Actions

This article provides fundamental knowledge that is required for understanding “Actions”. The content is based on Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Literature. This note has 3 parts.

Quotes

“Before you do anything pause. Take time and reflect on what you are about to do”

Note: Pause means an effective action of right thinking (vichakshana) during the pause duration to gain strength, reflect on what you are about to do and do it accordingly within the given time

“Two men, in appearance the same, ostensibly of the same mould, grow under the same conditions, but one turns out to be an angel while the other stays on with his normal nature. What is the reason for this varied development? Habits and the behaviors formed out of these habits, and the character into which that behavior has solidified. Man is the creature of character.”8

Note: Character is formed by behavior and behavior is formed by actions performed.

Shirdi Sai Satcharita:

“It is a well-known fact that the Sadguru looks first to the qualifications of his disciples; and then gives them suitable instructions, without unsettling their minds in the least, and leads them on towards the goal of self-realization. In this respect, some say that what the Sadguru teaches or instructs, should not be divulged to others. They think that their instructions, become useless, if they are published. This view is not correct. The Sadguru is like a monsoon cloud. He pours down profusely, i.e., scatters widely his nectar-like teachings. These, we should enjoy and assimilate to our heart's content; and then serve others with them, without any reserve. This rule should apply, not only to what he teaches in our waking state, but to the visions he gives us in our dreams. To quote an instance: Budhakowshik Rishi composed his celebrated Ram-raksha stotra, which he had seen in his dream10”

Note: Learning and sharing (study circle) is important for spiritual practice. There should not be any hesitation in the process of learning and sharing. However, for this process to go in a most beneficial manner to everyone, all the participants should follow ground rules and reflect the behavior of spiritual aspirant. Share learning to others with humility (humbleness) and listen to others learning with humility (humbleness). Take to your heart what you like, think over it and practice in your daily life. Do not share others personal information or their divine experience without their permission. Imitation provides futile results. Do not share the information that your Guru told you not to share. Most important aspect of learning and sharing is realizing that it is a spiritual sadhana. Any thing that is classified as spiritual sadhana provides immense happiness to all the participants. If you are not deriving happiness in your sadhana – it gives an indication that some thing is wrong – either with the process, or with yourself.

“Pain gives you a signal correct yourself”

“The teachings of a Guru are of no use to a man, who is full of egoism, and who always thinks about the sense-objects. Purification of mind is absolutely necessary; without it, all our spiritual endeavors are nothing, but useless show and pomp. It is, therefore, better for one to take only what he can digest and assimilate. My treasury is full, and I can give anyone, what he wants, but I have to see whether he is qualified to receive My gift. If you listen to Me carefully, you will be certainly benefited. While sitting in this Masjid, I never speak any untruth.10”