Swami’s Birthday Message!!!!

Sairam,

We celebrate birthday. What is this birthday? Whose birthday? We say my birthday. Who am I? You don’t ask that question. You say my birthday because you identify yourself with the body. But later you say it is my stomach. If you say my stomach, then who are you? You say my senses, my mind, my intellect, then who am I? You are separate. This is my kerchief. When I say this, I am different from my kerchief. When you say my body, you and the body are different.

Therefore, the body, mind, senses, intellect, all are instruments. But you are the master for all these. That is I. Make an effort to recognize that I. You are God verily, if only you get rid of “I”, the ego, and “Mine”, the attachment. Then, you are really yourself (your real SELF)! When you say “my house, my people” etc., attachment grows. This body attachment breeds ego. Hence, once you rise above “I” and ‘mine’ and lead a contented life, you will derive great happiness.

You celebrate the birthday of Bhagavaan. But do you follow the teachings? You will experience the fruits of celebrating the birthday only when you follow the teachings. Jesus said: “Love everyone.” Christmas is celebrated, but how far does one practice love? None at all. There is love in everyone’s heart. Share it at least with ten persons every day. This is seldom done. People are more keen on receiving than on giving. They are willing to give away only things, which they do not relish. There is no sacrifice in this.

Embodiments of Divine Love! I do not expect anything from you. Only, develop love within you. Regard all mankind with fraternal feelings. Recognize all as the children of God. Bear no ill-will or hatred towards anyone. Do not hurt anyone’s feelings. Only such a large-hearted attitude will confer on you limitless bliss. There is only one thing you have to offer to Me today.

Pray that people in all countries, all lokaas, should be happy and at peace. “Samasthaas lokaas-sukhino bhavanthu” (Let all the worlds be happy). Then alone there will be real unity. Do not wish me rely for the peace and prosperity of India alone. Pray for the welfare of all countries. If you are celebrating Swami’s birthday, this is all that I desire from you.

May you all lead a happy, loving and long life! May you all be united!!

Let us all move together, let us all grow together, Let us all stay united and grow in intelligence together,Let us live together with friendship and harmony!!!

- From Swami’s Birthday Discourses