NC SSE Newsletter Issue 4 23May10 - saidetroit.org Matters/NC SSE Newsletter_Issue 4_23May10.pdfThe...

Issue No. 4 1 May 23rd

, 2010

Editors: Sai Lokesh Pagadala and Maithri Malladi Editorial Advisor: Ashok Hosangadi

The SSE Matters Newsletter is published bi-monthly by the SSE Students of Sri Sathya Sai Baba Centers of U.S North-Central Region (Region 5)

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A North-Central Regional Newsletter Campaign to be an Ideal Student by Living Sai’s Teachings

Celebrating the glorious life of our Divine MotherCelebrating the glorious life of our Divine MotherCelebrating the glorious life of our Divine MotherCelebrating the glorious life of our Divine Mother!!!!

Message from the EditorsMessage from the EditorsMessage from the EditorsMessage from the Editors

Sai Ram Everyone!

We hope that you all have enjoyed reading the past issues of SSE Matters. We are happy to dedicate this issue to our beloved Mother Easwaramma. She was a wonderful woman and revered as the crown of motherhood. Mother Easwaramma showed great love and affection towards all children and is a role model for everyone.

Mother Easwaramma had the greatness of a divine mother’s love and led a life of peace and fulfillment. To spread this divine message, we celebrate May 6th as Easwaramma Day. Swami always says that if you make your mother happy, He will be happy. By adhering to His word, Swami made sure that His mother was pleased all the time.

We thank all the SSE children, young adults, and adults for contributing wonderful articles and offering all their support for this newsletter. We look forward to seeing more contributions and encouragement towards this SSE publication.

We also hope to receive more inspiring and thoughtful articles on how to practice the human values. Thank you so much for all your help, encouragement and support.

Sai Ram! Sai Lokesh Pagadala

Maithri Malladi


, 2010






EASWARAMMA: THE DIVINE MOTHER

Who is Mother Easwaramma? She is the mother of Easwara. This was not the name given to her by her parents. She was christened as Namagiriamma at the time of her birth. But after her marriage, Kondama Raju (Swami’s grandfather), being one of wisdom and blessed with a vision of the future, started calling her Easwaramma (mother of Easwara).

Mother Easwaramma was born in a poor family that she did not even have proper food to eat. All that she had to eat was ragi sankati (gruel prepared from a coarse grain). She was illiterate and did not have any schooling. She led an exemplary life and set great ideals. She was a pious soul and was always engrossed in spiritual pursuits. She was an embodiment of nobility, benevolence and sacrifice. She loved children very much and guided them on the virtuous path. She always endeavored to improve the sufferings of down trodden. She never asked Swami anything for herself. Her main objective was welfare of the society.

Mother Easwaramma was a paragon of virtues. She was always happy, cheerful and had a smiling countenance. Her heart was tender and sweet as it was filled with love and compassion. Easwaramma would tell everyone not to criticize others or hurt or make fun of others and she would say, “If you talk to others in a harsh manner, it would come back to you as a resound.”

When Swami was seven and half years old, he used to teach Pandari Bhajan to small children in the village. Mother Easwaramma used to feel ecstatic watching Swami sing Pandari Bhajan and dance to its rhythm. Sometimes, her husband Pedda Venkama Raju would give her some money for the household expenditure. With the left over money (two annas) that she used to buy two bags of puffed rice and distribute to the children. She always used to give away whatever she had with her. She was the embodiment of sacrifice. She used to talk lovingly to all those who came to her. When devotees would feel sad that Swami was ignoring them, she would console them saying, “Whatever Swami does is for your own good.”

One day Mother Easwaramma went and held Swami’s hands and pleaded, “Swami, there is no hospital in our village. Consequently, when the children become sick, mothers are forced to carry them to Bukkapatnam. I am unable to see their suffering. My children and others’ children are one and the same for me. So, kindly construct at least a small hospital in our village.” Swami promised her that he would fulfill her desire. Easwaramma’s joy knew no bounds. The whole day she did not feel the need for food and water as she felt highly contented and overjoyed. She caught hold of Swami’s hands and expressed her happiness as her wish was fulfilled in a big way. After some time, she approached Swami again and wanted a school to be built in the village. As desired by her, Swami got a school constructed. She was extremely happy. She went to the school and showered her love on the children. Then she wanted the village to be provided with drinking water. Swami promised that it would be done.

Easwaramma day is celebrated as children’s day, in honor of her immense compassion and love for children. This day is also celebrated to propagate the glory of motherhood.

During Swami's school days, when He and His classmates returned from the Bukkapatnam School in the evenings, mother Easwaramma would lovingly enquire as to what happened in the school that day. One day, the children told her, "Mother, today a teacher by name Kondappa made our Sathya stand upon the bench." They started criticizing him. Mother Easwaramma intervened and said, "Children, you should not talk ill of your teacher. No teacher would punish his student without a proper reason. Our Sathya might have committed some mistake." Then she asked Swami, "Sathya, what is the mistake You committed?" Swami told her the facts as they happened. She said, "Dear Sathya, you should not punish your own teacher." She imparted a sacred teaching to the children, saying, "My dear ones, you are going to school to study. Whatever you learn, put it to proper use. Only then will you be called truly educated. If you do not make proper use of your education, you become a demon." Then she told Swami, "Sathya! At any time and under any circumstances, do not cultivate hatred towards anybody. Love all and you will be loved by all."

Swami fulfilled all her wishes. Mother Easwaramma had a sudden and sacred end in Bangalore on 6th May, 1972. She loudly called "Swami, Swami, Swami" thrice. Swami responded saying "Coming, Coming" and she breathed her last. Easwaramma was a great soul, so we should all follow in her footsteps.

-Priyanka Santhapuram, SSE III, West Lafayette, IN


, 2010






THE IMPORTANCE OF EASWARAMMA DAY

We celebrate Easwaramma day to propagate the glory of motherhood. Easwaramma is the mother of Swami. Swami always obeyed His mother and fulfilled all her selfless wishes (like building hospitals, providing drinking water and schooling for poor).

Mother Easwaramma set an example for every mother by raising a son like Swami and Swami set an example for every child - by obeying and fulfilling His mother’s selfless wishes.

Mother is given the utmost importance in human life. It is the mother, who teaches us all the principles in our life and builds the foundation of our character by her teachings. Among all the relationships, the most intimate and sensitive relationship is between mother and child.

In the Vedas it is said: “Matru Devo Bhava, Pitru Devo Bhava, Aacharya Devo Bhava, Atithi Devo Bhava” The meaning of it is - treat everyone as God – Mother comes first in priority among everyone.

So we all should respect, please, and love our mothers.

-Sai Charan Vemuri, SSE I, Detroit Metro, MI

THE MOTHER OF GOD

Most people know Swami’s earthly mother as Easwaramma but that was not the name given to her by her parents. Her name at birth was Namagiriamma. Kondama Raju being a wise man blessed with visions of the future told Pedda Venkama Raju (Swami’s Father) to change his wife’s name to Easwaramma because, he knew Easwaramma was going to give birth to God. Easwaramma means “Mother of God” which is a perfect name for Swami’s Mother!

Mother Easwaramma was an embodiment of love and sacrifice. She loved others unconditionally giving no importance to caste, color, gender, ethnicity, etc. If Easwaramma saw a hungry child on the street, she would give her food to that child even if it meant remaining hungry herself.

Easwaramma asked Swami for three very unselfish wishes. The first wish she asked Swami was to dig wells in their village so villagers would be able to get drinking water during the summer when the river Chitravati dries to a trickle. Swami fulfilled His mother’s wish by bringing fresh drinking water supply to the entire district of Anantapur under the Sri Sathya Sai Water Supply project. Easwaramma’s second wish to Swami was for a hospital to be built in the village because mothers had to travel long distances to get their children treated for their illnesses. Today that hospital has expanded to two Super Specialty Hospitals which provide treatments to people free of cost. The third wish Mother Easwaramma asked Swami was for a school to be built in the village because, she couldn’t bear to see the children walking long distances to places like Bukkapatnam to get education. Today that school has expanded into the Sri Sathya Sai University where students all over the world are given an excellent education. These three wishes of Mother Easwaramma have helped many and they will continue to help many more.

-Saiprakash Pagadala, SSE-III, Detroit Metro, MI


, 2010






UNCONDITIONAL, SELFLESS ABODE OF LOVE: MOTHER’S HEART

AMMA, Maa, Mom, Mayi, Aayi…………all these words bring peace and comfort to our life. Whatever the age may be, however independent you are, or however far you may be, you can feel her love. Mother’s love is the only love that does not expect anything in return. She is happy if you are happy, she is sad if you are sad. The emotions that transmit from you to her has no explanation or logic, it is just pure love.

A mom is mom, and her concern and love for her children is universal, whether she is God’s mom or a common man’s mom. Such was the concern of Mother Easwaramma for her God son Sri Sathya Sai Baba. I would want to share one incident, which shows Easwaramma’s motherly concern for Swami.

Mother Easwaramma was very concerned and apprehensive whenever Swami had to travel; even it was to a nearby place for only a day. Once in 1968, when she heard about Swami's plan to visit East Africa, she was extremely nervous and frightened. She had heard very cruel things about Africa at that time, that Africa was a dark continent full of wild animals and cannibals. She wanted to cancel the trip as she thought that Swami’s life was in danger if he goes to Africa. So she told her concern to person arranging the trip and asked to cancel the trip. The person said not to worry, as Swami would be visiting only big cities, which are very safe, and that Swami will have security protection. But Mother with her motherly concern for her child could not calm down; she went to the senior authority that was involved in planning the trip. She told him the same concern for which the senior authority said, Amma, it is true that some places in Africa are dangerous but Swami is God, how can those dangerous things affect Swami. Amma was so angry and frustrated with this reply, she said furiously, “you and I know that Swami is God, but those dangerous animals and cannibals in Africa do not know that Swami is God”.

Such is the mother’s love, affection and concern. It does not matter how much you have grown up, however famous you are, whatever you are.

Mother’s love: A selfless, unconditional love. So say it now, “I love you, Mom.”

-Soumya Somara, SSE II, Ann Arbor, MI

CARING FOR THE WORLD AND OTHERS

Caring for the world we live in: I learnt in SSE that every person can make a difference. If one person sees another person do something for the environment he will be encouraged to do something for the environment too and then another person and then it keeps on going in that same pattern. If everyone cares for the world they live in without any duty only love, man will enjoy his life. My earth science teacher told everyone a story. When he went to Japan and when he went on a subway he saw a mother give her son a piece of gum to her child. The child opened the gum and threw the wrapper on the ground. The mother took the wrapper and put it in her pocket. Now my science teacher is inspired to do the same things.

Consideration: “TREAT OTHERS AS YOU WOULD YOURSELF BE TREATED” is a famous saying that means do what you want to others that you want them to do to you. If your friend is in a troubled situation you should show consideration to him and help him out because who knows maybe you could be in that situation someday too. If you want to attain Swami, cultivate love and give up hatred, envy, anger, cynicism and falsehood. If you follow those values you will eventually be considerate to everyone.

Therefore, everyone should try to follow these values, and then the result is a better world.

-Sri Nuvvula, SSE II, Ann Arbor, MI


, 2010






I LEARN FROM SWAMI…

Swami not only teaches us values through SSE, but through His own life. From different instances in His own life, He showed us how to care for our families.

As a young child, Swami showed great love and respect for His grandfather, Kondama Raju. Swami lived with His grandfather. He used to cook food for him. Swami would run from his school to His house to have lunch with His grandfather. Swami’s grandfather felt bad that Swami was coming all the way back home to eat, but, Swami insisted that He wanted to come back and eat with Him. I may not be able to run from school and come and eat lunch with my grandma, but in small ways I do things that may help her every now and then.

Swami’s father Pedda Venkama Raju would bring different materials of cloth for the children. Swami would always stand aside and let His siblings and cousins choose first and then Swami would take whatever was left. Swami teaches me to show love for my own siblings through sacrifice.

When Swami was in middle school, He had to go and live with His older brother Seshama Raju. Every morning Swami used to carry water on His shoulders for the entire house. Swami would even do it for the neighbors happily. Swami always encourages us to “help ever and hurt never.”

Keeping the family honor was very important for Swami throughout His life. As a child, Swami had only two pairs of clothes. He used to wash them and iron them daily and never complain about it. Swami used to eat a very simple meal called “Raagi Sankati”. He went all the way home so that His friends would not make fun of His food and family. Once while living with His older brother Swami had to go to a boys scout camp in Pushpagiri and He needed to have a scout uniform for that. Swami did not want His friends to know that He did not have money, so, He made up an excuse that He had a stomach ache. Later, He sold His books for very little money and walked all the way to the camp. Swami’s elder brother was very angry with Swami when He returned from the camp. He hit Swami with a wooden stick. Later when Swami’s father asked Swami about what happened and why He returned to Puttaparthi instead of suffering in Kamalapuram, Swami said “Let us not do that as that will only bring a bad name for our whole family.” Through this incident Swami teaches us how to use our discrimination and always keep our family’s honor.

SWAMI IS GOD and He still showed us how to respect our mother’s words. Mother Easwaramma asked Swami for three wishes for the welfare of the people of Puttaparthi. She asked Swami to build a school, a hospital and provide water for Puttaparthi. Swami built schools, colleges, a university, general hospital, super specialty hospitals and many water projects for those in need. Swami showed us how to be an ideal son. He showed love for His mother by being by her side in her last moments. On May 6

th 1972, mother Easwaramma reached God. Swami pays homage to his

parents on May 6th every year by visiting his parents’ samadhi and then later distributes food and clothes to the

needy. Swami shows us through His own life how “respecting our parents” is an important value for us throughout our lives.

Swami’s childhood inspires me to be a good child like Swami. Swami taught me to respect my parents and siblings. He taught me to keep my family’s honor. With Swami’s guidance I will be able to lead my life nicely.

-Vaishnav Siddapureddy, SSE II, Ann Arbor, MI

WHY IS MOTHER'S GRACE SO IMPORTANT?

“More fragrant than the sweet smelling flowers like jasmine and lily, softer than butter, more beautiful than the eye of the peacock, more pleasant than the moonlight is the love of a mother. Human life is a journey from 'I' to ‘We’. In this short journey, you have to detach yourself from the body and develop attachment towards the ‘Self’. For this, mother's grace is very essential.”

-Sri Sathya Sai Baba, Divine Discourse, 19 November 1999


, 2010






HOW I HELP THE WORLD

First I reduce, then reuse, after that recycle. I don't use Styrofoam because it is bad for the Earth. I don't idle either.

What is idling? How is idling bad? Idling is when the engine is on and the car is not going anywhere. It is bad because it can pollute our air. It is dangerous to breathe it in too. I am not idling because I don't want to be in that bad situation where I have to breathe bad air.

Styrofoam is a product that is not Earth friendly. Styrofoam can never decompose. Decompose means to go in to the earth. When you use it for food the toxins will go into the food. Then we will get sick. So should YOU use Styrofoam?

Once I went to the Detroit Science Center. We saw everything in the museum and then went to see a 3D movie in the IMAX theatre. They talked about how Styrofoam and other trash were bad for the Great Lakes. After the movie, when we went to the cafeteria, they used Styrofoam. We were surprised. So we wrote a letter to the manager about Styrofoam. After many weeks we got a mail. They were sorry and said they are trying to replace Styrofoam. They were a part of the Museum's Go Green team and signed their names.

Swami says to care for mother Earth. So Swami's messages are eco friendly.

-Vishnu Nathan Patcheak, SSE I, Ann Arbor, MI

SWAMI, THE PERFECT SON AND EASWARAMMA, THE PERFECT MOTHER

All of us as Sai devotees know that Swami leads by example. He not only teaches us the right way to think, speak and act but also He lives by those teachings. He says, “It is your foremost duty to love your mother and pay your respect and do the things that make your mother happy”. Swami did exactly what He asked us to do. He was an ideal son. He loved Easwaramma and kept all of His promises made to her. We all are familiar with the three wishes that He fulfilled He constructed schools to provide free education, built hospitals for free care and provided drinking water to villagers.

This story is also about mother Easwaramma. Instead of asking things for herself she asked Swami for all villagers who were very poor and uneducated. So she set an example as a great mother by her unselfish love for all villagers and not just for her son. She loved Swami as her son and also worshiped Him as God. On this occasion of Easwaramma day celebration, I pray to Swami that He would give me the right thoughts to be a good daughter and also give me the courage to keep my promises to my mom.

Mothers help us learn Ways of life needed forever Mothers are our guide God’s mom is our mom Easwaramma is her name The ultimate Mom!

God is in you, you are in God, He will reward so you don’t feel bad If no one rewards you, He will... It’s God’s will

-Ananya Jambhale, SSE II, Columbus, OH

GOD, MOTHERS AND FATHERS

God is Omnipresent A Mother is chosen by God

A Father is a Daddy Happy Mother’s Day!

-Aditya Jambhale, SSE I, Columbus, OH


, 2010






THE FIVE HUMAN VALUES…

-Charan Nanduri, SSE I, Columbus, OH -Eshaan, SSE II, Columbus, OH

Values

We shall always do what that is right without a single fright We shall always speak what that is true before think of new We shall always love one another before we do some other

We shall always have peace in mind and be very kind We shall never hurt one another in any way including what we say

We shall never ever say aloud why we are so proud We shall always follow these rules because these are our tools

-Rhea Mehta, SSE II, Columbus, OH


, 2010






MY EXPERIENCE WITH LOVE

A lot of times, people forget to pack their lunch to school, so it leaves them hungry during lunch time. Most people buy lunch at school so they don’t have to worry about packing lunches but other kids don’t like to waste money. A few kids don’t like the money in their lunch account to run out, so they pack lunch to school.

Once in school, my friend forgot to pack his lunch and this got him into a huge problem. He didn’t have any money on his lunch account because he never bought lunch at school and he didn’t even like the lunch at school. While everybody was waiting for language arts to get over and lunchtime to start, my friend was asking and bargaining for food. During lunchtime I decided to help with his dilemma. I usually pack extra food since I go to middle school for mathematics at the end of the day. That day I decided that it was more important to give food to my friend than to use it for my own self in middle school when I got hungry. My friend was very happy that I helped him out of his trouble and gave him food to eat. Strangely, I felt happy too because I was able to satisfy my friend’s hunger.

What is true Love? Pure, unselfish Love towards all living beings, considered as embodiments of the Divine, with no expectation of reward, is true Love. – Sathya Sai Baba

Sai Baba says when you serve others with pure and unselfish love you find great joy.

-Rohan Kumar, SSE II, Columbus, OH

-Viraj Kumar, SSE II, Columbus, OH

SRI SATHYA SAI BABA

-Swathi Murthy, SSE II, Columbus, OH

Peace on Earth

Everyone sharing love with everyone around them

All beings are divine

Care and respect

Each and everyone living for the good of all


, 2010






“MY LOVING OFFER TO MY BIRTH MOTHER & TO MY DIVINE MOTHER – SAI MAA”

Introduction to this article:

To offer something special for this Mother’s Day issue, the SSE children were asked to take a few minutes for introspecting and think about:

What values they have been following so far that made their mothers happy & proud about them.

What values do they think they need to work on through this year to make their mothers all the more happier in the coming years?

Here are their reflections…

Who is Swami to me? Swami is very disciplined and very nice and powerful. He is very quiet and peaceful and helped us. Let me tell you a story about a miracle that happened to me.

Once upon a time, I went to a park with my mom and my little brother Surya. Then we saw dark clouds everywhere and it was about to rain anytime. Then my mom sang "When dark clouds fill your skies hiding sunshine from your eyes, say His name, see His form, hold on". Then the sun shined everywhere. We all felt happy and I was very surprised. Then we all played for a long time.

One day I was very sick. I missed one field trip and 2 days of school. I prayed to Swami that I wanted to go to the next field trip the day after. Then the next day I was feeling better and I could go to the field trip the next day. This is another miracle for me. I thank Swami for this. I feel Swami is with me all the time.

a. What values (sub-values) do I follow already that makes my mother proud of me? �� Truth

b. What values (sub-values) would I like to start working on this year to make my mother all the more joyous and happier by the end of next year? �� Non Violence - not hurting anybody

-Sathya Seshadri, SSE I, Minneapolis South, MN

a. Truth is great. My parents are proud because I am being truthful. It helps me to not get into double trouble.

b. My next point is peace. Peace is a calm feeling that helps us to be a better person. I want to follow it and get better.

-Vishal Jayaraman, SSE I, Minneapolis South, MN

a. Value that makes my mom proud: Right Conduct – I make my mom happy by taking care of my younger sister.

For example, I give my sister breakfast every morning.

b. Value that I am going to work on: Truth – I am going to work on being truthful all the time. -Aanchal Lamba, SSE I, Minneapolis South, MN

a. I follow right Conduct usually. But sometimes I do make mistakes.

b. I will practice non-violence. Sometimes I get angry with my sister. She hurts me by accident and I do sometimes give it back to her. But I will start working on it now.

-Samyukta Shankar, SSE I, Minneapolis South, MN

a. I have been a good hostess to guests at home. I entertain younger children very well while adults are talking or

busy. My mom is so happy about it. I help at home with chores too sometimes. My mom loves my cheerfulness & positive attitude I have most of the time.

b. Need to work on Patience & Time Management. -Medha Kaul, SSE II, Minneapolis South, MN

(Continued on next page)


, 2010






“MY LOVING OFFER TO MY BIRTH MOTHER & TO MY DIVINE MOTHER – SAI MAA” (CONT’D)

a. Right conduct: Being helpful.

b. Peace: I will work on not yelling at my younger sister and having more patience.

-Shreya Shankar, SSE II, Minneapolis South, MN

a. I have been following the value of caring for the environment. I try not to waste water, by not using more than I

need.

b. For next year, I want to follow on being more responsible. -Manasa Melachuri, SSE II, Minneapolis South, MN

a. One value that I have been following that my mom is proud of is being polite and respectful to everyone.

b. Values that I promise to follow for next year that will make my mom happy about me is - Time Management & Positive attitude.

-Yogini Kaul, SSE II, Minneapolis South, MN

a. This year, because of the SSE classes, I have developed the quality of observing and caring for my surroundings.

I help around the house cleaning when I can and I help my mother and father.

b. The values I must work on are responsibility for myself and others and being honest to my parents.

-Samyukta Melachuri, SSE III, Minneapolis South, MN

-Sai Pranav, SSE I, Minneapolis South, MN


, 2010






NURSING HOME

Welcome to the Nursing Home! We take the elevator to the second floor, Along with the dedicated and helpful nurses. Once we go up to the second floor, We see feeble seniors in their room resting. Then we go to the recreational room and

see all the patient residents, Waiting for us to start our program. Then mom introduces Sudin and I. We play with dedication, We play with concentration, We play with no frustration, It is like reincarnation. All the seniors love the music, As much as we love to play, It’s such a pleasant experience, I can’t wait until we go back in May. We leave, cherishing the seniors’ enjoyment, Of our song, And our Bingo game, Oh it was such a fun day! I have nothing more to say. I am amazed. - Harish Rajan, SSE-II, Chicago North, IL

LIVING & USING THE FIVE VALUES

Amy Bishop and Joseph Stack made bad headlines in recent news. Amy Bishop was a professor from Huntsville Alabama University, who pulled a gun on her colleagues, killing three and wounding two others, because she did not receive tenure. Joseph Stack was a software engineer who was angry with the IRS, so he flew his plane into the IRS building that housed 200 people. Both Amy Bishop and Joseph Stack did terrible things to get revenge, but if they had discussed their problem with someone, they would have been able to solve it without anyone getting hurt.

Here are the ways they could have solved their problems by using the Five Values. Amy Bishop could have used Peace to calm down before she acted. She could have used Non-Violence by discussing the situation instead of harming others. She also could have used Truth because when she pulled the gun, she broke her colleagues trust in her. Amy could have used Right-Conduct by speaking with her colleagues, instead of shooting them. She could have used Love in thinking of how her anger would ruin other people’s lives.

Joseph Stack could have used Peace to resolve his feelings before flying that plane into the IRS building. He could have used Non-Violence by speaking with the staff of IRS to solve his problems. He could have used Truth by acknowledging his feelings instead of containing it within himself until it explodes into fury. Joseph could have used Right-Conduct by arranging a discussion about what he wants instead of using violence. He could have used Love by thinking of the other people he killed in his selfish anger.

In conclusion I would say that if they had used the Five Values instead, they could have saved themselves from the guilt, punishments, and death. This just shows how the Five Values can turn bad situations into good ones.

-Disha Waghray, SSE II, South Bend, IN


, 2010






-Sudin Amatya, SSE II, Chicago North, IL -Lassya V, SSE II, Columbus, OH

-Shivesh Sankar, SSE I, Columbus, OH -Shilpa Murthy, SSE III, Columbus, OH


, 2010






SSE MATTERS TO ME

It was unimaginable how long the summer of 2007 was. It was the year I started middle school…and the year I started SSE Group 3. Upon graduating Group II, my first thought was ‘Yes! No more of Varalakshmi Auntie’s Vocab!’ I am sure that many of my peers who graduated with me shared this thought. Then my next thought was, ‘Oh no! Now I will have 4 years of Ashok Uncle!’ So basically, it looked as though I came out of the blood test at my physical and was going into another room to get my shots; whichever way I looked, a Balvikas teacher with a “strict” reputation was awaiting me.

However, if there is one thing that I can say about my experience in Group III, it is that Ashok Uncle was much more than I thought…no, he’s not stricter than what people say he is, in fact, all of that is false! Ashok Uncle was a very kind and understanding person, who was always patient enough to explain everything that I ever wondered about, whether it be about time management, public speaking, or how to practice peace at home. Three other great teachers who taught me in Group 3 were Lata Auntie, Sridharan Uncle, and Sai Diwakar Uncle. Finally, when I was in my final year of Group 3, much to my surprise, Varalakshmi Auntie began to teach Group 3. I thought I was done with her after I graduated from Group 2! However, this time, much to my relief, she stopped doing vocab lessons.

From day one, I was very hesitant to participate in class. Though I was the youngest in the class, I understood everything that was being taught, but I rarely contributed to the discussions. I thought that once the Public Speaking Workshop was over, I would automatically become a great speaker.

Once the Public Speaking Workshop was over, everybody had to give a speech in front of the whole class. At first, it did not seem like much preparation was required, but when I was called up to speak, I realized that I barely had anything to say. I gave up after two sentences, and after apologizing to the teachers, I promised to have my speech ready for the following week.

The next week, although my speech was not the best it could possibly be, I managed to finish it without having to give up again. That was a major turnaround point for me, and I resolved to put my full effort into class from then onwards.

Although I did not start really participating until I was in 8th grade, I learned something very important that year. I

learned that simply going to Balvikas is not enough; I have to apply everything that I learn in daily life.

The next year, I began to think more about why I should practice a certain value, and not simply how to practice it. After I convinced myself about why I should practice a value, it became much easier to do so.

Also while in 8th grade, I participated in many competitions. My parents used to tell me to pray in the morning and

chant Gayatri just before taking any test, which I always did. However, one thing that I never understood was my mom telling me to thank Swami after the test. I did it anyway, but without knowing why. Then, I remembered a book that I had read the previous summer, Sri Sathya Sai Divya Kripasraya, by B.N. Narasimha Murthy. The author described his experiences of how he attributed everything he did to Swami. Although I am not at that stage yet, I understand that I should thank Swami for everything I have, and not simply pray to Swami for something that I want.

This year’s Time Management Workshop was more useful to me than ever before. Before, I always saw high school students bring a lot of homework to Sai Center, and I mentally resolved to never do that. However, I was very close to doing that a few times, mainly due to procrastination on my part. The Time Management Workshop helped bring me back up to speed, and in the next three years, I hope to stick to the mental resolution that I made some time back.

-Akhil Nistala, SSE III, Detroit Metro, MI

SWAMI’S PRESCRIPTION FOR PRACTICING SPIRITUALITY 3 P’s: Purity, Patience, and Perseverance

3D’s: Duty, Discipline, Devotion 3 H’s: Heart, Head, Hands


, 2010






LOVE, COMPASSION AND TOLERANCE

In order to imagine what a world where everyone lives with compassion and tolerance would be like, we have to first understand what compassion and tolerance are. Compassion is the ability to understand someone else’s situation when they are sad or troubled. It allows for people to support each other in their times of need and to create a togetherness among the general population. Tolerance is accepting someone and or their beliefs even if it is something that you don’t understand or agree with. This means that you might not understand why someone thinks or acts in a certain way, but you still accept them to be a fellow human being. Compassion and tolerance are both sub values for love, and when these two manifest in us, so does love! This love is the true love that is unconditional and doesn’t vary from person to person.

If we all live with compassion and tolerance for fellow beings in the world, this world would be the one that every one envisions in their mind when they think of a perfect utopian world. In this world, everyone would understand each other and there would be much less conflict than there is now. There would be no more “put downs” and every one will learn to get along with each other better. Everyone will be able to accept and understand each other and form a tight knit community that would support each other. If compassion and tolerance existed in everyone, we would all live in a much better environment and would lead much more productive and happy lives.

-Chanukya Malla, SSE III, Detroit Metro, MI

LOVE…

Love Kind Nice Patience Loving Caring Forgiveness Helping Selfless Compassionate Sweet -Sai Saranya Nistala, SSE I, Detroit Metro, MI

The love in the heart creates peace in the mind The peace in the mind creates truth in the mouth The truth in the mouth creates right action in the body The right action in the body creates non-violence in the hands and legs. The love in the heart makes peace all around as you walk The peace all around makes truth as everyone talks Truth in everyone makes right action to the deeds Right actions makes non-violence everyone’s need

-Akshata Kharkar, SSE I, Detroit Metro, MI

Swami is love We are love Love Everybody Make Swami Happy Make Parents Happy Make Everyone Happy Love, Love, Love

-Sai Pranav Janyavula, SSE I, Detroit Metro, MI


, 2010






CHERISHED MOMENTS

From the time I stepped into Swami’s fold and joined SSE classes, my life has changed tremendously. I have been surrounded by the teachings and values of Swami for as long as I can remember and without this guidance, my life would have been quite different. In the few days that I started SSE Group 1, I was very happy that all we did was read funny stories on how people made the wrong choices and experienced punishments for their bad deeds. We colored and briefly talked about the five human values and how we should practice them. Only after beginning SSE Group 2 did I realize that Group 1 was just a foundation and that I had a TON more to learn. Now, Group 2 wasn’t as simple as Group 1 and it was a tough transition to go through - different teachers, different classroom setting, and a different procedure. There were no more coloring and reading stories. However, we slowly started to incorporate the human values into our daily lives and learn about them more in depth. I would get distracted and confused when we used to have debates and discussions about a specific topic and not be involved, but I remember that my teachers would always encourage me to participate and to contribute something to make the discussion livelier. I went on with Group 2 being a bit disconnected and perplexed of all the different values, sub-values, workshops, etc that we had to learn about. But, what I was really excited for was Group 3. I was waiting for the opportunity to sit at the round table in the Board Room at Kensington Academy and be a part of all the cool projects that Group 3 always took upon. I looked forward to being the oldest and wanted to set a good example for the younger generation. And beyond all of that, I would have class with Ashok Uncle, who everyone claimed was an intimidating and confusing person. I knew I was in for something, but didn’t know exactly what it was. However, after day one of Group 3, my opinions about Ashok Uncle totally changed, he was not only the nicest man but also a very supporting and encouraging teacher who answered your doubts and confusion in a simple way by letting his students arrive at the answer and solution themselves through the process of critical thinking!

During my first year of Group 3, I was very shy and didn’t like to volunteer much. Though I knew everyone in the class well and pretty much understood the concepts, it was difficult for me to just raise my hand and share my opinions. I always thought that I would give a wrong answer and automatically become the girl who didn’t understand anything that was going on, but that was when I learned there was no such thing as a wrong answer. I learned that it was to my benefit if I contributed and spoke in class and that no one would know how I felt if I just sat quiet for an hour. It’s not enough to come to class every week from 2:30 to 3:45; you have to make sure that you learn something new every time and take the effort to share the experiences that you have faced so that others will learn from you as well. Along with the several heated discussions that we had in Group 3, we also went through several workshops such as the Time Management workshop and Public Speaking workshop. The Time Management workshop was especially handy during times when I would be busy with schoolwork and other important events would pop up. I learned to manage my activities in a way so that I would have time to do everything without rushing.

An example of the first Public Speaking workshop that comes to my mind is when one day in class, Ashok Uncle told us we were going to play a game. We were all enthusiastic and got all geared up to have fun. He gave everyone a little sheet of paper and told us to write the first thing that came to our mind. It could be anything, ranging from the circus to a light bulb. After we all wrote down something, he told us to put the pieces of paper into a hat. I thought that we would have to act whatever was written on the paper, but later did I realize that we had to give an impromptu speech about the topic that we picked from the hat! I was terrified when it was my turn. When I reached into the hat, I got the topic of “gorillas” to talk about. I blabbered something about how gorillas were frightening and what not and got over it. This was an experience that I will never forget because I learned that when you try something new for the first time, it is going to be difficult, but the more you practice it, the better you get.

Although this is my last year in Group 3, I have learned something new each and every year. I have improved my time management and public speaking skills with the guidance of the workshops that are held every year in the class. Practicing the human values helped me make a smooth transition from middle school to high school and I am still in the process of learning how to incorporate the human values in my daily life. Group 3 has been a stepping stone for me and will continue to be a source of guidance whenever I need it.

- Maithri Malladi, SSE III, Detroit Metro, MI


, 2010






“LOVE ALL, SERVE ALL” STARTS WITH COMPASSION

To me, love is giving up part of your life for someone else. But by definition it means a feeling of warm personal attachment or deep affection, as for a parent, child, or friend.

Our parents love and try to give us all that they can and make sure we are comfortable. Sometimes we may not be happy with the decisions they make but they always know what’s best for us and they care about what we do because they love us dearly. Love is a strong word and people often misuse it by saying “Oh, I love this, or I love that”. Saying that is really not necessary. One quote I would like to bring in is: (Ashok Uncle’s Quote) Our parents don’t need to tell us that they love us every day. Their kind and caring acts say it all. There is nothing that can substitute the pure love we get from our parents and Swami. Swami embeds the importance of love with His famous quote “Love all, Serve all”. To say it and listen to it is one thing but to put this in action is different. If someone were to ask me “Do you love all?” I could say yes. But, is that really true? As a thirteen year old, I have met many people in my life and I probably will meet many more people but will I love all of them? Will I love them equivalent to my family members? In general do we love someone we meet at store as much as a family member? Do we look at them equally? Why don’t we?

These significant questions lay in our head during our everyday life. We have special attachments and bonds with our family and friends. For that reason we wish good for them but, that is only selfishness. We should always wish for the well-being of everyone. Swami is able to do this; He eliminates the feeling of selfishness in His life. We also need to do this. Sometimes we do loving and caring things for recognition. This is classified as conditional love. On the contrary there is unconditional love which is an “advanced level/stage” where you love everyone equally and not show any discrimination. Swami is the best example of this. Swami is the incessant flow of love that circulates around us and brings us together. He looks at all lovingly and equally. That is unconditional love. We should put aside age, gender and status and only look at their heart because God dwells in it.

God’s creation is unique because we are all made differently. We need to learn to accept everyone for who they are and love them. If every person followed this, the world would be filled with peace and harmony. We would never have a war that puts innocent people’s lives at risk. We feel compassionate towards the people living in the countries affected by war.

Compassion is one of the sub-values that we talked about. When we see someone suffering we are automatically feeling compassionate towards them. It’s a feeling that just comes naturally. It may be human nature and that we were born with the value love. Compassion is caring about someone and their feelings. When we feel compassionate about something we tend to reach out and lend a hand. This act is purely love. Our Dear Swami has done so many compassionate acts that helped thousands of people through His hospitals, universities and water projects. After discussing deeply about the value of love, I now look at love as a completely different thing. My goal is to incorporate what I learned in my daily life and I know I can achieve this by the Divine grace and guidance of Swami. Before I end this presentation I would like to leave you with a math puzzle. We set goals for ourselves and try to achieve them through hard work and gain knowledge which results in attitude. Now if we assign numbers to the alphabets with 1-26 then we get 98% for hard work, 96% for knowledge, 100% for Attitude and finally if we add up “Love for God” we get 101%. Let us strive to attain 101% which is much more powerful and important in life.

-Nikitha Bujala, SSE III, Detroit Metro, MI

WHAT IS THE IMPORTANCE OF RESPECTING THE MOTHER?

“You must understand the value of mother's love and her concern for you. You must give your mother the topmost priority. Sometimes, modern youth do not care for their mothers. They think they are highly educated and that their mothers do not know anything. It is a great mistake to think so. Never look down upon your mother. Mothers also should not compel their children to accede to each and every wish of theirs. Through love and sincerity, she should put her children on the proper path. Every mother should aspire that her children should be good; they need not be great.”



, 2010






THE PATH OF LIFE

We’re one with nature Intertwined like DNA We must love our world

The meaning of Zen A flash of enlightenment Become purified

Live like Buddhist monks Ponder the meaning of life Minimalism

Chant “Om” while in trance Siddhartha and Bodhi tree “Sound of universe”

Inner peace attained Mysteries of life unlocked Great, eternal bliss

The five elements Fire, water, earth, air, and space Balance of power

THE PATH OF LIFE (CONT’D)

Serene Zen gardens Shrouded in the sunny mist Peaceful meditation

Birds perch on treetops Chime as one in harmony The sounds of Nature

Earth is our abode Home to diverse types of life Our blue oasis

The vast realms of space We are but one entity Stars shine like fireflies

Light covered by dark Its black abyss intensifies Silent is the storm

People aplenty Cultural stories to tell From all walks of life

We are human beings Power to discriminate The power within

THE PATH OF LIFE (CONT’D)

Evil is all around Good can vanquish this foul beast Love’s immense power

Yin and Yang are one Unified, the path is clear Why must we dispute?

Time is never gained Life may end at any point Time ticking away

What is our purpose? We have but one life to live Nirvana awaits

Golden age of Sai Have no fear when he is here Spiritual guide

The journey within I decide my destiny Walk this path of life

-Gautam Machiraju, SSE IV, Columbus, OH

MOTHER NATURE AND SAI

The Earth, in which life exists Is an abode to many majestic living beings… Like the agile stallions that gallop in the low and fertile valleys And the beautiful dolphins that leap from the cold, ocean waves Live life gracefully, for Mother Nature and Sai are one

From the rich, green grass that surrounds our neighborhoods To the colorful and exotic palms of the warm, coastal beaches The tall, Chinese bamboo that covers the vast, Oriental lands And the pink cherry blossoms in the Land of the Rising Sun Live life modestly, for Mother Nature and Sai are one

As our lives continue onwards, Mother Nature shares her mood The sunny and cerulean blue skies of the tropical Hawaiian Islands And the rigid, harsh snowfall in the mountainous Himalayan territory Even the rainstorms that release the vital droplets of survival and life Live life peacefully, for Mother Nature and Sai are one

When the great explosion of time had occurred A certain, special star was born and had “failed” Our planet that we know and love today Had become a home to the early species that once roamed free Live life tenaciously, for Mother Nature and Sai are one

Today, I see through these eyes and think with this mind I am unique, different -- a nonconformist perhaps Billions of others share this same planet of mine Be different, make your mark on history… Live life meaningfully, for Mother Nature and Sai are one

MOTHER NATURE AND SAI (CONT’D)

Om and Sai – two words I deeply cherish Underlying peace, tranquility, patience and discipline… On a journey to find a true meaning of life A spiritual path of enlightenment and self-realization Live life fruitfully, for Mother Nature and Sai are one

Mother Nature impacts me greatly She created various companions of mine My beloved friends, family, and relatives… But you mustn't forget my musical friend Live life respectfully, for Mother Nature and Sai are one

This musical friend was born from the wood of Earth She produces a mellow, relaxing, and an enchanting twist of sound The sounds of anguish, beauty, and grace… The bow moves far and elegantly with pure legato From the detailed frame To the spiraled scroll on this crimson-colored cello I think of Mother Nature and Sai…

When a life has lived, there comes a time When that certain life has to rest… Whether it be an aged life or a misfortune Every being has to expire In this circle of life that we must endure For every life has its purpose… So I thank them- Mother Nature and Sai- for this beautiful life of mine

-Siddharth Machiraju, SSE IV, Columbus, OH


, 2010






E – EARNEST

A – ALL LOVING

S – SIMPLE & SELFLESS

W – WONDERFUL

A – ADORABLE

R – RESPECTABLE

A – AFFECTIONATE

M – MOTHER DIVINE

M – MODEST

A – ALWAYS HAPPY

-Priyanka Santhapuram, SSE III, West Lafayette, IN

EASWARAMMA

Embodiment of the five human values

Always nice to everyone and does not hurt anyone

She is still living in our hearts

We should keep room for her in our hearts

A devotee to her own Son

Raised Sri Sathya Sai Baba very well

Always treated everyone as a member of her family

Mother divine

Ma Sai Ma

Always did good to all

-Indeevar Andra, SSE II, Detroit Metro, MI

-Medha Kaul, SSE II, Minneapolis South, MN


, 2010






HEALTHHEALTHHEALTHHEALTH MATTERSMATTERSMATTERSMATTERS

OIL MASSAGE: A WONDERFUL REGIMEN (For reading by children of all SSE groups)

You all want to enjoy good health all the time, don’t you? But, chances are that you have some annoying health issues. A number of children have problems related with allergies and lack of immunity, causing cough and cold, occasional fever, itching, rashes, and even worse symptoms. Both groups of problems (allergies and low immunity) are really on account of toxicity (“bad” stuff) accumulated inside the body.

You ask, what can be done to really experience perfect health free from such troubles? Of course, you know about adopting good food habits some of which have been mentioned in the Health Matters articles. Food correction goes a long way in correcting almost any health problem.

The specific method to be discussed here is OIL MASSAGE, also called ABHYANGA in Ayurveda.

Instead of giving a detailed procedure for abhyanga, let’s just note that it means rubbing the oil on the whole body thoroughly (for some 20 minutes) and then taking shower.

About the type of oil – that’s an important question but there is a simple answer applicable to all. Start with olive oil (cold pressed and organic). Once you are situated into the routine of abhyanga nicely with just olive oil, you will be ready for “more advanced” oils for greater benefit. At that point, you will need further instructions, directly from the author ([email protected]). However, olive oil itself might be totally sufficient when used in a disciplined abhyanga regimen.

Get started with the massage routine in the weekend – Saturday or Sunday. Especially with the summer vacation around the corner, you should be able to adopt the regimen on the ideal daily basis.

Oil massage is excellent for adults as well and will help them too, beyond a shadow of doubt. Though this article is brief, but let’s make sure to understand that oil massage (abhyanga) is infinitely important – for healing as well as prevention. Get started and find out the value of it for yourself.

More will follow later on this subject. Your questions are welcome as always.

-Dr. Raj Prakash, Regional Education Coordinator, North Central Region, USA

WHY HEALTH MATTERS

“Health is the foundation on which human life rests. There is no greater wealth than health. What is the origin of this word 'Health'? It is derived from the Anglo-Saxon word 'Heilig ', meaning that which is sacred and pure. The body is a combination of different limbs. So, only when all limbs are utilized for sacred purposes can one have good health and happiness. For a healthy mind, one should have a healthy body. The Spirit (Atma) sustains human life basing on the health of the body and the mind. Health is the primary requisite for the realization of the four objectives of human life - Dharma (righteousness), Artha (wealth), Kaama (desire) and Moksha (liberation).”



, 2010






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REGIONAL REGIONAL REGIONAL REGIONAL AND SAI CENTER AND SAI CENTER AND SAI CENTER AND SAI CENTER NEWS & ANNOUNCEMENTSNEWS & ANNOUNCEMENTSNEWS & ANNOUNCEMENTSNEWS & ANNOUNCEMENTS

Kavya Pratapa, SSE-II, Ann Arbor, MI Washtenaw County, Michigan Scripps Spelling Bee Winner CONGRATULATIONS to dear Kavya on winning the Washtenaw County, MI Spelling Bee held on March 13th. With this win, she has entered the Scripps National spelling bee in Washington, D.C.

Kavya Pratapa clinched the top spot by spelling the word “azimuth.” She is a fifth-grader at South Arbor Academy, in York Township.

Kavya correctly spelled the word in the 25th round of Saturday’s bee at Willow Run High School, outlasting two dozen competitors and winning a trip to the National Spelling Bee, beginning June 2 in Washington, D.C. She topped the fourth-grader Ariana Mitcham and seventh-grader Sreya Modepalli, both of Fortis Academy in Ypsilanti. Seven schools entered Spelling Bee competition.

After claiming her medal, Kavya said she’d had little time to prepare for the competition after placing second in the Michigan Charter School State Spelling Bee, held Feb. 20 at Trillium Academy in Taylor. .

Now facing the national competition, Kavya said, “I guess I’d have to study every day.” But she added that she doesn’t expect to win. While in Washington, she’ll “probably visit the Capitol and just go on a tour.”

GOOD LUCK, KAVYA!

-Deepthi Koralla, SSE II, Columbus, OH

JAI SAI RAM!

Life is a challenge, meet it!

Life is a dream, realize it!

Life is a game, play it!

Life is love, enjoy it!

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