramanuja had many disciples. But there never was one like Sri Kuresa...
M. K. SUDARSHAN
Thanks to "The Hindu" newspaper for publishing the nice pastimes of Sri Kuresa - Kurathazhwar.
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THE DURATION OF LIFE
When God had created the world and was about to fix
the length of each creature's life, the ass came and
asked, "Lord, how long shall I live?" "Thirty years,"
replied God; "does that content thee?" "Ah, Lord,"
answered the ass, "that is a long time. Think of
my painful existence! To carry heavy burdens from
morning to night, to drag sacks of corn to the mill,
that others may eat bread, to be cheered and refreshed
with nothing but blows and kicks. Relieve me of a
portion of this long time." Then God had pity on him
and relieved him of eighteen years. The ass went
away comforted.
The dog appeared. "How long wouldst thou like
to live?" said God to him. "Thirty years are
too many for the ass, but thou wilt be satisfied
with that." "Lord," answered the dog, "is that Thy
will? Consider how I shall have to run; my feet will
never hold out so long, and when I have once lost
my voice for barking, and my teeth for biting, what
will be left for me to do but run from one corner
to another and growl?" God saw that he was right,
and released him from twelve years of life.
Then came the monkey. "Thou wilt certainly live thirty
years willingly," said the Lord to him. "Thou hast no
need to work as the ass and the dog have to do, and
wilt always enjoy thyself." "Ah! Lord," he answered,
"it may seem as if that were the case, but it is quite
different. When it rains porridge I have no spoon. I
am always to play merry pranks, and make faces which
force people to laugh, and if they give me an apple,
and I bite into it, why it is sour! How often sadness
hides itself behind mirth! I shall never be able to
hold out for thirty years." God was gracious and took
off ten.
At last man appeared, joyous, healthy and vigorous,
and begged God to appoint his time for him. "Thirty
years shalt thou live," said the Lord. "Is that
enough for thee?" "What a short time," cried man,
"when I have built my house and my fire burns on my
own hearth; when I have planted trees which blossom
and bear fruit, and am just intending to enjoy my
life, I am to die! O Lord, lengthen my time." "I will
add to it the ass's eighteen years," said God. "That
is not enough," replied the man. "Thou shalt also
have the dog's twelve years." "Still too little!"
"Well, then," said God, "I will give thee the monkey's
ten years also, but more thou shalt not have." The
man went away, but was not satisfied.
So man lives seventy years. The first thirty are
his human years, which are soon gone; then is he
healthy, merry, works with pleasure, and is glad of
his life. Then follow the ass's eighteen years, when
one burden after another is laid on him; he has to
carry the corn which feeds others, and blows and kicks
are the reward of his faithful services. Then come the
dog's twelve years, when he lies in the corner, and
growls and has no longer any teeth to bite with, and
when this time is over the monkey's ten years form the
end. Then man is weak-headed and foolish, does silly
things, and becomes the jest of the children. - -
===========================================
ayur harati vai pumsam
udyann astam ca yann asau
tasyarte yat-ksano nita
uttama-sloka-vartaya
Both by rising and by setting, the sun decreases
the duration of life of everyone, except one who
utilizes the time by discussing topics of the
all-good Personality of Godhead. SB 2.3.17
============================================
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Choosing between Krishna and His army
In preparation of the Mahabharat war, the warring
parties Kauravas and Pandavas decided to meet up
with Lord Krishna to seek His support. Lord made an
interesting proposition. He will offer himself unarmed
to one of them and his army will be fighting on the
other side. Arjuna and Duryodhana have to choose
between unarmed Krishna or a mighty army.
When Arjuna reached Dwaraka, he found to his surprise
Duryodhana was also camping to seek help from Lord
Krishna. His purpose was to ask for Sri Krishna's army
to fight on his side. Next day, Duryodhana reached
the palace of Sri Krishna and was told to wait for
a while as Sri Krishna was asleep. Soon Arjuna also
went. Proud Duryodhana took his seat at the head
side of the Lord, while Arjuna a natural devotee
sat at the lotus feet. In a while Sri Krishna opened
his eyes to see his dear friend and disciple at his
feet. The lord said, "O Arjuna, what brings you here
so early in the morning?"
But Duryodhana could not wait, he intervened and said,
"O Krishna, I have come before Arjuna. Therefore,
please speak to me first."He was afraid that if
Arujuna was given a choice first and selects Krishna's
army then he may have to put up with unarmed Krishna.
The lord jested, "But I saw Arjuna first. Let him
talk to me first."
The Lord asked Arjuna, "I give the first choice to
you - do you want my army or myself unarmed?"
Arjuna replied "Do you have to give me a choice my
Lord? I want you only in all circumstances - even if
you are unarmed"
Hearing this Duryodhana was greatly relived and
laughed within his mind about the foolish choice
of Arjuna.
The foolish Duryodhana thought : "There is no use of
Sri Krishna if he is not fighting, I will ask for
his huge army." Thus all army of Sri Krishna went
to the side of Kauravas. Arjuna was pleased for all
Pandavas wanted was gracious Lord on their side.
================================================
Sometimes we all laugh at the foolish choice of
Duryodhana. But often in life we are all faced with
circumstances where we have to make a choice between
Krishna or Krishna's energy. Most of the times people
prefer Krishna's energy rather than Krishna. Basically
people want all the facilities given by Krishna but do
not want Krishna. It is like people want "Rama Rajya"
but without Ram. It is not possible. So that type of
demoniac proposition will never be successful. If we
have Krishna in our side automatically other things
will come. That's the secret (BG 18th chapter last
sloka - yatra Yogeshwara Krishna)
=======================
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The Beautiful Princess
There was a prince who once saw a very beautiful young girl. He visited her to see her but she was very chaste. The prince wanted to marry this very beautiful girl because he was attracted to her out of lust. He wanted to marry her and enjoy her body but the young girl didn't want to marry the prince. So she said to the prince, "Alright, you want to marry me, you are attracted by my beauty, so I will distil my beauty in the next ten days, I will distil my beauty into liquid form and then you can come and see this distilled form of my beauty."
So the prince said, "Alright." Then she said, "If you still want to take me as your wife then you can take me." The prince replied, "That's fine, I'll come back in ten days and certainly I'll take you as my wife my beautiful young maiden." Then he went away and as soon as he went away this beautiful young girl started to take very strong purgatives, medicine which would cause her to vomit and pass stool, in this way she kept all the vomit and stool in a big pot. She didn't eat anything, she was simply passing stool and vomiting, so within ten days her whole beautiful body was destroyed. She was a grey colour, she was very skinny, very weak, you could not recognize her as the same person.
After ten days the prince came back to visit the beautiful girl. She opened the door for him. When the prince saw her he said, "I have come to see one very beautiful lady who I am about to marry." So the girl said, "I am that beautiful young lady." He replied, "No it isn't true. How could it be possible?" She said, "Yes I am that beautiful young girl, I have distilled my beauty, come and see it." The prince thought, "This will be interesting." She took him to the place where she was keeping the big pot containing all of her stool, vomit and urine and she said, "Here is my beauty."
This is the story of liquid beauty, and it is a fact. That is actually the beauty of the material body, it's simply a bag of pus, stool, urine, blood, mucus, horrible things. And we are just attached to the skin and as soon as the skin is no longer beautiful we are not attracted any more.
Thanks to Chetan Prabhu (from Melbourne) for forwarding the nice story.
PS: I humbly request all the vaisnavas to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
=======================
This story is one of the good explanations of why there is pain and suffering even though God
exists...
A man went to a barbershop to have his hair cut and his beard trimmed.
As the barber began to work, they began to have a good conversation.
They talked about so many things and various subjects.
When they eventually touched on the subject of God, the barber said:
"I don't believe that God exists."
"Why do you say that?" asked the customer. "Well, you just have to go out in the street to realize
that God doesn't exist.
Tell me, if God exists, would there be so many sick people?
Would there be abandoned children?
If God existed, there would be neither suffering nor pain.
I can't imagine a loving God who would allow all of these things."
The customer thought for a moment, but didn't respond because he didn't want to start an argument.
The barber finished his job and the customer left the shop.
Just after he left the barbershop, he saw a man in the street with long,
stringy, dirty hair and an untrimmed beard. He looked dirty and unkempt.
The customer turned back and entered the barber shop again and he said to
the barber:
"You know what? Barbers do not exist."
"How can you say that?" asked the surprised barber.
"I am here, and I am a barber. And I just worked on you!"
"No!" the customer exclaimed. "Barbers don't exist because
if they did, there would be no people with dirty long hair and untrimmed beards, like that man outside."
"Ah, but barbers DO exist! That's what happens when people do not come to me."
"Exactly!" affirmed the customer. "That's the point! God, too, DOES exist!
That's what happens when people do not go to Him and don't look to Him for help.
That's why there's so much pain and suffering in the world."
Thanks to Chetan Prabhu (from Melbourne) for forwarding the nice story.
PS: I humbly request all the vaisnavas to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that
everyone can be benefitted
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Karma stories
High in the reaches of Mount Kailasa is the abode of Shiva, the
Lord of destruction. One evening Vishnu, responsible
for preserving the cosmic order, came to see Shiva. He left
behind at the entrance Garuda, the half-man, half-eagle
composite, who served as his vehicle.
Garuda sat alone, marveling at the natural splendor of the place.
Suddenly his eyes fell on a beautiful creature, a little bird
seated on the arch crowning the entrance to Shiva's place. Garuda
wondered aloud: "How marvelous is this creation! One who has
created these lofty mountains has also made this tiny bird - and
both seem equally wonderful."
Just then Yama, the god of death who rides a buffalo, came
passing by with the intention of meeting Shiva. As he crossed the
arch, his eyes went over to the bird and he raised his brows in a
quizzical expression. Then he took his eyes off the bird and
disappeared inside.
Now, in the ancient thought of India, even a slight glance of
Yama is said to be the harbinger of death. Garuda, who had
observed Yama's action, told himself, "Yama looking intently at
the bird can mean only one thing - the bird's time is up. Perhaps
on his way back he will carry away the bird's soul with him."
Garuda's heart was filled with pity for the helpless creature.
That it was oblivious of its own impending doom further agonized
Garuda and he resolved to save the bird from the clutches of
death. He swooped it up in his mighty talons, rushed to a forest
thousands of miles away and left the bird on a rock beside a
brook. Then he returned to Kailasa and regained his position at
the entrance gate.
Soon after, Yama emerged from inside, and nodded to Garuda in
recognition. Garuda greeted the god of death and said: "May I put
a question to you? While going in, you saw a bird and for a
moment you became pensive, why?"
Yama answered him thus: "Well, when my eyes fell on the little
bird, I saw that it was to die in a few minutes, swallowed by a
python, far away from here in a forest near a brook. I wondered
how this tiny creature would traverse the thousand of miles
separating it from its destiny in such a short time. Then I
forgot. Surely it must have happened somehow."
Saying this, Yama smiled and went away. Did he know about Garuda'
s specific role in the matter? Nobody can know for sure. Garuda
sat perplexed, mulling over the surprising turn events had taken.
===============
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A man had been on a long flight.The first warning of the approaching
problems came when the sign on the airplane flashed on:"fasten your seat
belts."Then, after a while,a calm voice said,"we shall not be serving
the beverages at this time as we are expecting a little
turbulence.Please be sure your seat belt is fastened."
As he looked around the aircraft,it became obvious that many of the
passengers were becoming apprehensive. Later,the voice said,"We are so
sorry that we are unable to serve the meal at this time.The turbulence
is still ahead of us."
And then the storm broke.The ominous crack of thunder could be heard
even above the roar of the engines.Lightening lit up the darkening
skies,and within moments that great plane was like a cork tossed around
on a celestial ocean.One moment the airplane was lifted on terrific
currents of air,the next,it dropped as if it were about to crash.
The man confessed that he shared the discomfort and fear of those around
him.He said,"As I looked around the plane,I could see that nearly all
the passengers were upset and alarmed.Some were praying.The future
seemed ominous and many were wondering if they would make it through the
storm. And then,I suddenly noticed a girl to whom the storm meant
nothing.She had tucked her feet beneath her as she sat on her seat and
was reading a book.
Everything within her small world was calm and orderly.Sometimes she
would close her eyes,then she would read again;
then she would straighten her legs,but worry and fear were not in her
world. When the plane was being buffeted by the terrible storm,when it
lurched this way and that,as it rose and fell with frightening
severity,when all the adults were scared half to death,that marvellous
child was completely composed and unafraid."
The man could hardly believe his eyes.It was not surprising therefore,
that when the plane finally reached its destination and all the
passengers were hurrying to disembark,he lingered to speak to the girl
whom he had watched for such a long time.
Having commented about the storm and the behaviour of the plane ,he
asked why she had not been afraid. The sweet child replied, "Sir, myDad
is the pilot, And he is taking me home."
Friends, brothers and sisters, that is the level of confidence and faith
we should have in our GOD for all His decisions, Let us all surrender
totally to His will ,so that He can safely take us home.
Thanks to Lal Gopal Prabhu (from USA - peviously in Melbourne) for forwarding the nice story.
PS: I humbly request all the vaisnavas to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
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Once there lived a king who used to manage all the affairs
of the kingdom quite nicely. All the citizens were happy under
the king's protection. The king was very anxious to know what
the citizens of his country would be talking about him. One day
he dressed up as a normal man and set out to the streets.
While he was walking he stopped at one place and saw a group
of people talking. He went near them and tried to hear
what they were talking.
One man said, "We are so lucky. All the facilities that
we are enjoying is because of the mercy of the Lord (God)."
The king went further and saw another group of men talking.
A man in that group said "Everything we are doing & enjoying
is because of our king. We are very fortunate to have a nice
king like this"
The king went back to his palace. He was very happy to hear
what the second man had said about him in glorification.
He decided to send some gifts to the two men who had commented.
He took a pumpkin and cut into half and filled 100 gold coins
in it and closed the pumpkin and made it as it was.
He sent that pumpkin (filled with gold coins) to the man
who had praised him. And to the second man who praised God,
he sent big basket of flowers.
The king's servants went and distributed the gifts to
respective persons.
The first man who praised the king was happy to receive a gift from King.
But he did not know what to do with a such big pumpkin. It was too big for him.
So he went and gave it to a person who sells flowers in the market
and told him "The king has sent me this big pumpkin, but I don't eat them so
I thought I would give it to someone who would make use of it."
The flower seller took the pumpkin and went away to sell his flowers.
The man who had received the big basket of flowers was
also very happy to receive a gift from the King. He used the flowers
in his daily puja. But the king had sent plenty of flowers and there was
so much flowers remaining. He said to himself "If I give the excess
flowers to the flower seller he would make some money out of it."
Thinking of this he went to the flower seller and gave him the flowers.
In return to the flowers given by the man the flower seller
gave him the pumpkin which was given to him by the first man.
The second man went home and cut the pumpkin and to his
surprise he found 100 gold coins kept inside it.
Seeing this he was very happy and said once again
that God is very merciful and kindly provided me this.
Lord looks after His devotees. The king had no intention
of giving the pumpkin filled with the gold coins to the man
who had praised the Lord but Lord has different plan and
everything is working according to His plan.
Thanks to Srinidhi Govinda Prabhu and Vinuta for contributing this story.
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Sri Varaha Puranam has this episode in its body. Once upon a time the
earth got submerged in water. Lord Sriman Narayana assumed the garb of a
wild boar and without hesitation entered the muddy water and brought out
the earth from the deluge. Sri Bhoomi Piratti, who is the presiding
deity, was very much upset by this tragic event. She was consoled and
comforted by Lord Sriman Narayana, keeping Her on His lap. At that time
she was very much worried about Her children on the earth. Their
sufferings gave Her great sorrow and She very much desired to know a
means (Upaya) for their deliverance from the worldly bondage. The Lord
narrated the episode that took place in the village Thirukkurungudi near
Thirunelveli in South India and assured Her that the soul means of
salvation is chanting and singing the holy name of the Lord's glory
(Gana Rupa Upayam).
The story is as follows: Once there lived a man at Thirukkurungudi. He
was fondly called "Nampaduvan". He was born in a Chandala family who
were known for their merciless nature and activities. But quite contrary
to his family behavior he was very pious and deeply devoted to Lord
Narayana. He used to fast during every Ekadasi day. Getting up very
early in the morning on the next day he used to go to the vicinity of
the temple with his veena in his hands and remaining at a distance from
the temple as per the prescription of the shastras he used to sing songs
in praise of the Lord going around the temple.
Once during the month of Krittika on a bright fortnight Dwadasi i.e the
12th day, he went to the temple early in the morning as usual. On the
way he was met by a Brahma Rakshasa who was very hungry and who
therefore expressed his desire to eat him up. Nampaduvan was very happy
to offer his body for the food of Brahma Rakshasa. That was because his
suffering in this world would come to an end and he would reach the
abode of the Lord. But he prayed to the Brahma Rakshasa to spare some
time so that he may go to the temple and sing the songs and return. But
the Rakshasa was not ready to grant his request, as he would never
return having made this false excuse. But Nampaduvan made 18 oaths to
the effect that he would certainly return. The oaths are as follows :-
1. If I do not return as per my promise let me get the sin of a man
who is a liar.
2. Let me get the sin of a person who commits adultery, if I don't
return.
3. While eating in the company of a person if a man differentiates
in menu (i.e. serving inferior or less quantity of food to the guest),
he gets a great sin (Papam). Let me get that sin, if I don't return.
4. If a man donates a piece of an earth to a Brahmin and takes it
back after some time he will certainly accrue sin. Let me get that sin,
if I don't return.
5. If a man enjoys the company of a woman during her youthful age
and subsequently rejects her when she becomes old he is sure to get sin.
Let me get that sin, if I don't return.
6. Having performed ablution rite (Tharpanam) on Amavasya day and
then recourse (sexual relationship) to his wife the same day, he will
entertain great sin. Let me get that sin, if I don't return.
7. Having dined delicious dishes in the house of a host and then if
a person showers heaps of abuse on his host, he is sure to meet with
great sin. Let me get that sin, if I don't return.
8. A man makes a solemn promise that he would give away his young
daughter in marriage to a youth but later on breaks his promise, which
would entertain sin. Let me get that sin, if I don't return.
9. A man is prohibited from eating without taking bath on Shashti
(the sixth day of both fortnight), Ashtami (the eighth day), Chaturdashi
(the fourteenth day) and Amavasya (the fifteenth day of bright
fortnight). Let me get that sin, if I don't return.
10. A man promises to donate something to another man but he doesn't
keep up his promise. Let me get the sin of breach of promise if I fail
to come back.
11. If a person tries to allure the wife of a friend who has helped
him in manifold ways, he is sure of reaching hell. I will get that sin,
if I fail to return.
12. If a person, afflicted by lust, enjoys the company of his
revered teacher's wife who is responsible for his salvation; and so also
the company of the wife of a king who endows all worldly pleasure to him
- he will be the worst sinner. I will suffer that sin by not keeping up
my promise.
13. A man marries two girls without being impartial to both of them.
If he evinces greater pleasure in the company of one rejecting the
other, he is sure to accrue very great sin. Let me get that sin, if I
don't keep up my promise.
14. If a man rejects his wife who is very chaste and has no one to
care for her, he will become a sinner. Let me be equated to him for not
returning.
15. If a man causes obstruction to the cattle that are afflicted
very much by thirst to drink water, he will get a sin. Let me also get
that sin by breaking your faith in me.
16. Killing a Brahmin, addiction to liquor, stealing gold, breaking
a vow are all considered to be heinous crimes. Severe punishments are
prescribed for a sinner, who commits all these crimes. Let me suffer all
these punishments in case I fail to get back to you.
17. If some people worship only other deities and not Sri Vasudeva
who is easily accessible to His votaries and is Omnipresent, they will
get a great sin. Let me get that sin, if I do not return.
18. Lord Narayana is the supreme deity. He is the inner soul for all
created beings, both sentient and insentient. He is worshipped by all
karmas (i.e. by all holy rites prescribed by the Shastras). He is to be
meditated by all who are desirous of liberation. He alone has the
ability to grant salvation. He is to be reached by all the liberated
souls. Having understood the supreme qualities of the Lord, if a man
equates Him to all other angels who are bound by karma, He will be born
in this world again and again. Let me get that sin, by breach of this
promise.
Note: All these promises did not convince or satisfy the Brahma
Rakshasa, but the 18th one totally convinced him about the certainty of
Nampaduvan's return. We therefore have to understand that the last sin
is the greatest sin of all sins. Hence it is to be meticulously avoided.
The Brahma Rakshas became pleased by all these promises and saluted
Nampaduvan and bade him farewell so that he may fulfill his vow and come
back to him.
Accordingly Nampaduvan went to the neighborhood of the temple and sang
the songs as usual.
Afterwards the day dawned. Having completed the vow pertaining to
Ekadasi (i.e. spending sleepless night) Nampaduvan surrendered to the
Lord. With great speed, he returned to the Rakshas as his heart was
filled up with pleasure owing to his desertion of his body, which was
inimical to his attaining salvation.
On his way a person met him. That man questioned him "Sir, where are you
going with such speed?" Nampaduvan replied him in a sweet manner - "I am
going to Brahma Rakshas. If I don't find him there, where I met him
before and departed having made several promises, I will go in search of
him and offer my body as food for him."
That man desired to test his mind on hearing his steadfast resolve. He
said "There stands a Rakshasa by birth. He is not righteous minded like
Vibeeshana, but a worst criminal. You cannot escape from his cruel
clutches, as he is a cannibal. Don't go to that strong devil."
Though exhorted by that man, Nampaduvan refused to listen to him and was
very adamant in keeping up his promise. That stranger, who obstructed
him and advised him, was none other than Sri Varaha (the Lord Himself).
Nampaduvan found Brahma Rakshas at the same place and offered his body
as a carcass (meat) for him, but the Rakshas, remembering his previous
birth did not accept it. He narrated his previous life history. He was a
Brahmin by name Somasarma in his former birth. While performing a
sacrifice, he committed all sorts of blunder, as he was niggardly.
Moreover a fatal disease in the course of performing sacrifice afflicted
him. The result was his birth as Brahma Rakshasa.
Having given a detailed account of his previous life the Rakshasa knelt
before Nampaduvan to grant him the merit of all these songs that he sang
in praise of the Lord for a long time but the songster refused sternly.
Finally being moved by pity he granted him the merit (Punya) of one
song, which he sang that day morning which was in the raga named
"Kaishika". The Brahma Rakshas was relieved of his bond. Later he was
born in a family of Vaishnava and at the end of the birth he reached
Vaikunta.
This is the story narrated by Sri Varaha Perumal to Sri Bhoomi Devi. The
whole episode as found in "Sri Varaha Puranam", is taken up by Sri
Parasara Bhattar for an elaborate commentary in Tamil. Every year the
whole episode with all Sanskrit shlokas and commentary of Sri Bhattar is
read out in all the Vishnu temples especially at Thirukkurungudi where
the event actually took place. This is enacted on the stage even today.
Those who take part in the festival or who hear the episode will be rid
of their sins. Hence I gave this story in an abridged version.
What do we understand from this episode? Somasarma though a Brahmin
became a Rakshasa, but Nampaduvan though a Chandala was able to expiate
him of all his sins. Hence caste is not a criterion for us to salute a
person. His deep devotion to the Lord, knowledge of the Lord and a total
renunciation of all worldly pleasures are very important criteria. The
caste is physical. It does not belong to the soul. Hence Nampaduvan was
elevated to the highest order. In case of such holy men of that high
order, consideration of the caste is an offence. They are equal to
Nithyatma. The Lord (Sri Varaha) also showered on him love and affection
and called him Nampaduvan (My Singer).
------------------
This is the story was told by HH Gaur Govind Swami maharaj in one of his lectures.
Thanks to Chetan Prabhu (from Melbourne) for forwarding the nice story.
PS: I humbly request all the vaisnavas to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
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THE GRAIN AS BIG AS A HEN'S EGG
Some boys were playing in the sand of a dried up streambed. They found a wonderful thing that looked like a hen's egg but wasn't. Someone was passing by, saw the boys playing, and noticed that they had found something wonderful. That person took it: "This should be given to the King." That was the rule at the time: "If something wonderful is found it must be given to the king." When they brought it to him, the king couldn't understand it. "What is this unusual thing?" Generally kings have some pandits, learned scholars, who know sastra. He called them, and said, "You examine this thing and report to me within seven days what it is. If you can't explain it, your heads will be cut off."
The pandits took it away. They searched through the pages of their sastras. They couldn't find where such a thing was mentioned. "Oh what shall we say, our heads will be cut off? In seven days we have to report." They were very
morose, thinking, and praying to God, "Oh what shall we do?" They put that wonderful thing on a windowsill. Then a hen came and put its beak into it and some portion was removed. Then they saw, "Oh, this is a grain." They reported it to the king, "O lord, this is a grain."
The king said, "Such a grain, it looks as big as a hen's egg. Where and when was it being produced? Give me a report. Otherwise your heads will come off."
The pandits said, "Oh sire, it is a grain. Only the farmers can say. We are pandits, how can we answer these questions? You may ask the oldest farmer in your kingdom. He may be able to say."
The king sent his men: "Find the oldest farmer in my kingdom." One old farmer was found who was ninety-something years old. He could not see nor hear well. His hip was bent and he could barely move. With much difficulty he moved with two crutches and two persons carrying him. He was the oldest man they could find in the country.
With the help of his two helpers and two crutches, the old man came to the king's court. The king showed him this grain. "Examine this grain and tell me, during your time were you producing this type of grain?" The old man examined the grain and said "Oh, no sire. We were not producing such grain during our time. However, my father might be able to say."
The king said, "Is your father still living?"
"Oh yes."
"Where is he?"
He named a place. "He lives there. You may call for him; he might be able to tell you."
The king then sent his men to bring the old man's father. The king was surprised to see that the father was much stronger than the son. He walked with only one crutch and was able to see and hear much better then his son. The king showed him that grain. "Please examine this and tell me whether you were producing this type of grain during your time?"
He examined it and said, "Oh sire, no. During our times we were not producing this sort of grain. However, my father might recognize it."
"Oh, your father is still living?"
"Oh yes."
"Where is he?"
He named a place. "He lives there. You may call for him."
So the king sent his men to bring his father. When his father arrived, the king was surprised to see that he walked without the help of crutches. He looked very young, strong and stout. His hip was not bent. He could see and hear very clearly. All his teeth were still there.
The king gave him that grain. "Please examine and say whether you were producing this type of grain during your time."
He examined it, and said. "Oh, yes! We were producing this grain during our time." Then king asked, "Please show me the plot of land where you were producing this sort of grain."
He said, "We were producing this sort of grain everywhere. During our time there was no individual possession. Everything belonged to the Lord. Those who were of the farmer class, they cultivated the land. They never said, 'This is my plot of land.' There was no individual ownership at all. Everything belonged to Lord and there was no enviousness. No one said, 'No, this is my plot of land! Why are you encroaching on my plot?' There was no jealousy, no fighting, no quarrelling. Everything belonged to the Lord. And such grain we were producing! It was so big, so full of vitality and vitamins. Because of that I am still so strong today. However, my son is not like that. My grandson is not like that. During our time there was no monetary system. We just exchanged things. The farmers would give grains to a carpenter. Whatever we needed the carpenter would give. Similarly we would give grains to the oilman and whatever oil we needed he would give us. We would take grains to the grocer and whatever we needed the grocer would give us. In this way we traded things. The medium of exchange was not money at that time.
No personal ownership, everything belongs to Krishna. That is a grhastha. Bhaktivinode Thakur says, amara bolite prabhu! ara kichu nai "There is nothing I can say is mine. Everything belongs to you. O Lord." [Saranagati 2.5.1]
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MERCHANT AND HIS 4 WIVES
Once upon a time. There was a rich merchant who had 4 wives. He loved the 4th wife the most and adorned her with rich robes and treated her to delicacies. He took great care of her and gave her nothing but the best. He also loved the 3rd wife very much. He's very proud of her and always wanted to show off her to his friends. However, the merchant is always in great fear that she might run away with some other men.
He too, loved his 2nd wife. She is a very considerate person, always patient and in fact is the merchant's confidante. Whenever the merchant faced some problems, he always turned to his 2nd wife and she would always help him out and tide him through difficult times.
Now, the merchant's 1st wife is a very loyal partner and has made great contributions in maintaining his wealth and business as well as taking care of the household. However, the merchant did not love the first wife and although she loved him deeply, he hardly took notice of her.
One day, the merchant fell ill. Before long, he knew that he was going to die soon. He thought of his luxurious life and told himself, "Now I have 4 wives with me. But when I die, I'll be alone. How lonely I'll be!" Thus, he asked the 4th wife, "I loved you most, endowed you with the finest clothing and showered great care over you. Now that I'm dying, will you follow me and keep me company?" "No way!" replied the 4th wife and she walked away without another word.The answer cut like a sharp knife right into the merchant's heart.
The sad merchant then asked the 3rd wife, "I have loved you so much for all my life. Now that I'm dying, will you follow me and keep me company?" "No!" replied the 3rd wife. "Life is so good over here! I'm going to remarry when you die!" The merchant's heart sank and turned cold.
He then asked the 2nd wife, "I always turned to you for help and you've always helped me out. Now I need your help again.When I die, will you follow me and keep me company?" "I'm sorry, I can't help you out this time!" replied the 2nd wife. "At the very most, I can only send you to your grave." The answer came like a bolt of thunder and the merchant was devastated.
Then a voice called out : "I'll leave with you. I'll follow you no matter where you go." The merchant looked up and there was his first wife. She was so skinny, almost like she suffered from malnutrition. Greatly grieved, the merchant said, "I should have taken much better care of you while I could have !"
Actually, we all have 4 wives in our lives.
The 4th wife is our body. No matter how much time and effort we lavish in making it look good, it'll leave us when we die.
Our 3rd wife.... Our possessions, status and wealth. When we die, they all go to others.
The 2nd wife..... Our family and friends. No matter how close they had been there for us when we're alive, the furthest they can stay by us is up to the grave.
The 1st wife is in fact our soul, often neglected in our pursuit of material wealth and sensual pleasure.
Guess what?
It is actually the only thing that follows us wherever we go.
Perhaps it's a good idea to cultivate and strengthen it now rather than to wait until we're on our deathbed to lament.
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By Bhakta Rod
Once upon a time many years ago, the British began building trains
that would travel far and wide throughout India. In one of the
villagers where the train would come, there lived simple village folk
who had no idea what a train looked like, so when the time had come to
greet the train, the village elders decided sent a young boy to first
sight the train and then let everyone know 'what' was coming to their
village.
On the evening of its expected arrival, the villagers patiently and
inquisitively waited for the young boy to return back and tell them
what the 'train' actually is. Eventually day turned to night and
everyone in the Village became anxious and excited, knowing the
train's arrival was forthcoming.
The fact was no one in the Village had any idea of what a train was.
So the young boy was told to immediately report back to the Village
elders as soon as he identifies the train. In the meantime everyone
waited patiently in the dark for the boy to bring the news and satisfy
everyone's curiosity. The night sky was clear and there was a slight
breeze in the air, the boy heard the usual sounds of animals although;
even they were quite on this still moonless chilly night. Then to his
surprise, out of the pitch-black darkness and the still of night he
heard this unusual thunderous high-pitched sound that sounded like
nothing he had ever heard before. The sound thundered through the
night air, then silence, then thundering again. Being thrilled, he was
convinced what the train was and excitedly ran back to the village
elders and told them,
"The train is a big thunderous sound, an immense sound and nothing
else"
Some of the elders were puzzled, but most accepted the news as final
and accepted that a train is just a loud thunderous sound. Some
however, were still not convinced saying,
''How can there be just a sound, what is the cause and source of that
sound?
Feeling more inquisitive a few decided to send another young boy down
to investigate this horn like sound and if there was more to what a
train really is.
They told the second young boy to wait well into the darkness of night
until he saw the source of the sound. In due course, after hearing the
sound getting louder and louder, to his surprise, he finally saw in
the distance what he thought was the source of the sound; it was an
extremely bright shinning effulgent light.
Being excited he rushed back to the elders proclaiming,
'The trains thunderous sound originates from a 'bright blinding light'
Many at the village where now convinced what a train was and most
where satisfied however, still a few were not satisfied and thought
'Wait a minute, where is that light coming from that makes the horn
like sound? Is there more to a train than an impersonal sound or
light? '
Still not satisfied, the remaining few village elders' had come to the
conclusion that the light also must have a source and were determined
to find it, they therefore sent a third boy to investigate what the
train really is.
'Was it more than just a sound and bright light'? The discussed
amongst themselves
The third young boy went to investigate and waited patiently for as
long as it would take to see the truth of what the train really is. As
he waited, the sound grew louder and louder and the light was getting
brighter and brighter - then to his surprise, both the thunderous
sound and blinding light passed him by.
To his astonishment, he discovered the source of both the sound and
light, coming from the form of the train, like carriages that were
filled with people like him, all engaging in all kinds of different
personal activities?
He excitedly ran back to the village yelling,
'The train is a structure built by personalities who are engaged in
all kinds of activity. This is the source of the sound and light that
radiates through the night sky.
In this way the Villagers eventually saw the train for what it really
is beyond the sound and the light emanating from it.
'Similarly beyond this material world and the impersonal Brahmajyoti
is the wonderful eternal devotionally active abode of unlimited Lord
Vishnu's on the Vaikuntha planets.
And ultimately Lord Krishna in His supreme abode of Goloka Vrndavana
from whence the entire creation radiates'
All glories to Srila Prabhupada, your fallen servant Bhakta Rod
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PS: Thanks to Chetan Prabhu (from Melbourne) for forwarding the nice story.
I humbly request all the vaisnavas to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so
that everyone can be benefitted.
Many devotees wonder why Mother Sita was seperated from Lord Rama and why she was sent to exile after returning from Lanka. Why could Lord not stop it from happening?
THE WASHERMAN'S FORMER BIRTH
Adapted from Padma Purana
In canto five, chapter fifty-seven, Lord Ananta Sesha speaks the following pastime to Vatsyayana Muni:
In the great city of Mithila lived the king named Janak Maharaja. Pleasing his subjects, he ruled righteously. Once when Janak was ploughing the field, an extremely beautiful baby girl came out from the first furrow. Seeing her, Janak Maharaja became extremely happy. He named that fascinating girl "Sita".
One day when Sita was playing as a child in a garden grove, she saw a male and female parrot that delighted her mind. The parrots were affectionately talking to each other in pleasant words, "On the earth, charming Rama will be the king. His wife will be Sita. That intelligent, powerful king, will vanquish his enemies and rule over the earth with her for eleven thousand years. Blessed is that queen Sita, and blessed is Rama."
Hearing the charming tales told by the parrots about her, Maithili, Sita, decided to capture them and ask them the meaning of their conversation. She told her friends,
"Quickly catch this charming pair of birds." Her friends caught the parrots and brought them to princess Maithili.
Sita comforted them, and said, "Don't be frightened, dear charming ones. Who are you? Where have you come from? Who is this Rama and Sita that you are speaking about? Where did you hear about them?
The birds replied, "We have come from the ashram of the great sage Valmiki, who is the best of those who know dharma. He instructed his disciples to daily sing about the future adventures of Lord Ramachandra. All those imminent pastimes were repeatedly heard and memorized by us. Listen to them. At the end we shall tell who that Rama is, who that Janaki (Sita) is, and what will happen to the two of them.
"Glorious Vishnu will divide himself into four and appear at the sacrifice performed by the sage Rishyasringa. Later, he and his brothers accompanied by Vishwamitra will come to Mithila. Then he will break a bow that many kings were unable to wield, and thereby obtain the charming daughter of Janak. O excellent one, we have heard that with her, he will rule over a large kingdom. O beautiful lady, we who had flown to Valmiki's ashram, heard this and other things told by those who lived there. Now please release us, we desire our freedom."
Hearing those words, which were very pleasant to the ears, Sita replied to that pair of birds, "Where will that Rama be? Whose son will he be? In what way will he marry his consort? What form will that excellent man have? Tell me all this, and later I will do that which will please you."
Seeing Janaki and realizing that her heart was oppressed by love, the female parrot told her, "There will be an intelligent mighty king with thousands of chariots. He will be the ruler of the solar dynasty, and the demigods will become victorious by taking shelter of him. He will have three wives, who will be so beautiful that their forms will fascinate even Lord Indra. Four powerful and exalted sons will be born to them. Rama will be the eldest. Bharata will be born after him, then Lakshman will be born, and after him Shatrughna will be born. The magnanimous Rama will also be known as Raghunath. These brothers will have countless names.
"O friend, the face of the powerful Rama will be charming like the whorl of a lotus. His very large eyes will also have the beauty of lotuses. His nose will be raised, large, and charming. His eyebrows will be lovely and beguiling. His beautiful hands will reach to his knees. His small neck will be marked like a conch. His chest will be expansive and captivating, and will have a mark on it. His lotus feet will always be worshipped by his devotees. Raghupati's form will be like this.
"How can I express his beauty? Even with a hundred mouths one cannot describe him. Then what about birds like me? Seeing his form, even the charming and beautiful Lakshmi was enticed. What lady on the earth will not be enticed? He has great power, great valour, and a very enticing form. Lucky is Sita, who will enjoy with him for myriad years. O beautiful lady, who are you? What is your name and why do you cleverly and respectfully ask me to narrate the account of Rama?"
Hearing the birds tell the story of her birth and life, Sita said to them, "I am that Janaki, the daughter of Janak, whom you mentioned. Being allured by your nectarean words, I shall release you when that charming Rama comes to me and not otherwise. Don't fear, I shall caress you and you will stay happily with me."
Hearing these words, the female parrot trembled and was frightened. She said to Janaki, "O good lady, we are birds. We live in trees in the forest. We wander everywhere. We will not be happy being bound up in one place. Moreover, I am pregnant. I promise that if you let me go, after returning to my place and giving birth to young ones I shall come back." Although the female parrot pleaded in this way with Sita, still she did not release her.
Then the male parrot, with his face hung down, spoke. "Sita, release her. Why do you want to keep my beautiful wife? We shall go to the forest together and happily move about. My charming wife is pregnant. After she delivers her young, I shall also come to you."
Sita replied to the male parrot, "O intelligent one, you can go. I shall keep this lady parrot, who is so dear to me, by my side."
The male parrot said, "The words of the saints are true. They have advised that wise persons should remain silent. If we had not spoken to each other while on this tree, we would not be bound up. O beautiful lady, O Sita, I cannot live without my wife. Therefore, O charming one, please release her."
Still, out of attachment to hearing the glories of Lord Ramachandra, Sita refused to release his mate. The parrot's wife then became angry and miserable and cursed the daughter of Maharaja Janak, "Just as you are separating me from my husband, in the same way when you become pregnant you will be separated from Rama." Having spoken, that female parrot, who was miserable due to separation from her husband, uttered the name of Rama and left her body. A divine chariot descended and took her away.
Seeing this, her husband, extremely angry and distressed, fell into the Ganga and drowned himself. His last words were, "I will take birth in Rama's city as a sudra. And due to my words, Sita will become dejected and extremely unhappy due to separation from her husband." That bird was then born as the washerman named Krodhan.
Due to his harsh words, Sita was censured and separated from Rama. On account of that washerman, Sita was exiled to the forest.
According to Garga-samhita 5.10.3-8, Krodhan took birth again in Mathura where he was engaged in washing the clothes of King Kamsa. He received liberation when Krishna killed him to stop his blasphemy.
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Nachiketa's story in the Kathopanishad begins when his wealthy father, Vajashravas, is to perform a special sacrifice. The sacrifice required Vajashravas to give all his wealth, all his possessions, and distribute them to the great seers and Brahmins. It was a rare sacrifice performed only by the most highly advanced aspirants. One who could give up all transitory things would have the knowledge of Brahman, the knowledge of Reality.
Nachiketa's father also could not part with his wealth, despite the assurance that the knowledge of Brahman would follow the sacrifice.The Kathopanishad tells us he brought cows for giving away as part of the sacrifice, but only those cows that were old, dry, blind, diseased, and of little or no use to anybody. Vajashravas kept the good cows for himself. Nachiketa saw the old and useless cows his father brought for the sacrifice and knew such an unworthy gift would bring misery to his father. Eager to help his father, Nachiketa reminded his father that as his son he was also his property and should be included in the sacrifice for distribution.
"Father, to whom will you give me?" asked Nachiketa.
Vajashravas, haunted by the knowledge of his halfhearted sacrifice, focused his negative emotion on his son and chose to interpret Nachiketa's offer as impudence.
Three times Nachiketa asked his father to whom he would be given. After the third time, Vajashravas angrily retorted. "You I shall give to the Ruler of Death, Yama."
Nachiketa, with a pure heart and an abundance of faith, cheerfully took his father at his word.
"There is nothing in death," said Nachiketa. "All beings flourish like grain and die again. Now I shall be the first one to discover truth and reveal the mystery of death."
When Nachiketa went to Yama's abode, the Ruler of Death was not at home. Three nights passed before Yama returned. To make amends for not being there to welcome his guest, Yama gave Nachiketa three boons, one for each night he had waited alone without proper hospitality.
Nachiketa's first boon, demonstrating again the respect he had for his father, asked Yama to soothe Vajashravas' heart, to allay his father's anger, and to remove any worry Vajashravas might have because Nachiketa was now away from home.
Yama granted the wish and said, "Oh, Nachi-keta, your father will happily recognize you and treat you with the greatest love and kindness. "For his second boon, Nachiketa asked Yama to show him the fire sacrifice and all the rituals and ceremonies that went with it.
"In heaven," said Nachiketa in his request for the second boon, "there is neither fear nor death, neither age nor decay, neither hunger nor thirst, neither pain nor suffering. There is perpetual bliss. Ruler of Death, you alone know how, by performing sacrifice, mortals can attain this blissful heaven. This is my second boon that I ask. I want to know the nature of the sacrifice which leads a mortal to heaven."
Yama granted it, and taught Nachiketa the fire sacrifice. Yama then told Nachiketa to choose his third boon. After going within himself and quieting himself, Nachiketa said to Yama:
"There is a belief that after a man departs from the world he is gone forever. There is another viewpoint that he is born again, that even after death man does not die in the real sense but remains on a subtle plane with his subtle body, and only the outer physical garment is discarded; and that is called death. There is yet another belief that one who dies, lives. Which of these is true? What exists after death? Explain it to me. This is my third request—the truth relating to the mystery of death."
Yama did not want to explain the mystery of death to Nachiketa without testing the eagerness and sincerity of his young disciple. Yama told Nachiketa that even the gods had difficulty understanding this mystery.
"It is very difficult for anyone to grasp," said Yama. "Ask any other boon and I shall grant it to you with great pleasure." Nachiketa was steadfast. He told Yama that even though the gods were once puzzled by the mystery of death, and even though the subject was difficult to understand, there was no better teacher than Yama to explain it.
"Oh King of Death," said Nachiketa, "I shall not make any other request. There is no boon equal to this and I must know the secret." Yama tried another route and tested Nachiketa with the temptations all human beings face, the choice between God and mammon, between passing material pleasures and eternal joy, between illusion and reality. Yama offered Nachiketa a life span of as many years as he might wish, with all the pleasures there are in heaven. Yama said he would grant Nachiketa children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren, fine horses and elephants, gold, jewels, and rare gems. He said he would give Nachiketa the kingdom of earth to rule. He did not want to grant the third boon requested by Nachiketa. "Take all of this wealth and power instead of the third boon that is asked for," said Yama to Nachiketa. "I shall fulfill all your desires," Yama continued, "except this, for it is the greatest secret of life. All the maidens in the celestial regions, such as cannot be had by ordinary mortals, shall be yours if you want them. Do not ask me that question again. I do not wish to divulge the secret of life and death."
Nachiketa then showed the depth of his faith and resolve to know the purpose of life and the relationship between life and death. He was not interested in the temptations Yama offered him. He did not hesitate in answering Yama. He told the Ruler of Death.
"What shall I do with all these transitory and perishable objects? Everything that is perceived by the senses is momentary, and life on this plane is subject to change by death and decay. Even life in heaven is not worth living without acquiring the knowledge of liberation. All your dancing maidens and worldly attractions are merely sensual pleasures. Oh King of Death, keep them with you. No one can acquire happiness by worldly wealth. All the material enjoyments of this world and even heavenly life are subject to change. After knowing the fleeting nature of this world, who will long for mere longevity? I don't care to live for a thousand years. What shall I do with such a long life if I cannot acquire the highest wisdom and attain the supreme knowledge?"
When Yama saw the clarity and determination of Nachiketa, he gladly offered to grant the third boon.
Now the Kathopanishad begins in earnest to reveal the secret of immortality, the meaning of death and life.Worldly, transitory life, with all of its charms, is not the purpose of human existence. The world is full of objects and temptations. People want them, choose them, and organize their lives around getting them, lifetime after lifetime.
Today a person develops a pattern of identifying with the world, with its objects, and with the emotions that go with having those objects or with the possibility of losing them. He begins to think that joy will come with having glamorous possessions, a new car, a new suit, or a new spouse. With each new acquisition there is a flash of satisfaction followed by a prolonged sense of dissatisfaction.
A person identifies with the emotions that go with the objects and relationships. He thinks he loves someone, that he must have her to be happy. When he has her, so often the relationship settles into something else that is not very loving. He may hurt the person he said he needed. Then he says he is sorry. A month passes and he does the same hurtful thing again. Finally, they separate. So he finds another person he thinks he needs for his happiness, and the process begins all over again.
There are many variations of this theme. The point is that a human being becomes attached to things and relationships, and the thoughts and emotions attendant to the attachments. That creates suffering because none of those things or relationships lasts. Nonetheless, human beings keep trying to find peace in this way, lifetime after lifetime."Those who are dwelling in the darkness of ignorance and are deluded by wealth and possessions are like children playing with toys," says Yama to Nachiketa. "Such foolish children are caught in the snares of death and come again and again under my sway. They remain in the snares of death. They cannot get beyond the limits of the dark realm. They travel back and forth."
The Kathopanishad outlines a pure, unequivocal choice. Yama tells Nachiketa that there are two alternative paths before us in the world. One is Shreyas and the other is Preyas. One, though difficult, leads to the knowledge of the highest Truth. The other, though appearing very pleasant, is ephemeral and when an apparently pleasurable experience passes, as it inevitably will, there is pain. The wise choose that which is good, and the ignorant rely on that which is pleasant.That is the nature of life. The purpose of life is to understand who we are, who God is and understand the relationship between God & the individual living entiry (atma - sprit soul) and realize one's own true identity as eternal servant of God. If the path toward that goal is not taken, then the world will bring one around toward it. Blow after blow, one misfortune will follow another, one disappointment, then another, until the person begins to understand. The choice between good and pleasant becomes clear.
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Many years ago in a small Indian village, A farmer had the
misfortune Of owing a large sum of money to a village
moneylender.
The Moneylender, who was old and ugly, fancied the farmer's
beautiful Daughter. So he proposed a bargain.
He said he would forgo the farmer's debt if he could marry
his Daughter.
Both the farmer and his daughter were horrified by the
Proposal. So the cunning money-lender suggested that they let
Providence decide the matter.
He told them that he would put a black Pebble and a white
pebble into an empty money bag. Then the girl would Have to
pick one pebble from the bag.
1) If she picked the black pebble, she would become his wife
and her father's debt would be forgiven.
2) If she picked the white pebble she need not marry him and
her father's debt would still be forgiven.
3) But if she refused to pick a pebble, her father would be
thrown into Jail.
They were standing on a pebble strewn path in the farmer's
field. As They talked, the moneylender bent over to pick up two
pebbles.
As he Picked them up, the sharp-eyed girl noticed that he
had picked up two Black pebbles and put them into the bag.
He then asked the girl to pick A pebble from the bag.
Now, imagine that you were standing in the field. What would
you have Done if you were the girl?
If you had to advise her, what would you Have told her?
Careful analysis would produce three possibilities:
1. The girl should refuse to take a pebble.
2. The girl should show that there were two black pebbles in
the bag And expose the money-lender as a cheat. 3. The girl
should pick a black pebble and sacrifice herself in order To
save her father from his debt and imprisonment.
Take a moment to ponder over the story. The above story is
used with The hope that it will make us appreciate
the difference between lateral And logical thinking.
The girl's dilemma cannot be solved with Traditional logical
thinking.
Think of the consequences if she chooses The above logical
answers.
What would you recommend to the Girl to do?
Well, here is what she did ....
The girl put her hand into the moneybag and drew out a
pebble. Without Looking at it, she fumbled and
let it fall onto the pebble-strewn path Where it immediately
became lost among all the other pebbles.
"Oh, how clumsy of me," she said. "But never mind, if you
look into the Bag for the one that is left,you will be able
to tell which pebble I Picked."
Since the remaining pebble is black, it must be assumed that
she had Picked the white one.
And since the money-lender dared not admit his Dishonesty,
the girl changed what seemed an impossible situation
into An extremely advantageous one.
MORAL OF THE STORY:
Most complex problems do have a solution. It is only that we
don't Attempt to think.
========================================================
Thanks to Lal Gopal Prabhu for forwarding the nice story.
PS: I humbly request all the vaisnavas to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
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According to Srila Jiva Gosvami, the so-called fight among the members of the Yadu dynasty was actually a display of the pastime potency of the Lord, since Lord Krishna'ss personal associates are never subject to ordinary birth and death like conditioned souls. This being the case, certainly the Supreme Personality of Godhead Himself is transcendental to material birth and death, as clearly stated in this verse.
The word natasya, "of an actor or magician," is significant here. Srila Visvanätha Cakravarti Thakura tells the following story of a certain magician who exhibits the trick of dying:
"In front of a great king, a magician approaches a stack of valuable garments, jewels, coins and so forth, all placed there by the king. Taking a jeweled necklace, the magician tells the king, 'Now I am taking this necklace, and you can't have it,' and he makes the necklace disappear. 'Now I'm taking this gold coin, and you can't have it,' he says, and makes the gold coin disappear. Next, challenging the king in the same way, the magician makes seven thousand horses disappear. Then the magician creates the illusion that the king's children, grandchildren, brothers and other family members have attacked each other and that nearly all are dead from the violent quarrel. The king hears the magician speaking and at the same time observes these things taking place before him as he sits in the great assembly hall.
"Then the magician says, 'O King, I no longer wish to live. Just as I have studied magic, so also, by the mercy of the lotus feet of my guru, I have learned the mystic meditation of yoga. One is supposed to give up one's body while meditating in a holy place, and since you have performed so many pious activities, you are a holy place yourself. Therefore I shall now give up my body.'
"Thus speaking, the magician sits down in the proper yoga posture, fixes himself in pranayama, pratyahara, dhararana, dhyana and samadhi and becomes silent. A moment later, a fire generated from his trance blazes forth out of his body and burns it to ashes. Then all the wives of the magician, distraught with lamentation, enter into that fire.
"Three or four days later, after the magician has returned to his own province, he sends one of his daughters to the king. The daughter tells him, 'O King, I have just come to your palace, bringing along with me, invisibly, all your sons, grandsons and brothers in good health—along with all the jewels and other items given by you. Please, therefore, give me whatever you consider fitting remuneration for the wisdom of the magic that has been exhibited before you.' In this way, even by ordinary magic one can simulate birth and death."
It is not difficult to understand, therefore, that the Supreme Personality of Godhead, although transcendental to the laws of nature, exhibits His illusory potency so that ordinary fools will think the Lord has left His body like a human being. Actually, Lord Krishna returned to His abode in His own eternal body, as confirmed throughout the Vedic literature.
SB 11.31.11
Thanks to Caru Caitanya Prabhu (Melbourne) for forwarding the nice story.
PS: I humbly request all the vaisnavas to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
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The Rose
A young, new preacher was walking with an older, more seasoned preacher in the garden one day and feeling a bit insecure about what God had for him to do, he was inquiring of the older preacher. The older preacher walked up to a rosebush and handed the young preacher a rosebud and told him to open it without tearing off any petals.
The young preacher looked in disbelief at the older preacher and was trying to figure out what a rosebud could possible have to do with his wanting to know the WILL OF GOD for his life and for his ministry. Because of his high respect for the older preacher, he proceeded to TRY to unfold the rose, while keeping every petal intact…. It wasn't long before he realized how impossible it was to do so.
Noticing the younger preacher's inability to unfold the rosebud while keeping it intact, the older preacher began
to recite the following poem…..
It is only a tiny rosebud,
A flower of God's design
But I cannot unfold the petals
With these clumsy hands of mine.
The secret of unfolding flowers
Is not known to such as I.
GOD opens this flower so sweetly,
When in my hands they fade and die.
If I cannot unfold a rosebud
This flower of God's design
Then how can I think I have wisdom
To unfold this life of mine?
So I'll trust in Him for His leading
Each moment of every day.
I will look to him for His guidance
Each step of the pilgrim way.
The pathway that lies before me,
Only my Heavenly Father knows.
I'll trust Him to unfold the moments,
Just as He unfolds the rose.
Thanks to Muralidhara Prabhu (Melbourne) for forwarding the nice story.
PS: I humbly request all the vaisnavas to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
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Story from Srila Prabhupada lecture:
One poor boy, he was student in a school and the teacher's father's annual ceremony
would be held. So he requested all his students to give some contribution for the
ceremony. Formerly the teacher was not taking any salary. But whatever he wanted, the students will bring either from parents' house or by begging. That was the system. The teacher would not charge anything for teaching. A brahmana cannot charge anything. Generally, the brahmanas were teachers. That is one of the profession of the brahmana.
The teacher asked the students and one student said "I will contribute cloth," other
one said, "I'll bring rice,". Like that different students offered to bring different things.
The poor student, he had no means. He was very poor. So when he was asked, he replied that
"I cannot say anything without asking my mother." The teacher said "All right, you ask your mother and tell me tomorrow."
So he asked, "My dear mother, all my class friends have promised the teacher to contribute something for the ceremony, What
shall I promise?"
The mother said, "My dear son, we are so poor, we cannot give anything. But if Krsna gives, He is dina-bandhu, the friend of the poor. So if He gives something to you, you can promise."
The boy asked "Oh, where is Krsna? How can I find him?"
The mother replied "His name is Krsna, He is Dinabandhu, friend of the poor.I understand that He is in the forest."
So the boy went to the forest and called, "Dinabandhu brother, Dinabandhu brother, where You?" He began to cry. So Krsna came. When a devotee is very much eager to see Him, Krsna comes. He is very kind.
Krsna asked "Why are you crying and what do you want?"
The boy explained the whole situation and asked "What can I promise?"
Krsna said that "You promise that you will supply yogurt, dahi."
So the boy was very much satisfied. He came to the teacher and said that "My Dinabandhu brother, dada, He will supply yogurt, dahi."
So on the day of ceremony, so the boy went to the forest again and called Dinabandhu dada, and He gave him a small pot of dahi, yogurt, a small pot. Oh, he was a child. He did not know that he has brought only a small quantity of yogurt.
The teacher was supposed to feed hundreds and thousands of people and this yogurt is very little. He became very angry and did not keep the pot properly and the pot fell down & the yogurt also fell down. But after some time, when the teacher came, he saw that although the yogurt has fallen down, the pot is still full. Then he again dropped it; again it is full. He dropped it; again it is full.
Then he could understand it is spiritual. Purnasya purnam adaya purnam eva avasisyate [Isopanishad Invocation]. You take the whole thing; still, the whole thing is there. That is Krsna. Not that because you have taken something, one minus one equal to zero.
No. In the spiritual world, one minus one equal to one. And one plus one equal to one. That is called advaya-jnana. There is no duality. Plus and minus, they are two things. But in the spiritual world, either plus or minus, the same. That is to be understood.
That is called Absolute, advaya-jnana.
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The Roots are Growing
One day I decided to quit... I quit my job, my relationship,
my spirituality... I wanted to quit my life.
I went to the woods to have one last talk with God Krishna.
"God Krishna", I said. "Can you give me one good reason not to quit"
His answer surprised me... "Look around", He said. "Do you see the fern and the bamboo"
"Yes", I replied.
"When I planted the fern and the bamboo seeds, I took very good care of them.
I gave them light. I gave them water.
The fern quickly grew from the earth. Its brilliant green covered the floor.
Yet nothing came from the bamboo seed. But I did not quit on the bamboo.
In the second year, the Fern grew more vibrant and plentiful.
And again, nothing came from the bamboo seed. But I did not quit on the bamboo, he said.
"In year three, there was still nothing from the bamboo seed.
But I would not quit. In year four, again, there was nothing from the bamboo seed.
"I would not quit." He said.
Then, in the fifth year, a tiny sprout emerged from the earth.
Compared to the fern it was seemingly small and insignificant...
But just 6 months later the bamboo rose to over 100 feet tall.
It had spent the five years growing roots. Those roots made it strong and gave it
what it needed to survive.
"I would not give any of my creations a challenge it could not handle."
He said to me. "Did you know, my child, that all this time you have been struggling,
you have actually been growing roots"
"I would not quit on the bamboo. I will never quit on you."
"Don't compare yourself to others." He said. "The bamboo had a different purpose
than the fern. Yet they both make the forest beautiful."
"Your time will come", God Krishna said to me. "You will rise high"
"How high should I rise" I asked.
"How high will the bamboo rise" He asked in return.
"As high as it can" I replied.
"Yes." He said, "Give me glory by rising as high as you can."
I left the forest to bring back this story.
I hope these words can help you see that God Krishna will never give up on you.
Never Give up…!!
Thanks to VaisnavaCharan Prabhu (Melbourne) for forwarding the nice story.
PS: I humbly request all the vaisnavas to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
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THE SEED
A successful business man was growing old and knew it was time to choose a successor to take over the business. Instead of choosing one of his directors or his children, he decided to do something different. He called all the young executives in his company together. 'It is time for me to step down and choose the next CEO,' he said. 'I have decided to choose one of you.'
The young executives were shocked, but the boss continued. 'I am going to give each one of you a seed today - a very special seed. I want you to plant the seed, water it, and come back here one year from today with what you have grown from the seed I have given you. I will then judge the plants that you bring, and the one I choose will be the next CEO.'
One man, named Henry, was there that day and he, like the others, received a seed. He went home and excitedly, told his wife the story. She helped him get a pot, soil and compost and he planted the seed.
Every day, he would water it and watch to see if it had grown. After about three weeks, some of the other executives began to talk about their seeds and the plants that were beginning to grow. Henry kept checking his seed, but nothing ever grew.
Three weeks, four weeks, five weeks went by, still nothing. By now, others were talking about their plants, but Henry didn't have a plant and he felt like a failure.
Six months went by - still nothing in Henry's pot. He just knew he had killed his seed. Everyone else had trees and tall plants, but he had nothing. Henry didn't say anything to his colleagues, however. He just kept watering and fertilizing the soil - he so wanted the seed to grow.
A year finally went by and all the young executives of the company brought their plants to the CEO for inspection. Henry told his wife that he wasn't going to take an empty pot. But she asked him to be honest about what happened˜
Henry felt sick at his stomach. It was going to be the most embarrassing moment of his life, but he knew his wife was right. He took his empty pot to the board room. When Henry arrived, he was amazed at the variety of plants grown by the other executives. They were beautiful--in all shapes and sizes. Henry put his empty pot on the floor and many of his colleagues laughed. A few felt sorry for him! When the CEO arrived, he surveyed the room and greeted his young executives.
Henry just tried to hide in the back.
'My, what great plants, trees, and flowers you have grown,' said the CEO.
'Today one of you will be appointed the next CEO!'
All of a sudden, the CEO spotted Henry at the back of the room with his empty pot. He ordered the financial director to bring him to the front.
Henry was terrified. He thought, 'The CEO knows I'm a failure! Maybe he will have me fired!'
When Henry got to the front, the CEO asked him what had happened to his seed.
Henry told him the story.
The CEO asked everyone to sit down except Henry. He looked at Henry, and then announced to the young executives, 'Here is your next Chief Executive! His name is Henry !!!!!
Henry couldn't believe it. Henry couldn't even grow his seed. How could he be the new CEO the others said?
Then the CEO said, 'One year ago today, I gave everyone in this room a seed.
I told you to take the seed, plant it, water it, and bring it back to me today. But I gave you all boiled seeds; they were dead - it was not possible for them to grow.
All of you, except Henry, have brought me trees and plants and flowers.
'When you found that the seed would not grow, you substituted another seed for the one I gave you. Henry was the only one with the courage and honesty to bring me a pot with my seed in it. Therefore, he is the one who will be the new Chief Executive!'
Moral:
If you plant honesty, you will reap trust
If you plant goodness, you will reap friends.
If you plant humility, you will reap greatness.
If you plant perseverance, you will reap contentment
If you plant consideration, you will reap perspective.
If you plant hard work, you will reap success.
If you plant forgiveness, you will reap reconciliation.
So, be careful what you plant now; it will determine what you will reap later.
Thanks to Chetan Prabhu (Melbourne) for forwarding the nice story.
PS: I humbly request all the vaisnavas to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
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[The Story of The Cobbler and The Brahmana] - Faith
In this regard, there is a story of Narada Muni, who was once asked by a brahmana: "Oh, you are going to meet the Lord? Will you please ask Him when I'm going to get my salvation?"
"All right," Narada agreed. "I shall ask Him."
As Narada proceeded, he met a cobbler who was sitting under a tree mending shoes, and the cobbler similarly asked Narada, "Oh, you are going to see God? Will you please inquire of Him when my salvation will come?"
When Narada Muni went to the Vaikuntha planets, he fulfilled their request and asked Narayana (God) about the salvation of the brahmana and the cobbler, and Narayana replied, "After leaving this body, the cobbler shall come here to me."
"What about the brahmana?" Narada asked.
"He will have to remain there for a number of births. I do not know when he is coming."
Narada Muni was astonished, and he finally said, "I can't understand the mystery of this."
"That you will see," Narayana said. "When they ask you what I am doing in My abode, tell them that I am threading the eye of a needle with an elephant."
When Narada returned to earth and approached the brahmana, the brahmana said, "Oh, you have seen the Lord? What was He doing?"
"He was threading an elephant through the eye of a needle," Narada answered.
"I don't believe such nonsense," the brahmana replied. Narada could immediately understand that the man had no faith and that he was simply a reader of books.
Narada then left and went on to the cobbler, who asked him, "Oh, you have seen the Lord? Tell me, what was He doing?"
"He was threading an elephant through the eye of a needle," Narada replied.
The cobbler began to weep, "Oh, my Lord is so wonderful, He can do anything."
"Do you really believe that the Lord can push an elephant through the hole of a needle?" Narada asked.
"Why not?" the cobbler said, "Of course I believe it."
"How is that?"
"You can see that I am sitting under this banyan tree," the cobbler answered, "and you can see that so many fruits are falling daily, and in each seed there is a banyan tree like this one. If, within a small seed there can be a big tree like this, is it difficult to accept that the Lord is pushing an elephant through the eye of a needle?"
So this is called faith. It is not a question of blindly believing. There is reason behind the belief. If Krsna can put a large tree within so many little seeds, is it so astounding that He is keeping all the planetary systems floating in space through His energy?
Although scientists may think that the planets are being held in space simply by nature alone, behind nature there is the Supreme Lord. Nature is acting under His guidance. As Sri Krsna states:
mayadhyaksena prakrtih
suyate sa-caracaram
hetunanena kaunteya
jagad viparivartate
"This material nature is working under My direction, O son of Kunti, and is producing all moving and unmoving beings. By its rule this manifestation is being created and annihilated again and again." (Bg. 9.10)
Courtesy from: http://harekrishnablog.blogspot.com/2007/10/story-of-cobbler-and-brahmana.html
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
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Romasa Muni about the duration of life
Just after the demigods had been successful in a battle with the demons, Indradeva decided to make some renovations to his
home. He called Visvakarma, the architect of the demigods, and began to instruct him how he wanted the palace to look. After
some time Visvakarma became very anxious to get back to his home, and so he prayed to Brahmaji to make some arrangement, as
Indradeva was keeping him there for a long duration. Brahmaji then prayed to Lord Visnu, and Lord Visnu made an arrangement
to come to the court of Indra along with the sage Romasa Muni. Romasa Muni appeared there carrying an umbrella.
The Lord arranged that he would have a conversation with the muni while Indra was listening. When Visnu looked at his chest he saw
that although it was covered with hair, there was a bald patch in the middle. The Lord inquired from the sage, "Tell me great
sage, what is the reason for this curious phenomenon on your chest?"
"At the end of every cosmic annihilation," the muni replied, "one Indra dies, and when one Indra dies one of these hairs
falls out. When all the hairs have fallen out, then I will be able to go back to Vaikuntha."
"And what is the reason for this umbrella," Visnu further inquired.
The sage answered, "I see no necessity for making any sort of permanent home here,
because my stay in the material world is short.
I simply carry this unbrella. This is my home."
Indra then understood that there was no use in making any permanent plans in this material world,
and so he released Visvakarma.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
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An old Farmer lived on a farm in the mountains with his
young grandson. Each morning Grandpa was up early sitting
at the kitchen table reading his Bhagavat Geeta.
His grandson wanted to be just like him and tried to
imitate him in every way he could.
One day the grandson asked, 'Grandpa! I try to read the
Bhagavat Geeta just like you but I don't understand it,
and what I do understand I forget as soon as I close the
book. What good does reading the Bhagavat Geeta do?'
The Grandfather quietly turned from putting coal in the
stove and replied, 'Take this coal basket down to the
river and bring me back a basket of water.'
The boy did as he was told, but all the water leaked out
before he got back to the house.
The grandfather laughed and said, 'You'll have to
move a little faster next time,' and sent him back to
the river with the basket to try again.
This time the boy ran faster, but again the basket was
empty before he returned home.
Out of breath, he told his grandfather that it was
impossible to carry water in a basket, and he went to get a
bucket instead. The old man said, 'I don't want a
bucket of water; I want a basket of water. You're just
not trying hard enough,and he went out the door to
watch the boy try again.
At this point, the boy knew it was impossible, but he
wanted to show his grandfather that even if he ran as fast
as he could, the water would leak out before he got back to
the house. The boy again dipped the basket into river and
ran hard, but when he reached his grandfather the basket
was again empty. Out of breath, he said, 'See Grandpa,
it's useless!'
'So you think it is useless?' The old man said, 'Look at the
basket.' The boy looked at the basket and for the first
time realized that the basket was different. It had been
transformed from a dirty old coal basket and was now clean,
inside and out.
'Son, that's what happens when you read the Bhagavat Geeta.
You might not understand or remember everything, but when
you read it, you will be changed,inside and out.
That is the work of Krishna in our lives.'
Thanks to Yamuna Lila mataji (Melbourne) to share the nice story.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward
moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
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Wonderful pastime of Narasimha Deva -(submitted by HG Shyam gopal prabhu)
Now allow me to tell a true story that happened some 10 years ago in
South-Africa. The father and the daughter who experienced this event told
this story to my friend, a sannyasi and devotee of Lord Nrisimhadev.
This stories was also found in the newspapers, and several witnesses of this
truck-accident after this incident became devotees of Lord Nrisimhadev.
This happened to a simple Vaishnav family that lives there. They had a back
then 5 years old daughter. This girl was a great `fan' of Nrisimhadeva.
she found Him simply funny, as he looked half lion half man and felt very
attracted to Him. She often told her playmates about her favorite God, a
lion and the kids always wondered about what of God this could be a lion.
What can a five years old girl know about God, she wasn't initiated, not
even her parents, as far as I can remember. The father of the family
followed a guru and surely later accepted initiation. But there was a small
Hindu-community they were in close touch with.
So, one day the girl was playing outside with her ball together with other
kids, beside the street. The ball, how else could it be, fell on the street,
and the girl ran after her precious ball. There was nearly no traffic, a
rarely used country road. But this time a very fast truck came running down
the road. The girl in her play didn't see the truck coming.
The father was in the first floor of the house and saw his baby girl running
on the street âa" but he also saw the huge truck coming down, closer to his
daughter with huge speed. The father yelled at her, but she didn't hear him.
So he jumped out of the window of this first floor to save his daughter, and
broke both his legs, when coming down, and remained laying on the ground in
pain.
He had to watch how his little girl was hit by the truck and thrown through
the air, some 20 meter away. All children and neighbors around who observed
this froze the blood. The father later said his only desire when he saw this
was to die.
From the other direction came a police car that also witnessed the accident.
The truck went on and the policeman stopped his car across the street to
stop him. The truck-driver hardly stopped his truck and he seemed to be very
drunk.The policeman immediately called the ambulance and ran over to the
motionless laying girl in the grass.The closest hospital was a small private
clinic and the ambulance came, but refused to take the girl, being afraid
they wouldn't have the necessary devices and machines to help the injuries
the girl must have. They advised the policeman to call the main hospital, as
only they could efficiently help her, as her spine must be broken, etc.
The policeman was in despair, not even knowing where the father of the girl
was. Actually he didn't even know if the girl was still alive, as he didn't
dare to touch her, not knowing how injured she was. However, in the end she
was brought to a right hospital, the policeman accompanied the girl, and
also finally the father there.
The chief-doctor heard then what has happened to the girl, and they
immediately x-rayed her to see first results. The policeman wanted to rest
assured how the girl was doing, and waited there to see the results.
Everybody was shocked to hear what terrific accident had happened to the
girl.
So the nurse brought the x-ray pictures to the doctor, who became very upset
and started yelling at the nurse she should for-God's-sake bring the right
pictures, things were about death and life. He threatened to fire her, as it
was unacceptable to make such mistakes. The nurse was scared and didn't
understand what was happening. Those were the pictures of the five year old
girl that was hit by the truck. The nurse wasn't aware yet of what had
happened to the girl.The doc said this cannot be on the x-ray there was not
a single broken bone. So, the doc all the time again and again repeated
impossible it can't be'.
Then suddenly the girl awoke from her faint and then told a story at full
consciousness which made its tour through the media.
In the moment she picked up the ball from the street, she saw the truck
coming up to her. And the only thing she could do was to yell out for help.
She didn't call for mommy or daddy, but for her Nrisimhadev. In this moment
when the truck should hit her, she suddenly saw how Nrisimhadev picked her
up from the ground, smiled at her, and said, `don't be afraid, nothing will
happen to you'. The girl continued her story that the Lord had put her on
the other side of the street into the grass. But when putting her down, He
accidentally scratched her waist, which still hurt her a bit.
She spoke about how beautiful Nrisimhadev was, His hair, His eyes, etc. But
his claws were very sharp, He should cut them and he wore a golden dhotie,
etc. The doctor didn't understand anything and told the policeman she still
was in shock and hallucinated, which is normal.
So, the girl was profoundly checked for any injuries, but the only injury
they found on her body were those scratches and the doctor said this must be
from a wild animal like a lion, as he had cases like this before. So, he was
disturbed and asked if they had brought the girl to hospital as this one was
inured by a wild animal, not a truckâaN Nobody was clear what had happened.
The same doctor and the nurse who took care of her later became devotees, as
they later learned from the parent who `that lion' was.
As we can see miracle still today happen. Not only in Mahabharata, Puranas
or shastras that are more than thousands of years old. The little girl was
very attracted to this form of God, and in her despair she called Him for
help. Lord Nrisimhadev did not look if she was initiated and have the right
to call His name He protects His devotees, that sincerely worship Him in
their hearts.
I am sure this litte girl was no common soul, who knows what she did in her
previous life. The sannyasi heard that she very much liked to eat sweets,
and prepared a big plate full of sweets for her to rest assured she will not
be able to eat it all up. He gave her the mounted plate of sweets, she took
some of the sweets and ran out playing with her friends.
As soon as she was gone of the room, the sannyasi went over that plate and
took the rest, as for him, this was the best maha-prasad available! Who last
time has met Lord Nrisimhadev? Narada Muni maybe?? The girl for sure, and
she must be a great soul.
Jai Narsimhadev!
Hari bol
Thanks to Sri Krishna Hari Prabhu for sharing the nice pastime.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
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This story appears in Sri Ramayama, the Yuddha kanda section , where in Hanuman meets mother Sita.
(From Sri Ramayana written in English by HH Bhakti Vikas Swami maharaj)
Mother Sita says : A great man never takes into account the offenses that are commited
against him by another person.Indeed ,he vows at all cost not to return evil with evil.
Once there was a hunter who was being chased by a tiger.While trying to escape he climbed up into a big tree.
However, high up in the branches of the tree , a bear was perched,relaxing. Upon seeing the bear,
the tiger called the bear saying
' This hunter is our common enemy.You should push him out of the tree so I can eat him'.
The bear however replied because the hunter has taken shelter of my home,
I will not do anything to harm him and to do so would be unrighteous.
Saying this the bear went to sleep.
The tiger then said to the hunter ' If you push the bear out of the tree so that
i can eat him , I will promise not to harm you'. Swayed by the tiger's words, the hunter
pushed the sleeping bear. However as he was falling, the bear grabbed another branch and
saved himself.
The tiger then said to the bear
'Since this hunter tried to kill you,You should retaliate by pushing him out of the tree'.
But even though the tiger appealed to the bear like this repeatedly,the bear refused by saying
"A great person never takes into account the sins of a person who has offended him.
Instead at all costs,he keeps his vow never to return evil for evil,
Knowing that good conduct is the ornament of virtuous persons".
Thanks to Thenappan Prabhu (Melbourne) for forwarding the nice story.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
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I received a very nice lecture from a devotee that I want to share
with all of you. It's from my Gurudev - Giriraj Swami who was talking
about an explanation Srila Prabhupada gave on the mind and how to
control it. I found it amazing. Here it is :
"Srila Prabhupada once told a story about a jinn, a genie. The genie
comes out of the bottle and tells his master, "I will do whatever you
tell me, but you must keep me busy. And as soon as I don't have
anything to do, I will kill you." The master says, "Okay, you can
begin by cleaning the kitchen." The genie cleans the kitchen and
comes back. "All right, clean the living room." "Okay, clean the
bedroom." "Clean the hallway." "Clean the basement." "Clean the
attic." Pretty soon the whole house is completely clean. "Clean the
yard." Now, the master is really getting worried. He is running out
of things for the genie to do. And he begins to panic, because if he
doesn't keep the genie busy, the genie is going to turn on him and
kill him. He thinks, "Oh my God, what am I going to do now?" Then he
gets an idea. He has palm trees in his backyard, so he says, "You
climb to the top of one palm tree; then you jump over to the next
tree and climb down and up it, and then you jump across and climb
down and up the next tree, and you just keep doing that. When you are
finished with the last tree, you jump back to the next and begin
again." Thus the master finds an engagement to keep the genie busy so
that the genie will not turn against him. Now, what is the lesson to
be learned from this story? The genie is the mind. If we don't keep
the mind engaged, the mind will turn on us and murder us. So we have
to keep the mind engaged. We can keep the mind engaged in so many
tasks, but ultimately we need some engagement that will always keep
the mind busy. This going up and down—this is our japa-mala. Going up
and down the trees is going around our beads. So Srila Prabhupada
said that we should always keep the mind engaged, and if there is
nothing else to keep the mind engaged in Krsna's service, then chant
Hare Krsna. That will keep the mind engaged, and that will fulfill
the definition in the verse (bhajanty ananya-manaso); it will make us
mahatmas, and dear to Srila Prabhupada and Srimati Radharani."
San Diego - September 21, 2004
Haribol.
Aruna dd
Thanks to Ratish Prabhu (Srirangam) for forwarding the nice story.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
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Hare Krishna.
This pastime is little bit longer than the usual ones - but it is very sweet and inspiring one. I humbly request you to go thru' this one.
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!!!Hare Krishna!!!!
A wonderful story by His Holiness Radhanatha Swami Maharaj
This is my humble request to everyone to read this heart robbing and touching story - It is inspiring and auspicious.
Please Read this once and If you really like the experience then Please share with everyone in your contact.
This is Prabhupada's mercy. This is really Srila Prabhupada and Sri Radha's mercy, that we can understand this principle practically. That our real happiness is in sacrifice of service. And the more that service is unconditional and selfless the more it is a service of love, of pure love. It is that pure love of Krishna that every soul is longing for. And nothing can replace it. We must long for that love. But we have no qualification, we are so far away from the standard of unconditional love. But if we serve sincerely, with humility, and we desperately, desperately, desperately trying to chant the holy names properly then Krishna will see out efforts.
His name was Ghanshaym :
His Holiness Radhanatha Swami met with GHANSHAYM :
One of these nice sadhus told me I want you to meet a very very very simple and pure soul. When you meet him you will understand what is bhakti. So I thought he was going to bring me to some nice temple. He took me in the Radha-Vallabha temple area down this very isolated little ally way where there was an open sewer gutter just flowing like anything, black sewage and had to step over the sewage gutter to get in the door. And it was someone's house. Very, very small house. And a family was living in that house. Always making noise and everything. Then a hallway and in one of the hallways in their house there was a closet. The family was always passing, walking through that hallway and in that closet were the Deities of Sri Sri Radha-Gopijanavallabha. And then he introduced me to the pujari. His name was Ghanshyam.
How gracious and how kind he was! He had such pure love and devotion to the Deities. I was told that many years before when was young a man, he came from a very wealthy family. His Father, Mother all family members came on a pilgrimage to Vrindavana. They spent a few days and what the dhama of Vrindavana did to his heart was something wonderful. He became so deeply attached to Vrindavana.
Just by being here he became completely detached from everything in life. He saw no other purpose or meaning to existence except surrendering to Sri Radha and Krishna in Vrindavana. So when it was time to go he said I will stay here I will not leave. So his parents thought this is ridiculous so they said all right you come a little later. So they went back.
The parents came back again; they said now you must come, he said no I will not leave. So they told him we will take away all your property, all your money everything unless you come back. We will not in any way support you being here.
His Radha-Gopijanavallabha :
He considered the only real treasure and wealth in life his residence in Vrindavana, in the service of Radha and Krishna. So they left. From a very wealthy family, he was in total poverty.. In the summer, which is very hot, in the winter it is extremely cold, he would just sleep in the dust of Vrindavana on the ground in various places. He would go do madhukari and get some roti. At that time Vrindavana was a very very quite place. He hardly new anyone. He would just be immersed in chanting the holy name and praying. One day he was just sitting in the dust all day long just chanting the holy names and do you know what his Deity was? - The name of Radharani.
In the Sanskrit alphabet he just wrote "Sri Radha". In the dust with his finger and he would just worship that. And at the end of the day he would erase it so that nobody would step on it. So when he erased he saw some gold. He rubbed the ground and he felt something there and he started digging in a little and there was a piece of gold. So he was thinking what is this. Dug into the ground and what he found was something extraordinary. It was the top of the head of Srimati Radharani's deity. And next to Her underground was a beautiful blackish deity of Lord Krishna. And it was written underneath Him Radha-Gopijanavallabha.
So he had These deities, These deities you see, They're quite big deities. He had absolutely not one paise. He only had one torn-up set of clothes, he had no residence and here is self-manifesting deities of Radha-gopijanavallabha. So he felt that They have somehow put Themselves under my care, I cannot leave Them.
So he would just sit there with Them and chant. And sometimes people would come by and give some madhukari. He could not go to homes because he can't just leave the deities in the field. He was worshipping Them literary under a tree, even in the rainy season under a tree.
And people would sometimes come by and give some roti and he would offer it. This went on for some time. And this particular family of Vraja-vasis they saw his genuine and sincere devotion.. So they said you can put your deities in the closet of our house near our hallway. Those deities remained there for about the next 50 years. And he worshipped Them there.
This is where we met him. He would never leave the deities. He would only one time of the day he would go the Yamuna, because he had no one to help him, to collect water. To bring back. He would bathe in Yamuna and then bring a bucket back to bathe the deities.
Now when I met him he was an old man. Perhaps in his 80's. And he had a certain mood about him. It was that he was the most fallen, insignificant servant of Gopijanavallabha. Most unqualified and that anyone who came to that temple and very few people ever came. But anybody who would come in to that little temple he would consider that was Gopijanavallabha's very special guest, Gopijanavallabha's friend, personally invited.. And he would give his life, his soul his everything to serve anybody who came. He was one of the simplest people I ever met. He was really living in poverty. You know where he slept for that 50 or 60 years? He slept in the hallway. People would just, family would just walk by. Practically stepping over him. The deities were in a tiny little closet near that closet was a tiner closet. Whatever the deities belongings were, were in there. And he just slept on the hallway on the floor.
So I started coming there about 9 o'clock every morning after about 5 different mangal arati's that I would attend. I would go to Gopijanavallabha temple. And one day I just went there because I just wanted to be with Ghanshyam. So one day he told me come today at noon and I will give you prasad.
So I was thinking how can I refuse this. So I came at noon, he gave me, all he had was 3 rotis; nothing else. 3 rotis. So he said you come everyday, you must come. He said you must come everyday. Gopijanavallabha and Radharani want you to come everyday to take prasad with Them.
So after about 3 days there was this one sadhu who brought me to his house. He told me do you know that Ghanshyam has not eaten anything for 4 days. I said why. He said because you are eating all his rotis. He said Ghanshyam does not go out to beg really. He can't go far. There's 3 little houses right in that area. Each one cooks one roti. And he goes to those 3 houses everyday to get 1 roti from each house. And he brings, that's all he has. He offers that to Gopijanavallabha. So he said he his giving you all of his food.
So I came the next day and he just put down the rotis down in front of me. And I said Ghanshyam these are your rotis. He said no, no, these are your rotis. I said I already had prasad. He said doesn't matter Gopijanavallabha wants you to eat these rotis. I said no, no I do not want these rotis. He said You MUST, YOU MUST. He spoke nice English, because he was coming from an educated family.
I said Ghanshyam I have been told that you've not eaten for 4 days because I am eating all of your prasad. He said no, who has told you this, it is not true. i am eating so much, gopijanavallabha is giving me everything I need. Now you eat these rotis, please. I said Ghanshyam I am not going to eat these rotis because they are your rotis. Literally he began to weep and tremble with folded palms begging me to eat the rotis. I said Ghanshyam unless you show me that there is more rotis in your house I am not going to these.
He said I have so many rotis in this house. He said Gopijanavallabha is consort of Sri Radharani, She is the supreme goddess of fortune. You don't think there is any rotis in Her house. I said Ghanshyam show me the rotis. He said no need to show you, no need. They are here. You just take this parasad. He became so concerned, I said Ghanshyam I know that there are 12 places in Vrindavana that give madhukari to sadhus at a particular time of the day. In those days every sadhu knew where to go at what time to get free rotis. That was the first thing sadhu's learn when they come to Vrindavana; Time schedule of roti distribution in different temples.
So, I said I can go anywhere, you are here. You are starving. He said No need, you take these rotis. He started crying and pleading and praying to me. I understood if I did not take his rotis I would break his heart. So I was praying to Gopijanavallabha what should I do? Break his heart or starve his body. He would not let me leave without eating the rotis. But I never came back at 12 o'clock. The next day he didn't eat the rotis at 12 o'clock knowing that I would come 9 o'clock the next day. We had a big fight and I refused to eat his rotis.
This was a selfless service attitude. He was so old and so thin. One day I saw him walking with this bucket of water to bathe Gopijanavallabha. And from the Yamuna he would walk about 3 steps and then would have to put the bucket down and rest. Then he would pick it up strenuously, 3 steps then put it down to rest. At the time I was only 20 years old. So I took the bucket from him and I said I will carry it to the top. He would not let go, he said no need, no need, no need. I said Ghanshyam let me carry it for you. I can carry it in 3 mins, it takes you half hour. I am young. He said yes you are young so you should enjoy. But I am old man. I am just the servant.
My life is sacrifice, he said you are Gopijanavallabha's friend. You should not have to work for Him, but I am just his fallen servant. It is my duty to serve Him. He would not give me that bucket. I was walking alongside him for about 20 mins. We were having tug of wars, he would not give me the bucket. And then finally he began to cry and with a choked up voice he said this service I have to Gopijanavallabha; is all I have in life. Please, please do not take it away from me.. I never tried to take that bucket from him again.
One day I happened to be there and it was some festival so a Vraja-vasi brought him a cup of sweet rice to offer to Gopijanavallabha. Now please don't give or take the spontaneous love of the Vraja-vasi's but you can hear to understand its nature. He was just eating 2/3 rotis a day for how many years and here was a small pot of sweet rice in a clay cup and it was brought. The way he offered it to the deities is he sat me down on the little hallway in front of the closet. He put the spoon, 1 spoon in a cup and put it right to Gopijanavallabha's mouth and said a little prayer. Then he put it to Sri Radharani's mouth and said a little prayer, then he came to me because it's only a few feet from the deities and where I was sitting. He came and said open your mouth and put your head back. Then I opened by mouth and put my head back and he just poured the sweet rice from the spoon in my mouth. And this is how he offered the entire pot of sweet rice. He just kept on doing it spoon by spoon, Gopijanavallabha's mouth, Sri Radharani's mouth then he would just toss in my mouth. I said Ghanshyam save some for yourself, he said no need, no need. Then with folded palms and tears in his eyes he said you are Gopijanavallabha's friend, you Gopijanavallabha's friend. I am only his insignificant servant.
One time in the month of January I happened to come by to visit him in the night time. So Ghanshyam and I were chanting together. Whenever I went, I would come at all different times of the day sometimes just to visit him and whenever I would come he was never idle, he was never sitting, sleeping, but always doing seva. I'd come and he would be fanning the deities he just be standing and fanning and singing songs. Another time I had come he had sandalwood pulp and he was putting chandan and grinding. But most of time, 90% of the times when I would come he would just be sitting alone with the harmonium and singing beautiful songs for Gopijanavallabha. He was always busy doing some seva. Sometimes he would be doing puja, offering arati, sometimes he be dressing Them. So this night I came and we were singing this nice kirtan together. In this old broken down little house in a hallway. So then I said I'm going, now I must go and Ghanshyam said where are you going. I am going to take rest. He said where do you take rest. I said I always take rest on the bank of Yamuna. He said oh no, it is January, it is very cold. Then you have no home, you have no proper clothes, no blanket even. He said you stay here tonight it is too cold, I insist you must sleep here tonight. So I said Ghanshyam I sleep on Yamuna every night. He said no no, tonight you must stay here.
Gopijanavallabha, you are His guest, you must sleep nicely. So I laid down on the floor next to him and he came out with this old blanket and put it on top of me. So I was thinking ahhh this is very nice blanket. And then he laid next to me. All he had is just a thin dhoti and little chadar. Not even a pillow. He slept right on the bare floor, he just had a little piece of burlap he wouldput on the floor and he would lay on his arm. And he was trembling cold. I said Ghanshyam this is your blanket. You sleep with your blanket. He said no no, it is not my banket. It is your blanket.
It is your blanket. He said Gopijanavallabha wants you to have this blanket. You are his friend. I am only his fallen servant. You must accept this blanket. I said no it is your blanket. I will only stay here if you sleep with the blanket. So then he was begging me again, weeping, begging me take the blanket, sleep nicely. He said I am an old useless servant. What difference does it make if I suffer. But you are dear to the Lord, you must enjoy.
This was his mood. He was worshipping the deities for 50, 60 years. And I'm just a new devotee, I just arrived in Vrindavana and understood who Krishna is a couple months before. So finally, he surrendered. I was about to walk out. I said if you don't take this blanket I am leaving for the Yamuna. He said all right, all right, I will sleep in the blanket. You just lay down. So I lay down and it was cold. Ghanshyam was under this old tattered blanket but it was a little warm. So sometime later I woke up at night, in the middle of the night. And mysteriously I was feeling a little warm. So, I looked over at Ghanshyam and he's just laying there trembling, trembling like a leaf in the wind. And then I looked at myself and I saw the blanket was on me. While I was sleeping he put the blanket on me.
So very, very quietly I picked up the blanket and I wanted to not wake him. As soon I touched his body with the blanket he just leaped up "NO NEED, NO NEED" I said Ghanshyam you are not even sleeping, you are freezing. He said NO NEED, NO NEED you are Gopijanavallabha's friend, I am his servant. The duty of the servant is to serve the friend. Gopijanavallabha will never be pleased with me unless I sacrifice my life for the happiness of His guests and His devotees. You must accept this blanket. He said you keep this blanket, you take it with you. I refused. So then we actually, I wasn't yelling but I said no I'm not going to sleep with this blanket and he was insisting and insisting, then finally I said I am going to the Yamuna.
Then he said all right, all right I will sleep with the blanket. So I lay down, he laid down. And I woke up a few minutes later and I was warm. And I looked over there he was suffering, miserably, freezing, trembling and again I tried to really, really secretly put the blanket, as soon as I touched him NO NEED, NO NEED, NO NEED. He said my life is to serve. He said you don't understand my happiness is to serve, my only function in life is to serve. Whether I suffer or I whether I enjoy means nothing. The only meaning is Gopijanavallabha and Radharani are happy with me. They are happy when I give everything I have to devotees.
He was so sincere. I would not except. At least 5/6 times that night this happened of the switching of blankets. I never came back there at night. In the winter.
Then it started getting warmer, started going there sometimes at night and he was aging. It was so nice, somehow or other he had made this little bed for the deities, have you seen the size of these deities? He would, every night, whenever possible, he would put the deities in the bed and lay Them down and massage Their feet and put a little blanket over Them. And then he would sing for Them for hours while They were sleeping. But because he was getting, he did this for many many years, but in his old age he could not lift the deities and put Them in the bed. So any time I would come at night the would ask me please,please help put Radharani and Gopijanavallabha in Their bed.
I wasn't initiated at that time. I didn't even have a spiritual master, what to speak of being a brahmana. But he would have me lift, because the feet are lighter he would take the side of Gopijanavallabha's feet and I would take His shoulder's and we would carry Gopijanavallabha into and lay Him into the bed and take Sri Radharani and lay Her in bed. And he was so happy, he would just be crying in joy at Gopijanavallabha and Radharani tonight get to sleep in Their bed again.
He would never ask me please come every night and help me. If I happened to come at night he would very humbly appeal, will you put Gopijanavallabha in Their bed. Otherwise he would put Them to rest standing up. And how much he was so happy I could see, it was like the most glorious festival, was like the most glorious feast in his heart to see the deities nicely lying in Their bed to take rest.
One day I said, I came in the morning, I said to Ghanshyam I am going to Varsana. He started to cry. He was so dedicated to those deities. As far as I know, although he was living in Vraja-bhumi since he was 19/18 years old he came, this time he was there about 60 years. As far as I know he had never gone to Varsana. He had never gone to Nanda-ghama, never even seen Govardhana hill. Because he was duty-bound to his deities. He would never leave Them. When I told him I going to Varsana he began to cry. With folded hands he said when you go so Sri-ji mandir please, please tell Sri Radharani Ghanshyam is longing to come there to see Her. But that I cannot come because I am only Her servant. And I cannot leave my service.
Another time I was going to Govardhana hill, I said I am going for Govardhana parikrama. Ghanshyam again began to cry. He said when you see Giriraja, tell Him that Ghanshyam has been worshipping to Him and praying to Him for many years and is longing to see Him. He was seeing Varsana, he was seeing Govardhana, much clearer then so many thousands of pilgrims that walk around on parikrama of these places.
Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati Thakura taught us do not try to see Krishna, decide to serve Krishna in such a way that He will be pleased to see you. When I heard this statement of Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati Thakura some time later in remembrance of Ghanshyam came very intimately into my heart. Truly lived by the principles of servant of the servant of the servant.
It was actually in that little closet temple that I was with Ghanshyam and 2/3 other old sadhus that would come to meet him in the mornings. And I had to leave India because my visa had expired. So they gave me 2 suggestions in the presence of Gopijanavallabha. 1 suggestion is if you have to leave India; go to Mithala -Janakpura. It is the Varsana of Rama's lila. It's in Nepal so it is out of India. So I went there.
I was in Nepal in for about a month or something, and then my Nepalise visa expired. And I only had a 2-week transit visa in India. Just to go through then I had to depart. So from Pashupatinatha I went to Ayodhya and Prayag, and then I came to Vrindavana. There I spent about 10 days in Vrindavana. My last day I did Govardhana parikrama and then departed. But the day before Govardhana parikrama I visited Ghanshyam baba. And he and a couple others were saying if you have to leave Vrindavana, because I was crying I have to leave Vrindavana. They said if you have to leave Vrindavana you should go to New Vrindavana. I asked what is this New Vrindavana? They said Swami Prabhupada, when he was here in Vrindavana, because I had already accepted Prabhupada as my guru by that time in Vrindavana.
They said your guru-maharaja Swami Prabhupada, he was telling us that he has created a Vrindavana in America called New Vrindavana. And he told us that it is non-different then from Vrindavana. So you should go there, that way you will never leave Vrindavana until you can come back. And he even told, he said you should be pujari when you go there.
So I had to leave and I went to Amsterdam. That was the first ISKCON temple I ever saw. I would live with Prabhupada when he came to Vrindavana. I was with Prabhupada in Bombay for sometime before. When I never saw an ISKCON temple and the whole expect for 10 days when Prabhupada was doing parikrama around Vrindavana there was never any ISKCON devotees here.
So then I went to the temple of London, Bury place ;and then to various other places - After 11 years in ISKCON London - I come back to india and get chance to visit Vrindavana.
So I came and I happened to see Ghanshyam sitting on the steps outside the old temple. And now he was 11 years older, he was in his late 80's or 90's, I don't know. And he looked at me. When I lived in Vrindavana, I wore this simple white lungi, that was kind of torn up and I had a little chadar and I had long dredded hair and I never shaved because I was young, it didn't make that much difference that I never shave. And now here I am a Sannyasi, with a danda, with shaved head. So he was looking at me and he was old, he was just looking at me.
Because one great sadhu living in Vrindavana had given me a name when I was little, the name Ratin-Krishna dasa. I never got initiated but he gave it out of affection. So Ghanshyam always called me Ratin. That means Krishna the chariot driver of Arjuna.
So he looked at me and he was just looking and I bowed down, and I got up, and he was just. And then he said, like a father to a long lost son - Ratiiiiin!
Then he started to weep, started to cry. He embraced me. And he said Radha-Gopijanavallabha has been waiting for so long to see you. And he took me by the hand and took me to that same little hallway where the closet was. And he started; he started taking off the jewellery of the deities and giving it to me. Saying Radharani wants you to have this. He's giving me rotis. And I came that night from Krishna-Balarama temple, secretly. I left Krishna-Balarama temple that night to help him put Radha-Gopijanavallabha into the bed, 11 years later. I even brought a couple godbrothers to the temple, he was just taking off, giving them whatever he could give them, he would give them, bow down to each Vaisnava.
Then the next time I came, I came to the door and I walked in. I walked into that little temple there was no Gopijanavallabha, there was no Ghanshyam. So I asked the family members - Ghanshyam, Ghanshyam. And the person, with tears in their eyes, smiling said Goloka.
He was so old but he knew that if he were to die, there'd be no one to take care of the deities. Because that family had nothing to do with the deity worship, they were just working people and like that. So even though, he was really aged then in poor health, he just lived to take care of the deities. From my understanding, because for many years I was asking people, where is Gopijanavallabha. Nobody knew, even that family didn't know. Then I met one very dear brother and friend named Asika-Krishna dasa Prabhu. Who during the time I lived in Vrindavana he would often, we would go to see Ghanshyam baba. And he told me, what he told was this - that Ghanshyam baba was just living because there was no one else to do the seva of the deities. But then one trust built this temple, but they had no deity, so they were looking for a deity to put in the temple. So someone told them, there is this beautiful self-manifesting deity just in the closet. So they asked him, and he was so happy. After 60 years in this closet Gopijanavallabha, maybe 70 years in this closet, Gopijanavallabha will finally have a temple. So he came here when the temple was built and he was, somebody else's temple, somebody else's trust but he was just the pujari..
And very very soon after, because the trust would supply another pujari. As soon as he saw that Gopijanavallabha had a house and he trained some other pujari, someone to take care of Them. As soon as he saw the deity seva taken care of nicely he gave up his body. A young person will serve the deity better then me.
So he had no reason to remain in this world.
Selfless Service
When we read about qualities of selfless service, when we read about the principle of servant of the servant of the servant, when we contemplate actual humility of the heart, Sri Gopijanavallabha empowered him to be a very wonderful wonderful example of that. But only a few people in the whole world ever saw him or knew him. He was just totally an unknown person. But his life and soul is the prayer where the people would just come to see the deities. Probably no more than 6/7 different people a month would come to see his deities. But anybody who came would be the joy of his life. To serve Gopijanavallabha's friend, his special invited guest. So I think today Ghanshyam baba is very happy. That all of you have come to see the beautiful forms of his beloved Lord. And what a mystery life is that at the time I was just an insignificant little beggar sleeping on bank of Yamuna. And I been given the wonderful fortune of now bringing, helping to bring a 1000 devotees for the darshan of Gopijanavallabha.
Our beloved Srila Prabhupada was truly the embodiment of selfless service.
Srila Prabhupada left Vrindavana, he left his beloved Radha-Damodara. He suffered heart attacks, strokes, sea-sickness, persecution to give us Krishna.. Srila Prabhupada told us that he saw us as the representatives of his guru-maharaja.
Thanks to Arvind Prabhuji for this Story.
Source of Story :
http://www.iskcon-network.com/blog/Experiences/_archives/2006/12/5/2552801.html
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Many devotees wonder why Mother Sita was seperated from Lord Rama and why she was sent to exile after returning from Lanka. Why could Lord not stop it from happening?
THE WASHERMAN'S FORMER BIRTH
Adapted from Padma Purana
In canto five, chapter fifty-seven, Lord Ananta Sesha speaks the following pastime to Vatsyayana Muni:
In the great city of Mithila lived the king named Janak Maharaja. Pleasing his subjects, he ruled righteously. Once when Janak was ploughing the field, an extremely beautiful baby girl came out from the first furrow. Seeing her, Janak Maharaja became extremely happy. He named that fascinating girl "Sita".
One day when Sita was playing as a child in a garden grove, she saw a male and female parrot that delighted her mind. The parrots were affectionately talking to each other in pleasant words, "On the earth, charming Rama will be the king. His wife will be Sita. That intelligent, powerful king, will vanquish his enemies and rule over the earth with her for eleven thousand years. Blessed is that queen Sita, and blessed is Rama."
Hearing the charming tales told by the parrots about her, Maithili, Sita, decided to capture them and ask them the meaning of their conversation. She told her friends,
"Quickly catch this charming pair of birds." Her friends caught the parrots and brought them to princess Maithili.
Sita comforted them, and said, "Don't be frightened, dear charming ones. Who are you? Where have you come from? Who is this Rama and Sita that you are speaking about? Where did you hear about them?
The birds replied, "We have come from the ashram of the great sage Valmiki, who is the best of those who know dharma. He instructed his disciples to daily sing about the future adventures of Lord Ramachandra. All those imminent pastimes were repeatedly heard and memorized by us. Listen to them. At the end we shall tell who that Rama is, who that Janaki (Sita) is, and what will happen to the two of them.
"Glorious Vishnu will divide himself into four and appear at the sacrifice performed by the sage Rishyasringa. Later, he and his brothers accompanied by Vishwamitra will come to Mithila. Then he will break a bow that many kings were unable to wield, and thereby obtain the charming daughter of Janak. O excellent one, we have heard that with her, he will rule over a large kingdom. O beautiful lady, we who had flown to Valmiki's ashram, heard this and other things told by those who lived there. Now please release us, we desire our freedom."
Hearing those words, which were very pleasant to the ears, Sita replied to that pair of birds, "Where will that Rama be? Whose son will he be? In what way will he marry his consort? What form will that excellent man have? Tell me all this, and later I will do that which will please you."
Seeing Janaki and realizing that her heart was oppressed by love, the female parrot told her, "There will be an intelligent mighty king with thousands of chariots. He will be the ruler of the solar dynasty, and the demigods will become victorious by taking shelter of him. He will have three wives, who will be so beautiful that their forms will fascinate even Lord Indra. Four powerful and exalted sons will be born to them. Rama will be the eldest. Bharata will be born after him, then Lakshman will be born, and after him Shatrughna will be born. The magnanimous Rama will also be known as Raghunath. These brothers will have countless names.
"O friend, the face of the powerful Rama will be charming like the whorl of a lotus. His very large eyes will also have the beauty of lotuses. His nose will be raised, large, and charming. His eyebrows will be lovely and beguiling. His beautiful hands will reach to his knees. His small neck will be marked like a conch. His chest will be expansive and captivating, and will have a mark on it. His lotus feet will always be worshipped by his devotees. Raghupati's form will be like this.
"How can I express his beauty? Even with a hundred mouths one cannot describe him. Then what about birds like me? Seeing his form, even the charming and beautiful Lakshmi was enticed. What lady on the earth will not be enticed? He has great power, great valour, and a very enticing form. Lucky is Sita, who will enjoy with him for myriad years. O beautiful lady, who are you? What is your name and why do you cleverly and respectfully ask me to narrate the account of Rama?"
Hearing the birds tell the story of her birth and life, Sita said to them, "I am that Janaki, the daughter of Janak, whom you mentioned. Being allured by your nectarean words, I shall release you when that charming Rama comes to me and not otherwise. Don't fear, I shall caress you and you will stay happily with me."
Hearing these words, the female parrot trembled and was frightened. She said to Janaki, "O good lady, we are birds. We live in trees in the forest. We wander everywhere. We will not be happy being bound up in one place. Moreover, I am pregnant. I promise that if you let me go, after returning to my place and giving birth to young ones I shall come back." Although the female parrot pleaded in this way with Sita, still she did not release her.
Then the male parrot, with his face hung down, spoke. "Sita, release her. Why do you want to keep my beautiful wife? We shall go to the forest together and happily move about. My charming wife is pregnant. After she delivers her young, I shall also come to you."
Sita replied to the male parrot, "O intelligent one, you can go. I shall keep this lady parrot, who is so dear to me, by my side."
The male parrot said, "The words of the saints are true. They have advised that wise persons should remain silent. If we had not spoken to each other while on this tree, we would not be bound up. O beautiful lady, O Sita, I cannot live without my wife. Therefore, O charming one, please release her."
Still, out of attachment to hearing the glories of Lord Ramachandra, Sita refused to release his mate. The parrot's wife then became angry and miserable and cursed the daughter of Maharaja Janak, "Just as you are separating me from my husband, in the same way when you become pregnant you will be separated from Rama." Having spoken, that female parrot, who was miserable due to separation from her husband, uttered the name of Rama and left her body. A divine chariot descended and took her away.
Seeing this, her husband, extremely angry and distressed, fell into the Ganga and drowned himself. His last words were, "I will take birth in Rama's city as a sudra. And due to my words, Sita will become dejected and extremely unhappy due to separation from her husband." That bird was then born as the washerman named Krodhan.
Due to his harsh words, Sita was censured and separated from Rama. On account of that washerman, Sita was exiled to the forest.
According to Garga-samhita 5.10.3-8, Krodhan took birth again in Mathura where he was engaged in washing the clothes of King Kamsa. He received liberation when Krishna killed him to stop his blasphemy.
PS: Thanks to Chetan Prabhu (from Melbourne) for forwarding the nice story.
I humbly request all the vaisnavas to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so
that everyone can be benefitted.
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THE DEATH OF GAUTAMI'S SON OR "WHO IS REALLY TO BLAME?"
Adapted from Mahabharata, Anushasana-parva, Chapter One
[Here, Bhishma responds to a question from Yudhisthir Maharaja.]
Since you are dependent on God, destiny, and time, why do you consider
yourself to be the cause of your actions? There is an ancient story in
this connection about a conversation between Mrityu (personified death),
Kala (personified time), the sagacious lady Gautami, a hunter, and a
snake.
There was once an old lady named Gautami, who possessed great patience
and tranquility of mind. One day she found her son dead, having been
bitten by a snake. An angry hunter named Arjunaka bound the serpent with
a rope and brought it before her. He said to her, "O blessed lady, this
wicked snake has killed your son. Tell me quickly how this wretch is to
be destroyed. Shall I throw it into the fire or shall I hack it to
pieces? This infamous destroyer of a child does not deserve to live any
longer."
Gautami replied, "O Arjunaka of little understanding, release the snake.
It does not deserve death at your hands. Who is so foolish as to
disregard the inevitable fate that awaits him, and, burdening himself
with folly, sink into sin? Those who have made themselves light by the
practice of virtuous deeds manage to cross the sea of this world just as
a ship crosses the ocean. But those who have made themselves heavy with
sin sink to the bottom, like an arrow thrown into the water. By killing
this serpent, my boy will not be restored to life, nor do I see that any
other positive end will be attained by its death. Whereas, by letting it
live, no harm will be caused to you."
The hunter then said, "I know that great persons are afflicted by the
sufferings of all creatures. But these words which you have spoken are
meant only for a self-controlled person, not for one who is plunged in
sorrow. Therefore, I must kill this snake. Those who value peace of mind
consider time to be the cause of everything, but practical men quickly
soothe their grief by revenge."
Gautami replied:
"People like us are never pained. Good men are always intent on virtue.
The death of the boy was predestined. Therefore, I am unable to approve
of the destruction of this snake. (1.19) Brahmins do not harbor
resentment because resentment leads to pain. O good man, out of
compassion, forgive this serpent and release it." (1.20)
The hunter replied, "Let us acquire great and inexhaustible merit in the
next world by destroying this creature, just as a man gains great merit
and confers it upon his victim by sacrificing it on the altar! Merit is
won by killing an enemy; by killing this despicable creature, you will
acquire great and true merit in this world."
Gautami replied:
"What good is there in torturing and destroying an enemy, and what good
is acquired by not setting free an enemy that is in our power? O you
with a kind face, therefore, why should we not forgive this serpent and
try to acquire merit by setting it free?" (1.22)
The hunter replied, "Instead of this single creature being protected, a
great number of others should be safeguarded against this one. Virtuous
men leave the vicious. You should therefore destroy this wicked
reptile."
The hunter repeatedly urged Gautami to destroy the snake, but Gautami,
not blaming the serpent for the death of her son, continued to dissuade
him, and did not bend her mind to killing it. At that time, the snake,
which was painfully bound up with the rope, sighed a little, and then
slowly spoke in a human voice, "O foolish Arjunaka, what fault is there
of mine? I have no will of my own, nor am I independent. Mrityu, death,
sent me on this errand. It was by his direction that I have bitten this
child, and not out of any anger or choice on my part. I was not an
independent cause in the child's death, just as the officiating priests
at a sacrifice don't acquire the merit of the act of offering oblations
of clarified butter to the fire [rather, it goes to the person who has
arranged for the ceremony]. Therefore, if there is any sin in this, it
is Mrityu's."
Mrityu then appeared there and said, "O serpent, I sent you on this
errand guided by Kala, time. Neither you nor I are the cause of this
child's death. The modes of nature, sattva, rajas, and tamas, are all
evoked by Kala. All creatures, mobile or immobile, in heaven or earth,
as well as all acts and all abstentions in this world, are influenced by
time. O snake, the whole universe is under the influence of Kala.
Knowing this, why do you consider me to be guilty? Neither of us are
free agents. Dependent on Kala, we are ordained to do our appointed
work."
Then Kala arrived at that scene of dispute and said, "Neither Mrityu,
nor this serpent, nor I, O hunter, are guilty of the death of any
creature. We are merely the immediate causes of events. O Arjunaka, it
was the karma of this child that formed the cause of our action in this
matter. There was no other cause by which this child came to its death.
It was killed as a result of its own past karma."
"We are all subject to the influence of our respective karma. Karma is
an aid to salvation, just as sons are, and karma is also an indicator of
virtue and vice in man. As men make whatever they wish from a lump of
clay, similarly they attain various results because of their karma.
Therefore, neither you, nor I, nor Mrityu, nor the serpent, nor this old
brahmin lady, were the cause of this child's death. He himself was the
cause."
Hearing Kala's words, Gautami said to Arjunaka, "This child has met with
death as the result of its own karma. I too acted in the past in such a
way that as its consequence my son has died. Let Kala and Mrityu depart
from this place, and you, O Arjunaka, should release this serpent."
Kala, Mrityu and the serpent then all went to their respective
destinations and both Gautami and the hunter became consoled in mind.
Bhishmadev then said, "O Yudhisthir, give up your grief and attain peace
of mind. Men attain heaven or hell as the result of their own karma.
This war was neither your creation nor Duryodhana's. All of the kings
slain in this war have died as a result of the action of time."
Having heard all this, the powerful and virtuous Yudhishthir became
peaceful.
* * *
Mature seekers of the absolute tolerate and accept whatever sufferings
come as the fruit of their own past misdeeds. They don't try to avoid
the lessons of life by cheaply blaming other living entities, or even
time or death personified. Such acceptance is a fundamentally important
step in spiritual life. Srila Prabhupada writes in his purport to BG
12.13-14:
"In the Srimad Bhagavatam (10.14.8) it is stated: Whenever a devotee is
in distress or has fallen into difficulty, he thinks that it is the
Lord's mercy upon him. He thinks, 'Thanks to my past misdeeds I should
suffer far, far greater than I am suffering now. So it is by the mercy
of the Supreme Lord that I am not getting all the punishment I am due.
I am just getting a little, by the mercy of the Supreme Personality of
Godhead.' Therefore he is always calm, quiet and patient, despite many
distressful conditions. A devotee is also always kind to everyone, even
to his enemy.
This point is nicely illustrated in the seventeenth chapter of the first
canto of Srimad Bhagavatam. Therein it is described that Maharaja
Parikshit came across Dharma in the form of a bull being tortured by
Kali personified. Kali had broken three of Dharma's legs and was beating
him, but when Parikshit asked Dharma who the perpetrator of the crime
was, Dharma refused to blame Kali and stated that it was difficult to
ascertain who was the real cause of his suffering. His wise comments
deeply impressed Maharaja Parikshit, who then told Dharma: "O you who
are in the form of a bull! You know the truth of religion, and you are
speaking according to the principle that the destination intended for
the perpetrator of irreligious acts is also intended for one who
identifies the perpetrator. You are none other than the personality of
religion." (Bh.g. 1.17.22)
Srila Prabhupada comments in his purport:
A devotee's conclusion is that no one is directly responsible for being
a benefactor or mischiefmonger without the sanction of the Lord;
therefore he does not consider anyone to be directly responsible for
such action.
But in both the cases he takes it for granted that either benefit or
loss is God-sent, and thus it is his grace. In case of benefit, no one
will deny that it is God-sent, but in case of loss or reverses one
becomes doubtful about how the Lord could be so unkind to his devotee as
to put him in great difficulty. Jesus Christ was seemingly put into such
great difficulty, being crucified by the ignorant, but he was never
angry at the mischief- mongers. That is the way of accepting a thing,
either favorable or unfavorable. Thus, for a devotee, the identifier is
equally a sinner, like the mischief-monger. By God's grace, the devotee
tolerates all reverses.
Tolerance is an essential qualification for spiritual life.
Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Saraswati Thakur writes in his purport to Srimad
Bhagavatam 11.23.5: "Often those who give up the materialistic path and
devote themselves to renunciation are attacked by impious persons.
This analysis, however, this is superficial, since the punishment is
actually the cumulative result of onedfs past karma. Some renunciants
show lack of tolerance when presented with the remnants of their
previous sins, and thus are forced to enter again onto the path of
impious life."
A devotee who is serious about making advancement thus doesn't try to
blame others, but rather tolerates adverse situations as being
mercifully sent by the Lord for instruction. Those who refuse to accept
the reactions of their misdeeds and try to blame their suffering on
others only attain more misery for their critical words and lack of
tolerance.
[Taken from Bindu Magazine]
Thanks to Lal Gopal Prabhu (now in USA) for forwarding the nice story from
HH Romapadaswami Maharaja's e-mail.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive
stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
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Sri Caitanya Mangalam
Gauranga Tells the Story of Dhruva Maharaja
"Listen Mother, now I'll tell you how the five-year old boy Dhruva attained a most exalted position. Svayambhuva Manu, the mental son of Brahma, was powerful and formidable. His body was practically spiritual. His two sons, Priyavrata and Uttanapada, became great kings by the mercy of Lord Brahma. King Uttanapada had two wives, Suruci and Suniti. Suruci had seven sons; one was called Uttama. Suniti, however, had only one son, named Dhruva.
"Suruci became the favorite queen of King Uttanapada. Neglected by her husband, Suniti had to act as Suruci's maidservant. Suniti suffered so much in her lamentation that even stones would float and the oceans would dry up. Although a queen, Suniti was forced to eat unhusked rice and tasteless vegetables without salt. She and her five-year old son Dhruva endured many miseries.
"One day the king sat on his jeweled throne enjoying with Suruci, Uttama and his six brothers. Dhruva, who was covered with dust from playing with his friends, tried to climb up on his father' s throne too. But his seven cousins pushed him down on the floor. His pride crushed, Dhruva began crying. His father, however, being controlled by his queen Suruci, kept silent. Dhruva didn't understand that his mother Suniti was not favored by his father.
"Suruci rebuked Dhruva, 'You're uselessly crying. Being the son of a maidservant, you foolishly thought you could sit on the throne. Life after life your mother has never served Lord Krishna. Don't you feel ashamed about trying to sit on the king's throne? You are the son of an unfortunate non-devotee. How can you possibly sit on the throne?'
"After listening to his step-mother, Dhruva cried and ran to his mother Suniti. Dhruva said, 'Mother, my step-mother has beaten me and pushed me off the throne. She said that you didn't serve Krishna. She told me I should feel ashamed to try and sit on the jeweled throne. Until now, I didn't know that you were her maidservant. This sounds strange to me.'
"Dhruva's mother cried as she said, 'Darling, I'm most unfortunate. Life after life I never thought of serving Krishna, although in reality, everyone is His servant. Don't cry if someone teases or criticizes you for being the son of a maidservant.'
"Mother Suniti continued speaking comforting words to her son. She said, 'Dhruva, you're not the darling of your father. Therefore, you had trouble when you tried to climb the throne. Don't cry Dhruva, just listen to me. Your step-mother became fortunate because previously she had worshiped Lord Krishna. One who serves the lotus feet of Krishna can get anything he desires, what to speak of an insignificant throne. Now give up your false pride, worship Krishna, and easily you'll attain everything.
'Dhruva, because you're my son you' ll always hear sarcastic remarks from the people in general. So how will you ever enjoy the privilege of sitting on your father's lap? I am unfortunate from my birth.'
"After saying this, tears flooded Suniti's eyes. She continued, 'Listen my son, only Lord Krishna can remove your misery. By serving Krishna all the demigods like Brahma and others received exalted posts in the heavenly planets. If you worship Krishna, you'll be worshiped in the three worlds, what to speak of sitting on a throne.
'Dhruva, you can attain Krishna in Madhuvana, one of the twelve forests of Vrndavana. If you attain the throne, then you'll be worthy of your name Dhruva, which means firmly determined.'
"Taking the dust of his mother's feet upon his head, Dhruva decided to leave home at an auspicious moment. Seeing Dhruva absorbing his mind in the lotus feet of Krishna, the demigods cheered encouragingly. After fixing the goal of attaining love for Krishna within his heart, Dhruva left for the forest of Madhuvana.
"Although sweet fruits and fresh water were available, Dhruva didn't eat or drink anything along the way. He paid no attention to hunger or thirst. He was doggedly determined. Seeing this, the demigods now became disturbed, fearing what elevated post he would capture by his austerities.
"Narada met Dhruva on the road and said, 'You are the son of a king. At your age you should be playing and enjoying various games. Why are you harboring such anger within your mind? According to tradition, a young boy doesn't repair to the forest. When you get old, you can serve Krishna.'
"Dhruva said, 'Narada, what happens if I die in my youth?' "Narada Muni was happy to see Dhruva's introspection. Then the sage gave Dhruva the twelve-syllable mantra: Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya.
"Dhruva said, 'Narada, without serving Krishna I've suffered so much. My step mother' s harsh words hurt me deeply. You are very kind. Seeing my unfortunate position, please remove my miseries and instruct me about Krishna. I've heard that by worshiping Krishna I'll attain a supremely exalted post, unimaginable even by father and ancestors.'
"Narada said, 'Dhruva, go to Madhuvana forest on the banks of the Yamuna in Vrndavana. Sit down fixed in meditation and constantly, softly chant: Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya. Within seven days you will attain realization.'
"Dhruva became very happy to receive initiation from Narada. He paid obeisances to the great sage Narada and went to Vrndavana. Seven days later Dhruva arrived in Madhuvana. Seeing the wish-fulfilling trees of Vraja-dhama, Dhruva got free from ignorance.
"Dhruva felt ever-increasing bliss to be living in the beautiful forest of Madhuvana. He fasted the first day. The next day, he awoke early, took bath in Yamuna and started chanting the mantra. Feeling neither hunger nor thirst, Dhruva shed tears of joy. After five or seven days he would eat one badari fruit [a wild tasteless fruit]. Otherwise, he would just take a few drops of water mixed with some turmeric leaves
The Demigods Test Dhruva
"Dhruva broke his fast after one month. He stood on one leg and folded his hands while chanting the twelve-syllable mantra: Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya. Even in the scorching summer heat, he didn't stop his meditation. In winter, Dhruva stayed in the Yamuna. He tolerated much suffering during the rainy season. While continuously meditating on the Lord, Dhruva entered samadhi.
"The demigods, afraid about losing their posts, were astonished to see the severity of Dhruva's austerities. Brahma, Indra, Kuvera and Varuna discussed how Sri Krishna would help Dhruva to take away their power. They planned to divert Dhruva from his rigorous penances. Brahma, Siva and others went to test Dhruva.
"One demigod shouted in Dhruva's ear, 'Dhruva, have you come here to die??' Someone said, 'Dhruva, your father has died.' Another demigod said, 'Dhruva, look a poisonous snake is coming to bite and kill you.' One said, 'Dhruva, your mother has died.' One said, 'Dhruva, quickly run away from here. A raging forest fire is rapidly approaching, and soon you'll burn to death.'
"Seeing the staunch Dhruva resolute and unaffected, Indra mounted Airavata [his elephant carrier] and attacked him. Failing to pierce the boy with his tusks, Airavata terrorized Dhruva by coiling him in his trunk. Dhruva stood undaunted. The demigod Vayu tried to swallow Dhruva by taking the form of a python. Surya, [the sun-god] became a tiger to drink Dhruva's blood. Binding him with snakes, he tried to throw Dhruva in a fire. Candra [the moon-god] attempted to drown Dhruva in the Yamuna.
"For one who has chanted the names of Krishna, what harm can millions of snake bites do?? Failing to break Dhruva's determined meditation, Brahma, Surya, Indra and the other demigods ran away in disgust. Completely undisturbed, Dhruva continued his meditation, fixing his mind on the lotus feet of Lord Vasudeva."
Locana Dasa joyfully sings about the glorious pastimes of Sri Gauranga Mahaprabhu. O Gauranga, You are the savior of the fallen. All glories to You, who mercifully liberates the lowest of the low. Lord Gauranga continued telling Sacimata the pastimes of Dhruva Maharaja.
"Sacimata, while Dhruva maintained his meditation, Narada Muni paid a visit to Vaikuntha. With sweet music from his vina, Narada Muni was entertaining Vishnu, who was sitting on His throne with Laksmidevi. Smiling gently, Vishnu leaned over and said, 'Narada, why am I not enjoying your vina today??
"Narada replied, 'Listen, my dear lotus-eyed Lord. Today your mind finds no pleasure in my music, because You're thinking of one of Your devotees. You are the Lord of the poor.' "Lord Vishnu said, 'Who is that devotee who is remembering Me??' "Narada Muni replied, 'Dhruva, the son of King Uttanapada. He is a saintly boy, but unfortunate since his mother, Suniti, is not loved by her husband. Dhruva's step-mother, Suruci, was once sitting on the throne with King Uttanapada playing with their seven sons.
'Seeing the fun, Dhruva tried to climb up the king's throne, but Suruci pushed him down. Poor Dhruva fell to the floor, crying. Being controlled by his wife, the king kept silent. Suruci's actions and words burned Dhruva's heart. Although a tender boy, he left home and went to the forest of Madhuvana to perform intense tapasya [penance
Lord Vishnu Blesses Dhruva
"The lotus-eyed Lord Vishnu, smiling slightly, spoke sweetly. 'Narada, I don't show My mercy to one who is not initiated. I also don't take offense from one who is not initiated. I will surely give My mercy to anyone who gives up his parents, goes to Madhuvana, and meditates upon Me while performing serve austerities.
'Narada, a non-devotee can't take birth in the womb of a devotee. On My behalf, a Vaisnava can tolerate any difficulty.
I will always give My mercy to a devotee. Therefore, I will give Dhruva whatever he wants. I am bound by the ropes of the premabhakti of My devotees. I can never neglect a devotee who thinks of Me.'
"Narada said, 'My Lord, Dhruva is initiated by me. So please show Your mercy. Go see him and relieve him from the fire of material existence.'
"Lord Vishnu boarded Garuda and flew quickly to Madhuvana forest to see Dhruva. Smiling gently, the Lord said, 'Dhruva, My boy, I came from Vaikuntha to give you a boon.'
"His meditation broken, Dhruva stood up happily with folded hands and said, 'O Lord, what boon should I ask for? Please give me Your mercy. This will expand Your fame and glory.'
"Lord Vishnu said, 'I will definitely fulfill your desires and give you whatever position you want. Why have you come to Madhuvana? Is it because your step-mother kept you off the throne?? If I don't award you a high position, how can I keep the title of the fulfiller of all desires"??
"Dhruva said, 'I consider a high position as insignificant as a blade of grass. Unless one becomes Your devotee, all other achievements are as worthless as a heap of ashes.'
"Lord Vishnu said, 'I'll give you all the jeweled thrones. You'll achieve the topmost post in the three worlds. You, the son of Uttanapada, will become the king, and all your subjects will receive My favor. Your abode will be called Dhruvaloka, which will be located above all the planets of the sages.'
"After saying this, Vishnu disappeared. On the Lord's order, Visvakarma built Dhruvaloka. Upon receiving this boon, Dhruva started for home. King Uttanapada greatly grieved in the absence of Dhruva. Even his mean step-mother cried and worried about his well-being.
"The King said, 'I'm causing distress and misfortune to my own son. Oh, when will I see my son again?' He said to Dhruva's mother, 'Suniti, from now on you will be my chief queen. And all my other queens will serve you.' Overwhelmed by not seeing his son Dhruva, the king fell to the floor unconscious.
"At that moment, the great sage Narada Muni came to the palace. The king worshiped Narada with proper rituals. After washing Narada's feet, the king revealed his mind to the sage.
"The king said, 'I had a five-year old son, but he left home without telling me.'
"Narada said, 'Your son Dhruva faced many difficulties in the forest. He's become a devotee of Krishna and will soon come home.' Narada quoted a Sanskrit verse:"Blessed are those ancestors whose family member becomes a pure devotee. A pure devotee purifies his entire family and the whole world. His home becomes famous throughout the world. The demigods and forefathers on the higher planets also become blessed. That mother whose son is a pure devotee is a real mother. But that mother who produces one hundred non-devotee sons is no better than a pig."
"Narada continued, 'When one becomes a Vaisnava, he delivers his parents, family members and other relatives. Your son worshiped Sri Krishna. Know-for certain that your son Dhruva is the crest-jewel of your dynasty.'
"The king became extremely satisfied with Narada's talk. He ordered his servants to prepare an auspicious reception for Dhruva. They sprinkled sandalwood-scented water on the streets, and collected fragrant flower garlands, musk, kum- kum, yogurt and durva grass. The king and his royal entourage ran to welcome his son. He gave Dhruva a warm embrace, sat him on his lap and kissed him again and again.
"King Uttanapada immediately enthroned Dhruva, turning over his kingdom to his son. Then the king retired to the forest. In a joyful mood Dhruva ruled the kingdom for some time. With power and valor, Dhruva maintained his subjects peacefully for forty years. Then he took his mother and went to Dhruvaloka, the pole-star, far above the abodes of most demigods."
Thanks to Krpamaya Prabhu for forwarding the nice pastime / story.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
-------------------------------------------
Bhagavan prabhu has been attempting to arrange a meeting with the Pope.
Prabhupada was scheduled to visit the new center in Rome, with a meeting with
the Pontiff on the agenda, but after some discussion Prabhupada decided it
would be too much endeavor. He questioned the practical advantage of meeting
the Pope, saying that simply meeting big men and showing no profit was the
business of his Godbrothers like Bon and Tirtha Maharajas. He noted that they
always advertise that they met this one or that one, but no actual preaching
about Krsna consciousness was really accomplished.
To illustrate the point he told us the story of the tiger and the crane. There
was once a tiger who, after eating a small animal, got a bone stuck in his
throat. Not being able to dislodge it he called to the crane, "My dear friend,
you have a nice long beak. Kindly put your head in my mouth and remove this
bone. Otherwise I shall die. Do not be afraid, I shall not harm you, and I
shall be very pleased with you." Naturally the crane was wary, for after all
the tiger's business was to eat other animals like himself. But he thought that
since the tiger is so powerful, if he actually removed the bone, certainly he
would give him some benediction. So he agreed and stuck his head in the tiger's
mouth. The crane then successfully removed the bone. Relieved, the tiger was
about to go when he saw the crane still standing before him expectantly.
"Well, what is it?" the tiger growled.
"My dear sir," said the crane, "I have done what you requested and removed the
bone. Kindly give me some benediction."
"What?" roared the tiger, "I have allowed you to put your head in my mouth
without biting it off and you want something more?"
Prabhupada then explained that although his Godbrothers go to call on the
so-called leaders of society expecting something from them, the leader is
thinking, "What, I have given you some of my time and still you want something
more?" He said that the conclusion was that there is no profit to be had in
meetings such as these. Therefore he decided to tell Bhagavan not to bother
arranging a meeting with the Pope.
- From the "A Transcendental Diary Vol 3" by HG Hari Sauri dasa
-------------------------------------
One story about Sanatana Gosvami is "It is said that once a poor brahmana
worshiped Lord Siva for a benediction, and Lord Siva advised the devotee
to go to see Sanatana Gosvami. The devotee went to Sanatana Gosvami
and informed him that Lord Siva had advised him
to seek out the best benediction from him (Sanatana).
Sanatana had a touchstone with him, which he kept with the garbage.
On the request of the poor brahmana, Sanatana Gosvami gave him the touchstone,
and the brahmana was very happy to have it. He now could get as much gold
as he desire simply by touching the touchstone to iron.
But after he left Sanatana, he thought, "If a touchstone is the best benediction,
why has Sanatana Gosvami kept it with the garbage?. He may be having
something more valuable than this. He therefore returned and asked Sanatana Gosvami,
"Sir, if this is the best benediction, why did you keep it with the garbage?"
Sanatana Gosvami then informed him, "Actually, this is not the best benediction.
But are you prepared to take the best benediction from me?"
The brahmana said, "Yes, sir. Lord Siva has sent me to you for the best benediction."
Then Sanatana Gosvami asked him to throw the touchstone in the water nearby and then come back.
The poor brahmana did so, and when he returned, Sanatana Gosvami initiated him with
the Hare Krishna mantra which is much more valuable than touch stone.
Thus by the benediction of Lord Siva the brahmana got the association of
the best devotee of Lord Krishna and was thus initiated in the maha-mantra,
Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare/
Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare.
--------------------------------------------------
A boat docked in a tiny Goan village. A tourist from Mumbai
complimented the Goan fisherman on the quality of his fish and asked
how long it took him to catch them.
"Not very long," answered the fisherman.
"But then,why didn't you stay out longer and catch more?"
asked the Mumbaite.
The Goan fisherman explained that his small catch was
sufficient to meet his needs and those of his family.
The Mumbaite asked, "But what do you do with the rest of your time?"
"I sleep late, fish a little, play with my children,
and take a siesta with my wife. In the evenings,
I go into the village to see my friends, play guitar,
sing a few songs... I have a full life."
The Mumbaite interrupted, "I have an MBA from IIM-A,
and I can help you! You should start by fishing
longer every day. You can then sell the extra fish you
catch. With the extra revenue, you can buy a bigger
boat."
"And after that?" asked the Goan.
"With the extra money the larger boat will bring, you
can buy a second one and a third one and so on until you
have an entire fleet of boats. Instead of selling your
fish to a middle man, you can then negotiate directly with
the processing plants and maybe even open your own plant.
You can then leave this little village and move to Panjim,
or even Mumbai. From there you can direct your huge new
enterprise."
"How long would that take?" asked the Goan.
"Twenty, perhaps twenty-five years," replied the Mumbaite.
"And after that?" asked the Goan.
"Afterwards? Well my Friend, That's when it gets really interesting,"
chuckled the Mumbaite, "When your business gets really big, you can
start selling stocks and make millions!"
"Millions? Really? And after that?" asked the Goan.
"After that you'll be able to retire, live in a tiny village
near the coast, sleep late, play with your children, catch
a few fish, take a siesta with your wife and spend your evenings
doing what you like with your buddies."
"With all due respect sir, but that's exactly what I am doing now.
So what's the point wasting 25 years?" asked the Goan.
And the moral of the story is? Know where you're going in life. You
may already be there. Life in the present world is indeed a
rat race. Many who have qualifications from reputed universities
too do not know where they are going in life.
Thanks to Yamuna Lila mataji (Melbourne) to share the nice story / conversation..
PS: As devotees we do not advocate fishing and other frivolous lifestyle /
activities. But the time saved can be used in chanting, hearing and other Krishna
conscious activities.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward
moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
---------------------------------------------------
Lord Caitanya told Sanatana Gosvami the following story of the hunter's meeting with Narada Muni.
Once there was a hunter in the forest of Prayaga who was fortunate enough to meet Narada Muni when the great sage was returning from Vaikuntha after visiting Lord Narayana. Narada came to Prayaga to bathe in the confluence of the Ganges and Yamuna. While passing through the forest, Narada saw a bird lying on the ground. The bird was half-killed, being pierced by an arrow, and it was chirping pitifully. Further on, Narada saw a deer flopping about in agony. Further, he saw that a boar was also suffering, and, in another place, he saw a rabbit twitching in pain. All this made him very compassionate, and he began to think, "Who is the foolish man who has committed such sins?" Devotees of the Lord are generally compassionate upon the miseries of living entities, and what to speak of the great sage Narada? He became very much aggrieved by this scene, and after proceeding a few steps, he saw the hunter engaged in hunting with bow and arrows. The hunter's complexion was very dark, and his eyes were red. It appeared to be dangerous just to see him standing there with his bow and arrows, looking just like an associate of Yamaraja, death. Seeing him, Narada Muni entered deeper into the forest to approach him. As Narada Muni passed through the forest, all the animals who were caught in the hunter's traps fled away. The hunter became very angry at this, and he was just about to call Narada vile names, but, due to the influence of saintly Narada, the hunter could not utter such blasphemies. Rather, with gentle behavior, he asked Narada: "My dear sir, why have you come here while I am hunting? Have you strayed from the general path? Because you have come here, all the animals in my traps have fled."
"Yes, I am sorry," Narada replied. "I have come to you to find my own path and to inquire from you. I have seen that there are many boars, deer and rabbits on the path. They are lying on the forest floor half-dead and flopping about. Who has committed these sinful acts?"
"What you have seen is all right," the hunter replied. "It was done by me."
"If you are hunting all these poor animals, why don't you kill them at once?" Narada asked. "You half-kill them, and they are suffering in their death pangs. This is a great sin. If you want to kill an animal, why don't you kill it completely? Why do you leave it half-killed and allow it to die flopping around?"
"My dear Lord," the hunter replied. "My name is Mrigari, enemy of animals. I am simply following the teachings of my father who taught me to half-kill animals and leave them flopping about. When a half-dead animals suffers, I take great pleasure in it."
"I beg one thing from you only," Narada implored. "Please accept it."
"Oh, yes sir, I shall give you whatever you like," the hunter said. "If you want some animal skins, come to my house. I have many skins of animals, including tigers and deer. I shall give you whatever you like."
"I do not want such things," Narada replied. "However, I do want something else. If you kindly grant it to me, I shall tell you. Please, henceforth from tomorrow, whenever you kill an animal, please kill it completely. Don't leave it half-dead."
"My dear sir, what are you asking of me? What is the difference between half-killing an animal and killing it completely?"
"If you half-kill the animals, they suffer great pain," Narada explained. "And if you give too much pain to other living entities, you commit great sin. There is a great offense committed when you kill an animal completely, but the offense is much greater when you half-kill it. Indeed, the pain which you give half-dead animals will have to be accepted by you in a future birth."
Although the hunter was very sinful, his heart became softened, and he became afraid of his sins by virtue of his association with a great devotee like Narada. Those who are grossly sinful are not at all afraid of committing sins, but here we can see that because his purification began in the association of a great devotee like Narada, the hunter became afraid of his sinful activities. The hunter therefore replied: "My dear sir, from my very childhood I have been taught to kill animals in this way. Please tell me how I can get rid of all the offenses and sinful activities which I have accumulated. I am surrendering unto your feet. Please save me from all the reactions of my sinful activities which I have committed in the past, and please direct me to the proper path so that I can be free."
"If you actually want to follow my directions, I can tell you the real path by which you can be freed from sinful reactions."
"I shall follow whatever you say without hesitation," the hunter agreed.
Narada then told him to first break his bow; only then would he disclose the path of liberation.
"You are asking me to break my bow," the hunter protested, "but if I break it, what will be the means of my livelihood?"
"Don't worry about your livelihood," Narada said. "I shall send you sufficient grains in order to live.',
The hunter then broke his bow and fell down at the feet of Narada. Narada got him to stand up, and he instructed him: "Just go to your home and distribute whatever money and valuables you have to the devotees and the brahmanas. Then just come out and follow me wearing only one cloth. Construct a small thatched house on the river bank and sow a tulasi plant by that house. Just circumambulate the tulasi tree, and every day taste one fallen leaf. Above all, always chant Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare/Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare. As far as your livelihood is concerned, I shall send you grains, but you will only accept as much grain as you require for yourself and your wife."
Narada then relieved the half-dead animals, and, getting freed from their dreadful condition, they fled away. Upon seeing Narada execute this miracle, the dark hunter was struck with wonder. After taking Narada to his home, he bowed down again at his feet.
Narada returned to his place, and the hunter, after returning home, began to execute the instructions Narada had given him. In the meantime, news spread amongst all the villages that the hunter had become a devotee. Consequently the residents of the villages came to see the new Vaishnava. It is the Vedic custom to bring grains and fruits whenever one goes to see a saintly person, and since all the villagers saw that the hunter had turned into a great devotee, they brought eatables with them. Thus every day he was offered grains and fruit, so much so that no less than ten to twenty people could have eaten there. According to Narada's instructions, he did not accept anything more than what he and his wife required for sustenance.
After some days had passed, Narada told his friend Parvata Muni: "I have a disciple. Let us go to see him and see if he is doing well."
When the two sages, Narada and Parvata, went to the hunter's home, the hunter saw his spiritual master coming from the distance, and he began to approach him with great respect. On his way to greet the great sages, the hunter saw that there were ants on the ground before him and that they were hindering his passage. When he reached the sages, he tried to bow down before them, but he saw that there were so many ants that he could not bow down without crushing them. Thus he slowly cleared away the ants with his cloth. When Narada saw that the hunter was trying to save the lives of the ants in this way, he was reminded of a verse from the Skanda Purana: "Is it not wonderful that a devotee of the Lord is not inclined to give any sort of pain to anyone, not even to an ant?"
Although the hunter formerly took great pleasure in half-killing animals, since he became a great devotee of the Lord, he was not prepared to give pain even to an ant. The hunter received the two great sages at his home and offered them a sitting place, brought water, washed their feet, took water to them to drink, and finally both he and his wife touched the water with their heads. After this, they began to feel ecstasy and began to dance and sing Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare/Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare. They raised their hands and danced with their clothes flying. When the two great sages saw this ecstasy of love of Godhead manifest in the body of the hunter, Parvata Muni told Narada: "You are a touchstone, for by your association even a great hunter has turned into a great devotee."
There is a verse in the Skanda Purana which states: "My dear Devarshi [Narada], you are glorious, and by your mercy, even the lowest creature, a hunter of animals, also became elevated to the path of devotion and attained transcendental attachment for Krishna."
At length, Narada inquired of the hunter-devotee: "Are you getting your foodstuff regularly?"
"You send so many people," the hunter replied, "and they bring so many eatables that we cannot begin to eat them."
"That's all right," Narada replied. "Whatever you are getting is all right. Now just continue your devotional service in that way."
After Narada had spoken this, both Narada and Parvata Muni disappeared from the hunter's home. Lord Caitanya recited this story in order to show that even a hunter can engage in the devotional service of Krishna by the influence of pure devotees.
--------------------------------------------------
A miser cannot get sat-gati (higher destination)
Long time ago, there was a Sanyasi. He was a great Jnani.
Many used to respect him and many used to come and get instructions
from him. He had many disciples. Even Kings and ministers used to come
to him, have his darshan and get enlightenment from him.
The sanyasi became very old. Since he was a Jnani, he came to know soon
he has to leave his body. Hence he was doing meditation on the holy name & Lord
and waiting for death. Knowing this, many people from all parts of
the country came there to get the last darshanam of the sanyasi.
True devotees came to have darshan of the sanyasi and get
some instructions if possible.
However some came expecting to get some power or
some materialistic benefit from the sanyasi.
One of them was a rich fellow and he was a
great miser. He was very cruel and foolish person.
Hoping to get some more wealth he came to have
the darshan of the sanyasi.
The sanyasi, who did not want to meet anybody,
seeing this miser, called him. As soon as the sanyasi
called him, though many were waiting, the miser
got pride. He looked at others with an expression
like "see how great I am. The sanyasi called me only".
The miser wanted to ask the sanyasi why he chose him only
to come in. Repeatedly he kept on asking this.
Then sanyasi replied "I and these people waiting outside,
some or the other time, have a chance to meet again in
some higher planets. Whereas a miser can never get
sat-gati. So I can never meet you.
Thus I wanted to give some instructions to you now only".
Thanks to the organizers of the following website:
http://moralstories.wordpress.com/stories-in-english/
I had to edit the story to make it more readable.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
--------------------------------------------------
We began discussing the scientists and their bluffing again and Srila Prabhupada told us a funny story about Gopala Ban, a court jester
in West Bengal during the reign of Raja Krsnacandra. By it, Prabhupada cleverly illustrated how scientists obtained their grants.
"The Mohammedan Governor of the day had asked him, 'Now, Gopala Ban, I have heard you are very expert. Can you write a similar book as the Mahabharata about my kingdom?'
"'Oh yes, why not? That is not difficult.' "So he took with him some hundreds of thousands of rupees and again came. 'Give me another ten thousand,' and another ten … in this way.
"'When will the book be finished? You have taken so much money.'
"'It is just on the verge of being finished.'
Then when he saw that no more money can be taken, 'I have taken so much money … ' he said, 'Now sir, one information is very essential. Give me and Mahabharata will be finished. Everything is there.'
"'What is that information?'
"'Now, your wife, how many husbands she has got?'
"'This is nonsense!'
"'Eh? Well, that is the main subject matter of Mahabharata. Draupadi had five husbands [the Pandavas], and you are such a great person your wife must have at least one dozen. Otherwise, how Mahabharata will be written?'
"'It is the subject matter of… ?'
"'Yes, that is the only subject matter — that Draupadi had five husbands. So you are such a big Nawab, your wife must at least have one dozen. So give me their names.' "So he became very angry. 'Don't talk this nonsense!'
"'Then I cannot finish your Mahabharata. I have already invested!'
"So he took another ten thousand rupees and [the Nawab] he said, 'Stop all this nonsense. That's all right.'"
Srila Prabhupada was laughing all the way through his telling of it, making comical gestures as he relayed the foolishness of the Nawab and the sharp wit of Gopala Ban in taking advantage of his combined ignorance and pride.
"So these rascals," Prabhupada said, meaning the scientists, "they are writing Gopala Ban's Mahabharata, and the rascal government is paying them. They will never be able to produce anything. Challenge them. As soon as you say, 'Make an egg' — 'That we cannot say!' And they'll chant 'Chemical evolution, chemical evolution' and get Nobel Prize. Rascals. But how the people are so foolish that they believe in this?
Prabhupada repeated his challenge to the scientists to make an egg and produce life. It is something he has said many times. "This is very simple. You see everything, white and yellow. Produce. Chemicals are white. Some chemicals are yellow also. Just like hydroform … It is yellow. And soda bicarb, white, or potash cyanide is white. So you have got so many chemicals, combine and pack it in a cell, and put underneath the incubator. Why rascal do not do this?" He emphasized the great fraud they are engaged in. "Beat them with shoes. 'Rascal, you are cheating in this way.' Beat them with shoes. That's all. That is the only punishment. Hundreds of men demand them, that 'Do it, otherwise don't talk nonsense. If you talk nonsense, then we will beat you with all our shoes.' Then they'll stop all this nonsense talk. There is no punishment for their cheating and taking money."
--------------------------------------
Rantideva is glorified not only in human society but also in the society of the demigods (devas), for his exemplary tolerance, compassion, and selflessness.
Rantideva never endeavored to earn anything. He would enjoy whatever he got by the arrangement of providence, but when guests came he would give them everything. Thus he underwent considerable suffering, along with the members of his family. Indeed, he and his family members shivered for want of food and water, yet Rantideva always remained sober. Once, after fasting for forty-eight days, in the morning Rantideva received some water and some foodstuffs made with milk and ghee, but when he and his family were about to eat, a brahmana (priest) guest arrived.
Because Rantideva perceived the presence of the Supreme Godhead everywhere, and in every living entity, he received the guest with faith and respect and gave him a share of the food. The brahmana guest ate his share and then went away.
Thereafter, having divided the remaining food with his relatives, Rantideva was just about to eat his own share when a sudra (field worker) guest arrived. Seeing the sudra in relationship with the Supreme Personality of Godhead, King Rantideva gave him also a share of the food.
When the sudra went away, another guest arrived, surrounded by dogs, and said, "O King, I and my company of dogs are very hungry. Please give us something to eat."
With great respect, King Rantideva offered the balance of the food to the dogs and the master of the dogs, who had come as guests. The King offered them all respects and beisances.
Thereafter, only the drinking water remained, and there was only enough to satisfy one person, but when the King was just about to drink it, a candala (outcaste) appeared and said," O' King, although I am low born, kindly give me some drinking water."
Aggrieved at hearing the pitiable words of the poor fatigued candala, Maharaja Rantideva spoke the following nectarean words: I do not pray to the Supreme Personality of Godhead for the eight perfections of mystic yoga, nor for salvation from repeated birth and death. I want only to stay among all the living entities and suffer all distresses on their behalf, so that they may be freed from suffering.
By offering my water to maintain the life of this poor candala, who is struggling to live, I have been freed from all hunger, thirst, fatigue, trembling of the body, moroseness, distress, lamentation and illusion.
Having spoken thus, King Rantideva, although on the verge of death because of thirst, gave his own portion of water to the candala without hesitation, for the King was naturally very kind and sober.
Suddenly, from out of thin air, great demigods (devas) like Lord Brahma and Lord Siva, who can satisfy all materially ambitious men by giving them the rewards they desire, then manifested their own identities before King Rantideva, for it was they who had presented themselves as the brahmana, sudra, candala and so on. (Srimad Bhagavat Purana 9.21.2-15)
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Physician's Knife (From Srila Bhakti Siddhantha Saraswathi Maharaja's instructive stories)
Amar was a boy of the village. He'd been suffering intensely from a boil on his back. Around him, friends and relatives tried to alleviate his pain in different ways. His mother waved a hand-fan upon the swollen boil, and sometime she blowed upon it orally. A neighbor suggested that Amar be given an anaesthetic to relieve his pain. Still another person said Amar should be killed, because while living he suffered so much, but when dead he'd not feel the pain of the boil. But the father, not appreciating these half and half-witted measures, called a doctor.
After examining the boy, the doctor prescribed an operation. Mother began weeping. Others protested: "This could be very dangerous!" And Amar, who had grown delerious from the pain, shouted "You rascal, you've come here to kill me! Stick that knife in your own body, murderer! Go home and kill your own son!" But with the help of the father, the doctor performed the surgery. After a short time, the swelling and pain decreased; within a few days, Amar was completely cured.
This story has a similar purport as does the one about kiteflying. The spiritual master must cut the bonds of attachment in the heart of his disciple, and this is not appreciated by worldly society. It may even be unappreciated by the disciple himself. Relatives are heart-broken, though their measures to alleviate material distress may be compared to blowing on a boil. Some persons say material distress should be ignored altogether by anaesthisizing ourselves through fanciful philosophy, entertainment, intoxication, etc. And impersonalists say the problem is personality itself. But the saintly Vaisnavas never heed this misguidance. Instead they administer the real cure and effect the real good for the living entity.
Thanks to Guru Gauranga Krishna Prabhu (Melbourne) for forwarding the nice story.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
-------------------------------------------
Simply by passage of time desires will not evaporate automatically
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
In the Narada Purana there is a nice story of a business man who had two
sons. These two sons felt that their father has spent his whole life in
Business and now he should be sent on some Pilgrimage with a Sadhu with
enough money. The sons told the Sadhu " Do not bring the father back until
his heart is converted. Let him pass his time in Pilgrimage and let him
leave the body there ". So he was taken to various holy places by the Sadhu.
The Sadhu eventually became frustrated because this business man's heart was
not changing. He remained as hard hearted as he was and always talking about
business and money - where ever he went.
Finally, the Sadhu was about to give up. He informed his sons "Your father
is hardcore businessman he is too difficult to change". The sons said No!
No!.. You should not give it up. You should still try.
So as a last resort, He took him to the holy city of Varanasi.
They were passing thru' one of the burning ghats (a crematorium).
As soon as the Business man entered the Crematorium and saw so many dead bodies
burning on the logs of wood he started crying. Tears filled up his eyes and
started pouring down his cheeks. The Sadhu was happy to see the old man's
detachment at the last. He turned to the old man and placed his hand on his
shoulders and said "What do you feel now? How do you feel about life now?"
The businessman said "I really feel bad. I feel terrible, I have wasted my life.
The Sadhu further enquired "Really ?" why do you feel terrible? Tell me.
The businessman replied "I was a cloth merchant throughout my life. If I knew
that there is so much demand for wood, I would have done business in wood.
How I wasted my whole life. I'm feeling bad about it now". Sadhu then gave
up on this man.
Moral : From this we understand that simply by passage of time desires will
not evaporate automatically. One must make sincere efforts. If we don't make
efforts now over a period of time our desires will become impossible to
control.
Thanks to wonderful devotees of Sri Sri Radha Gopinath mandir (Chowpathy) for coming up
with wonderful books like Revival, Checkmate and other nice booklets.
Thanks to Kripasindhu Prabhu (Melbourne) for transcribing / sharing the nice story.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
-------------------------------------------------
>>> Ref. VedaBase => Bhagavad-gita 9.20-22 -- New York, December 6, 1966;excerpt:From Srila Prabhupada lecture
Nityabhiyuktanam yoga-ksemam vahamy aham [Bg. 9.22].
Now, this sloka is very important for the devotees. There was a great
devotee. His name was Anandacarya. So when he was writing commentaries on
this particular sloka, verse, he saw that tesam nityabhiyuktanam yoga-ksemam
vahamy aham [Bg. 9.22], the Lord says that "I myself take the burden and
take the load on my head, and I deliver them to my devotees, what they
require, what they require. He doesn't require to go outside. I myself go
and deliver the goods, whatever he requires." This is written here. Tesam
nityabhiyuktanam. Those who are cent percent engaged in the loving service
of the Lord, tesam nityabhiyuktanam yoga-ksemam vahamy aham [Bg. 9.22]. Yoga
means what is required by him, and ksemam means what he has got, he requires
to be protected. So these two things the Lord takes charge, that "I
personally do it." For whom? Ananyas cintayanto mam. Those who have no other
thought than Krsna, Krsna conscious. Ananyas cintayanto mam. Ye janah
paryupasate, and engaged in that way always. He has no other business,
simply Krsna. For him these things the Lord does. It is specifically
mentioned here. Therefore this is an encouragement. This is an encouragement
by the Lord that "Do not think that because you are not trying for going to
the other planet you will be unhappy. You will have happiness." What is
happiness? Happiness is within your mind. If you are assured of your
peaceful existence and the next life you are transferred to the supreme
planet, or supreme place, then that is happiness, not for trying life after
life to adjust happiness. Here is an assurance.
Now this Arjunacarya...that's a very nice story. When he was writing
commentaries, oh, he thought, "How is that Lord will come Himself and
deliver the goods? Oh, it is not possible. He might be sending through some
agents." So he wanted to cut vahamy aham, "I bear the burden and deliver."
He wrote in a way that "I send some agent who delivers." So that Arjunacarya
went to take bath, and in the meantime two boys, very beautiful boys, they
brought some very nice foodstuff in large quantity. And in India there is a
process to taking two sides burden on the bamboo. Just like a scale it is
balanced. So these two boys brought some very highly valuable foodstuff and
grains and ghee, and his wife was there. And the boys said, "My dear mother,
Arjunacarya has sent these goods to you. Please take delivery." "Oh, you are
so nice boy, you are so beautiful boys, and he has given. And Acarya is not
so cruel. How is that? He has given so much burden to you, and he is not
kind...?" "Oh, I was not taking, just see, he has beaten me. Here is cane
mark. Oh, see." His wife became very much astonished, that "Acarya is not so
cruel. How he has become so cruel?" So she was thinking in that way. Then
"All right, my dear boys. You come on." And gave him shelter. And, "No. I
shall go because Arjunacarya again comes. He will chastise us." "No, no. You
sit down, take foodstuff." He(she) prepared foodstuff, and then they went
away. And when Arjunacarya came back, then he saw that his wife is eating.
Because it is the system of Indian families that after the husband has taken
the food, the wife will take. So they don't take together. After the family
members -- the boys and the husband is sumptuously fed -- then the housewife
takes.
So Arjunacarya, "Oh, you are taking food? What is that?" No. He did not. I
am mistaken. Sorry. He said that "You are..." So the wife said, "Acarya, you
have become so much cruel nowadays?" "Oh, what is that?" "Two boys, very
nice boys, they have brought so many foodstuff. You loaded on their head,
and they denied to take it, and you have beaten them, chastised?" He said,
"No. I have never done this. Why shall I do it?" Then she described, "Oh,
such a nice beautiful boy." Then Arjunacarya understood that "Because I
wanted that God does not deliver, so He has delivered these goods, and
because I cut these alphabets that He does not give personally, so He has
shown that beating mark."
There is an incident in southern India of Yamunacarya. That story is there.
Of course, you may believe or not believe. That's a different thing. But
here the Lord says that "I personally deliver." So those who are in Krsna
consciousness, those who are actually busy in the matter of discharging
their duties as a Krsna conscious person, they may be assured that so far
their living condition is concerned or their comforts of life is concerned,
that is assured by the Lord. There will be no hampering. Thank you very
much. Any question? (end)
Bhagavad-gita 9.20-22 -- New York, December 6, 1966
-----------------------------------------------
A man who is constantly in trouble, prays to God one day and due
to his persistent and dedicated prayer, the God appears in front of
him and pleasingly tells him "my dear, do tell me what your doubts
are about?"
The man happily starts to narrate this "Oh my merciful Lord, I have
a vision, in which I could see my past life and I have doubts on
it which I wanted you to clear." Smilingly God tells him to carry on.
The man says thus "Lord, I saw that in my past, whenever I was
happy and good things happened in my life, I could see two pairs
of foot steps on the path of life. One of them is mine; I could not
understand the other pair of footstep which was following me. Whose
does these belong to?"
Smilingly God says "Dear, whenever you were having good time and
happy, I would silently walk behind you allowing you to enjoy the
fruits of your good deeds."
The man then asks "Ok, Lord, I saw that whenever am in troubles
or sad times I saw two pairs of footsteps again! And this time,
the second pair was beside me all along the path."
Calmly God says "Dear, whenever you were in bad situations of life,
I would walk beside you, guiding you through the tough times into
the good times ahead."
The man, satisfied with the reply, then looked puzzled and sad;
says "But Lord, I also had a vision that whenever am in the worst of
troubles and the most toughest times I have ever faced in my life,
I saw only one deep pair footsteps all along the path. Why have
you deserted me when I need you the most?"
Now God, looks at him lovingly and says "Oh my poor creature, you
could see only one pair of footsteps during the worst part of your
life because those belonged to mine and I was carrying you all along,
on my shoulders! Remember this, I never have and will desert you,
my dear" Thus saying the God disappeared!
Conclusion: The ultimate truth of life! Never doubt the almighty
and remember that he never ever gives-up on us! We should never
say that He has forgotten us or abandoned us.
Thanks to Chetan Prabhu (Melbourne) for forwarding the nice story.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral /
instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
-----------------------------------------------------
The Prince Who Brought Jubilation and Lamentation
Once the world was ruled by a powerful king named Chitraketu. King Chitraketu had many beautiful wives, but he did not receive a child from any of them, as they were all barren.
Upon the advise of Angira muni, king Chitraketu arranged for a special sacrifice to the demigods and then offered the remnants of the sacrificial food to one of his queens named
Krtadyuti. At the end of the sacrifice, Angira muni told him, "O great king, you will now have a son who will be the cause of both jubilation and lamentation." Chitraketu was
overjoyed to know that he would finally get a son, but he wondered about the sage's last words. He thought, "Angira must have meant that I will be greatly happy when my son is
born. But what did he mean by the child being the cause of lamentation? Of course, being my only son, he will automatically become the heir to my throne. Therefore, he might
become proud and disobedient. That might be a cause for lamentation. But a disobedient son is better than no son at all."
In due course of time, Krtadyuti begot a son. King Chitraketu could not contain his joy. He raised his infant son carefully and his affection for queen Krtadyuti increased
daily. The other wives, who felt neglected, burned with anger and envy. As their envy increased, they lost their intelligence, and their hearts became hard like stone. They met
secretly and decided that the only way to regain the love of their husband was to poison the child.
Death of the Prince
One afternoon, as queen Krtadyuti walked in the courtyard of the palace, she thought of her son sleeping peacefully in his room. Because she loved the child dearly and could
hardly bear to be without him for a moment, she ordered the nurse to awaken him from his nap and bring him to the garden. But when the maidservant approached the child, she saw
that his eyes were turned upward, and there were no signs of life. Horrified, she held a swab of cotton beneath the boy's nostrils, but the cotton did not move. In great
agitation, she struck her breast with both hands and wept loudly.
Some time passed, and the anxious queen approached the child's bedroom. Hearing the nurse's wailing, she entered the room and saw that her son had passed from this world. In
great lamentation, her hair and dress in disarray, the queen fell to the ground unconscious. When the King heard of his son's death, he became nearly blind with grief. His
lamentation grew like a conflagration, and as he ran to see the dead child, he repeatedly stumbled and fell.
Surrounded by his ministers and court officers, the king entered the boy's room and collapsed unconscious at the child's feet, his hair and dress scattered. When he regained
consciousness, he was breathing heavily, his eyes were filled with tears and he was unable to speak. When the queen saw her husband in an ocean of lamentation and again viewed
the dead child, her grief increased all the more. This increased the pain in the hearts of all the residents of the palace. The queen's flower garlands slipped from her body,
and her smooth jet-black hair became tangled. Falling tears smeared the cosmetics beneath her eyes. She began to curse the Supreme Lord, "O Providence! During the lifetime of
the father, you have caused the death of his son. You are certainly the enemy of the living beings and are not at all merciful." Turning to her beloved child, she said, "My dear
son, I am helpless and aggrieved. You should not give up my company. How can you leave me? Just look at your lamenting father! You have slept for a long time. Now please get up.
Your playmates are calling you to play. You must be very hungry, so please get up immediately and take your lunch. My dear son, I am most unfortunate, for I can no longer see
your sweet smiling. You have closed your eyes forever. You have been taken from this planet to another place, from which you will not return. My dear son, unable to hear your
pleasing voice, I can no longer maintain my life."
The king began crying loudly. As the mother and father lamented, all their followers joined them, bemoaning the untimely death of the child. Because of the sudden demise of the
prince, all the citizens of the kingdom were also grief-struck.
Arrival Of Angira Muni and Narada Muni:
When the great sage Angira understood that the king was almost dead, being immersed in an ocean of sorrow, he went there with his friend, the saint Narada. The two sages found
the king, overwhelmed by lamentation, lying like a dead body beside the corpse of his son. Angira addressed the king sharply, "Wake up from the darkness of ignorance, O king!
What relationship do you have with this child? You may say that you are now related as father and son, but do you think that this relationship existed before his birth? Does it
truly exist now? Will it continue now that he is dead? O King, as small particles of sand sometimes come together and are sometimes separated due to the force of the ocean's
waves, living entities who have accepted material bodies sometimes come together and are sometimes separated by the force of time." Angira wanted the King to understand that all
bodily relationships are temporary.
Narada Muni Invites the Soul Back Into the Body Of the Prince
Then, Narada Muni, by his mystic power, brought the soul of the prince, back into the dead body. Narada said,"O living entity, all good fortune unto you. Just see your father
and mother. All your friends and relatives are overwhelmed with grief because of your death. Because you died untimely, the balance of your life still remains.
Therefore, you may enjoy the remainder of the years allotted to you in this body with your friends and relatives, and later you may accept the royal throne and all the
opulences given by your father."
The Child Gives Transcendental Message
The child who had been dead, sat up and began to speak, not with the childishness of a young boy, but with the full knowledge of a liberated soul, "According to the results of
my material activities, I, the living being, transmigrate from one body to another, sometimes going to the species of the demigods, sometimes to the species of lower animals,
sometimes incarnating among the vegetables, and appearing sometimes in the human species. In which birth were these two people my father and mother? No one is actually my father
and mother. I have had millions of so-called parents. How can I accept these two people as my father and mother?"
The Vedas teach that the eternal living being enters a body made of material elements. Here we find that such a living being entered a body produced by king Chitraketu and his
wife. Actually, however, he was not their son. The living entity is the eternal son of the Supreme Personality of Godhead, but because he wants to enjoy this material world, God
gives him a chance to enter various bodies. Yet the pure living being has no true relationship with the material body he gets from his father and mother. Therefore, the soul who
had taken the body of Chitraketu's son flatly denied that the king and queen were his parents.
In The Material World, We Come Together As A Family, Stay Together Temporarily, And Get Separated Never To Meet Again
The soul continued, "In this material world, which is like a swiftly flowing river, all people become friends, relatives and enemies in due course of time. They also act
neutrally and in many other relationships. But despite these various transactions, no one is permanently related."
Millions of living entities come to this world, and all of them are given a certain type of body. A few living entities, say five or six, are put in a group called a family and
they stay together for a period of time and are then separated by death, never to meet again. It is like meeting somebody in a train journey from Pune to Bombay. During the
journey you make friends with him. but once the destination comes, you go your way and he goes his way. This is the case with families also. But once a living entity is put in a
particular family he becomes attached to others as father, mother, brothers, sisters etc., because of falsely identifying himself with the body. This attachment makes the living
entity undergo the cycle of repeated birth and death.
Krishna Is The Real Father
The soul continued to speak, "Just as gold and other commodities are continually transferred from one place to another through buying and selling, so the living entity, as a
result of his karma, wanders throughout the universe, being injected into various bodies in different species of life through the semen of one father after another."
The Bhagavad-gita explains that it is not by any father or mother that the living entity is given birth. The living entity's true identity is completely separate from the
so-called father and mother. By the laws of nature, the soul is forced to enter the semen of a father and is injected into the womb of a mother. He cannot directly control the
kind of father he will get; this is automatically determined by his activities in previous lives. The laws of karma force him to go to different fathers and mothers, just like a
commodity that is bought and sold. The living entity sometimes takes shelter of an animal father and mother and sometimes a human father and mother.Sometimes he accepts a
father and mother among the birds, and sometimes he accepts a demigod father and mother in the heavenly planets. As the soul transmigrates through different bodies, everyone, in
every form of life - be it human, animal, tree, or demigod - gets a father and mother. This is not very difficult. The real difficulty is to obtain a spiritual father - a bona
fide spiritual master. Therefore, the duty of a human being is to search out such a spiritual master, for under his guidance one can become free from the cycle of reincarnation
and return to his original home and attain the original father, Sri Krishna in the spiritual world.
"The living being is eternal", the pure soul continued, "and has no relation with so-called fathers and mothers. He falsely accepts himself as their son and acts affectionately.
After he dies, however, the relationship is finished. Under these circumstances, one should not be falsely involved with jubilation and lamentation. The living entity is eternal
and imperishable; he has no beginning and no end, nor does he take birth or die. The living being is equal in quality to the Supreme Lord. Both are spiritual personalities. But
because the living entity is so small, he is prone to be illusioned by the material energy, and thus he creates bodies for himself according to his different desires and
activities."
The Vedas tell us that the soul is responsible for his lives in the material world, where he is trapped in the cycle of reincarnation of getting one material body after another.
If he likes, he can remain suffering in the prison house of material existence, or he can return to his original home in the spiritual world. Although God arranges through the
material energy to give the living beings the bodies they desire, the Lord's true desire is that the conditioned souls get off the miserable ferris wheel of material life and
return home, back to Godhead.Suddenly the boy became silent, as the pure soul left the body of the child, and the body fell lifeless to the floor. Chitraketu and the other
relatives were astonished. They cut the shackles of their affection and gave up their lamentation. Then they performed the funeral ceremony, cremating the body. Because King
Chitraketu and his queen had become fully cognizant of spiritual knowledge, including the science of reincarnation, they easily gave up the affection that leads to pain, fear,
grief, and illusion.
Thanks to organizers of the web site http://nitaaiveda.com for this nice story.
-----------------------------------------
Lord Jagannatha and the Proud Devotee: A True Story
In 1727 Dhananjay Mehta, a wealthy man from Hyderabad in South India, came to Jagannatha Puri along with his family.
Personally, he had no faith in Jagannatha and was proud of his wealth. While in Puri he decided to challenge this strange
image made of wood. In the temple, food is offered to the deities three times daily. Dhananjay Mehta publicly declared he
would donate one hundred thousand rupees to Jagannatha if the temple cooks could spend all of it to prepare one offering of
prasad. In those days, fruit and vegetables were very inexpensive. Even one hundred rupees was enough to buy the ingredients
for one offering of food. What would the cooks do with one thousand rupees, what to speak of one hundred thousand?
Dhananjay's challenge created a problem for Jagannatha's worshipers, and they were undoubtedly sad to see such an attitude on
the part of a so-called devotee.
The priest debated, "Should he be told that such a huge amount is absolutely too much? Should we tell him to give a smaller
donation? Would that be too embarrassing to ask of him? We know Jagannatha is great—his temple is majestic, his rituals
mystical and divine—so how can we tell this man to give less just so that we ordinary mortals can handle it?"
At that time, butter was the most costly ingredient, and the priests began to consider whether they could buy enough butter
to make a large quantity of ghee for cooking. What type of prasad could be prepared from only ghee? The most delicious and
costliest prasad could easily be prepared with butter and coconut palm sweets for ten thousand rupees, but this millionaire
from Hyderabad wanted to offer prasad costing one hundred thousand rupees!
Since the Jagannatha temple was first established, lakhs [1] of people had been served maha-prasada at the temple's Ananda
Bazaar. To this day one can find delicacies in abundance. In fact, the Jagannatha temple is the only temple in the world to
have always treated maha-prasada as more valuable even than seeing the deities. All can eat it, regardless of caste, color,
or creed. Yet never before had such a problem arisen. The temple cooks were at their wits' end. There was no prasad that
could be prepared that would cost one hundred thousand rupees!
Finally they decided, "Let us communicate this problem to the Lord himself, and let his will prevail. Lord Jagannatha is not
a man of flesh and blood to be prayed to for a simple response. Let there be a dharana, or group prayer, before him. Nobody
can prevail over his wishes." So the head priest made a heartfelt prayer, backed by the one-pointed intention of the other
priests, "O Lord, please choose the food you desire."
At the same time, Dhananjay was anxious to return to his business affairs in Hyderabad. He did not want to stay in Puri any
longer. So he asked the head priest to come by the next morning to inform him about their decision concerning the prasad. The
priest replied that he was waiting for the Lord to give them an answer. That was exactly what Dhananjay wanted, and to see
the defeat of the priests he decided to extend his stay in Puri a little longer. In this sweet way, the Lord was teaching
him.
One hundred thousand rupees is a pittance for the Lord who reigns over innumerable universes. In due time the Lord answered
the head priest's prayer, speaking to him in a dream: "Let Dhananjay offer me one piece of pan [2] . However, the betel nut
in the pan leaf must be smeared not with lime but with the powder of a finely ground pearl. Moreover, this pearl must have
come from inside a bull elephant's forehead."
Now, one piece of pan can be purchased with almost no money—even today it costs only about fifty paisa—but with this rarest
of ingredients inside, the cost would be excessive. Immediately the priest rushed to Dhananjay and narrated the contents of
his dream. "Is this not a great thing? Jagannatha wants a mere betel nut, but it must be prepared with the pearl from an bull
elephant's head."
Hearing this, Dhananjay's face paled. He thought, "A mere betel nut! Nothing more than that!" It is said that an elephant is
worth one hundred thousand rupees, dead or alive. How many bull elephants would have to be killed to find one pearl? Not
every bull elephant has a pearl inside its forehead. It is a rare phenomenon. Indeed, one in a million has a pearl in its
forehead. Dhananjay's head reeled and he had to admit defeat. He was incapable of offering even a single betel nut to Lord
Jagannatha. Unknotting his turban and removing his sandals, he went running to the Lord with his purse full of rupees. A huge
crowd followed, watching the strange sight.
The Lord had defeated a millionaire at his own game of dollars and cents. At last his human pride was crushed. He sobbed
before the deity, reaching out to Jagannatha with unrestrained, childlike cries. In total devotion and defeat he prayed, "O
Lord, I have made a stupid human blunder, for I am totally incapable of offering you even a single betel nut. What else can I
offer? O Lord, pardon me. I am a fallen man, insignificant before you, but made wise before you also. Everything is yours and
you are everything. Take whatever I have. Please accept only the sweet-smelling red betel nut of my heart."
Jaya Jagannatha!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[1] One lakh equals one hundred thousand.
[2] A preparation made for the deity of the Lord consisting of different fillings wrapped in a betel leaf.
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Devotional Empathy
One who is Krishna conscious is a perfect yogi; he is aware of everyone's happiness and distress by dint of his own personal
experience. A devotee of the Lord always looks to the welfare of all living entities, and in this way he is actually the
friend of everyone. We find an explicit, powerful call for devotional empathy in the Bhagavatam (6.10.9): "If one is unhappy to see the distress of other living beings and happy to see their happiness, his religious principles are appreciated as imperishable by exalted persons who are considered pious and benevolent."
A boy went to the pet store to buy a puppy. Four of them were sitting together, priced at $50 each. Then there was one
sitting alone in a corner. The boy asked if that one was from the same litter, if it was for sale, and why it was sitting
alone. The store owner replied that it was from the same litter, but it was a deformed one and not for sale. The boy asked
what the deformity was. The store owner replied that the puppy was born without a hip socket and had a leg missing. The boy
asked, "What will you do with this one?" The reply was that it would be put to sleep. The boy asked if he could play with
that puppy. The store owner said, "Sure." The boy picked up the puppy and the puppy licked him on the ear. Instantly, they
boy decided that was the puppy he wanted to buy. The store owner said, "That is not for sale!" The boy insisted. The store
owner agreed. The boy pulled out $2 from his pocket and ran to get $48 from his mother. As he reached the door the store
owner shouted after him, "I don't understand why you would pay full money for this one when you could buy a good one for the
same price." The boy did not say a word. He just lifted his leg trouser leg—he was wearing a brace. The pet store owner said,
"I understand. Go ahead, take this one." That is empathy.
What is the difference between sympathy and empathy? Sympathy is "I understand how you feel." Empathy is "I feel how you
feel." Both sympathy and empathy are important, but of the two, empathy is certainly more so.
Thanks to HH Sacinandana Swami Maharaj and his website organizers wherein nice devotional / moral stories are
published. Please visit their site at http://www.saranagati.net/
---------------------------------------------------
A man once visited a temple under construction where he saw a sculptor making a Deity of God.Suddenly he noticed a similar Deity lying nearby.
Surprised, he asked the sculptor, "Do you need two statues of the same Deity?"
"No," said the sculptor without looking up, "We need only one, but the first one got damaged at the last stage.
"The gentleman examined the Deity and found no apparent damage.
"Where is the damage?" he asked.
"There is a scratch on the nose of the Deity." said the sculptor, still busy with his work.
"Where are you going to install the Deity?"
The sculptor replied that it would be installed on a pillar twenty feet high.
"If the Deity is that far, who is going to know that there is a scratch on the nose?" the gentleman asked.
The sculptor stopped his work, looked up at the gentleman, smiled and said, "God will know it. I will know it"
Moral of the story:
The desire to excel is exclusive of the fact whether someone else appreciates it or not. "Excellence" is a drive from inside, not outside. Excel at a task today - not necessarily for someone else to notice but for your own satisfaction and Excellence.
This is very much applicable to devotional service to Lord Sri Krishna. Lord Sri Krishna (He is paramatma, Bhagavan) is everything. We need not have to put a show for someone else - whatever we do for the Lord we try to perform with Love and devotion. Lord knows about that and He reciprocates with the devotee.
Thanks to Jwalesh Babu Prabhu (Melbourne) for forwarding the nice story.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
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Washing and Vedanta
The vice-chancellor of Benares Hindu University, a very famous man of his time named Madan Mohan Malaviya, went to the Gaudiya Math with some intricate, philosophical questions to present to Sarasvati Thakura, who said: "I won't answer you, but you should ask the devotees who are washing the arati paraphernalia." The scholar then said: "No, I am asking very difficult questions about Vedanta. They won't be able to answer!" Sarasvati Thakura, however, insisted that he go and ask the pujaris who were cleaning the deity paraphernalia.
So, being submissive to the will of Sarasvati Thakura, he went to ask them. When he approached them, they said, "Well, now we are busy washing these plates, but please help us, and when we have finished your question will be answered." Even though he was such a famous, respectable man, he agreed to join in and help do this humble service. After all the brass was cleaned, he returned to Sarasavati Thakura without saying anything more to the pujaris. Sarasvati Thakura then asked him, "Did you get the answer to your questions?" Madan Mohan Malaviya replied, "Yes, even without discussion. When I was helping clean the arati paraphernalia the answers automatically came to my mind."
Sarasvati Thakura replied, "Yes, the philosophy of Krishna consciousness can be understood by an attitude of service, not by any amount of intellectualism. Sevonmukhe hi jihvado." Just reading books and reciting slokas—that won't help you. Serving God will give us all the answers to the questions in the sastras. My guru, Gaura Kishore Das Babaji, was not literate, not a pundit, but all the slokas and siddhantas came to his mouth because he was sevonmukha, inclined to serve Krisha.
(adapted from ISCKON leadership journal)
Thanks to HH Sacinandana Swami Maharaj and his website organizers wherein nice devotional / moral stories are
published. Please visit their site at http://www.saranagati.net/
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How Much Should We Want Krishna
A young man asked Socrates the secret to success. Socrates told the young man to meet him near the river the next morning. When they met, Socrates asked the young man to walk with him into the river. When the water reached their necks, Socrates took the young man by surprise and dunked him under the water. The boy struggled to get out, but Socrates was strong and kept him there until the boy started turning blue. Finally, Socrates pulled his head out of the water, and the first thing the young man did was to gasp and take a deep breath of air. Socrates asked: "What did you want the most while you were there?" The boy replied: "Air." Socrates said: "That is the secret to success. When you want success as badly as you wanted the air, then you will get it." There is no other secret.
A devotee should want only Krishna! If you want Krishna as badly as the boy needed air, then your spiritual life will be a success.
(Adapted from Shiv Khera, You Can Win)
Thanks to HH Sacinandana Swami Maharaj and his website organizers wherein nice devotional / moral stories are published. Please visit their site at http://www.saranagati.net/
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The night fell heavy in the heights of the mountains and the man could not see anything. All was black.
Zero visibility, and the moon and the stars were covered by the clouds. As he was climbing
only a few feet away from the top of the mountain, he slipped and fell in to the air, falling at great speed.
He could only see black spots as he went down, and the terrible sensation of being sucked by gravity.
He kept falling and in the moments of great fear, it came to his mind all the good and bad episodes of his life.
He was thinking now about how close death was getting, when all of a sudden he felt the rope tied to his waist pull him very
hard. His body was hanging in the air.Only the rope was holding him and in that moment of stillness he had no other choice
other to scream: "Help me God".
All of a sudden a deep voice coming from the sky answered, "What do you want me to do?"
"Save me God".
"Do you really think I can save you?"
"Of course I believe You can."
"Then cut the rope tied to your waist."
There was a moment of silence and the man decided to hold on to the rope with all his strength. The rescue team tells that the next day a climber was found dead and frozen. His body hanging from a rope. His hands holding tight to it. Only one foot away from the ground.
Conclusion: And We? How attached we are to our rope of material desires? If we let go our material desires then we can be saved from this material miseries.
Thanks to Chetan Prabhu (Melbourne) for forwarding the nice story and moral.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
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A man was sleeping at night in his cabin when suddenly his room filled with light, and the Lord told the man he had work for him to do, and showed him a large rock in front of his cabin. The Lord explained that the man was to push against the rock with all his might. So, this the man did, day after day. For many years he toiled from sun up to sun down; his shoulders set squarely against the cold, massive surface of the unmoving rock, pushing with all of his might. Each night the man returned to his cabin sore and worn out, feeling that his whole day had been spent in vain.
Since the man was showing discouragement, the Adversary (Satan) decided to enter the picture by placing thoughts into the weary mind: "you have been pushing against that rock for a long time, and it hasn't moved." Thus, giving the man the impression that the task was impossible and that he was a failure. These thoughts discouraged and disheartened the man. Adversary (Satan) said, "Why kill yourself over this?" "Just put in your time, giving just the minimum effort; and that will be good enough."
That's what he planned to do, but decided to make it a matter of prayer and take his troubled thoughts to the Lord. "Lord," he said, "I have laboured long and hard in your service, putting all my strength to do that which you have asked. Yet, after all this time, I have not even budged that rock by half a millimetre. What is wrong? Why am I failing?"
The Lord responded mercifully and compassionately, "Oh my poor creature, when I asked you to serve Me and you accepted, I told you that your task was to push against the rock with all of your strength, which you have done. Never once did I mention to you that I expected you to move it. Your task was to push. And now you come to Me with your strength spent, thinking that you have failed. But, is that really so? Look at yourself. Your arms are strong and muscled, your back sinewy and brown, your hands are callused from constant pressure, and your legs have become massive and hard.
Through opposition you have grown much, and your abilities now surpass that which you used to have. Yet you haven't moved the rock. But your calling was to be obedient and to push and to exercise your faith and trust in My wisdom. This you have done. Now I, my poor creature, will move the rock."
Conclusion: At times, we may not be able to perceive results of our sadhana in devotional service but we still have to continue our sadhana unconditionally and persistently.
Thanks to Chetan Prabhu (Melbourne) for forwarding the nice story and conclusion.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
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Getting out of Misery
One day a farmer´s donkey fell into a well. The animal cried piteously for hours as the farmer tried to figure out what to do. Finally, he decided that the animal was old and that the well needed to be covered up anyway; it just wasn´t worth it to retrieve the donkey. He invited all his neighbors to come over and help him. Each one grabbed a shovel and began to shovel dirt into the well.
At first, the donkey realized what was happening and cried horribly. Then he quieted down. A few shovel loads later, the farmer looked down the well and was astonished at what he saw.
As every shovel of dirt hit his back, the donkey did something amazing: he shook it off and took a step up. As the farmer´s neighbors continued to shovel dirt on top of the animal, he would shake it off and take a step up.
Soon, to everyone´s amazement, the donkey stepped up over the edge of the well and trotted off.
Similarly, this material world is full of miseries. It will always shovel dirt on you, all kinds of dirt. The trick to getting out of this misery is to shake it off and take a step up. Each of our troubles is a stepping stone. We can get out of the deepest wells just by not stopping, never giving up! Shake it off and take a step up! Free your heart from hatred. Free your mind from worries. Live simply. Give more. Expect less. That is why Srila Prabhupada said: CHANT HARE KRISHNA AND BE HAPPY!
Thanks to HH Sacinandana Swami Maharaj and his website organizers wherein nice devotional / moral stories are
published. Please visit their site at http://www.saranagati.net/
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Fallacy of Custom
Each morning the brahmanas gathered on the bank of the holy Ganges and offered their
prescribed prayers to the Lord. Each of them brought with him a copper vessel for offering water.
Unfortunately, because these copper vessels were indistinguishable from one another, they were always getting mixed up between brahmanas. So one old brahmana got into the habit of placing a lump of clay from the riverbank in his own vessel before taking bath. That way, when he returned, he'd be able to distinguish his offering cup from the rest.
But the other brahmanas thought that the placing of a clay ball in one's cup before taking bath must be an esoteric ritual. So not wanting to appear ignorant of the fine points of brahmincal observances, they all started placing clay balls in their cups before going for bath. Thus when the old brahmana came from the river, he again found it hard to locate his own copper vessel.
"Fie on these imitators!" he groaned as he examined the different vessels, trying to pick out his own. "Without understanding the reason for anything, they just follow blindly. despite their big learning and priestly positions in society, they have no common sense."
In today's world the practice of religion is quite often like this. Most people follow sectarian customs blindly without even thinking to ask why. For instance, it has become a custom in India to address the poor as Daridra-Narayana (poor Narayana), although this term is unheard of in the scriptural tradition, and is indeed an absurdity. Still, it is blindly accepted by many, many people as religious to worship a poor man in the street as being God.
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Change Your Perspective
by Kathy Gates
Dr. John Gray tells the story about how his father was robbed by a hitchhiker and left in the trunk of his car. In the heat of the day, his father was unable to get out of the trunk and ultimately died of heat stroke.
After the funeral, Dr. Gray said that he felt a need to connect with his father, so he climbed into the trunk of the car, and as they closed the lid to the trunk he saw what his father had experienced. He saw where his father had reached through the rear light encasements in an effort to get air.
As he reached through the same place, his brother, outside the car, asked him to see if he could push the button. Dr. Gray reached around, pushed the button, and the trunk popped open.
He was stunned. If only their father had thought of that, he would still be alive. But it took his brother on the outside to notice the button.
The lesson? Sometimes you have to step outside the situation you feel trapped in to see that you are not trapped after all.
From a Krishna conscious perspective, we need Lord Sri Krishna's mercy so that He can reveal these at the crucial times.
(mattah smritir jnanam aphonam cha - from HIM only comes knowledge, rememberance, forgetfullness)
Thanks to HH Sacinandana Swami Maharaj and his website organizers wherein nice devotional / moral stories are
published. Please visit their site at http://www.saranagati.net/
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Never Forget Krishna
A long time ago, there was a huge apple tree. A little boy loved to come and play around it everyday. He climbed to the tree top, ate the apples, took a nap in its shade.... He loved the tree, and the tree loved to play with him.
Time went by. The little boy grew up, and he no longer played around the tree everyday. One day, the boy came back to the tree with a sad look on his face.
"Come and play with me," the tree asked the boy.
"I am no longer a kid, I don't play around trees anymore." The boy replied, "I want toys. I need money to buy them."
"Sorry, I don't have money... but you can pick all my apples and sell them so you will have money."
The boy was so excited. He grabbed all the apples on the tree and left happily. The boy didn't come back after he picked the apples. The tree was sad.
One day, the boy returned and the tree was so excited.
"Come and play with me," the tree said.
"I don't have time to play. I have to work for my family.
We need a house for shelter. Can you help me?"
"Sorry, I don't have a house, but you can chop off my branches to build your house."
So the boy cut all the branches off the tree and left happily. The tree was glad to see him happy, but the boy didn't come back afterward. The tree was again lonely and sad.
One hot summer day, the boy returned and the tree was delighted.
"Come and play with me," the tree said.
"I am sad and getting old. I want to go sailing to relax myself. Can you give me a boat?"
"Use my trunk to build your boat. You can sail far away and be happy."
So the boy cut the tree truck to make a boat. He went sailing and didn't come back for a long time.
Finally, the boy returned after he had been gone for many years. "Sorry, my boy. But I don't have anything for you anymore. No more apples for you," the tree said.
"I don't have teeth to bite," the boy replied.
"No more trunk for you to climb on."
"I am too old for that now" the boy said. "I really can't give you anythingthe. .. the only thing left is my dying roots," the tree said with sadness.
"I don't need much now, just a place to rest. I am tired after all these years," the boy replied.
"Good! Old tree roots are the best thing to lean on and rest. Come sit down with me and rest."
The boy sat down and the tree was glad and smiled with tears.
************ ******
This story is everyone´s.
The tree is God, of course, and here is the moral of the story: God can never be depleted. He is never affected by our lack of care. As we get more entangled in material life, we leave Him. We come to Him only when we need something or when we are in trouble.
No matter what, Krishna will always be there. It may seem as if the way the boy treats the "tree" in the story is cruel, but many of us take God for granted in the same manner. Never forget how important it is in your life to pray.
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Once I saw a young boy walking through the jungle. It appeared as if he was uttering some words. I greeted him and he replied accordingly. I inquired, "Where are you going?" Young boy retorted, "To the house of Allah in Makkah." I further asked, "What are you reciting?" "Noble Quran" he replied. I remarked, "You are at a tender age, it is not an obligation that you are required to fulfil at this stage." Young boy said, "I have witnessed death approach people younger than me and therefore would like to prepare if death was to knock on my door." I astoundingly commented, "Your steps are small and your destination far." He responded, "My duty is to take the step and it remains the responsibility of God to take me to my destination." I continued to ask, "Where is your provision and conveyance (means of transport)." He replied, "My faith is my provision and my feet's are my conveyance." I explained, "I am asking you regarding bread and water."
Young boy replied! "Sir, if someone invited you to his house, would it be appropriate to take your own food?" I exclaimed, "No!" "Similarly, My Lord has invited His servant to His house, it is only the weakness of your faith that makes us carry provisions. Despite this, do you think God will let me go to waste?" "Never", I replied. Young boy then left. Sometime later I saw him in Makkah. Young boy approached me and inquired, "Oh Sir, are you still of weak belief?"
Conclusion: Strong Faith in Lord drives us to our real destination, Back to Godhead.
Thanks to Chetan Prabhu (Melbourne) for forwarding the nice story and conclusion.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
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Lessons from a Butterfly
A man found a butterfly cocoon and decided to save it. One day a small opening appeared, and the man sat and watched for several hours as the butterfly struggled to force its body through the little hole.
At one point the butterfly seemed to stop making progress. It appeared as if it had gotten as far as it could and could go no farther. The man decided to help the butterfly. He took a pair of scissors and snipped off the remaining bit of cocoon. The butterfly emerged easily.
But it had a swollen body and small, shriveled wings. The man continued to watch the butterfly because he expected that, at any moment, the wings would dry in the warm air and open wide enough to support the butterfly's body. He thought, too, that the body would contract. But neither happened. In fact, the butterfly spent the rest of its life crawling around with a swollen body and shriveled wings. It was never able to fly.
What the man, in his kindness and haste, did not understand was that the restricting cocoon and the struggle required for the butterfly to get through the tiny opening was God's way of forcing fluid from the butterfly's body into its wings so that it would be ready for flight once it had freed itself from the cocoon.
Sometimes struggles are exactly what we need. Each hurdle in life is sent by Krishna to make us stronger, like an athlete in training. The difficulties a coach places before an athlete are designed to increase his competence. If Krishna allowed us to go through life without obstacles, we would become crippled—we would never be as strong as we could have been. We would never fly!
Never lose heart in the face of impossible odds.
Thanks to HH Sacinandana Swami Maharaj and his website organizers wherein nice devotional / moral stories are published. Please visit their site at http://www.saranagati.net/
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
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CAN YOU SLEEP WHEN THE STORMY WIND BLOWS ?
Years ago a farmer owned land along the Atlantic seacoast. He constantly advertised for hired hands. Most people were reluctant to work on farms along the Atlantic. They dreaded the awful storms that raged across the ocean, wreaking havoc on the buildings and crops. As the farmer interviewed applicants for the job, he received a steady stream of refusals.
Finally, a short, thin man, well past middle age, approached the farmer. "Are you a good farmhand?" the farmer asked him.
"Well, I can sleep when the wind blows," answered the little man.
Although puzzled by this answer, the farmer, desperate for help, hired him. The little man worked well around the farm, busy from dawn to dusk, and the farmer felt satisfied with the little man's work.
Then one night the wind howled loudly in from offshore. Jumping out of bed, the farmer grabbed a lantern and rushed next door to the hired man's sleeping quarters. Farmer shook the little man and yelled, "Get up! A storm is coming! Tie things down before they blow away!"
The little man rolled over in bed and said firmly, "No sir. I told you, I can sleep when the wind blows."
Enraged by the response, the farmer was tempted to fire him on the spot. Instead, he hurried outside to prepare for the storm. To his amazement, he discovered that all of the haystacks had been covered with tarpaulins. The cows were in the barn, the chickens were in the coops, and the doors were barred. The shutters were tightly secured. Everything was tied down. Nothing could blow away.
The farmer then understood what his hired man meant, so he returned to his bed to also sleep while the wind blew.
When you're prepared, spiritually, mentally, and physically, you have nothing to fear. Can you sleep when the wind blows through your life? The hired man in the story was able to sleep because he had secured the farm against the storm.
We with faith secure ourselves against the storms of life by putting our trust in Lord, Guru, Sadhu and Sastras.
Thanks to Chetan Prabhu (Melbourne) for forwarding the nice story and conclusion.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
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A preacher was once giving a class to a large audience in the mosque. In the course of it he said: "O People! I tell you the truth. If only you knew the power of the chanting, you would say it before every action of yours. Whoever says these names of Lord before beginning any act will see wonders. One will even be able to walk on water." One poor villager, who was sitting close to the preacher, listened to this sermon attentively. Poor villager was a regular visitor to the temple, although his journey from his home was a very difficult one because he had to cross a large river on the way. Poor villager did not have a boat and often had to wait until someone appeared who could transport him across. The route around the river was extremely long. However, when the poor villager heard this sermon, he realized that he had found the solution to his problem.
When Poor villager reached the river on his way back, he did not hesitate, but started chanting and stepped onto the water. By the grace of the Lord he was able to walk on the water and soon reached the other side. This became a regular practice for the poor villager. One day, as he was crossing the river; he realised that he had not thanked the preacher who had given him the solution to his problem. Poor villager decided to invite him to his house for a meal as a way of showing his gratitude to him.
The preacher accepted the invitation and both of them began walking back to the poor villager's house. On reaching the river, the poor villager started chanting and stepped out onto the water, as was his normal routine. Poor villager expected the preacher to do the same. But when he looked behind, he found that the preacher was still standing on the bank looking at him in bewilderment. The man told him to chant just as he had preached.
"My dear villager, I lack the faith that you have," replied the preacher.
Conclusion: Strong Faith in holy name can be acquired by Simplicity & Humility and not mere Knowledge.
Holy Name of the Lord can take us back home back to Godhead - so walking on water or any other material feats is not a real wonder. Pure devotees do not want to comnit nama-apradha by using the holyname for attaining some material gains. In this story the listener had so much faith in holy name of the Lord whereas the preacher didn't.
Thanks to Chetan Prabhu (Melbourne) for forwarding the nice story and conclusion.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
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Precious things often look worthless
A wealthy man and his son loved to collect rare works of art. They had everything in their collection, from Picasso (Spanish artist who lived in France) to Raphael (Italian painter). They would often sit together and admire the great works of art.
When the Vietnam conflict broke out, the son went to war. He was very courageous and died in battle while rescuing another soldier. The father was notified and grieved deeply for his only son.
About a month later, there was a knock at the door. A young man stood at the door with a large package in his hands.
He said, "Sir, you don't know me, but I am the soldier for whom your son gave his life. He saved many lives that day, and he was carrying me to safety when a bullet struck him in the heart and he died instantly. He often talked about you, and your love for art."
The young man held out this package. "I know this isn't much. I'm not really a great artist, but I think your son would have wanted you to have this." The father opened the package. It was a portrait of his son, painted by the young man. He stared in awe at the way the soldier had captured the personality of his son in the painting. The father was so drawn to the eyes that his own eyes welled up with tears. He thanked the young man and offered to pay him for the picture. "Oh, no sir, I could never repay what your son did for me. It's a gift."
The father hung the portrait over his mantle. Every time visitors came to his home he took them to see the portrait of his son before he showed them any of the other great works he had collected.
The man died a few months later. There was to be a great auction of his paintings Many influential people gathered, excited over seeing the great paintings and having an opportunity to purchase one for their collection.
On the platform sat the painting of the son. The auctioneer pounded his gavel. "We will start the bidding with this picture of the son. Who will bid for this picture?"
There was silence. Then a voice in the back of the room shouted, "We want to see the famous paintings! Skip this one."
But the auctioneer persisted. "Will somebody bid for this painting. Who will start the bidding? $100, $200?"
Another voice angrily, "We didn't come to see this painting. We came to see the Van Goghs (Dutch painter), the Rembrandts (Dutch artist). Get on with the real bids!"
But still the auctioneer continued. "The son! The son! Who'll take the son?" Finally, a voice came from the very back of the room. It was the longtime gardener of the man and his son. 'I'll give $10 for the painting.' Being a poor man, it was all he could afford.
We have $10, who will bid $20? Give it to him for $10. "Let's see the masters...." $10 is the bid, won't someone bid $20? The crowd was becoming angry. They didn't want the picture of the son. They wanted the more worthy investments for their collections.
The auctioneer pounded the gavel. "Going once, twice, SOLD for $10!" A man sitting on the second row shouted, "Now let's get on with the collection!"
The auctioneer laid down his gavel. "I'm sorry, the auction is over."
"What about the great paintings?"
I am sorry. When I was called to conduct this auction, I was told of a secret stipulation in the will. I was not allowed to reveal that stipulation until this time. Only the painting of the son would be auctioned. Whoever bought that painting would inherit the entire estate, including the paintings. The man who took the son gets everything!
Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu has given us this Holy Name. Much like the auctioneer, His message for today is: "The Holy Name, the Mahamantra, who'll take the Mahamantra? Because whoever takes the Holy Names of Krishna gets everything."
harer nama harer nama
harer namaiva kevalam
kalau nasty eva nasty eva
nasty eva gatir anyatha
"In this Age of Kali there is no other means, no other means, no other means for self-realization than chanting the holy name, chanting the holy name, chanting the holy name of Lord Hari."
Adi 17.22
"In this Age of Kali, the holy name of the Lord, the Hare Krsna maha-mantra, is the incarnation of Lord Krsna. Simply by chanting the holy name, one associates with the Lord directly. Anyone who does this is certainly delivered."
Thanks to Chetan Prabhu (Melbourne) for forwarding the nice story and conclusion.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
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The Laughter of Srila Rupa Goswami
From Srila Narahari Chakravarti's Sri Bhakti-ratnakara, fifth wave
bhakta-sthane sabadhana habe sarva-mate
yena kona akausala nahe tan'ra cite
Always be careful in your dealings with devotees and never create any ill feelings in their hearts.
akausala ha-ile saba haya antaraya
prasanga paiya kichu kahiye ethaya
Creating ill feelings with the devotees will create impediments on one's path. I will relate a story to reveal this truth.
One day in Vrindavan Srila Rupa Goswami Prabhupada sat rapt in meditation, feeling great bliss in his heart. While he was sitting in his samadhi he observed a wonderful pastime. The gopis were decorating Srimati Radharani while Krishna stood behind Her watching. Krishna revealed His presence to the sakhis, bringing an increasing festival of joy to their hearts, but Radharani was unaware that He was there. In many wonderful ways the gopis braided and decorated Radha's hair. Then they placed a mirror before Her. As She gazed at the beauty of Her own face, Radharani also saw Sri Krishna's moonlike face in the mirror. Radha became very shy and quickly covered Herself with Her cloth. The gopis happily laughed at this, and Srila Rupa Goswami also joined in their laughter.
Just at that moment a vaisnava arrived who was very eager to see Rupa Goswami. Seeing Rupa laughing, the vaisnava did not say anything, but feeling very sorrowful in his heart he went to see Srila Sanatan Goswami. [According to the tradition in Vrindavan, this vaisnava was a famous devotee named Krishnadas. It is said that Krishnadas was lame and unable to walk and that when Rupa Goswami laughed, Krishnadas thought that he was laughing at his disability.]
The vaisnava told Sanatan, "I went to see Sri Rupa, but when he saw me he suddenly burst into laughter. My heart filled with sorrow! I don't know why he acted in that way. I didn't say anything, but came to ask you about it." Sri Sanatan then explained the true reason for Rupa Goswami's laughter. Hearing this, the vaisnava became repentant at heart. Lamenting greatly, the vaisnava said, "Why did I approach him at that moment? Not understanding his heart, I have offended him." The vaisnava became very agitated. Sanatan Goswami pacified him and made him peaceful again.
Meanwhile, when the vaisnava had felt offended, Srila Rupa Goswami suddenly lost his vision of the Lord's pastimes. He became very disturbed and looked everywhere. Considering the situation carefully, he concluded that someone must have come to see him while he was absorbed in seeing Krishna's pastimes. "I did not honor the person that came, and thereby I committed an offense." Thinking in this way, Rupa also went to Sanatan Goswami's place.
When he saw Prabhupada Srila Rupa Goswami coming, that vaisnava approached him. Falling on the ground, he offered his respects. With great humility he told Rupa, "O great soul, I have committed an offense to you. Please forgive me. Previously when I went to see you I did not understand that you were rapt in meditation." Standing before Srila Rupa Goswami, the vaisnava prayed, "Please be kind and forgive me for my offense. If you are merciful to me, only then can my heart become peaceful."
When he heard these words, Srila Rupa Goswami became very agitated at heart. Falling to the ground, he offered respectful obeisances to that vaisnava. Folding his hands, he said, "I have no power to say how great was the offense that I committed to you. Please kindly forgive me."
Both devotees were very humble and both were filled with bhakti-rasa. Forgiving each other, they both became peaceful. The two of them then went to Srila Sanatan Goswami. For a long time they all plunged into relishing nectarean topics of Lord Krishna. When everyone heard about this incident they all became filled with wonder.
Concluding this story, Srila Narahari Chakravarti cautions everyone:
ohe bhai vaisnavete sabadhana habe
pranapana kari' aparadha ksamaibe
O my brothers, please be very careful in dealing with the vaisnavas. Beg their forgiveness for any offense with your heart and soul.
vaisnavera dosa-drste habe sabadhana
nirantara karibe vaisnavera guna-gana
Be careful not to see a vaisnava's faults, and always sing their glories.
purva purva bhagavata-gana ei kaya
vaisnavera kriya-mudra vijne na bujhaya
All of the previous great devotees have said, "No one can understand the behavior of a vaisnava."
sri-krsna-caitanya prabhu priya-bhakta-dvare
anyere dilena siksa ei ta' prakare
Although Srila Rupa Goswami is a highly elevated devotee very dear to Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, the Lord used him to teach all of us of the dangers of vaisnava aparadha.
bhakta-pada-padma dhari' mastaka-upara
bhakti-rasa-sayare dubaha nirantara
Hold the devotees' lotus feet to your head and always dive in the nectar of pure devotional service.
Note: This Article was submitted by HG Sukhijaganath prabhu.
Thanks to HG Sukhijaganath prabhu for sharing the nice story / pastime.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
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Janamejaya's Sarpa Yaga (Snake Sacrifice) - Stories from Mahabharata
King Janamejaya the son of King Parikshit was the king of the Kurus, ruling from Hastinapura. One day, a Brahmana named Utanka (whose story is narrated here), came to his court. The king received him graciously, and asked him if there was something he could do for him.
Utanka said, "You amaze me King Janamejaya. When the murderer of your father is roaming around free, you sit at ease in your court and enjoy the the comforts of a King. You have acquired fame as a just King, but I see no evidence of it. You have not even addressed this great injustice to your father!" not addressed this great injustice done to you."
Janamejaya was surprised. He turned to his counsellors and sad, "What is this about my father's murder. I was but a child when he passed away, I no naught of the circumstances behind his death. I would like to know if he was killed unjustly, and if so, who the culprit is."
The courtiers said, "Your father Parikshit ruled the kingdom after the Pandavas and ruled for a long time truthfully. He was popular among his subjects and was a terror to his enemies. He was killed by Takshaka, the king of the serpents, pursuant to a curse by the son of a Rishi(sage). What Utanka has said is true, Takshaka, the murderer of your father still roams free.
When Janamejaya heard these words, he was rendered speechless for a while due to anger. Once he regained control over himself he said to Utanka, "O Brahmana, I thank you. You have brought this great injustice to my attention. I must revenge myself on this arrogant Takshaka at once. Tell me, what is the means by which I might accomplish this task?"
Utanka replied, "Takshaka is the friend of Indra. Under Indra's protection, he feels safe from retribution, so his conceit has grown boundless. However, there is a great sacrifice mentioned in the Puranas. It is the snake-sacrifice. When this sacrifice is conducted, the snakes that are named by the Mantras (incantations) will be rendered powerless and be impelled to fall into the sacrificial fire. Make arrangements to conduct this sacrifice. I shall assist you, for Takshaka has caused trouble for me also. He once stole the ear-rings that I was taking for my Guru Veda's wife. I had to face many difficulties in recovering them. So both our wishes may be accomplished by this sacrifice."
King Janamejaya then made arrangements for this sacrifice. He invited the greatest sages and priests to conduct this sacrifice. This was a truly great undertaking, for the rituals for this sacrifice were arduous, and had to be exactly followed, if the sacrifice was to bear foot. A suitable spot was chosen and the great sacrificial hall was constructed. A platform was raised in its midst and was decked with valuable articles. This was were the Brahmanas were to sit. The Ritwika (officiating priest) sat in its middle. The king also underwent the rituals that will purify him to participate in the sacrifice.
While these preparations were on, a Shudra named Lohitaksha, who was well versed in the art of sacrificial construction, examined the measurements of the hall, the type of soil on which its foundation had been laid, and said, "O King, I perceive from these signs that your sacrifice will not be completed. The omens portend that this sacrifice shall be stopped due to the intervention of a Brahmana."
This made King Janamejaya recall an incident where his brothers had beaten a small dog for fun in times gone by. The mother of that puppy, a divine bitch named Sarama, came to Janamejaya and asked him, "What was the crime committed by my son that you had him beaten? Did he lick the sacrificial offerings? Did he try to steal the sacrificial butter? Why did your brothers beat him?". The King knew that his brothers had done it merely for sport, so he hung his head in shame. Then the dog Sarama had cursed him saying, "Since your brothers have tortured my faultless pup, may the greatest undertaking that you begin, remain incomplete!".
The King recalled this curse and became very worried when he was told by the expert builder that this sacrifice would be incomplete. He then gave orders to his guards that no one was let into the sacrificial hall without his permission.
The great sacrifice began. The officiating priests were clad in black, for this was a Yagna directed towards destruction. As they chanted the appropriate Mantras and poured the clarified butter into the fire, snakes, impelled by the power of these incantations, started converging from all over the world. There were snakes of all shapes and sizes, some of them were as large as buildings, some as small as insects. As the priests called each snake by name and uttered the fatal words, "may so and so fall into fire", that snake would meet its fiery end into the sacrificial fire.
Many great Brahmanas were involved in the conduct of this sacrifice. A great Rishi named Chandabhargava, who was a descendant of Chyavana was the Hotri - (it is the Hotri who pours out the sacrificial oblations into the fire). A learned old Brahmana named Kautsa was the Udgatri (chanter of vedic hymns). A sage named Jaimini acted as the Brahmana (the master of the sacrifice) and Sarngarva and Pingala were the Adhvaryus. Vyasa was present with many of his disciples, and was generally supervising the conduct of the sacrifice. His students were chanting the name of the Lord. Many other great Brahmanas were present to observe the conduct of this magnificent sacrifice.
The sacrifice continued for days. Snakes were perishing in the flames in thousands. At this point, a Brahmana named Astika came to visit the sacrifice. The sacrifice was nearing completion. The King welcomed his guest and said, "O Brahmana, despite your relative youth, your very being is radiating with knowledge. I have sworn to grant whatever a Brahmana desires. Ask what you will."
At this time, the chief priest intervened and said, "O King, the sacrifice is not yet complete. Takshaka, whose destruction you desired, is still alive. Wait till he is falling to the fire, before you begin giving gifts to Brahmanas."
Janamejaya said, "Why is it that Takshaka is still alive? Invoke the Mantra with his name and make him fall into the fire."
The priests uttered the appropriate incantations, but nothing happened. They then looked at the omens in the air, and used their spiritual power to divine the cause. Finally, the head priest said, "O King, Takshaka has sought asylum from Indra. The Lord of the Devas is protecting him in his palace, that is why our Mantras have not worked."
The king said, "Then utter the Mantra in such a way that Takshaka may be impelled to fall into this fire, even though Indra has given him sanctuary."
The chief priest then invoked a powerful Mantra and said, "May Takshaka fall into this fire, accompanied by Indra."
Such was the potency of the invocation, that both Indra and Takshaka started falling into the sacrificial fire, bound to each other. When Indra saw that his friend's fate was inevitable, he let go of Takshaka and decided to save himself. Takshaka then started falling alone into the fire.
At this moment, Astika said, "STAY! Takshaka may your fall be arrested!". He then turned to the King and said, "This is the boon that I seek of you. May you stop the sacrifice at this time. You have already killed millions of snakes in revenge for your father's death. I am a Brahmana, but my mother Jaratkaru, is the sister of Vasuki, the foremost of the serpents. She sent me here to stop your sacrifice and to save her kinsmen. Even Lord Brahma desires that you should remain content with slaying so many evil snakes. The snakes that are left still (excluding of course, this vain Takshaka), are virtuous and not deserving to be destroyed. Your glory will only increase if spare their lives."
King Janamejaya demurred. At this point Vyasa spoke to him, and advised him to grant Astika's request. Thus advised by the sage for whom he had so much respect, the King gave orders for the sacrifice to end.
The King then bestowed great riches upon Astika and all the priests who had conducted the sacrifice. He gave special honor and a great amount of wealth to Lohitaksha, the master builder who had foretold that the sacrifice would be stopped by a Brahmana.
This story teaches us so many points:
a) The potency of powerful brahmanas and by their potency of mantra chanting can make many things possible
b) Even though the king was determined to kill all the snakes - when instructed by another brahmana and was told the intention of Lord Brahma, advise of Srila Vyasadeva - he immediately agreed and accepted the proposal - Obeidience to higher authority.
c)Of couse the chanting of mahamantra is best of all - which can take us back home to back to Godhead
d)Mahabhara is store house of great wisdom and knowledge. One can see Lord Sri Krishna's hand in each and every incident in the epic.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
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Once a King called upon all of his wise men and asked them,
" Is there a mantra or suggestion which works in every situation, in every
circumstance, in every place and in every time. Something which can help me
when none of you is available to advise me. Tell me is there any mantra?"
All wise men got puzzled by King's question. One answer for all questions?
Something that works everywhere, in every situation? In every joy, every
sorrow, every defeat and every victory? They thought and thought.
After a lengthy discussion, an old man suggested something which
appealed to all of them. They went to the king and gave
him something written on paper. But the condition was that king was not
to see it out of curiosity. Only in extreme danger, when the King finds
himself alone and there seems to be no way, only
then he'll have to see it. The King put the papers under his Diamond ring.
After a few days, the neighbors attacked the Kingdom. It was a collective
surprise attack of the King's enemies. King and his army fought bravely but
lost the battle. King had to fled on his horse. The enemies were following
him. His horse took him far away in the Jungle. He could hear many troops of
horses following him and the noise was coming closer and closer. Suddenly
the King found himself standing at the end of the road - that road was not
going anywhere. Underneath there was a rocky valley thousand feet deep. If
he jumped into it, he would be finished.and he could not return because it
was a small road. The sound of enemy's horses was approaching fast. King
became restless. There seemed to be no way.
Then suddenly he saw the Diamond in his ring shining in the sun, and he
remembered the message hidden in the ring. He opened the diamond and read
the message. The message was very small but very great.
The message was – " This too will pass."
The King read it. Again read it. Suddenly something struck him- Yes! It too
will pass. Only a few days ago, I was enjoying my kingdom. I was the
mightiest of all the Kings. Yet today, the Kingdom and all his pleasure have
gone. I am here trying to escape from enemies. However when those days of
luxuries have gone, this day of danger too will pass. Calm come on his face.
He kept standing there. The place where he was standing was full of natural
beauty. He had never known that such a beautiful place was also a part of
his Kingdom. The revelation of the message had a great effect on him. He
relaxed and forgot about those following him.
After a few minutes he realized that the noise of the horses and
the enemy coming was receding. They moved into some other part of
the mountains and were not on that path.
The King was very brave. He reorganized his army and fought again. He
defeated the enemy and regained his lost empire. When he returned to his
empire after victory, he was received with much fan fare at the door. The
whole capital was rejoicing in the victory. Everyone was in a festive mood.
Flowers were being thrown on the King from every house, from every corner.
People were dancing and singing. For a moment King said to himself," I am
one of the bravest and greatest King. It is not easy to defeat me.: With all
the reception and celebration he saw an ego emerging in him.
Suddenly the Diamond of his ring flashed in the sunlight and reminded him of
the message. He opened it and read it again: "This too will pass" He became
silent. His face went through a total change -from the egoist he moved to a
state of utter humbleness.
If this too is going to pass, it is not yours.
The defeat was not yours, the victory is not yours.
You are just a watcher. Everything passes by
We are witness of all this. We are the perceiver. Life comes and goes.
Happiness comes and goes. Sorrow comes and goes.
Now as you have read this story, just sit silently and evaluate your own
life.. Think of the moments of joy and victory in your life. Think of the
moment of Sorrow and defeat. Are they permanent? They all come and pass
away. Life just passes away. There were friends in the past. They have gone.
There are friends today. They too will go.
There will be new friends tomorrow. They too will go. There were enemies in
the past. They have gone.
There may be enemies in the present. They too will go.
There will be new enemies tomorrow and..they too will go. There is nothing
permanent in this world. Every thing changes except the law of change. Think
over it from your own perspective. You have seen all the changes. You have
survived all setbacks, all defeats and all sorrows. All have passed away. If
there are problems in the present, they too will pass away. Because nothing
remains forever. Joy and sorrow are the two faces of the same coin. They
both will pass away. Who are you in reality? Know your real face. Your face
is not your true face. It will change with the time. However, there is
something in you, which will not change. It will remain unchanged. What is
that unchangeable? It is nothing but your true self.
You are just a witness of change. Experience it, Understand it.
And be fixed on the eternal path of Krishna Consciousness, Shrimad Bhagavatam
calls this as Shivah Panthah, truely auspicious path.
With Chanting of the wonderful Holy Names, remembering
the Songs of Thakur Bhaktivinode and Thakur Narottam Das
and learning from Our Spritual Master,
we will smoothly traverse THE JOURNY HOME !
Jaya Shrila Prabhupada !
HAVE A NICE DAY TODAY, EVERYDAY
Thanks to Sukumar Prabhu (melbourne devotee currently in USA) and Viswatma Prabhu (Melbourne) for sharing the nice story with our group. It is a coincidence that both devotees
have sent the same story to me they got from different sources.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
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The Cracked Water Pot
A water bearer in India had two large pots, each hung on one end of the pole he carried across the back of his neck. One of the pots had a crack in it, and while the other pot was perfect and always delivered a full portion of water at the end of the long walk from the stream, the cracked pot arrived only half full. This went on every day for two years, with the bearer delivering only one and a half pots of water to his master's house.
Of course, the perfect pot was proud of its accomplishment and saw itself as perfectly suited for the purpose for which it was made. But the poor cracked pot was ashamed of its imperfection and miserable that it was able to accomplish only half of what it had been made to do. After two years of what it perceived as bitter failure, it spoke to the water bearer one day by the stream. "I am ashamed of myself and I want to apologize to you."
"Why?" asked the bearer. "What are you ashamed of?"
"For the past two years, I have been able to deliver only half my load because this crack in my side causes water to leak out all the way back to your master's house. Because of my flaws you have to work without getting the full value of your efforts," the pot said.
The water bearer felt sorry for the old cracked pot, and out of compassion he said, "As we return to the master's house, I want you to notice the beautiful flowers along the path." Indeed, as they went up the hill, the old cracked pot took notice of the sun warming the wildflowers on the side of the path. The pot felt cheered.
But at the end of the trail, the pot still felt bad because it had leaked out half its load, and again it apologized for its failure. The bearer said to the pot, "Did you notice that there were flowers only on your side of your path, but not on the other pot's side? That's because I knew about your flaw and took advantage of it. I planted flower seeds on your side of the path, and every day while we walk back from the stream, you've watered them for me. For two years I have been able to pick these beautiful flowers to decorate my master's table. If you were not just the way you are, he would not have such beauty to grace his house.
Moral: Each of us has our unique flaws—we're all cracked pots. But a compassionate and expert devotee can engage us in the Lord's service, and then we can be useful, despite our defects.
Thanks to HH Sacinandana Swami Maharaj and his website organizers wherein nice devotional / moral stories are
published. Please visit their site at http://www.saranagati.net/
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The Woodcutter and the Axe
Once upon a time a strong woodcutter asked a timber merchant for a job. The timber merchant was happy to oblige. The pay was good and so were the work conditions. Therefore the woodcutter was determined to do his best.The timber merchant presented the woodcutter with an axe and showed him where to work. The first day, the woodcutter brought eighteen trees.
"Congratulations!" the boss said. "Go on working like that!"
Motivated by the boss' words the woodcutter tried harder the next day, but he could cut down only fifteen trees. The third day he tried even harder but cut down only ten trees. Day after day he brought fewer and fewer trees.
"I must be losing my strength," the woodcutter thought. He went to the timber merchant and apologized, saying that he could not understand what was going on.
"When was the last time you sharpened your axe?" the timber merchant asked.
"Sharpened? I have had no time to sharpen my axe. I have been busy trying to cut trees," said the woodcutter.
Our lives are like that. We sometimes become so busy that we don't take time to sharpen our axe. In today's world, it seems that everyone is busier but unhappier than ever. Why is that?
Could it be that we have forgotten how to stay sharp?
There's nothing wrong with activity and hard work, but Krishna doesn't want us to become so busy that we neglect what's truly important in life, such as taking time to pray and to read the scripture. We all need time to relax, to think and chant, to learn and grow.
If we don't take time to sharpen our axe, we will become dull and lose our effectiveness. So start TODAY. The only way you can do your job more effectively and add a lot of value to it is by CHANTING.
Thanks to HH Sacinandana Swami Maharaj and his website organizers wherein nice devotional / moral stories are
published. Please visit their site at http://www.saranagati.net/
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
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A saint asked his disciples, 'Why do we shout in anger? Why do people shout at each other when they are upset?'
Disciples thought for a while, one of them said, 'Because we lose our calm, we shout for that.'
'But, why to shout when the other person is just next to you?' asked the saint. 'Isn't it possible to speak to him or her with a soft voice?
Why do you shout at a person when you're angry?' Disciples gave some other answers but none satisfied the saint.
Finally he explained, 'When two people are angry at each other, their hearts distance a lot. To cover that distance they must shout to be able to hear each other. The angrier they are, the stronger they will have to shout to hear each other through that great distance.'
Then the saint asked, 'What happens when two people fall in love? They don't shout at each other but talk softly, why? Because their hearts are very close. The distance between them is very small...'
The saint continued, 'When they love each other even more, what happens?
They do not speak, only whisper and they get even closer to each other in their love. Finally they even need not whisper, they only look at each other and that's all. That is how close two people are when they love each other.'
MORAL: When you argue do not let your hearts get distant, do not say words that distance each other more, else a day will come when the distance is so great that you will not find the path to return.
" Silence in lips may avoid many problems...and smile in lips may solve many problems so always have a silent smile... "
Thanks to Arun Subramanian Prabhu & Ratish Prabhu (Srirangam) for forwarding the nice story and instruction.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
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"The stick of a devotee's mercy can save from the greatest dangers"
Richard was a teenager from Chicago and was on a spiritual longing because of an urge from within the heart. He hitchhiked through Europe, Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan and finally reached India. This was during 1970 / 71. He spent many months in many places in India in search of absolute truth.
On his journey northeast toward Nepal, he arrived in Patna. There he met a great Bhakti yogi by name Rama Sevaka Swami. Richard knew Bhakti meant devotion, but he has no idea yet of the depth or true meaning of this tradition.
He stayed with Swamiji in his temple who looked after him like a father feeding him with his own hands. Having stayed for couple of weeks with Swamiji, he decided to take journey to Nepal. The day he was leaving, Richard bowed down to seek Swamiji's blessings. Swamiji out of affection wanted to give a gift, looked around, noticed his own walking stick, and with a tearful smile presented it to him. Richard was overcome with gratitude. Although it was nothing but a crude branch broken from tree, it was a gift of love that meant more than all the fortune in the world. The eagerness displayed by Richard to accept the gift gave lot of joy to swamiji. Swamiji then said the scriptures tell that the stick of a devotee's mercy can save from one of the greatest dangers. The stick became a constant companion of Richard.
Richard reached Kathmandu in the middle of a night. As he was walking through the damp black night, from a distance heard mad howling of dogs. Then he remembered the warnings of wandering sadus that the wild dogs by night roamed in crazed packs; how the pack would ensnare their prey in an ever tightening circle, ferociously attack and rip their victim limb from limb; how they would then devour the corpse on the spot. Almost as this thought occurred, an outcast dog, foaming at the mouth, spotted him alone on the deserted street. The dog flung his head back and pierced the sky with a howl.
Seconds later, a pack of snarling dogs charged towards Richard. Richard realised the foamy white venom dripping from their mouths that the beasts were infested with rabies. Eyes bulging with rage, they closed on him, howling madly all the while intending to tear him apart. To prevent an attack from behind, he pressed his back against a house and in the darkness prayed – What shall I do?
Then, as if shaken from a trance, Richard remembered the walking stick that Rama Sevaka Swami had given him. Wildly, he began to swing it back and forth. The horde fell back into a semi-circle around him, only a few feet away. As each frenzied dog lunged forward, he whacked its snout with the Swami's stick. Growling ferociously, yet another predator leapt at him. Richard whacked him as hard as he could. Each of the attackers, when beaten back by the stick, would fall back only momentarily, and then unfazed, leap to the attack again. Howls filled the night. Again and again, the pack of 6 or 8 dogs surged toward Richard and again and again he managed to smack them down. But the more he fought, the more they escalated the siege. They could smell his flesh and blood. They could sense his exhaustion as well. There was no time. Every second he had to swing that stick with all his might. If even one dog were to get through, the horde would descend and instantly devour him. Richard thought is this to be the fate, to end as dog food?
Richard's strength was waning. Sensing imminent victory, their snarling became more fierce and deafening. They closed in for the kill, so tightly now he nearly blacked out from the stench of their breath. Feverish, despairing, Richard prayed for mercy. He felt utterly alone and on the verge of being killed. Just then glancing over his shoulder he noticed a closed door behind him. Quickly swung his shoulders around, twisted the knob and pushed. The door gave way. He dove inside and slammed it shut behind him. Outside the dogs vented their indignation by hurling their bodies against the door. The family inside the house though were up with the arms, softened when he sunk to his knees and with joined palms begged for mercy?
After the incident was over, Richard lay there in relief; thoughts flowed gratefully to Rama Sevaka Swami. If he had not given him that stick, he would surely have died that night. Then he recalled his words, prophetic and true: "The stick of a devotee's mercy can save from the greatest dangers".
(This is the true story taken from the book: The journey Home – Autobiography of an American Swami. Richard is HH Radhanath Swami Maharaj).
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Thanks to Chandrasekar Prabhu (Melbourne) for forwarding the nice pastime.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
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Lessons of the Ramayana
This year I was fortunate to celebrate Rama Navami in Bangalore at the
ISKCON Jagannatha Temple. As it so happened, HG Shyamasundara prabhu, a
disciple of Srila Prabhupada and well-known astrologer and scholar, gave the
class on this joyous occasion. What a class it was!
There were so many highlights to the class that I don't even know where to
begin. For example, he related how in the Padma Purana it describes why Sita
was banished from Ayodhya when she was pregnant. This has always bewildered
me and it was amazing to finally hear an answer after so many years of
wondering why.
When Sita was young, she, her sister Urmilla and two cousins were playing
outside. At that time Sita heard the entire Ramayana being spoken by two
parrots. She heard of how she would meet and marry Rama and the entire
pastime. Being extremely curious, she started interrogating the two parrots.
The parrots replied that they lived in the forest where the sage Valmiki
lived and being parrots they were simply repeating what they heard and they
couldn't give her further explanations. Sita wasn't satisfied with this
answer and so she put both the parrots in a cage. The parrots told her that
they were used to living freely and that they would not survive in the cage
and so Sita let the male parrot go but kept his wife in the cage. The female
parrot was pregnant and became very upset, having been separated from her
husband in such a condition, and so she cursed Sita that she too would be
separated from her husband when she was pregnant. Upon cursing Sita, she
died. The male parrot upon seeing his wife die, fainted, fell into a pool of
water and drowned.
It was that same male parrot who took birth as the washerman who spoke those
words that prompted Rama to banish Sita to the forest. That washerman stated
that Rama had taken back Sita even though she had lived at another man's
house. Rama, being the ideal king, took these words, even though they came
from a lowly washerman, so seriously that this resulted in Sita being
banished.
Thanks to Pandava vijaya Prabhu for sharing the story.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral /
instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
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Once, a fox running through village happened to fall in a bucket containing blue color dye. He got out and saw that it looked as if he was a new species, bluish. When he ran to the forest, all the animals in the forest were fleeing for their lives. They thought that a new animal has come from some other planet. The fox then called all the animals' and spoke "Don't fear. I have come from MARS, new planet. I have come to give protection to all of you." He called for all animals including lions and elephants. They all submissively folded their tails and sat on the ground. The animals of the whole forest came, including the foxes which looked like him. But because it was completely bluish, they thought it is some other new animal, some agent of God.
And then, one of the foxes was very intelligent. He said, "He appears to be like me only.This fellow is putting up a big show."One day he told all the animals, "Very soon I'll expose this fellow. He is not from any other planet. He is just an ordinary fox. Although he looks bluish and powerful, you all don't know. Just wait and see." So he went behind a tree and started howling loudly, "oooooooooooooo...".This colored fox also had the same nature. So he also started to howl. The animals became very angry with him when they detected to be no better than a mere fox! They pounced upon him and tore him to pieces.
So in the same way, we can also superficially put up a show for a while. Gaur kishoredas babaji used to sing, "gaurara ami gaurara ami mukhe bolile nahi chale; gaurara achara gaurara vichara loile phala phale" "It is not enough to claim oneself to be a devotee; one should learn the mood of Lord Chaitanya Maha prabhu and follow His ideal behavior." "loka dekhana gaura bhaja,
tilaka matra dhari, gopanete atyachara, gaura dhare churi" "For the sake of showing to people if we wear tilaka and sing Hare Krishna, but if behave hypocritically behind the screen, Lord Chaitanya will punish us."
In long run, no one can continue cheating the common people. Without character, one will be exposed. Gentleness, humility, compassion, all these qualities cannot be achieved like quick fix. Without truly taking shelter of Lord by chanting the holy names, such character can never be achieved.
Thanks to Manoj Prabhu (Melbourne) for forwarding the nice story.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral/instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
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Story of King Shibi Stories from Mahabharata
The king Shibi, a descendant of king Bharata of lunar dynasty, was famous for his truthfulness, justice, and keeping his word. The king of righteousness, Dharmaraj, himself decided to test the strength of character of Shibi Rana.
Once when the king was alone on the terrace of his palace, he saw one dove coming towards him with great speed. An eagle was after him, and to escape from the clutches of the chasing eagle the dove made frantic effort to hide some where. Seeing the king on the terrace, the frightened dove took shelter in his lap. The dove said, "O king, save my life, I have come under your shelter."
The king had vowed to protect anyone who took his shelter. Thus the weak and deprived could not be exploited by the rich and strong. However, this was a new experience for Shibi Rana. Was he in any way obliged to protect a bird who seeks his refuge? Contemplating for a while, the king decided that even tress, animals, and birds require protection and help as do human beings.
Therefore, the king said, "Have no fear my son. That eagle would not be able to touch even your feather. Relax in peace, have no worries." So saying the king readied himself to face the rapidly approaching eagle. The eagle landed in front of the king and said, "O king, you have hidden my prey. Please release him so that I can appease my hunger."
The righteous king saw the point in eagle's demand. He faced a peculiar dilemma of protecting the dove, and at the same time not to deprive the eagle of his rightful prey! He decided to resolve the issue by offering the eagle equal amount of meat from his kitchen. But the eagle insisted on having his prey -the dove - as his food. After some discussion the eagle agreed to set the dove free on two conditions.
The eagle said, "O King, I shall let the dove go, if equal weight of flesh from your body is offered to me as food."
Shibi Rana was quite pleased with the adjustment. He thought that a pound (or two) of flesh from his body would not kill him and the life of the dove in his shelter would also be saved.
Thus he was happy that he was saved from a great sin of 'inability to protect the weak'.
The eagle then put his second condition, saying, "O king, if a single tear drops from your eye I shall be constrained to accept you flesh as my food."
The king agreed and called for the knives and the balance. In one pan of the balance the dove was kept and on the other side a large chunk of flesh from the right thigh of Shibi Rana. But strange as it might seem, the pan with the dove always weighed more even as additional flesh was added! Thus almost whole of the right half of the king's body was cut. Still the weight could not be equaled.
At this juncture a drop of tear appeared in the left eye of the king. The eagle objected to this saying, "O king, I cannot accept the food given in distress. The tear in your eye shows that you are unhappy. So give me my prey back and you shall regain your normal health."
With a faint smile on his lips, Shibi Rana said, "Behold, O eagle, the left eye is not crying out of grief; this is a tear of joy. Now my left half of the body will also be used to honour the word I have given to you. Otherwise, if only right had satisfied you, the left half of the body would have been denied this great opportunity of sacrifice! Therefore, my dear friend, the left eye cries out of joy!"
This ultimate sacrifice of Shibi Rana was unparalleled in the history. The eagle and the dove disappeared and in their places stood the King of righteousness -Dharmaraj and the king of heavens --the Indra. Gods from the heavens showered flowers, perfumes, and praise on the king. They granted many boons to this noble king.
The king Shibi had passed the ultimate test to uphold Dharma, a true duty of every king. It is said that this king ruled for many years and after his death went directly to heaven to enjoy the fruits of his righteous karma.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
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Prudence of a Woodcutter - from Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Goswami maharaja's instructive stories
A woodcutter decided to journey to the great Sundarban forest to collect a big load of wood.A friend warned him that the Sundarban is filled with wild animals. "You should not fail to take a weapon with you," his friend advised.
The woodcutter snorted, "I am an experienced woodsman. Your advice that I should take a
weapon with me to the forest is like asking a man from Newcastle to bring a load of coal with him when he returns to his home city. The forest is filled with trees, and the trees possess hard and stout branches. If any beast comes to threaten me, I'll saw off a branch and use it to frighten him off."
And so, while the woodsman was in the midst of the Sundarban, a man-eating tiger gave him the opportunity to put into practice his boast. As the tiger bounded out of the underbrush, the woodsman flailed away at a branch of a tree with his saw. But he had hardly cut through the bark before the tiger seized him by the neck and killed him.
Yogis who hope to conquer their senses by the strength of their senses put themselves in
exactly the same position as this unfortunate woodsman. While struggling to execute a posture or a
breathing exercise, the yogi may at any moment be overwhelmed by an attack of six enemies: lust,
anger, greed, illusion, pride and envy.
On the other hand, a devotee subdues these dangerous enemies by turning them over to
Krsna's control. Lust becomes subservient to the transcendental Kamadeva, anger is used against
atheists, greed is directed to hearing about Krsna, illusion is transformed into infatutation for serving Krsna, pride becomes absorbtion in one's true identity (rather than the false identity of the body) and envy simply cannot remain, because a devotee is full of compassion to everyone.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
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A Wise Old Monkey (from Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Goswami maharaja's instructive stories )
In the courtyard of a king a pack of monkeys sported happily in the trees. Their leader was old and exceptionally wise.
Now, once the wise old monkey was reflecting upon the happenings in the courtyard. He observed that the sons of the king played there every day with pet lambs. These lambs would often enter the kitchen on one side of the courtyard and try to eat whatever they could find within. And the cooks would angrily chase them out, branishing whatever stick or utensil they could lay their hands on. Across from the kitchen, on the other side of the courtyard, was the horse stable where the king kept his favorite mounts. Whenever the king visited the stable, the old monkey could see how attached the king was to his horses.
After duly considering all he'd seen, the wise old monkey called the pack of monkeys together one day and urged them to leave the courtyard for good. But this time his instructions were not welcomed as they always had been in the past. "See here! Now the old fellow really goes too far!" a young bull monkey passionately proclaimed to his mates. "Our life here is good. There are plenty of scraps to eat, and because the princes are amused by us, the humans leave us in peace. In this royal courtyard we have no dangers from tigers, snakes and eagles as do the ordinary forest monkeys. Why on earth should we listen to this addle-headed raving about abandoning this paradise?"
"Now listen to me," the old one countered. "Those wooly lambs enter the kitchen almost every day and are driven out by the cooks who beat them with anything they can lay their hands on. One day the cooks will become so enraged they'll grab sticks from the fire and beat the lambs with those. The lambs' wool will then ignite, and they'll run helter-skelter around this courtyard in pain and terror. One or two at least are sure to enter the horse stables. The straw will catch fire, and the stables will burn. If after the flames are put out some of the king's precious horses are found to be suffering from burn injuries, that king will ask his salihotra (veterinarian) what the best cure for burns are. The salihotra will reply that monkey fat should be applied to the wounds. Then the king will order his men to catch every one of you, butcher you and extract the fat from your dead bodies."
The younger monkeys had a good laugh at this. "Sorry, old fellow," they scoffed, "but we think your oversized brain has finally aged to the point of senility. We will therefore from this day onwards reject your advice as worthless. Such fanciful notions! We cannot take you seriously any longer." Sadly, the old monkey took his leave from the pack and went to the forest to dwell.
But in time everything he predicted came to pass, and the whole pack of courtyard monkeys was mercilessly slaughtered for the curative powers of their fat.
This story illustrates how arrogant sceptics who refuse to heed the warnings of the pure servant of the Lord simply pave their own way to destruction. The instructions of the spiritual master are never to be estimated in material terms. One who does so commits a great offense and condemns himself to ruin.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
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Hanuman and Bhima
Draupadi was walking with the Pandavas, and she saw some nice flowers on the mountain. She said, "Oh this flowers are very nice. Can you get them for me?"
Yudisthira Maharaja said, "We are on pilgrimage here, and we are living here in the palace very nicely by the mercy of Kuvera.
We already have so much facility, so don't get attracted to these flowers. This will cause trouble."
Bhima said, "I will get it." Bhima climbed over the rocks, and he was walking. After walking for a some time, he saw a monkey near a banana garden.
This monkey was very old, and his tail was lying across the path. Bhima wanted to go and get the flowers. But the tail was lying on the road, and ksatriyas, brahmanas and higher class people do not cross over animal bodies. Crossing over animal bodies is inauspcious, and crossing over human bodies is insulting, and crossing over Vaisnavas bodies is very bad. So Bhima was thinking, "I shouldn't cross over this space," so he looked at the monkey and said,
"Move your tail from here." So the monkey said, "Who are you?" "I am Bhima the Pandava, and I am very powerful. So please move your tail." The monkey said, "I am so aged. I came here because of all the bananas, so I can just sit and eat the falling bananas. I'm too old to move. Can you please move my tail?"
So Bhima said, "Hm! Alright."
When Bhima went to touch the tail he found it to be more hard than the Himalayan mountain. Then he put two hands there and tried to lift it, he couldn't even raise it a hair's breadth from the earth. It was so heavy. Bhima realized his mistake. "What is the strength you have in your tail? Obviously you are no ordinary monkey. You say you cannot move because you are so old, but then I cannot even lift your tail. So who are you? Please tell me."
"You are my brother," the monkey said. "I am Hanuman, your older brother."
So then Bhima said, "I have heard that you became as big as the universe. I want to see that."
"If I do that now," Hanuman said, "The earth will break. The earth was strong enough in Treta-yuga that I could stand on it in that big form, but now if I do that it will break."
"At least show me part of that form," Bhima said.
"Ok," Hanuman said, "I will start growing, and when things get disturubed, then you tell me and I will stop." And then Hanuman started growing to the size of the universe, and then big pieces of rock started falling from Meru, and the earth was tilting, and ocean was rising.
So Bhima said, "Stop there! Don't grow any more." Then Hanuman gave a benediction to Bhima, that whenever Bhima would perform a big task on the battlefield, then Hanuman will roar. He will stay in the flag of Arjuna, and whenever Bhima would take an elephant and throw it on another elephant, Hanuman would go "Aaaaaargh!" That would make 100 charioteers on the other side collapse, It would be such a ferocious sound. Thus Pandavas got the blessings of Hanumanji before the battle.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
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Ravana goes to Bali for help
During the fight for Lanka, Ravana was feeling that he wasn't going to win. So he went down to the lower planetary systems where Bali has his abode. He was thinking, "I'm not winning this battle, so let me get the help of Bali, the King of the demons." So he went way down to the bottom of the universe where Bali is, and he tried to get in. But when he was trying to get in, there was a guard who kept stopping him. Every time he tried to get in, the guard would stop him. Ravana had many mystic powers, so in many ways he was trying to use his mystic powers to get in. So finally at the last moment he got in. He went to see Bali. Bali said, "What are you doing here?" Ravana replied, "There's a tough fight up there. I'm fighting this ordinary human being." Bali said, "But you're a great raksasa. How could you have trouble fighting an ordinary human being?" Ravana replied, "I don't know, but this person is displaying so many mystic powers, He has a huge army of monkeys and bears, so I'm having difficulty." Bali said, "You fool, that's Lord Ramacandra! He's the Supreme Personality of Godhead, He's not an ordinary man."
Ravana said, "What are you talking about? He's just an ordinary mortal. He's just a foolish person. All I need is a little help from you and I can defeat Him." And as much as Bali tried to preach to him, he couldn't understand the glories of Lord Ramacandra. Bali said, "You'd better give up the fight now, because if you don't, you're going to lose everything. My advice to you is that you give Sita back to Ramacandra and stop the fight to save your life and your family and everything else." But even with so much preaching, still Ravana couldn't accept. So in order to try and impress upon him the greatness of the Lord, Bali said, "Come take a walk with me." So they walked outside of the kingdom, and they saw a huge mountain. And the mountain was made of boulders of diamonds. "Look at this," Bali said. "I'm going to give this to you. But I will only give it to you if you can lift it first." So Ravana was trying, but he could just barely get it off the ground. Ravana was very powerful, but he couldn't lift this mountain of diamonds. So Bali said, "Now step back a bit and take a better look at it. What does it look like?" So Ravana said, "It looks something like an earring, and earring studded with many beautiful diamonds." So Bali said, "Yes, that's right. This is the earring of Hiranyakasipu. During the fight between Hiranyakasipu and Lord Nrsimha, this earring fell down here. In your previous birth you were Hiranyakasipu, and the Lord killed you. You were much more powerful than you are now. You can't even pick up this earring that you used to wear. Now Visnu has come again, and He will surely kill you." But even after that example, Ravana couldn't understand. He left, he went back to the fight and as we know he was defeated.
MORAL: No matter how much the demons hear the glory of the Lord, they never understand.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
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A father arranged a tution master to teach maths for his son. The teacher taught the student, logical steps in solving various problems and gave him home work every day. The student was lazy and did not want to do home work. He was telling his friends that his father is paying money to the teacher, but he has to do all the hard work of doing home work. He further said, in all fairness, the teacher should do all the sums because he is getting paid.
This is avidya or ignorance. After all the teacher is doing only good by making the student learn more and more by giving home work.
Like wise our spiritual master sometimes assigns some devotional service and he knows our strengths and weakness and what we are capable of doing. The disciple should fulfill the order of the spiritual master with all sincerity since he is the direct representative of Lord Krishna. The service assigned or given by the spritual master is for the benefit of the disciple so that he can make steady advancement in devotional service
Thanks to Rangarajan Prabhu (Abudhabi) for forwarding the nice realization.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted
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visaya vinivartante
niraharasya dehinah
rasa-varjam raso 'py asya
param drstva nivartate
The embodied soul may be restricted from sense enjoyment, though the taste for sense objects remains. But, ceasing such engagements by experiencing a higher taste, he is fixed in consciousness. (Bhagavad-gita As It Is 2.59)
The story dates (about 1985) back to the period when Mikhail Gorbachev was president of former USSR. Those were the early days of ISKCON trying to make an entry into this part of the world. The president had issued orders to arrest Hare Krsna devotees. The place Armenia predominantly a Christian society but the spiritual practices were practically forgotten may be because of communist rule. HH Harikesa Swami was the spiritual master and leader for the Hare Krsna's movement preaching in USSR.
Gagik Buniatyan was in his teens and from his childhood he was inspired by eastern philosophy. He heard the tapes of HH Harikesa Swami's lectures and also came in contact with Srila Prahuad's books. Gagik was distributing Srila Prabhupad's books inspite of apparent danger. He was arrested many times and beaten up by police and released from the police station. Even then Gagik continued to distribute books.
Again Gagik was picked up by KGB to be placed in a prison. "the police opened my door and took me to a room upstairs to sign some last papers. Sitting there were two young and attractive women, whom I supposed were there to provide enjoyment to the policemen on the night shift. The policemen decided to have some fun and introduced me to them, saying that I am from Hare Krishna and strictly following strange rules that prohibit me from having relationships with beautiful girls. After I signed the papers, a policeman looked at me and said, "What kind of gentleman are you that you do not want to associate with these ladies, ah? Shame on you, shame! They are two of the loveliest ladies we have ever seen in this town! So, now we will leave you alone with them and give you an opportunity to enjoy a little bit before going to the jail. I hope you will be very thankful for that. See what you can do and remember this might be the last chance for you." With that, the policemen left the room.
One of the ladies started to ask me why I do not intimately associate with ladies. I started to explain to her, "it says in our scripture, ' A wise man sees all women except his wife as equal to his own mother or sister'. "I started to tell them the story of Haridas Thakur and the prostitute, which I don't think was so interesting for them, but at least one of them was listening. But the other one was taking off her upper clothes slowly and coming towards me while saying, "Now for a moment you can think that I am your wife. What's wrong with that?? She came and sat right next to me and started to touch my hair. I took her hand away and asked her to not touch me, or I might feel like hitting her. I started to tell her how serious it is if she offends some one like me, who is trying to be Krishna's devotee. I told her that no matter what I do, she will get a bad karmic reaction. But she did not care and continued to try and seduce me. I finally got so frustrated that I stood up and told her that if she touched me once more I was going to beat her up and have that criminal offence on my record as well. She then opened the door and told a policeman that I was just a fool for not even touching her before going to jail. She turned to me and said, "God knows how long you are going to be there! You'd better take your last chance. Who knows how long it will be until you see such a fine lady again?"
At that point, I thanked her for her good offer and said, "Hare Krishna."
Whereupon both teasingly replied, "Hare Krishna to you!" they then left while showing me their long tongues. The policemen then took me downstairs again, teasing me on the way by saying that I am a useless guy and have no brain for not accepting such a good offer."
The story is taken from "Salted Bread" a true story by Sarvabhavana das (Gagik Buniatyan) as told to his son.
Moral Story: BG (2.59) Purport: "Unless one is transcendentally situated, it is not possible to cease from sense enjoyment. But one who has tasted the beauty of the Supreme Lord Krsna, in the course of his advancement in Krsna consciousness, no longer has a taste for dead, material things". We find here Sarvabhavana das (Gagik Buniatyan) having tasted higher things (spiritual) has no taste for mundane attraction.
Thanks to Chandrasekhar Prabhu (Melbourne) for forwarding the nice story / realization.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted
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One day, the father of a very wealthy family took his son on a trip to the country with the express purpose of showing him how poor people live.
They spent a couple of days and nights on the farm of what would be considered a very poor family. On their return from their trip, the father asked his son, 'How was the trip?'
'It was great, Dad.'
'Did you see how poor people live?' the father asked.
'Oh yeah,' said the son.'So, tell me, what did you learn from the trip?' asked the father
The son answered:I saw that we have one dog and they had four.
We have a pool that reaches to the middle of our garden and they have a creek that has no end.
We have imported lanterns in our garden and they have the stars at night.
Our patio reaches to the front yard and they have the whole horizon.
We have a small piece of land to live on and they have fields that go beyond our sight.
We have servants who serve us, but they serve others.
We buy our food, but they grow theirs.
We have walls around our property to protect us, they have friends to protect them.
'The boy's father was speechless.
Then his son added, 'Thanks Dad for showing me how poor we are'.
We say that children are like GOD. They teach us so many things..
Makes you wonder what would happen if we all thank Lord Krishna for everything we have, instead of worrying about what we don't have.
Thanks to Jayashri Ravishankar Mataji (Chennai) for forwarding the nice story / realization.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted
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It's an old story that we read in Class 3 but with a new ending.
A hat-seller who was passing by a forest decided to take a nap under one of the trees, so he left his whole basket of hats by the side. A few hours later, he woke up and realized that all his hats were gone. He looked up and to his surprise, the tree was full of monkeys and they had taken all his hats.
The hat seller sits down and thinks of how he can get the hats down.While thinking he started to scratch his head. The next moment, the monkeys were doing the same. Next, he took down his own hat, the monkeys did exactly the same. An idea came to his mind. He took his hat and threw it on the floor and the monkeys did that too. So he finally managed to get all his hats back.
Fifty years later, his grandson, Sukhwinder, also became a hat-seller and had heard this monkey story from his grandfather. One day, just like his grandfather, he passed by the same forest. It was very hot, and he took a nap under the same tree and left the hats on the floor. He woke up and realized that all his hats were taken by the monkeys on the tree.
He remembered his grandfather's words, started scratching his head and the monkeys followed. He took down his hat and fanned himself and again the monkeys followed. Now, very convinced of his grandfather's idea, Sukhwinder threw his hat on the floor but to his surprise, the monkeys still held on to all the hats.
Then one monkey climbed down the tree, grabbed the hat on the floor, gave him a slap and said, "You think only you have a grandfather !!!???"
MORAL: Srila Prabhupada always encouraged devotees for sticking to the basic principles and at the same time being inovative in preaching mission, book distribution etc.
Thanks to Buddhimanta Prabhu (Melbourne/Noida) for forwarding the nice story / realization.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted
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Please find below how Srila Prabhupada relates a story about intelligent and innovative preaching:
So one priest was preaching among the miners in Sheffield, where there are many coal mines, in England.
The preist was speaking that "You become devotee, followers of Jesus Christ," and in this way he was preaching Bible.
So one of the miners, he never heard of Bible nor Jesus Christ.
So he inquired, "What is his number?" That means he thought Christ may be one of the miners, and they have got specific number.
The preist said, "No, you are mistaking. Jesus Christ is Lord. He is not one of you, like worker, no. He's Lord. So if you don't appreciate him, If you don't worship him, then you will go to hell."
Then another man asked, "What is hell?"
And the preist described that "Hell is very dark. It is very moist," and so on. "There is no air there, no light, and..." So the miners are living always in the mine. There was no response, because they are habituated with this hellish life. (laughing) So the description of hell did not appeal and they did not take it serious.
Then the priest was intelligent, said, "You know, there is no newspaper in hell."
Then the miners said, "Oh, horrible!" (laughter) "It is horrible". We need to do something about this.
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Once a boy went to a shop with his mother.
The shop keeper looked at the small cute child and
showed him a bottle with sweets and said
'Dear Child.. u can take the sweets... but the
child didnt take.
The shop keeper was surprised.. such a small child he is
and why is he not taking the sweets from the bottle. Again
he said take the sweets..
Now his mother also heard that and said.. ''beta
take the sweets..'' yet he didnt take.
The shopkeeper saw that the child was not taking the
sweets.. So he himself took the sweets and gave to the
child.. The child was happy to get two hands full of sweets..
When they returned home, his Mother asked him.. Why didnt
you take the sweets when shop keeper told you to take..
The child said.. ''Mom, my hands are very small and
if i take the sweets from my hands then i can only take
few.. but now you see when uncle gave
with his big hands, how many more sweets i got!!''
Moral:
When we take, we may get little but when God gives, he gives us more then our expectations.... more than what we can hold
Thanks to Yamuna Lila mataji (Melbourne) for forwarding the nice story / realization.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted
Some meditation on similar point from Srila Prabhupada's pastimes:
Prabhupada: In the history it is unique. Crores of rupees' property, and all over the world, buildings, temples. It is all Krsna's. Nobody can harm them. It is not for me. There is no history. In one, ten years only, books like this, which are being received with so much adoration. They are simply Krsna. If I want to take credit personally, this is wrong, sir.
So money does not come in that way unless Krsna gives. Janmaisvarya-sruta-sribhih [SB 1.8.26]. If Krsna wants, He can give the whole world.
My father used to say, "God has got ten hands. If He wants to take away from you, with two hands how much you will protest? And when He wants to give you with ten hands, with two hands how much you will take it?"
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Sri Raghunandana Thakura
Sri Mukunda Das, Madhava Das and Sri Narahari Sorkar Thakur were three brothers who lived in the village of Sri Khanda. Raghunandan was the son of Sri Mukunda Das. [C. C. Mad 15]
In the house of Sri Mukunda Das, who lives at Sri Khanda, Lord Sri Gopinath is served with great devotion. One day Mukunda was called out to do some work, and then he instructed his son Raghunandan to worship the deity and asked him to serve the Lord Gopinath that day. He explained to him that this deity is in our family for many generations and thus He has been worshipped by my father and his father and his father on and on, in this way for many years. Just as your mother feeds you and I everyday, so also He has to be fed everyday. Having explained to Raghunandan that this is a very big responsibility and he should be very careful to give his full attention to this service, Mukunda went out. Raghunandan meanwhile having been instructed by his father, collected the items for offering to Sri Gopinathji and entered into the deity room. Raghunandan was at that time barely 5 years old and therefore, when he saw that Gopinath hadn't eaten the offering after he had imitated how his father offered the bhoga, he became very worried. Ultimately he simply requested Gopinath with tears in his eyes: "Please eat! Eat!" Gopinath became completely subjected by Raghunandan's simple request, which was made entirely in love, and thus he stealthily ate up everything without leaving any remnants.
After some time Raghu-nandan's father, Mukunda, returned and asked his son if he had done as he was told? When his son replied "Yes", then Mukunda asked him to bring some of the prasadam. Raghunandan replied, "Prasadam? I offered everything just like you told me, and Gopinath ate everything; so what should I bring you now?" Mukunda was completely taken aback. "This boy is not naughty and is always accustomed to speak the truth. I doubt if he could have eaten everything. I wonder what actually happened?"
Musing on this matter in this way for some time, on another day his curiosity was so stirred that he again requested Raghunandan to offer the bhoga to Gopinath on that day. On this day however, having gone out of the house, he again came in by another way and remained hiding in one place. Raghunandan was very happy to be able to serve Sri Gopinathji again and brought everything into the deity room. As before, he again very insistently persuaded Gopinath to take his meal. As Gopinath had eaten half of a laddu, he espied Mukunda peering out from his hiding spot. He didn't try to cover up the fact that he had eaten what he had, but neither did he eat anymore. Seeing all this Mukunda was completely immersed in ecstatic love and picked up his son and put him on his lap. He extolled his virtues in a voice trembling with ecstasy, all the while torrents of tears of joy falling from his eyes. Even today, those who are greatly fortunate can still see that half-eaten laddu in Gopinatha's lotus hand. Thus Sri Uddhav das sings the glories of Raghunandan, who is non different from Madan(Cupid).
Raghunandan was present at the khetori utsob. In Krsna lila he was Kandarpa manjari & in Dwaraka lila he was Sri Krsna's son Kandarpa. Raghunandan's son is Kanai Thakur. His descendants are still residing at Sri Khanda. Sri Khanda can be easily reached from Katwa by bus or train. He was born in the year 1432 Sakabda.
Special thanks to Jaya Tirtha Caran prabhu from NZ for allowing us to use some of the content from his site
- http://www.hknet.org.nz
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted
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To illustrate the foolishness of becoming a blind follower, Prabhupada told a story about the death of Sargal Singh.
Sargal Singh was very much loved by a merchant, and so when Sargal Singh died, the man shaved his head and wore darken clothes. When another man came into the merchant's shop, he asked who had died.
"Sargal Singh has died," said the merchant.
The visitor did not want to seem ignorant so he did not ask who Sargal Singh was, but he also shaved his head and wore dark clothes. Other people in town began to follow, not wanting to appear ignorant. When anyone asked who had died, they replied, "Sargal Singh has died."
When a minister of the king saw so many citizens are mourning he also wore dark clothes and shaved his head. But when the king saw this, he inquired, "Why are you mourning and for whom?"
"Sargal Singh", the minister replied. The king asked, "Who is that?" When the minister couldn't answer the king told him to find out. The minister then inquired and inquired and finally reached the merchant.
"Who is Sargal Singh?"
The merchant replied, "Sargal Singh was my donkey, whom I loved very much."
- From Srila Prabhupada Nectar by HH Satsvarupa Dasa Goswami
Thanks to HH Satsvarupa Dasa Goswami maharaja for compiling the nice collection of Srila Prabhupada nectar.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted
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Everything is Krishna Kripa
Once there was a king and he had a wise minister. Whenever the king used to describe different accomplishments to the minister - the minister would say "It is Krishna Kripa"
Once the king went for a battle and conquered the neighbouring kingdom. The minister
said "It is Krishna Kripa"
Another time the king was examining and testing the weapons. While doing so one of his
fingers got cut. The king was narrating the incident to the minister and the minister
as usual said "It is Krishna Kripa"
The king got wild and very angry. He yelled at the minister "What are you saying - my
finger is cut and you are saying that is Krishna Kripa. I will put you in the prision"
He ordered the soldiers to put the minister in the prison. While going to prision
- the minister was saying "This is also Krishna kripa".
One day the king went on hunting and as the night was approaching he got separated
from the rest of the soldiers.He was alone deep inside the forest.
All of a sudden he heard some noises of drum and a group of tribal
people coming at a distance. They were in search of something.
Actually the tribal people were about to begin a sacrifice and they were looking for a
bali (human to sacrifice). When the they located the king who was strong and hefty - they
thought the king will be a good candidate for the bali and caught him - so that they can
offer him as a sacrifice. The king could not do anything - since he was outside of
his kingdom and there is no one to help him. He was worrying about his
misfortune that he has to die in the hands of tribal people.
The tribal people gave a ceremonial bath to him and brought before the leader of the tribe.
The leader examined the king (who is to be given as bali) and noticed that there is one finger
short in one hand. The leader considered the bali very inauspicious & incomplete -
because it is not full and he chastised his people for bringing incomplete bali. They let the king go.
At that time the king could realize that how is life was saved - just because his finger was cut.
He immediately remembered his wise minister who told that cutting of the finger is also "Krishna Kripa". The king thought "At that time, I did not realize how loosing of the finger can be Krishna Kripa - now I could practically understand - it is because of Krishna Kripa the finger was cut and my life has been saved"
He returned to the palace as quickly as possible and went to the prison where the minister is put in. He explained everything to minister and asked for his forgiveness.
The king asked the minister "You said the right thing but still I put you in prison - but when you are going to prision - you said that is also Krisha kripa - I do not understand, how that is krishna Kripa"
The minister replied "My dear King - if you did not put me in prision - then I would have
accompanied you - and the tribal people would have got hold of me and offered me as a bali - so putting me in the prision is also Krishna Kripa"
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted
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Krishna - Nitya Brahmachari
One day Lord Krishna was playing with his queen Rukmini in the banks of Yamuna. Suddenly the Lord told her, "Rukmini, on the other shore of Yamauna, sage Durwasa has come and he is very hungry. Please prepare good food and take it to the sage".
Rukmini immediately prepared a sumptuous food and packed it and came back to the shores of Yamuna. Then she told her lord, "Lord, The Yamuna is in floods and there is no boat or boatman in sight. How can poor me, cross this mighty river?"
Lord Krishna replied, "Dear Rukmini, that should not be any problem. Approach the river and tell the river that the Nitya Brahmachari (perennial bachelor) has asked her to give way to you. She will surely give you way".
Rukmini was surprised and asked her Lord, "Lord, who is this Nitya Brahmachari and why am I not able to see him?"
The Lord replied, "Of course, Rukmini, it is myself".
Rukmini was surprised. She could not understand how her husband who has seven other wives could call himself, Nitya Brahmachari. Anyway she decided to obey him. She went near Yamuna and told the river, "River Yamuna, my husband, the Nitya Brahmachari has asked you to give way to me, so that I can reach the other shore".The river immediately obliged.
Rukmini crossed the Yamuna, met sage Durwasa, saluted him and served him the sumptuous food that she has brought with her. The Sage liked the food and became very happy and blessed her.
Then Rukmini told him, "Sir, I am very gratified by the blessing of the sage like you. Now I have to cross back the river Yamuna and join my husband. Can you please help me do it?"
Sage Durwasa replied, "Of course Rukmini, that is my pleasure and duty. Go to the river Yamuna and tell her that the Nitya Upavasi (He who never takes food) has asked her to give way to you. She will help you".
Rukmini was taken aback. She thought how this sage who has just had a sumptuous feast can call himself Nitya Upavasi. She did not bother to ask him, because he was well known for his short temper. She went near the river and told her, "River Yamuna, now I have to cross you and reach the other shore. The Nitya Upavasi has asked you to give way to me".
The river obliged and Rukmini crossed the river and joined her husband. Her face showed that she was terribly confused. She approached her lord and told him, "Lord, as per your direction I served good food and crossed back the river. I told her to give way as per the wishes of Nitya Upavasi. Strangely she did it".
Lord Krishna laughingly replied, "I know Rukmini that you are terribly confused to see me calling myself as Nitya Brahmachari and the sage calling himself as Nitya Upavasi. We both were telling only the truth. This is because we both are realized souls and do not attach ourselves to this ethereal body of ours. We both know that we are really the souls within this body. That soul does not marry and does not take food and that is how I (my soul) am a Brahmachari and Sage Durwasa (his soul) is an Upavasi. Once you understand this simple truth, you can lead a very contended and happy life".
PS: Ofcourse Lord Krishna is not an ordinary soul - but Super Soul and Superme Personality of Godhead.
And Lord's body is not material at all. All His activities are transcedental and there is no material tinge.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted
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Cricket Vedanta
One can see flashes of spirituality in cricket and can learn lessons from watching a cricket match.Comparitively speaking, the other players can afford to take it a bit easy but not the the batsman facing the bowler.He has to be extremely alert and attentive.Similarly, a devotee who is under the care of a Guru will have to be as alert and as careful as the batsman playing his innings.The six balls a sadhaka has to face in an over are the six enemies namely lust, anger, greed, attachment, arrogance and envy (Arishadvargas) .These go on impending his spiritual progess. Therefore, he should be ever ready to face their onslaught with courage and determination.Otherwise he will be overcome by these subtle and powerful enemies and will suffer endlessly.He will not be able to continue his spiritual practices.He will be like the batsman who gets out early without scoring runs.Even if he continues getting out with poor runs to his credit, innings after innings he will be dropped from the team altogether.So where is the question of his becoming the topmost batsman of the country ? Similar is the case with a spiritual aspirant.If he goes on succumbing to lust,anger and his other staunch enemies he will never be able to climb the spiritual ladder.Where is the question of his reaching the goal of self realisation?
In cricket there are eleven players in a team.In a human being as well there are five sense organs (Panchendriyas), five organs of action and the mind which makes it eleven.Just as all the eleven members of a team try their best to see that the batsman does not score, the ten organs and the mind are ever pulling man to indulge in infinite attraction parading before his eyes to make him submerge in worldly pleasures and enjoyments thus leading to his destruction . A sadhaka, a devotee , a spiritual aspirant must therefore shun all worldly luxuries, comforts, enjoyments and concentrate all his attentions upon his goal. It is only then can he realise his goal of self realisation, establish himself in everlasting bliss and experience immense joy and peace. In terms of cricket, he becomes a highly successful world class batsman who can merrily keep on hitting boundaries and sixes at will much to the delight of spectators.
In cricket all the players know that the whole world is watching them and they remain ever attentive, strain every nerve of theirs to put forth their best so that they excel.Similarly Sadhakas and Devotees treading on the path of spirituality should know that they are also the players in the stadium of world creation wherein both God & Guru along with Lord Devendra, his entire retinue,Yakshas,Gandharvas,Kinnaras and Kimpurusharas are ever watching them.Hence, they should focus all their attentions upon their spiritual disciplines and proceed on their path with deep devotion, fear and humility
Thanks to Malavika for forwarding the nice story / realization.
Malavika wanted to share this article by Sadguru Sri Sat Upasi, Dattavadhutha Ashram,Dodderi,Chitradurga,Karnataka for the benefit of devotees.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted
PS: We do not advise anyone to start take keen interest in cricket and start spending time playing & watching matches. Please try to get just the moral from that and continue devotional service to Lord.
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From Srila Prabhupada lecture:
There is a nice story about Sanatana Gosvami of whom we are now studying.
Sanatana Gosvami and Rupa Gosvami, two brothers, they went
to Vrndavana for devotional service. So their all business was...
Rupa Gosvami, especially, he was always engaged in writing books. And
when he was hungry, he went to some householder:
"Give me a piece of bread." And everyone at Vrndavana...
They were leaders. All the Vrndavana inhabitants, they took... Even
their household quarrels, they used to represent, "Swamiji, this is our
position. Please settle up." So whatever decision he would give to the
villagers, they will accept. Their fort(?) was Swamiji, Rupa Gosvami.
So he was so lovable.
So one day Rupa Gosvami was thinking that "If I could get some, I mean to say,
commodities for cooking, then I would have invited Sanatana Gosvami to
take some prasadam." He thought like that. And, and after, say, one hour,
one young girl came with sufficient quantity of rice, flour, ghee, and vegetables, so many
things.
"Babaji..." They were called... They call in the India, especially in Vrndavana
quarters, they call all these transcendentalist swamis
"Babaji." "Babaji, please accept these commodities. There is
some ceremony at our house. So my mother has sent you all these
things."
"Oh, very good." He was thinking that, "If I could get some commodity
and I could prepare something and invite Sanatana Gosvami." So the
things were there.
So Rupa Gosvami inquired, "Where do you live? Oh,
you are very nice girl. Where do you live?"
"Oh, I live in this village. You do not know."
"No, I have never seen you.
All right. Thank you very much." Then she went away.
And invited Sanatana Gosvami, "My dear brother, please come and take
your prasadam here. I have got some food." "All right."
So Sanatana Gosvami came during prasadam time, and Rupa Gosvami
has prepared so many nice dishes. They were also expert in cooking,
expert. You know, all devotees, they are expert. That is his
qualification. So then Sanatana Gosvami was inquiring,
"Where did you get all these things, so nice things, you
have prepared in this jungle? How did you get?" So he narrated the
story, "Yes, in the morning I thought that 'If somebody sends me
something...'
So by Krsna's grace, somebody, a nice girl, a very beautiful girl, and
she brought all these things." "Who?" He began to state about the
girl's beauty. Then Sanatana Gosvami said, "Oh, I have never seen such
beautiful girl. How..?" "Yes, I have also never seen."
"Ohhh. Then She must be Radharani. She must be Radha. You have taken service from
Radharani? Ohhh. You have murdered me. We don't want to take any
service from Krsna, and He has taken the opportunity, send us... We
want to simply give our service, not any exchange. Oh, we have done a
great mistake. Radharani has taken this opportunity." So he began to
cry, that "We have taken service from Krsna. We have given Her
trouble." This is pure devotee. They were very sorry that "Krsna was
troubled to send me all these goods." So this is the process. Krsna
is also finding always opportunity, "How to serve My pure devotee?"
And pure devotee's so clever that he won't accept any service from
Krsna.
Srimati Radharani Ki Jaya. Lord Sri Krishna Ki Jaya.
Pure devotees always look for opportunity to render service to Lord Sri Krishna
& Srimati Radharani and they do not want to take service from THEM. But Lord Krishna & Srimati Radharani are always looking for an opportunity to render service to THEIR pure devotees. This is a transcedental reciprocation between Lord and His devotees.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted
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From Srila Prabhupada lecture:
There is a nice instructive verse in Sanskrit. One saintly person
was giving his blessings to different kinds of persons. So he first of
all saw one boy, he was a prince, son of a king. So he blessed him,
raja-putra. "My dear prince," ciram jiva, "you live forever."
Then he saw one brahmacari, a disciple of a spiritual master, he said, ma jiva
muni putraka: "Oh, you are the disciple of a saintly person. You do not
live. You die immediately."
Then there was a saintly person, and he said to the saintly...
He offered his blessings to the saintly person, jivo va maro va sadhoh.
Sadhoh means saintly person, sadhu. "My dear saintly person,
either you live or you die as you like."
And there was a butcher. He told for the butcher, ma jiva ma maro iti:
"You neither live nor die."
So what is the significance of these four kinds of blessings?
The significance is that he blessed the raja-putra, royal prince to
live forever because whatever enjoyment he is having, this is for this
life. Next life is very horrible for him, next life. Just like
generally in the opulent countries like America and other European
countries, they are materially very opulent, they do not care for
anything. They do anything, whatever they like, because they are very
much proud of their material opulence. But they do not care what they
are going to be next life, you see. Therefore so long they live, that
is good for them. As soon as they die, they are going to the darkest
region of the hell. Therefore the prince, the king's son, was blessed,
"You live forever,"
For the brahmacari, brahmacari or the son of a muni, he is undergoing
penance, austerities, fasting, not very comfortable life.
So he was blessed that "You die immediately." Because
by his pious activities he has elevated himself so high that as soon as
he dies, he goes to Vaikuntha, kingdom of God.
Therefore the sooner he dies is better. So muni-putra, ma jiva muni-putraka.
For the saintly person, sadhu, he said, jivo va maro va.
A saintly person, "Either you live or die, the same thing. Because
you are serving Krsna in this life, and as soon as you die, you will
serve Krsna directly. So it is all the same."
And so far the butcher is concerned, he said, ma jiva ma maro:
"You don't die, don't live." "Don't live" means, "You are living in
such a wretched condition,killing every day. Horrible life. Your
living is horrible, and if you die, you are going to the darkest
region of the hellish condition. So both living or dying, it is very
horrible for you. So you don't live, don't die." So that is the
blessing to the butcher,"Don't live, don't die."
Living condition is also horrible, and after death it is also horrible.
But unfortunately, every one of us is committing butchery without
understanding self-realization, what is self, "What I am."
Therefore Vedanta-sutra says, "Try to understand yourself." Athato
brahma jijnasa. This human form of life is meant for searching out,
understanding, inquiring, about Brahman. We are all Brahmans. Because
we are part and parcel of the Supreme Brahman, therefore we are all
Brahman. So if we do not inquire what is Brahman, then that is
suicide. In the human form of life, if you do not make inquiries what
is brahman, athato brahma jijnasa... Jijnasa means inquiry. This is the
first aphorism in the Vedanta-sutra, that atha. Atha means thus. Atah,
atah means hereafter. "Hereafter" means that we have passed through
8,400,000 of species of life; now we have got civilized form of human
body; now it is the time to inquire what I am, what is God, what is my
relationship with God.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so
that everyone can be benefitted
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Lord Brahma visiting Dvaraka Dham
(from Sri Caitanya Caritamrta Madhyalila chapter 21)
"Once, when Krsna was ruling Dvaraka, Lord Brahma came to see Him,
and the doorman immediately informed Lord Krsna of Brahma's arrival.
"When Krsna was so informed, He immediately asked the doorman,
`Which Brahma? What is his name?' The doorman therefore returned and
questioned Lord Brahma.
"When the doorman asked, `Which Brahma?' Lord Brahma was
surprised. He told the doorman, `Please go inform Lord Krsna that I am
the four-headed Brahma who is the father of the four Kumaras.'
"The doorman then informed Lord Krsna of Lord Brahma's
description, and Lord Krsna gave him permission to enter. The doorman
escorted Lord Brahma in, and as soon as Brahma saw Lord Krsna, he
offered obeisances at His lotus feet.
"After being worshiped by Lord Brahma, Lord Krsna also honored him
with suitable words. Then Lord Krsna asked him, `Why have you come
here?'
"Being questioned, Lord Brahma immediately replied, `I shall later
tell You why I have come. First of all there is a doubt in my mind
which I wish You would kindly dissipate.
" `Why did you inquire which Brahma had come to see You? What is
the purpose of such an inquiry? Is there any other Brahma besides me
within this universe?'
"Upon hearing this, Sri Krsna smiled and immediately meditated.
Unlimited Brahmas arrived instantly.
"These Brahmas had different numbers of heads. Some had ten heads,
some twenty, some a hundred, some a thousand, some ten thousand, some a
hundred thousand, some ten million and others a hundred million. No one
can count the number of faces they had.
"There also arrived many Lord Sivas with various heads numbering
one hundred thousand and ten million. Many Indras also arrived, and
they had hundreds of thousands of eyes all over their bodies.
"When the four-headed Brahma of this universe saw all these
opulences of Krsna, he became very bewildered and considered himself a
rabbit among many elephants.
"All the Brahmas who came to see Krsna offered their respects at
His lotus feet, and when they did this, their helmets touched His lotus
feet.
"No one can estimate the inconceivable potency of Krsna. All the
Brahmas who were there were resting in the one body of Krsna.
"When all the helmets struck together at Krsna's lotus feet, there
was a tumultuous sound. It appeared that the helmets themselves were
offering prayers unto Krsna's lotus feet.
"With folded hands, all the Brahmas and Sivas began to offer
prayers unto Lord Krsna, saying, `O Lord, You have shown me a great
favor. I have been able to see Your lotus feet.'
"All of them then said, `It is my great fortune, Lord, that You
have called me, thinking of me as Your servant. Now let me know what
Your order is so that I may carry it on my heads.'
"Lord Krsna replied, `Since I wanted to see all of you together, I
have called all of you here.
" `All of you should be happy. Is there any fear from the demons?'
They replied, `By Your mercy, we are victorious everywhere.
" `Whatever burden was upon the earth You have taken away by
descending on that planet.'
"This is the proof of Dvaraka's opulence: all the Brahmas thought,
`Krsna is now staying in my jurisdiction.'
"Thus the opulence of Dvaraka was perceived by each and every one
of them. Although they were all assembled together, no one could see
anyone but himself.
"Lord Krsna then bade farewell to all the Brahmas there, and after
offering their obeisances, they all returned to their respective homes.
"After observing all these opulences, the four-headed Brahma of
this universe was astonished. He again came before the lotus feet of
Krsna and offered Him obeisances.
"Brahma then said, `Whatever I formerly decided about my
knowledge, I have just now had personally verified.'
jananta eva janantu
kim bahuktya na me prabho
manaso vapuso vaco
vaibhavam tava gocarah
" `There are people who say, "I know everything about Krsna." Let
them think in that way. As far as I am concerned, I do not wish to
speak very much about this matter. O my Lord, let me say this much. As
far as your opulences are concerned, they are all beyond the reach of
my mind, body and words.' This is a quotation from Srimad-Bhagavatam (10.14.38),
spoken by Lord Brahma.
"Krsna said, `Your particular universe extends four billion miles;
therefore it is the smallest of all the universes. Consequently you
have only four heads.
" `Some of the universes are one billion yojanas, some one
trillion, some ten trillion and some one hundred trillion yojanas. Thus
they are almost unlimited in area.
"`According to the size of the universe, there are so many heads
on the body of Brahma. In this way I maintain innumerable universes
[brahmandas].
"`No one can measure the length and breadth of one fourth of My
energy. Who can measure the three fourths that is manifested in the
spiritual world?'
"`Beyond the River Viraja is a spiritual nature, which is indestructible, eternal, inexhaustible and unlimited. It is the supreme abode consisting of three fourths of the Lord's opulences. It is known as paravyoma, the spiritual sky.'
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted
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Lord Krsna's transcedental headache
Once Lord Krsna pretended to be sick. And many physicians came, they could not cure His headache.
So Lord Krsna suggested that "I think if My devotee gives their dust of foot on My head, then I'll be cured."
Then every devotee was approached that "Give your dust of feet. Krsna wants it." No one was willing to give the dust from their feet to put on Krsna's head.
They were worried. "How it is possible I shall give my dust of feet to Krsna? That means we will be in hell forever. No, no, no, it is not possible."
But when the person, messenger, approached gopis in Vrndavana and they were informed that "Krsna is sick. So Krsna wanted the dust of feet of the devotee to be
applied on His head. Nobody gave it. So we have come last to you,"
Gopis said "Yes, yes, take it, take it." Immediately. So much dust was collected. And Krsna was cured.
So this is gopis. Others thought that "If I give the dust of my feet to Krsna, I may go to hell," but the gopis thought, "Let us go to hell, but let Krsna be cured." Therefore the gopis are the first-class devotee. They do not care for themselves. That is recommended by
Caitanya Mahaprabhu. Ramya kacid upasana vraja-vadhu-vargabhir ya
kalpitah: "The process of worship as it was planned by the gopis in
Vrndavana, there is no comparison. That is the highest devotion." They
did not care for themselves. They simply wanted to satisfy Krsna.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted
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Short Story for meditation
A man was being chased by a tiger in a forest. He kept on running as fast as he could and looked behind to see how far the tiger was. He stumbled and fell down in to a well. He was lucky to get hold of a creeper half way through. While holding tight to the creeper he looked down and saw a big python. In the meanwhile, the tiger came near the well and was waiting on top to finish him. Just above him was a bee hive. The shaking of the creeper disturbed the bee hive and as he looked up, a drop of honey fell on his tongue and he relished the sweet taste of honey. But the bees started stinging him. He tried to hold on to the creeper with one hand and trying to drive away the bees with other hand. In the process, his legs disturbed a rat hole and he found some white and black rats running around and chewing the creeper.
He was in a helpless condition. He cannot go down, lest the python would swallow him, can't go up otherwise the tiger would kill him. Though he enjoyed the sweetness of honey for a moment, he got stung by the bees and just managed to hold on to his life and in a precarious condition.
The human beings are in a similar situation. The white and black rats are day and night, drop of honey is the small sense gratification we momentarily enjoy, the bees being the wife and children. The death is waiting for us any time. The moral of the story is that we have to detach ourselves from material attachment and involve in devotional service which is eternal, full of knowledge and bliss.
Thanks to Rangarajan Prabhu (Abudhabi) for forwarding the nice story.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
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Durvasa Muni visiting Pandavas in the forest
Durvasa Muni a powerful mystic brahmana determined to observe the principles of religion with great vows and under strict austerities. His name is associated with many historical events, and it appears that the great mystic could be both easily satisfied and easily annoyed, like Lord Siva. When he was satisfied, he could do tremendous good to the servitor, but if he was dissatisfied he could bring about the greatest calamity.
He had about ten thousand disciples, and wherever he visited and became a guest of the great kshatriya kings, he used to be accompanied by a number of followers. Once he visited the house of Duryodhana, the enemy cousin of Maharaja Yudhishthira. Duryodhana was intelligent enough to satisfy the brahmana by all means, and the great rishi wanted to give some benediction to Duryodhana. Duryodhana knew his mystic powers, and he knew also that the mystic brahmana, if dissatisfied, could cause some havoc, and thus he designed to engage the brahmana to show his wrath upon his enemy cousins, the Pandavas. When the rishi wanted to award some benediction to Duryodhana, the latter wished that he should visit the house of Maharaja Yudhishthira, who was the eldest and chief among all his cousins. But by his request he would go to him after he had finished his meals with his Queen, Draupadi. Duryodhana knew that after Draupadi's dinner it would be impossible for Maharaja Yudhishthira to receive such a large number of brahmana guests, and thus the rishi would be annoyed and would create some trouble for his cousin Maharaja Yudhishthira. That was the plan of Duryodhana. Durvasa Muni agreed to this proposal, and he approached the King in exile, according to the plan of Duryodhana, after the King and Draupadi had finished their meals.
On his arrival at the door of Maharaja Yudhishthira, he was at once well received, and the King
requested him to finish his noontime religious rites in the river, for by that time the foodstuff
would be prepared. Durvasa Muni, along with his large number of disciples, went to take a bath in the river, and Maharaja Yudhishthira was in great anxiety about the guests. As long as Draupadi had not taken her meals, food could be served to any number of guests, but the rishi, by the plan of Duryodhana, reached there after Draupadi had finished her meals.
When the devotees are put into difficulty, they have an opportunity to recollect the Lord with rapt attention. So Draupadi was thinking of Lord Krishna in that dangerous position, and the
all-pervading Lord could at once know the dangerous position of His devotees. He therefore came there on the scene and asked Draupadi to give whatever food she might have in her stock. On her being so requested by the Lord, Draupadi was sorrowful because the Supreme Lord asked her for some food and she was unable to supply it at that time. She said to the Lord that the mysterious dish which she had received from the sun-god could supply any amount of food if she herself had not eaten. But on that day she had already taken her meals, and thus they were in danger. By expressing her difficulties she began to cry before the Lord as only a woman would do in such a position. The Lord, however, asked Draupadi to bring up the cooking pots to see if there was any particle of foodstuff left, and on Draupadi's doing so, the Lord found some particle of vegetable sticking to the pot. The Lord at once picked it up and ate it. After doing so, the Lord asked Draupadi to call for her guests, the company of Durvasa.
Bhima was sent to call them from the river. Bhima said, "Why are you delaying, sirs? Come on, the food is ready for you." But the brahmanas, because of Lord Krishna's accepting a little particle of food, felt sumptuously fed, even while they were in the water. They thought that since Maharaja Yudhishthira must have prepared many valuable dishes for them and since they were not hungry and could not eat, the King would feel very sorry, so it was better not to go there. Thus they decided to go away.
This incident proves that the Lord is the greatest mystic, and therefore He is known as Yogesvara. Another instruction is that every householder must offer food to the Lord, and the result will be that everyone, even a company of guests numbering ten thousand, will be satisfied because of the Lord's being satisfied. That is the way of devotional service.
Ref: Srimad Bhagavatham Canto 1.15.11 - Srila Prabhupada Ki Jaya
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
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Srila Prabhupada narrates the following incident:
About sixty, seventy years ago, one big politician of India,
Madana-mohana Mallabhya, he came to see my guru maharaja.
So he was inquiring about our activities. So he was
informed, amongst other activities, my guru maharaja was publishing
papers monthly in English, in Bengali, in Hindi, in Oriya, in Assamese,
and one Bengali daily, "Nadiya Prakasa."
So this politician was surprised that "Oh, you are publishing daily a Bengali paper?"
My Guru maharaja said: "Yes.Why you are surprised?"
He was surprised. He was politician. He was thinking that "What one may speak of God, or Krsna, daily in a paper?" He was surprised. Because they think that "Sometimes we go to the
temple, `O God, give us our daily bread'," finished God's business. And my guru maharaja replied that "Why you are surprised?
This Calcutta city is most insignificant part of this universe." Now, Krsna says in the Bhagavad-gita that "The whole material world is situated in one part of My energy." Ekamsena sthito jagat. When Arjuna asked about the opulence of Krsna, He was describing. And He
summarized, athava bahunaitena kim jnatena tavarjuna, vistabhya ahamidam krtsnam ekamsena sthito jagat: "How much I shall go on speaking to you? Just try to understand about My potency, that this whole material world is sustained in one part of My energy." The spiritual world is the three-fourths part. Suppose Krsna's energy is acting, one unit. So
out of that, one-fourth unit is exhibited, this material world.
There are innumerable universes. We cannot account for one universe in which we are. There are innumerable planets. Everyone has experience in stars and planets. This is one universe. And such universes are coming out, millions, through the breathing period of Maha-Visnu. When He exhales, they come out. When He inhales, they go within.
This material world is only a manifestation, exhibition, of one-fourth
energy of Krsna. And within this material world, there are so many
universes. And each and every universe, there are so many planets. So
this is one of the planets, in which we are living.
And in this planet, there are so many cities, Calcutta, Bombay, Madras,
Delhi, Paris, London, and so many, hundreds and thousands. And each and
every city, there are newspapers. And each newspaper is publishing
three, four editions daily. So this is the most insignificant planet.
Still, there are so many news to hear. Therefore it is said here,
srotavyadini rajendra nrnam santi sahasrasah: "Millions and millions,
subject matters for hearing. This is a fact. Every paper is publishing
three, four editions daily. Especially in the western countries. So if
they have got so much news in the material world in this insignificant
planet, just imagine how much news are there in the three-fourths'
manifestation of His energy.
So my guru maharaja said that "You are surprised, Mr. Mallabhya, that
we are publishing a paper daily. We can publish every minute a paper.
Unfortunately, there is no customer." They have customer for using this
material world newspaper.
But our spritual world news, we have to canvass, "Will you kindly take this?
Will you kindly take this." They are not interested. They're interested
in this material news. Radio, paper, magazine, edition after edition.
So they have no time to read a little news we are giving about God in
the Back to Godhead. They have no time. Why?
apasyatam atma-tattvam. They do not know what is atma, what is the active principle of all these activities. So they are interested in material newspaper and mundane subjects for hearing.
Srila Prabhupada Ki Jaya
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
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Letter from Yamaraja
Different people are afraid of different things in life and one person's object of fear is not an object of fear for another person. However in general, fear of death is common to all. Some people may boast that they are not scared of death. However when they get some fatal disease which paralyse them or in case of dangers, the fear of death will be clearly visible in their eyes. There is no material solution to this attack of Yamaraj and his punishments after death. Though death is formidable and unconquerable, Sripada Sankaracharya, one of the great acharyas of the Vedantic tradition, gives a very simple solution to avoid interview with Yamaraj. In his famous work "Bhaja Govindam" appears the following sloka.
bhagavad gita kinchit adeeta / ganga jala lava kanika peetaa
sakrdapyena muraari samarca / kriyate tasya yamena sasarcaa
"If a person reads little of Bhagavad Gita, takes a little drop of Ganges water and performs worship to Murari (Sri Krishna) atleast once in his lifetime, then he does not have to face an interview with Yamaraj."
There is a very interesting story in this regard. A man by the name of Amrita, living on earth, thought to himself that the one thing he feared most was death. To avoid death, Amrita practiced austerities and concentrated his mind upon Lord Yama, the Lord of Death. Lord Yama was pleased and granted a vision to Amrita. Lord Yama said: "My presence is only available to those who are about to die or already dead. Yet I granted you my vision while you are still living, pleased by your penances". Amrita said: "I ask this favour of you. If death is inevitable, I ask that if I am to die, then at least send me a letter before death so that I can make proper provision for my family before departure." Lord Yama said, "Sure, I shall certainly do this. But as soon as you get the message, please set about making the preparations. ", and he disappeared. Many years passed after this. Amrita's hair began gradually to turn grey, but he was living a life full of sinful activities with not a thought about the fear of death. He was pleased that so far no letters had arrived from the Lord of Death. Some Vaishnavas approached him and advised him to take to devotional service. He did not heed to their instructions as he thought so much time was left.
Some more years passed by. By this time Amrita had lost most of his teeth and the devotees came again to warn him about his imminent death. Still he did not bother because no letter has come from his friend Yama. As the years rolled by, Amrita's eyesight became dimmer. However he continued his sensual life thanking his friend Yamaraj for not sending any letter so far.
Some more years passed by. Amrita was now a very old man and with his back bent forward, he could not walk without the support of a walking stick. His skin was all wrinkled. One day he suffered a stroke and became paralysed. People said his condition was very critical. But Amrita was still in a happy frame of mind, since he did not receive any letter from Yamaraj. Then his destined end of life came and Lord Yama, the god of death, entered the room. Amrita was startled and his mind was seized with fear. Yamaraj said, "My friend, come now, you have suffered greatly. Today I have come to take you with me." Amrita trembled in fear and said, " My friend, you have betrayed me by breaking your boon. You have not sent me any letter as you promised. Now all of a sudden you are taking me from this world. You are a cheater".
Lord Yama said, "Amrita! You spent all your life in sense indulgence with no interest in spiritual life. How then could you know the letters I sent you? Not one, but four letters I did send to you. But you ignored all of them."
Amrita was greatly puzzled: "Four letters did you send? But not even one letter reached me. It is just possible that the postman/courier forgot to deliver it.".
Lord Yama said, "My friend, do you think I will take a paper and pen and write a letter to you? No, With your body as paper, with the pen of bodily changes I wrote my letters and time is the messenger who delivered those letters. Years ago, your hair turned grey. That was my first letter. You ignored it. Falling of your teeth was my second letter. My third letter was sent to you when your eyesight failed. The fourth message was when your body became paralysed. You comfortably ignored all these letters. Now I have come not as your friend but as the dispenser of the Laws of God.", and Yamaraj tied the rope around Amrita's neck and pulled it hard. People around Amrita said, "Amrita is now dead".
So when the body is young and hale and when we don't get any letter from Yamaraj, we should start our preparations for facing his lethal blow. When we completely ignore his letters, then we come under his control. In the Bhagavata Purana (6.3.29), Yamaraj himself identifies who are the candidates for his punishment.
jihvaa na vakti bhagavad-guna- naamadheyam
cetas ca na smarati tac-caranaaravindam
krishnaya no namati yac-chira ekadapi
taan aanayadhvam asato 'krita-vishnu- krityaan
"My dear servants, please bring to me only those sinful persons who do not use their tongues to chant the holy name and qualities of Krishna, whose hearts do not remember the lotus feet of Krishna even once, and whose heads do not bow down even once before Lord Krishna. Send me those who do not perform their duties toward Vishnu, which are the only duties in human life. Please bring me all such fools and rascals."
Srila Prabhupada's program of chanting and hearing and offering obeisances to the Supreme Lord will empower us to escape the punishment of Yamaraj who is otherwise unconquerable. I pray at the lotus feet of Guru Maharaj, Srila Prabhupada and all the devotees so that I will chant the holy names of the Lord sincerely and become free from the fear of death.
As forwarded by Hari Kumar Prabhu and sent by Triptimadhavi devi mataji.
Thanks to Hari Kumar Prabhu and Triptimadhavi devi mataji for kindly sharing the story with devotees.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefitted.
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AMAZING SANKIRTANA MIRACLE of THE HOLY NAME OF GAURANGA
An old friend of mine Rasulasa Radha Damodar dasa told me this story that happened to him whilst he
was selling oil paintings in a small town on the North West Coast of Tasmania Australia in the early
1980's, where there are many young and old abalone fishermen. This is the area of Tasmania that
relies on it's massive slaughter houses for animals, and that also supports the fish industry.
A funny incident happened that gave him further proof of the potency of the Holy Name of the Lord.
He told me that.............."Well I came upon this old house on stilts, ...........knocked on the
door and asked this old man who came to the door if he'd like to see some genuine oil paintings. He
must have been about 65 and a real gross Aussie." "Na fanks m'te, ain't got na time, an' ain't got
na money!" Trying my usual sale pitch I continued, "It would only take a minute, why don't you have
a look see if there's something there that you'd like?" The old man was determined, "Even if I had
time ain't got any money. I got tweny dollars and I wanna take me sheila out tonite. Gimme a chance
m'te, I'm an ol' bugger. I need me tweny bucks ta impress me girl !" So I said to him, trying his
game, ".....'Ere mate, I've got some paintings that are only twenty dollars..........!" But he
replied, "Come on m'te if I buy one o' your paintings hawmai gonna take me sheila out ?" Persistent
I said, "Come on just have a look, you might see one that you really like.......!" Adamant to keep
his money the ol' feller replied, "It don't matter if I like one, I can't afford it. I've only got
tweny bucks.......!" Desperate to give him a chance to engage, I continued, "Alright you don't even
have to buy one. Why don't you just have a look ?" "But, me girl friend'll be coming any
minute..........!" "That's alright. It'll only take a minute to have a look, and if she comes we
can pack them up and put them away !" The old feller, "Oh alright then, come in." So I went in and
put the paintings on the ground and said, "You may as well have a look at the little one's 'cause
they're the one's that are twenty dollars !" Smiling the old man said, "I'm not spending me tweny
dollars so I might as well see the big one's too."
So I started showing him the two foot by four foot one's, then the two foot by three's, the 18 by
twenty four's, the twelve by sixteens and finally the ten by eight inch one's which were twenty
dollars each. As I was going through the small one's I said to him, "So which one do you like the
best ?" Stepping back the ol' feller said, "It don't matter which one I like, I've only got tweny
bucks, and that's to take out me girl. I wanna impress me girl friend, she's me sheila, I don't get
much of a chance at this age, give us a break, I'm not gonna spend me tweny bucks o.k. I don't wanna
miss out on taking me girl out"
So as I started rolling up my paintings, I was praying to Lord Caitanya, "How am I ever going to
engage this old feller in you service he's hell bent on enjoying his sex life even at his age."
Then I thought lets try the Holy Name at least he can chant if nothing else, that doesn't cost
anything. Pretending that I had to contact some further prospective buyers I asked him, "Excuse me
mate while I'm here do you know a Mister Govinda ?" "Govinda, Govinda." He said, "Govinda, na
haven't heard that name before! Sounds Dutch is he a Dutch bloke? There's a Dutch bloke in the
street behind. But I don't think his name is Govinda. Can't remember which house. Have a look."
"Do you know anyone by the name of Gopal ?" "Gopal, Gopal, that sounds like an Indian, ain't it?
There's some Indians in the next street maybe it's them............. Gopal eh!"
"There's another person I want to get back to also. Do you know a Mister Balaram."
"Balaram, Jesus, you know a lot a of people with bloody strange names mate, Balaram, God, where'd ya
get that one from?"
Then as I finished rolling up my paintings I turned to him again and said, "What about Gauranga?"
The old fella in fit of laughter yelled out, "Gauranga, Gauranga.......!???!" And burst into fits
of intense laughter. He just couldn't stop laughing. By now tears were rolling down his cheeks as he
laughed and laughed with the occasional, "Ha Ha Ha.............Gauranga, Oh Gauranga, Gauranga."
Then gaining some composure he said with a beaming smile, "Alright m'te open up your roll of
paintings, I'll get that little one with the mountain scene................Gauranga, Gopal, Balaram,
Govinda, Oh God, I've never heard anything like it...............!"
Even after I sold him the painting and he'd closed the door and I was walking down the path to go
back out to the street, I could hear him repeating the Lord's Holy Names over and over again, in
raptures of laughter saying over and over again and again, "Gauranga, Gopal, Balaram, Govinda,
amazing, Ha Ha Ha."
Thanks to Viswatma Prabhu and Chetan Prabhu (Melbourne) for forwarding the nice story /
realization.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so
that everyone can be benefitted
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The Blind Man and the Cow's Tail
A blind man was once trying to negotiate the path to his father-in-law's house with the help of only his walking stick. In a field nearby he heard a cowherd boy humming a tune to himself. The blind man hailed the boy and asked, "Kindly lead me to the house of my father-in-law. It is nearby, but I can't find the way myself."
The cowherd boy replied, "I'm very sorry, but if I leave this field to go with you, what will become of this herd of cows I'm tending here? There's one thing I can do for you--here, take the tail of this cow I'm handing you now. Her calf is at your father-in-law's house, so she will lead you there out of motherly affection for her young one."
But the cow became alarmed at the grip of the blind man on her tail and tried everything to shake him off. She dragged him over rough ground and through thorny brambles, and often gave him hard kicks with her hind legs. By the time he arrived at his father-in-laws house, the blind man's clothes had been ripped completely off of his body, and he was covered with scratches, bruises, blood and filth. As the house servants looked out the door to see who had come, he staggered forward, groaning in pain. They could not recognize him, and, taking him to be a cow rustler, gave him a sound beating and drove him from the premises.
This story illustrates the perils of accepting a bogus guru as one's guide in spiritual life.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited
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Rowing Along the Wind
A rich landlord had a flattering servant, a "yes man" who was always most deferential to his master only because he desired reward.
The master asked the servant one day, "What is your opinion of potatos?"
The servant was hesitant in his reply. "Oh, my dear sir, I suppose I've never thought about potatos much, really. But it would be most edifying for me to hear your opinion of potatos."
The landlord said, "Well, as far as I have experienced, the potato is the most delicious of all the vegetables one can get at the market."
But even before the words had left the landlord's mouth, his YES man was already praising potatos to the sky: "Oh yes, yes my lord, it's true, potatos are the best, the absolute best vegetable in the marketplace. Really delicious! Excellently delicious, pleasantly delicious, highly tasteful and dainty. It is said:' "this round potato--boil it in rice, boil it in water, fry it in ghee, mix it in curry, put it in soup or salad, or make a pickle from it, or serve it with sauce, or make it into kofta-- whatever
recipe you may choose, this round potato is omnipresent.' Is there any other vegetable comparable to it? None whatsoever. The potato is second to none--unparalleled!"
The landlord then observed, "What you say is all very well, but as much as we might like them, potatos do tax our health if we eat them too often. It's a rather passionate kind of vegetable."
"Oh yes, yes, yes, how true, how true", the servant spoke up immediately. "It is really a passionately passionate vegetable. Causes the body to heat up, it does, excessively passionate. Very difficult to cool it down. Oh, and what health problems it will cause if we're not careful. Flatulence, cholera, diarrhoea, diabetes, phthisis--all these spring from that round potato!"
The landlord put another question to the servant. "Tell me, what do you think about eggplant?"
The servant folded his hands humbly and replied, "My lord, I was just thinking of asking you the same question. Let me hear your opinion first, please. How is the eggplant?"
"Well, I have nothing bad to say at all about it. The eggplant is a nice vegetable, as far as I know."
"Oh, that's true, true, true! So true! Even if you just look at it, you see immediately that the eggplant is the most beautiful of vegetables. And it makes a complete meal! If we get two pieces of fried eggplant on our plate, what else do we need? It tastes better than butter. If a man had nothing at all in his pantry except one eggplant, he'd still be considered by others as well off! You can roast it, fry it, cook it in curry, make a chutney out of it--whatever way you like, eggplant proves itself extraordinary among vegetables. And among the different kinds of eggplants, the laaphaa eggplant
stands out as supreme. It is an excellent creation of the Supreme Lord."
The landlord then added, "All that may be true enough, but eggplants are not very nutritious."
"Phew!" exclaimed the YES man. "And that's why it is called vegun, because ve (no) gun (quality), it has no qualification at all as nourishment. Simply like cow dung, like cow dung--even cow dung has some potential value, but vegun, that eggplant has no value whatsoever. It is troublesome, most troublesome! It makes the mouth itch worse than wild turnip or esculant root! Not only that, eggplant brings bad luck! That's why it should be roasted before serving."
The landlord retorted, "I see you are a very strange fellow. When I say, 'potato is good',
you elaborate, 'potato is very good.' And when I say, 'potato is bad', you plead that it is very, very bad. When I say, 'eggplant is good', you glorify it to the heavens. But if I then say, 'eggplant is bad', you reject it from the category of foodstuffs. Don't you posses any personal integrity?"
Bowing and scraping, the servant replied with this torrent of deference: "Oh my lord! Please have mercy and condone my offenses. Now I'll speak the truth. Lord, I am not the servant of a potato. I am not the servant of an eggplant. I am your servant! So whatever you say, I must say likewise. A potato will not provide me with an earning, and an eggplant will not give me work that I may have a purpose to my life. I am only your servant, so your your voice should be my voice."
This story illustrates the attitude of a class of pseudo-religionists called the syncretists. Syncretists are impersonalists who adhere to no particular devotional practice or philosophy. They are ready to pay lip service to the tenets of any and all religions should it suit their purposes of garnering acclaim in society. They can hop, skip and jump from mouthing the teachings of Caitanya Mahaprabhu to Sankaracarya, Kapila, Mahavir, Kumarila Bhatta, etc. And they will finally conclude that "all taught the same truth." It makes no difference to the syncretist that one doctrine is atheistic and another is theistic. It makes no different that Krsna has declared that all dharmas are to be rejected by His devotee. The syncretist, like the landlord's yes man, performs the most amazing verbal acrobatics in order to show himself a pious follower of all the world's scriptures and teachers. But his real purpose, like the yes man, is to simply insure his material prosperity through flattery.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward moral / instructive stories they hear so that everyone can be benefited
Krishna Katha - Story for meditation - 06/11/2009 - Rowing Along the Wind
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Hare Krishna Prabhus and matajis.
Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada, Sri Guru and Sri Sri Gauranga.
Thanks for your continued support by sending the moral stories. I have made 3 files
which are attached with this e-mail. They contain all the stories we have sent so far
on this "Story for meditation" subject. Each year one file. (2008, 2009, 2010)
I humbly request all of you to please start sending more moral stories so that the same can be distributed among devotees.
This will enhance our own Krishna conscious understanding and the preaching efforts.
Thanks a lot - once again.
Aspiring to be your humble servant
Karunanidhi Krishna dasa
1 comment:
Very nice website, thank you.
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