Quote of the Day - Past, Present & Future

"Learn from the past, apply it to the present, live for the future"

Quote of the Day - Past, Present & Future

"Learn from the past, apply it to the present, live for the future"

Quote of the Moment - The Eye

"There is no I in eye, but in the eye there is an I through which we see"

By Guru's Grace - 23/01/2010

Quote of the Moment - The Eye

"There is no I in eye, but in the eye there is an I through which we see"

By Guru's Grace - 23/01/2010

Three Obstacles towards Higher Consciousness

Apparently there are three main obstacles in a person's pursuit towards higher consciousness, all described under the analogy of a vessel:

1. An up-side down vessel - This is a person who is shut to input and cannot listen. Such a person cannot gain any new ideas or concepts from nature or people
   
2. A leaking vessel - This is a person who cannot retain knowledge. A forgetful student is not a good student!
   
3. An impure vessel - This is a person who has misconceptions or their own ideas about reality, which creates a dirty filter through which all liberating knowledge goes through. Such a person will always remain stunted in spiritual growth because the are not willing to remove their filter to hear the knowledge as its meant to be heard, with open ears and an open mind

Adapted from an article by Rudra Shivananda in his Sanatana Mitra (Jan 2010)

Three Obstacles towards Higher Consciousness

Apparently there are three main obstacles in a person's pursuit towards higher consciousness, all described under the analogy of a vessel:

1. An up-side down vessel - This is a person who is shut to input and cannot listen. Such a person cannot gain any new ideas or concepts from nature or people
   
2. A leaking vessel - This is a person who cannot retain knowledge. A forgetful student is not a good student!
   
3. An impure vessel - This is a person who has misconceptions or their own ideas about reality, which creates a dirty filter through which all liberating knowledge goes through. Such a person will always remain stunted in spiritual growth because the are not willing to remove their filter to hear the knowledge as its meant to be heard, with open ears and an open mind

Adapted from an article by Rudra Shivananda in his Sanatana Mitra (Jan 2010)

The Power of Emotion

Sometimes we may think that having emotions makes a person weak. Especially since woman are naturally more emotional than men, this fact is sometimes exploited as to why women are weaker than men. However, it is the emotion of love of a mother that gives her the power to endure a pregnancy, and to continue to serve her children and family throughout her life. Emotions, when they are directed towards a purpose, can allow a human being to produce extraordinary results. Therefore, emotions should be embraced as a seat of power and not as a sign of weakness.

Note: This is the 108th post on this blog. A true milestone!

The Power of Emotion

Sometimes we may think that having emotions makes a person weak. Especially since woman are naturally more emotional than men, this fact is sometimes exploited as to why women are weaker than men. However, it is the emotion of love of a mother that gives her the power to endure a pregnancy, and to continue to serve her children and family throughout her life. Emotions, when they are directed towards a purpose, can allow a human being to produce extraordinary results. Therefore, emotions should be embraced as a seat of power and not as a sign of weakness.

Note: This is the 108th post on this blog. A true milestone!

Quote of the Day - Becoming Star-like

"If we came from the stars, then we are by nature star children, then ultimately it is our destiny to become star-like and by each of our words, by each of our steps, and by each of our smiles eliminate the darkness in the world."

Quote of the Day - Becoming Star-like

"If we came from the stars, then we are by nature star children, then ultimately it is our destiny to become star-like and by each of our words, by each of our steps, and by each of our smiles eliminate the darkness in the world."

Sleep and Alternate States of Consciousness

Since a blog is a sort of a personal diary too, I just thought I should note down this experience I had this morning (Friday 8th January 2010) at around 4-5:00am. I awoke fully conscious, but decided to stay in bed, lying down. I could hear the sound of silence. Sometimes silence is really loud, like for example, if you're waiting in a car and you can hear a sort of light humming - the sound of silence. Similarly, the silence was very loud and I realised (because this has happened to me many times before) that if I were to concentrate on the silence, I can send myself into a trance state - also called deep hypnosis. Now, how is state of deep hypnosis or trance, any different to sleep? And how did I know it was an alternate state of consciousness? Well, firstly as I focussed on the silence and entered into the alternate state of consciousness, I realised I could not move but I was fully awake/aware. In fact, I think I might have even come out of my body a little as I tried to shout my brother's name who was on the top bunk (yes, we still sleep on bunk beds! lol) - I tried to shout but I couldn't! Just like one of those dreams where you try to call for help but your voice-box doesn't work? Well, this was the same, only I was fully awake/aware. Next, I tried to move, but no matter how hard I tried, I just could not move. So, the only thing I could do was to relax and wait for myself to come out of that state of consciousness, which happened after about 15-30 mins. In hypnosis terms, hypnosis is measured by three factors: lethargy is tiredness or sleepiness of the body, catalepsy is a ‘trance-like state with loss of voluntary motion and failure to react to stimuli’ including a stiffening (rigidity) or loosening (limpness) of the muscles in the limbs, and somnambulism is sleepwalking. Well in this case there was no somnambulism, but there was the other two. This experience has made me realise a few things:

• The state of consciousness was entered through the Third Eye - Agna Chakra - and if I can practice entering into this state there may be no need to sleep with dreams, because the state of consciousness is deeply rejuvenating but a very wakeful state at the same time
  
• This state creates activity in the temporal lobes of the brain which can result in seeing ghosts, other spirit beings and/or a feeling of remoteness from the body. In all cases, it is quite safe to leave the body or enter deeper into the silence, so long as the body is protected with a mantra like Aad Gurey Nameh, Jugad Gurey Nameh, Sat Gurey Nameh, Siri Gurudeveh Nameh
  
• People who know hypnosis can put other people into this state very quickly and easily (see this YouTube video on Instant and Rapid Hypnosis). This experience made me realise how dangerous the technology of hypnosis could be in the wrong hands, because no matter how much I tried I couldn't get out of the state! Additionally, in this state one becomes very suggestible, meaning that commands can be entered into the subconscious mind that can alter people's lives for the better (e.g. breaking habits) or for the worse (black magic, mind-control)

My next step, is to experiment with this state like a scientist, to find out how deep I can go into the silence, what its boundaries are and how it can be used in a positive way. It would also be interesting to know how common this experience is amongst other people. Well...at least there is something to look forward to tonight =)...

Sat Naam.

Sleep and Alternate States of Consciousness

Since a blog is a sort of a personal diary too, I just thought I should note down this experience I had this morning (Friday 8th January 2010) at around 4-5:00am. I awoke fully conscious, but decided to stay in bed, lying down. I could hear the sound of silence. Sometimes silence is really loud, like for example, if you're waiting in a car and you can hear a sort of light humming - the sound of silence. Similarly, the silence was very loud and I realised (because this has happened to me many times before) that if I were to concentrate on the silence, I can send myself into a trance state - also called deep hypnosis. Now, how is state of deep hypnosis or trance, any different to sleep? And how did I know it was an alternate state of consciousness? Well, firstly as I focussed on the silence and entered into the alternate state of consciousness, I realised I could not move but I was fully awake/aware. In fact, I think I might have even come out of my body a little as I tried to shout my brother's name who was on the top bunk (yes, we still sleep on bunk beds! lol) - I tried to shout but I couldn't! Just like one of those dreams where you try to call for help but your voice-box doesn't work? Well, this was the same, only I was fully awake/aware. Next, I tried to move, but no matter how hard I tried, I just could not move. So, the only thing I could do was to relax and wait for myself to come out of that state of consciousness, which happened after about 15-30 mins. In hypnosis terms, hypnosis is measured by three factors: lethargy is tiredness or sleepiness of the body, catalepsy is a ‘trance-like state with loss of voluntary motion and failure to react to stimuli’ including a stiffening (rigidity) or loosening (limpness) of the muscles in the limbs, and somnambulism is sleepwalking. Well in this case there was no somnambulism, but there was the other two. This experience has made me realise a few things:

• The state of consciousness was entered through the Third Eye - Agna Chakra - and if I can practice entering into this state there may be no need to sleep with dreams, because the state of consciousness is deeply rejuvenating but a very wakeful state at the same time
  
• This state creates activity in the temporal lobes of the brain which can result in seeing ghosts, other spirit beings and/or a feeling of remoteness from the body. In all cases, it is quite safe to leave the body or enter deeper into the silence, so long as the body is protected with a mantra like Aad Gurey Nameh, Jugad Gurey Nameh, Sat Gurey Nameh, Siri Gurudeveh Nameh
  
• People who know hypnosis can put other people into this state very quickly and easily (see this YouTube video on Instant and Rapid Hypnosis). This experience made me realise how dangerous the technology of hypnosis could be in the wrong hands, because no matter how much I tried I couldn't get out of the state! Additionally, in this state one becomes very suggestible, meaning that commands can be entered into the subconscious mind that can alter people's lives for the better (e.g. breaking habits) or for the worse (black magic, mind-control)

My next step, is to experiment with this state like a scientist, to find out how deep I can go into the silence, what its boundaries are and how it can be used in a positive way. It would also be interesting to know how common this experience is amongst other people. Well...at least there is something to look forward to tonight =)...

Sat Naam.

Earth, Society and Our Actions - Tribute to a New Year and Decade - 2010

So we are all very familiar with the media hype about global warming, sustainable living and greenhouse gases. Yep it's definitely a problem. I think we've more or less agreed that as a world. To think that one species out of around 4-6million known species could cause an entire planet to change...that's quite a big deal. Well...no really...its not.

Nature, the eco-system, life...it all comes down to a fairly simply concept; balance. We as the most advanced species on this planet have yet to master this. Why? Because we as individuals have not mastered it (including myself may I add). But I know someone that is absolutely amazing at it. So amazing in fact that no one really notices. That's my Mum...and most mums in fact including the mother of all mothers; Mother Earth.

Mother Earth has been nurturing and looking after itself and it's children (life on earth) for a very very long time. Sure it gets hit by an asteroid or two...and sure...some of it's species (humankind) pretty much takes advantage of it in every single way. But one thing that we misunderstand is the way it maintains it's balance.

Much can and has been said about the effects of our mistreatment of the Earth but it will maintain its balance. This doesn't mean the limits are endless but before we reach those limits what is more likely is that the shifts in balance that the Earth sees fit to make will make our situation for survival dire. What does this mean? It means we are pretty much digging our own grave/funeral pire (depending on your tradition)...the Earth will recover, but will we?

In my opinion, yes, but not as we know it. Here's a few key thoughts of what we really need to do:

Financial Systems

80% of the world's income is held by 20% of its population. It is the system that has been created and we know there are a lot of people not entirely happy with this. Yes the spread of money is not equal but that doesn't necessarily mean that a balance is not achievable. If you think 50-50 would be where the balance would be then you're probably wrong. Most people are happy with mediocrity. That's just the way it is.

What's important though is what the system stands for and how it serves others. Unfortunately, most economics is fundamentally misunderstood and Adam Smith's definition of 'Self Interest' has been turned into what we commonly call greed. Having said this, most people once they have more money than they could ever spend realise it's not the end. What they discover is it's about how you serve others. How do you achieve a balance of give and take? You give.

Our current models tell us that more is good. GDP (Gross Domestic Product) which is the sum of what everyone earns in a country should rise and rise. Umm...hold on a second. Something feels missing. Yep...that's because it is. We all KNOW there's more to how much you earn...then why measure success in this fashion. Especially when it leads to the mentality of...'we need to spend more to make more products so we can spend more'. Sometimes you need to take a hit because life is about ups and downs. Instead of following the flow of life, we resist it. Having said all this, GDP does make a simple indicator of success in that money buys quality of life. True. But, its not the only factor. Lets acknowledge it and change it. What also needs to be taken into account for success is how much of your income you give to others. This would at least create an incentive to share and spread money...especially if it is the measure of success. After all, you can only give more if you have more. Win-win.

Society and Norms

Society, Communities, Groups. None of that really exists. What really exists is the individual. But we are social creatures (well some more so than others) and we like to have a party now and again (well some more so than others). Therefore most of us do have a community, we have a certain group of people we stick to. In the last few decades, society has changed drastically. We have created huge cities of people where there were close knit villages. We have children as late as 30, and no elders in the community to teach them about what life really is or what values are. We don't know and don't have time for our neighbours. Home is now a moving concept as the world becomes smaller. Our communities have moved away from where we live.

We have to remember though, that society is relative. It is always changing, and even more rapidly now with the pace of new technology exponentially increasing. Before we know it we'll be looking at a screen all day long and (oh...wait...that's already the case).

But that all ok. Right? Well...yes and no. Yes because it's the way it is and it could not be any other way (Matrix quote). No because we can make it better if we choose to. Most people like the idea of living together in peace, having privacy but also being close to a community with genuine care and love for each other. In many places these things exist. In most places they do not.

To remain within yet detached from social norms is tricky but possible. It is what makes us individuals and what will sprout out of simple meditation. Yep, I think meditation is an absolutely critical part of being a human. It is a wholly neglected exercise. And what happens when you stop exercising? You get unhealthy. On a global level our spiritual obesity is out of control. This is definitely not healthy. If health is wealth, how can we be rich? Most rich, successful people see meditation as a critical part of their life.

It's also important to mention that meditation is a secular exercise if you wish it to be. It can also be a religious or spiritual exercise. It doesn't matter, because most importantly it is an exercise for a human being. It all kind of depends on your concept of God. If you share my understanding you'll see there is no difference in secular meditation and meditation focusing on a divine being. But let's leave that for another day. Doesn't take a genius to see what I'm getting at; let meditation be part of your daily lifestyle.

Government and Policy

In the west we have a bit of a fixation on owning assets. Nothing wrong with that. I also want a big house, nice car and maybe even a palm tree with fresh coconuts. It's all good. In fact I would take quite a liberalist approach to all this and say its in fact great. Why? Because when you own something, you take care of it. When you feel personally responsible for something you make sure it's kept well. This includes how you spend your money and is why I think 'goverments' are a bad idea. They are totally inefficient. Why? Let me explain:

• If you buy yourself something from your own money...you'll tend to want to get a great bargin (especially if you're indian).
• If you spend your own money on someone else you might want to splash out a little.
• If you spend someone else's money on yourself though, you probably won't care too much, you might even take a taxi where you might have walked...like expenses.
• BUT, if you spend someone else's money on someone else...you are very likely to not only splash out a little but also not care too much as long as you get what's done, done. This is the most inefficient use of money and it is exactly how a Government works.

The role of Goverment should be minimised to only Justice (courts), public sector emergency services like Fire/Police, Defence and basic health care. Nothing more is needed from a body which pretty much eats and throws money at things. Personal responsibility is king/queen. This is what should drive a community. Not an attitude of 'The politicians aren't doing a very good job are they?...oh well...hopefully this guy will do better...lets now pay our taxes to him/her'

I also feel that is would be very beneficial for spiritual leaders to have just an important role in how a government or society is run as everyone else. Spiritual masters have basically mastered being human...I am sure a sentence from these people relating to problems/dilemmas would be more meaningful than political babble. A global panel of elders meets every year on Richard Branson's Neckar Island. This is an amazing start to this concept.

Borders and Immigration

We are territorial and like our own space. Yes personal ownership is great to build personal responsibility but eventually that responsibility should come from a higher sense of purpose and respect for life and Mother Earth. In actuality no one OWNS any land. It is impossible for us to own it because it was never ours in the first place. It is Mother Earth'sand it will always be this way. We can not buy it because unfortunately the economic system that the Earth runs on does not trade in pointless paper but instead in serving others. It is perhaps one of the greatest lessons nature can teach us. Live to serve and you will be beautiful.

A lot of talk in the West has been focusing on the closing of borders and tighter immigration. It seems to be what wins votes because it makes people feel safe. Well, stop for a second. Territories and boundaries don't really exist. They are man-made. Sure, in the short term it may be necessary to close your society and defend yourself. But, lets get the aim right at least. If we want to move towards a peaceful, unified, super productive planet...then we need to be willing to open borders. If there is a huge influx of people to one area, then clearly there is either something lacking somewhere else which should be addressed or something which might be easy to take advantage of which again needs to be addressed. We need to have a long term strategy to open borders worldwide.

Yep, it will also be more efficient to have one currency and one world government. These are things we should at least aim for, to have a truly united world. If we are off aim, there must be something wrong.

Little Decisions Make Big Impacts

Last but not least it is important to remember our actions create our behaviour which in turn is a reflection of our society and therefore our world. By simply being aware of the electronic devices that are left on standby and switching them off or by becoming vegetarian for 2 days a week we can dramatically reduce our carbon footprints.

It is also important for you and I to spend our money consciously and take personal responsibility for simple things like who we bank with, what we invest in, what products we buy off shop shelves. Our money is essentially our vote. We spend on things we desire. So there are two quick winning solutions. Change what you spend on to support a more environmentally friendly lifestyle or desire fewer things. Or who knows...go crazy and do both of these things! It's strange, but the little decisions really do make big impacts.

Conclusion

So I know this little (long) article is loaded with personal opinions and not everything is very well explained and there's probably a few contradictions too. But hey, that's ok. Don't take it all too seriously. But, hopefully you took something away from this and perhaps it will get you to think. In summary I think we should:

• Understand that Mother Earth is very good at keeping itself in balance, what's really at risk is humankind.
• Change financial systems to account for money gifted to others creating a win-win senario.
• Let meditation be part of our daily lifestyle.
• Minimise Government
• Have a long term strategy to unify the world by opening borders, working towards a one world currency and one world government.

Perhaps 2010 will bring us closer to some of these adventurous goals...perhaps not. Either way, I'd like to wish you all a Happy New Year and Decade!

My Blessings.

Earth, Society and Our Actions - Tribute to a New Year and Decade - 2010

So we are all very familiar with the media hype about global warming, sustainable living and greenhouse gases. Yep it's definitely a problem. I think we've more or less agreed that as a world. To think that one species out of around 4-6million known species could cause an entire planet to change...that's quite a big deal. Well...no really...its not.

Nature, the eco-system, life...it all comes down to a fairly simply concept; balance. We as the most advanced species on this planet have yet to master this. Why? Because we as individuals have not mastered it (including myself may I add). But I know someone that is absolutely amazing at it. So amazing in fact that no one really notices. That's my Mum...and most mums in fact including the mother of all mothers; Mother Earth.

Mother Earth has been nurturing and looking after itself and it's children (life on earth) for a very very long time. Sure it gets hit by an asteroid or two...and sure...some of it's species (humankind) pretty much takes advantage of it in every single way. But one thing that we misunderstand is the way it maintains it's balance.

Much can and has been said about the effects of our mistreatment of the Earth but it will maintain its balance. This doesn't mean the limits are endless but before we reach those limits what is more likely is that the shifts in balance that the Earth sees fit to make will make our situation for survival dire. What does this mean? It means we are pretty much digging our own grave/funeral pire (depending on your tradition)...the Earth will recover, but will we?

In my opinion, yes, but not as we know it. Here's a few key thoughts of what we really need to do:

Financial Systems

80% of the world's income is held by 20% of its population. It is the system that has been created and we know there are a lot of people not entirely happy with this. Yes the spread of money is not equal but that doesn't necessarily mean that a balance is not achievable. If you think 50-50 would be where the balance would be then you're probably wrong. Most people are happy with mediocrity. That's just the way it is.

What's important though is what the system stands for and how it serves others. Unfortunately, most economics is fundamentally misunderstood and Adam Smith's definition of 'Self Interest' has been turned into what we commonly call greed. Having said this, most people once they have more money than they could ever spend realise it's not the end. What they discover is it's about how you serve others. How do you achieve a balance of give and take? You give.

Our current models tell us that more is good. GDP (Gross Domestic Product) which is the sum of what everyone earns in a country should rise and rise. Umm...hold on a second. Something feels missing. Yep...that's because it is. We all KNOW there's more to how much you earn...then why measure success in this fashion. Especially when it leads to the mentality of...'we need to spend more to make more products so we can spend more'. Sometimes you need to take a hit because life is about ups and downs. Instead of following the flow of life, we resist it. Having said all this, GDP does make a simple indicator of success in that money buys quality of life. True. But, its not the only factor. Lets acknowledge it and change it. What also needs to be taken into account for success is how much of your income you give to others. This would at least create an incentive to share and spread money...especially if it is the measure of success. After all, you can only give more if you have more. Win-win.

Society and Norms

Society, Communities, Groups. None of that really exists. What really exists is the individual. But we are social creatures (well some more so than others) and we like to have a party now and again (well some more so than others). Therefore most of us do have a community, we have a certain group of people we stick to. In the last few decades, society has changed drastically. We have created huge cities of people where there were close knit villages. We have children as late as 30, and no elders in the community to teach them about what life really is or what values are. We don't know and don't have time for our neighbours. Home is now a moving concept as the world becomes smaller. Our communities have moved away from where we live.

We have to remember though, that society is relative. It is always changing, and even more rapidly now with the pace of new technology exponentially increasing. Before we know it we'll be looking at a screen all day long and (oh...wait...that's already the case).

But that all ok. Right? Well...yes and no. Yes because it's the way it is and it could not be any other way (Matrix quote). No because we can make it better if we choose to. Most people like the idea of living together in peace, having privacy but also being close to a community with genuine care and love for each other. In many places these things exist. In most places they do not.

To remain within yet detached from social norms is tricky but possible. It is what makes us individuals and what will sprout out of simple meditation. Yep, I think meditation is an absolutely critical part of being a human. It is a wholly neglected exercise. And what happens when you stop exercising? You get unhealthy. On a global level our spiritual obesity is out of control. This is definitely not healthy. If health is wealth, how can we be rich? Most rich, successful people see meditation as a critical part of their life.

It's also important to mention that meditation is a secular exercise if you wish it to be. It can also be a religious or spiritual exercise. It doesn't matter, because most importantly it is an exercise for a human being. It all kind of depends on your concept of God. If you share my understanding you'll see there is no difference in secular meditation and meditation focusing on a divine being. But let's leave that for another day. Doesn't take a genius to see what I'm getting at; let meditation be part of your daily lifestyle.

Government and Policy

In the west we have a bit of a fixation on owning assets. Nothing wrong with that. I also want a big house, nice car and maybe even a palm tree with fresh coconuts. It's all good. In fact I would take quite a liberalist approach to all this and say its in fact great. Why? Because when you own something, you take care of it. When you feel personally responsible for something you make sure it's kept well. This includes how you spend your money and is why I think 'goverments' are a bad idea. They are totally inefficient. Why? Let me explain:

• If you buy yourself something from your own money...you'll tend to want to get a great bargin (especially if you're indian).
• If you spend your own money on someone else you might want to splash out a little.
• If you spend someone else's money on yourself though, you probably won't care too much, you might even take a taxi where you might have walked...like expenses.
• BUT, if you spend someone else's money on someone else...you are very likely to not only splash out a little but also not care too much as long as you get what's done, done. This is the most inefficient use of money and it is exactly how a Government works.

The role of Goverment should be minimised to only Justice (courts), public sector emergency services like Fire/Police, Defence and basic health care. Nothing more is needed from a body which pretty much eats and throws money at things. Personal responsibility is king/queen. This is what should drive a community. Not an attitude of 'The politicians aren't doing a very good job are they?...oh well...hopefully this guy will do better...lets now pay our taxes to him/her'

I also feel that is would be very beneficial for spiritual leaders to have just an important role in how a government or society is run as everyone else. Spiritual masters have basically mastered being human...I am sure a sentence from these people relating to problems/dilemmas would be more meaningful than political babble. A global panel of elders meets every year on Richard Branson's Neckar Island. This is an amazing start to this concept.

Borders and Immigration

We are territorial and like our own space. Yes personal ownership is great to build personal responsibility but eventually that responsibility should come from a higher sense of purpose and respect for life and Mother Earth. In actuality no one OWNS any land. It is impossible for us to own it because it was never ours in the first place. It is Mother Earth'sand it will always be this way. We can not buy it because unfortunately the economic system that the Earth runs on does not trade in pointless paper but instead in serving others. It is perhaps one of the greatest lessons nature can teach us. Live to serve and you will be beautiful.

A lot of talk in the West has been focusing on the closing of borders and tighter immigration. It seems to be what wins votes because it makes people feel safe. Well, stop for a second. Territories and boundaries don't really exist. They are man-made. Sure, in the short term it may be necessary to close your society and defend yourself. But, lets get the aim right at least. If we want to move towards a peaceful, unified, super productive planet...then we need to be willing to open borders. If there is a huge influx of people to one area, then clearly there is either something lacking somewhere else which should be addressed or something which might be easy to take advantage of which again needs to be addressed. We need to have a long term strategy to open borders worldwide.

Yep, it will also be more efficient to have one currency and one world government. These are things we should at least aim for, to have a truly united world. If we are off aim, there must be something wrong.

Little Decisions Make Big Impacts

Last but not least it is important to remember our actions create our behaviour which in turn is a reflection of our society and therefore our world. By simply being aware of the electronic devices that are left on standby and switching them off or by becoming vegetarian for 2 days a week we can dramatically reduce our carbon footprints.

It is also important for you and I to spend our money consciously and take personal responsibility for simple things like who we bank with, what we invest in, what products we buy off shop shelves. Our money is essentially our vote. We spend on things we desire. So there are two quick winning solutions. Change what you spend on to support a more environmentally friendly lifestyle or desire fewer things. Or who knows...go crazy and do both of these things! It's strange, but the little decisions really do make big impacts.

Conclusion

So I know this little (long) article is loaded with personal opinions and not everything is very well explained and there's probably a few contradictions too. But hey, that's ok. Don't take it all too seriously. But, hopefully you took something away from this and perhaps it will get you to think. In summary I think we should:

• Understand that Mother Earth is very good at keeping itself in balance, what's really at risk is humankind.
• Change financial systems to account for money gifted to others creating a win-win senario.
• Let meditation be part of our daily lifestyle.
• Minimise Government
• Have a long term strategy to unify the world by opening borders, working towards a one world currency and one world government.

Perhaps 2010 will bring us closer to some of these adventurous goals...perhaps not. Either way, I'd like to wish you all a Happy New Year and Decade!

My Blessings.

Quote of the Day - Light

"Understand light.

Experience light.

Spread light."

Quote of the Day - Light

"Understand light.

Experience light.

Spread light."

The Royal Radiance of Guru Gobind Singh Ji

Bhai Nand Lal Goya (1633-1713) was a great scholar of Persian, and one of the fifty-two poets in the court of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. In one of his poetry compilations called Ganjnama, he wrote about the glory of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, which gives us a glimpse of what it may have been like to meet this beautiful and royally radiant personality:

NASAR-O MANSOOR GURU GOBIND SINGH

EEZAD-I MANZOOR GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh is victorious and assists us to succeed in life; he is accepted by God as His own.

HAQ RA GANJOOR GURU GOBIND SINGH

JUMLA FAIZ-O NOOR GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh is the custodian of God’s treasure; he is the bestower of all the gifts.

HAQ HAQ AAGAAH GURU GOBIND SINGH

SHAHE SHAHAN SHAH GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh knows the ways of God; he is the emperor of emperors.

BAR DO ALAM SHAH GURU GOBIND SINGH

KHASAM RA JAN KAH GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh rules over both the worlds; he is the destroyer of the enemies.

FAA-EZ AL-ANWAAR GURU GOBIND SINGH

KASHIF AL-ASRAAR GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh illuminates our lives with abundance; he reveals secrets of God.

AALIM AL-ASTAAR GURU GOBIND SINGH

ABR-E REHMAT BAAR GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh is aware of the secrets of the world; he showers his unlimited mercies.

MUQBAL-O MAQBOOL GURU GOBIND SINGH

WAASIL-O MAUSOOL GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh is the favourite of Waheguru; he is with Him all the time.

JAAN FIROZ-E DAHAR GURU GOBIND SINGH

FAIZ-E HAQ RA BAHR GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh bestows life in this world; he is the sea of God’s blessings.

HAQ RA MEHBOOB GURU GOBIND SINGH

TALIB-O MATLOOB GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh is loved by God; he is the seeker as well as the sought.

TEG RA FATTAH GURU GOBIND SINGH

JAN-O DIL RA RAH GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh achieved victories with his sword; he knows the secret of every heart.

SAHIB-E IKLEEL GURU GOBIND SINGH

ZILL-E HAQ TAZLEEL GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh wears the crown of the world; he lives in the shadow of God.

KHAAZAN-E HAR GANJ GURU GOBIND SINGH

MARHAM-E HAR RANJ GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh controls all the treasures of the world; he is the medicine of all ailments.

DAAWAR-E AAFAAQ GURU GOBIND SINGH

DAR DO AALAM TAAQ GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh is the master of the world; both the worlds are under his shelter.

HAQ KHUD WASAAF GURU GOBIND SINGH

BARTAREEN AUSAAF GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh is praised by God Himself; he is bestowed with highest qualities.

KHAASGAN DAR PAA-E GURU GOBIND SINGH

QUDSI-AAN BAAR-AAE GURU GOBIND SINGH

Great men are at the feet of Guru Gobind Singh; the angels visit him for audience.

MUQBAL-AAN MADDAH GURU GOBIND SINGH

JAAN-O DIL RA RAH GURU GOBIND SINGH

The fortunate ones admire Guru Gobind Singh; he knows everything in our hearts.

LAA-MAKAAN PAABOS GURU GOBIND SINGH

BAR DO AALAM KOS GURU GOBIND SINGH

The poor kiss the feet of Guru Gobind Singh; the drum of his authority sounds in both the worlds.

SULS-HAM MAHKOOM GURU GOBIND SINGH

RUBEH HAM MAKHTOOM GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh rules over the three worlds; he has the stamp of his authority on the four Vedas.

SUDS HALQEH B-GOSH GURU GOBIND SINGH

DUSHMAN AFGAN JOSH GURU GOBIND SINGH

The six Shastras are his slaves; he always defeats the enemy.

KHALAS-O BE-KEENEH GURU GOBIND SINGH

HAQ HAQ AINAA GURU GOBIND SINGH

Pure at heart, Guru Gobind Singh is free from ill will; he is the mirror through whom God reveals Himself.

HAQ HAQ ANDESH GURU GOBIND SINGH

BADSHAH DARVESH GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh meditates on God; he is a mystic and a king at the same time.

MAKRAM AL-FAZAAL GURU GOBIND SINGH

MUN-IM AL-MUT-AAL GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh is virtue personified; his gifts to mankind are unending.

KAARAM AL-KIRAM GURU GOBIND SINGH

RAAHAM AL-RAHAAM GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh is most generous and forgiver.

NAA-EM AL-MUN-AAM GURU GOBIND SINGH

FAHAM AL-FAHAAM GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh blesses even the benevolent; he bestows gifts even to those who give.

DAA-IM-O PAA-INDA GURU GOBIND SINGH

FARAKH-O FARKHUNDEH GURU GOB IND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh is eternal; he is auspicious for all.

FAIZ-E SUB-HAAN ZAAT GURU GOBIND SINGH

NOOR HAQ LAM-AAT GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh is essence of God’s blessings; God Himself radiates through him.

SAMIAAN-E NAAM GURU GOBIND SINGH

HAQ BEEN Z IN-AAM GURU GOBIND SINGH

Those who have listened to the name of Guru Gobind Singh have received the gift of seeing God Himself.

WAASIF-AAN-E ZAAT GURU GOBIND SINGH

WASIL AZ BARKAAT GURU GOBIND SINGH

Those who sang the praises of Guru Gobind Singh were united with God.

RAAQMAANE WASF GURU GOBIND SINGH

NAAMWAR AZ LUTF GURU GOBIND SINGH

Those who wrote in praise of Guru Gobind Singh received fame the world over with his grace.

NAAZRAN-E ROO-E GURU GOBIND SINGH

MAST HAQ DAR KOO-E GURU GOBIND SINGH

Those who had seen the face of Guru Gobind Singh moved in his lanes intoxicated with God’s Name.

KHAAK BOS-E PAA-E GURU GOBIND SINGH

MUQBAL AZ AALAA-E GURU GOBIND SINGH

Those who kissed the dust under the feet of Guru Gobind Singh were fortunate and were elevated in life.

QADIR-E HAR KAR GURU GOBIND SINGH

BE-KASAAN RA YAAR GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh is the doer of all that is happening in this world, he is friend of the poor.

SAAJID-O MASJOOD GURU GOBIND SINGH

JUMLEH FAIZ-O JOOD GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh worships (God); he is also worshipped (by the whole creation).He is generous with all the bounties he gives.

SARWRAAN RA TAJ GURU GOBIND SINGH

BARTAREEN MI -ARAJ GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh is the chief of all the kings; he occupies the loftiest position.

AS HAR QUDSI RAM GURU GOBIND SINGH

WAS IF-E IKRAM GURU GOBIND SINGH

The ten Gods are under the command of Guru Gobind Singh and they sing his praises in reverence.

UM QUDAS B-KAR GURU GOBIND SINGH

GAASHIA BARDAAR GURU GOBIND SINGH

The sacred goddesses of the world are also working for Guru Gobind Singh and they are his servants.

QADR-O QUDRAT PEISH GURU GOBIND SINGH

INKIYAAD ANDESH GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh controls our destinies; still he meditates on God in submission.

TISYA ULVI KHAAK GURU GOBIND SINGH

CHAAKAR-E CHALAAK GURU GOBIND SINGH

The nine gods are like dust of (the feet of) Guru Gobind Singh; they serve him well.

TAKHT-O BALA ZER GURU GOBIND SINGH

LAA-MAKAAN-E SEIR GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh is above the highest thrones; he moves in the heavens.

BARTAR AZ HAR QADR GURU GOBIND SINGH

JAAWDANI SADR GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh is supreme in all virtues; he is eternal and above everyone else.

AALAM-E RAUSHAN Z GURU GOBIND SINGH

JAAN-O DIL GULSHAN Z GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh gives light to the world; our hearts and souls blossom because of him.

ROZ AFZOON JAAH GURU GOBIND SINGH

ZEB TAKHT-O GAAH GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh’s stature is increasing every day; he is the beauty of all thrones.

MURSHID AL-DAAREEN GURU GOBIND SINGH

BEENASH-E HAR EIN GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh is our guide in both the worlds; he is the sight of every eye.

JUMLA DAR FURMAAN GURU GOBIND SINGH

BARTAR AAMAD SHAAN GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh commands the whole creation; he is supreme in stature.

HAR DO AALAM KHEIL GURU GOBIND SINGH

JUMLA ANDAR ZEIL GURU GOBIND SINGH

Both the worlds are the army of Guru Gobind Singh; all are under his protection.

WAAHAB AL-WAHAAB GURU GOBIND SINGH

FAATEH HAR BAAB GURU GOBIND SINGH

The most generous Guru Gobind Singh is the conqueror of every battle.

SHAAMIL AL-ASHFAAQ GURU GOBIND SINGH

KAAMIL AL-AKHLAAQ GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh’s blessings are unending; he is virtue personified.

ROOH DAR HAR JISM GURU GOBIND SINGH

NOOR DAR HAR CHASHM GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh is the soul of every one; he is the light of every eye.

JUMLA ROZI KHWAAR GURU GOBIND SINGH

FEIZ-E HAQ AMTAAR GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh provides sustenance to all; he showers His graces.

BIST-O HAFT GADAA-E GURU GOBIND SINGH

KHAAK ROB SARAA-E GURU GOBIND SINGH

The twenty-seven gods are the beggars of Guru Gobind Singh; they are engaged in sweeping his house.

KHAMS WASF PEI-RAA-E GURU GOBIND SINGH

HAFT HAM SHEIDAA-E GURU GOBIND SINGH

The five elements praise Guru Gobind Singh; the seven worlds admire him.

BAR DO AALAM DAST GURU GOBIND SINGH

JUMLA ULVI PAST GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh has his hand on both the worlds; all the angels are inferior to him.

LAL SAG GULAAM GURU GOBIND SINGH

DAAD-DAAR-E NAAM GURU GOBIND SINGH

Nand Lal is the slave dog of Guru Gobind Singh; he carries the stamp of Guru Gobind Singh on him.

KAMTAREEN Z SGAAN GURU GOBIND SINGH

REZAA CHEEN-E KHAAN GURU GOBIND SINGH

Nand Lal is lower than all the dogs of Guru Gobind Singh; he (pecks) at the leftovers of his dinner table.

SAA-EL AZ IN-AAM GURU GOBIND SINGH

KHAAK-E PAAK IQDAAM GURU GOBIND SINGH

Nand Lal is begging to get the gift of holy dust of Guru Gobind Singh’s feet.

BAAD JAANASH FIDAA-E GURU GOBIND SINGH

FARQ-O BAR PAA-E GURU GOBIND SINGH

His (Nand Lal’s) life may be sacrificed for Guru Gobind Singh and Nand Lal’s head may always remain at his feet.

The Royal Radiance of Guru Gobind Singh Ji

Bhai Nand Lal Goya (1633-1713) was a great scholar of Persian, and one of the fifty-two poets in the court of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. In one of his poetry compilations called Ganjnama, he wrote about the glory of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, which gives us a glimpse of what it may have been like to meet this beautiful and royally radiant personality:

NASAR-O MANSOOR GURU GOBIND SINGH

EEZAD-I MANZOOR GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh is victorious and assists us to succeed in life; he is accepted by God as His own.

HAQ RA GANJOOR GURU GOBIND SINGH

JUMLA FAIZ-O NOOR GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh is the custodian of God’s treasure; he is the bestower of all the gifts.

HAQ HAQ AAGAAH GURU GOBIND SINGH

SHAHE SHAHAN SHAH GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh knows the ways of God; he is the emperor of emperors.

BAR DO ALAM SHAH GURU GOBIND SINGH

KHASAM RA JAN KAH GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh rules over both the worlds; he is the destroyer of the enemies.

FAA-EZ AL-ANWAAR GURU GOBIND SINGH

KASHIF AL-ASRAAR GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh illuminates our lives with abundance; he reveals secrets of God.

AALIM AL-ASTAAR GURU GOBIND SINGH

ABR-E REHMAT BAAR GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh is aware of the secrets of the world; he showers his unlimited mercies.

MUQBAL-O MAQBOOL GURU GOBIND SINGH

WAASIL-O MAUSOOL GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh is the favourite of Waheguru; he is with Him all the time.

JAAN FIROZ-E DAHAR GURU GOBIND SINGH

FAIZ-E HAQ RA BAHR GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh bestows life in this world; he is the sea of God’s blessings.

HAQ RA MEHBOOB GURU GOBIND SINGH

TALIB-O MATLOOB GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh is loved by God; he is the seeker as well as the sought.

TEG RA FATTAH GURU GOBIND SINGH

JAN-O DIL RA RAH GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh achieved victories with his sword; he knows the secret of every heart.

SAHIB-E IKLEEL GURU GOBIND SINGH

ZILL-E HAQ TAZLEEL GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh wears the crown of the world; he lives in the shadow of God.

KHAAZAN-E HAR GANJ GURU GOBIND SINGH

MARHAM-E HAR RANJ GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh controls all the treasures of the world; he is the medicine of all ailments.

DAAWAR-E AAFAAQ GURU GOBIND SINGH

DAR DO AALAM TAAQ GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh is the master of the world; both the worlds are under his shelter.

HAQ KHUD WASAAF GURU GOBIND SINGH

BARTAREEN AUSAAF GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh is praised by God Himself; he is bestowed with highest qualities.

KHAASGAN DAR PAA-E GURU GOBIND SINGH

QUDSI-AAN BAAR-AAE GURU GOBIND SINGH

Great men are at the feet of Guru Gobind Singh; the angels visit him for audience.

MUQBAL-AAN MADDAH GURU GOBIND SINGH

JAAN-O DIL RA RAH GURU GOBIND SINGH

The fortunate ones admire Guru Gobind Singh; he knows everything in our hearts.

LAA-MAKAAN PAABOS GURU GOBIND SINGH

BAR DO AALAM KOS GURU GOBIND SINGH

The poor kiss the feet of Guru Gobind Singh; the drum of his authority sounds in both the worlds.

SULS-HAM MAHKOOM GURU GOBIND SINGH

RUBEH HAM MAKHTOOM GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh rules over the three worlds; he has the stamp of his authority on the four Vedas.

SUDS HALQEH B-GOSH GURU GOBIND SINGH

DUSHMAN AFGAN JOSH GURU GOBIND SINGH

The six Shastras are his slaves; he always defeats the enemy.

KHALAS-O BE-KEENEH GURU GOBIND SINGH

HAQ HAQ AINAA GURU GOBIND SINGH

Pure at heart, Guru Gobind Singh is free from ill will; he is the mirror through whom God reveals Himself.

HAQ HAQ ANDESH GURU GOBIND SINGH

BADSHAH DARVESH GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh meditates on God; he is a mystic and a king at the same time.

MAKRAM AL-FAZAAL GURU GOBIND SINGH

MUN-IM AL-MUT-AAL GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh is virtue personified; his gifts to mankind are unending.

KAARAM AL-KIRAM GURU GOBIND SINGH

RAAHAM AL-RAHAAM GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh is most generous and forgiver.

NAA-EM AL-MUN-AAM GURU GOBIND SINGH

FAHAM AL-FAHAAM GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh blesses even the benevolent; he bestows gifts even to those who give.

DAA-IM-O PAA-INDA GURU GOBIND SINGH

FARAKH-O FARKHUNDEH GURU GOB IND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh is eternal; he is auspicious for all.

FAIZ-E SUB-HAAN ZAAT GURU GOBIND SINGH

NOOR HAQ LAM-AAT GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh is essence of God’s blessings; God Himself radiates through him.

SAMIAAN-E NAAM GURU GOBIND SINGH

HAQ BEEN Z IN-AAM GURU GOBIND SINGH

Those who have listened to the name of Guru Gobind Singh have received the gift of seeing God Himself.

WAASIF-AAN-E ZAAT GURU GOBIND SINGH

WASIL AZ BARKAAT GURU GOBIND SINGH

Those who sang the praises of Guru Gobind Singh were united with God.

RAAQMAANE WASF GURU GOBIND SINGH

NAAMWAR AZ LUTF GURU GOBIND SINGH

Those who wrote in praise of Guru Gobind Singh received fame the world over with his grace.

NAAZRAN-E ROO-E GURU GOBIND SINGH

MAST HAQ DAR KOO-E GURU GOBIND SINGH

Those who had seen the face of Guru Gobind Singh moved in his lanes intoxicated with God’s Name.

KHAAK BOS-E PAA-E GURU GOBIND SINGH

MUQBAL AZ AALAA-E GURU GOBIND SINGH

Those who kissed the dust under the feet of Guru Gobind Singh were fortunate and were elevated in life.

QADIR-E HAR KAR GURU GOBIND SINGH

BE-KASAAN RA YAAR GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh is the doer of all that is happening in this world, he is friend of the poor.

SAAJID-O MASJOOD GURU GOBIND SINGH

JUMLEH FAIZ-O JOOD GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh worships (God); he is also worshipped (by the whole creation).He is generous with all the bounties he gives.

SARWRAAN RA TAJ GURU GOBIND SINGH

BARTAREEN MI -ARAJ GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh is the chief of all the kings; he occupies the loftiest position.

AS HAR QUDSI RAM GURU GOBIND SINGH

WAS IF-E IKRAM GURU GOBIND SINGH

The ten Gods are under the command of Guru Gobind Singh and they sing his praises in reverence.

UM QUDAS B-KAR GURU GOBIND SINGH

GAASHIA BARDAAR GURU GOBIND SINGH

The sacred goddesses of the world are also working for Guru Gobind Singh and they are his servants.

QADR-O QUDRAT PEISH GURU GOBIND SINGH

INKIYAAD ANDESH GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh controls our destinies; still he meditates on God in submission.

TISYA ULVI KHAAK GURU GOBIND SINGH

CHAAKAR-E CHALAAK GURU GOBIND SINGH

The nine gods are like dust of (the feet of) Guru Gobind Singh; they serve him well.

TAKHT-O BALA ZER GURU GOBIND SINGH

LAA-MAKAAN-E SEIR GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh is above the highest thrones; he moves in the heavens.

BARTAR AZ HAR QADR GURU GOBIND SINGH

JAAWDANI SADR GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh is supreme in all virtues; he is eternal and above everyone else.

AALAM-E RAUSHAN Z GURU GOBIND SINGH

JAAN-O DIL GULSHAN Z GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh gives light to the world; our hearts and souls blossom because of him.

ROZ AFZOON JAAH GURU GOBIND SINGH

ZEB TAKHT-O GAAH GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh’s stature is increasing every day; he is the beauty of all thrones.

MURSHID AL-DAAREEN GURU GOBIND SINGH

BEENASH-E HAR EIN GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh is our guide in both the worlds; he is the sight of every eye.

JUMLA DAR FURMAAN GURU GOBIND SINGH

BARTAR AAMAD SHAAN GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh commands the whole creation; he is supreme in stature.

HAR DO AALAM KHEIL GURU GOBIND SINGH

JUMLA ANDAR ZEIL GURU GOBIND SINGH

Both the worlds are the army of Guru Gobind Singh; all are under his protection.

WAAHAB AL-WAHAAB GURU GOBIND SINGH

FAATEH HAR BAAB GURU GOBIND SINGH

The most generous Guru Gobind Singh is the conqueror of every battle.

SHAAMIL AL-ASHFAAQ GURU GOBIND SINGH

KAAMIL AL-AKHLAAQ GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh’s blessings are unending; he is virtue personified.

ROOH DAR HAR JISM GURU GOBIND SINGH

NOOR DAR HAR CHASHM GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh is the soul of every one; he is the light of every eye.

JUMLA ROZI KHWAAR GURU GOBIND SINGH

FEIZ-E HAQ AMTAAR GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh provides sustenance to all; he showers His graces.

BIST-O HAFT GADAA-E GURU GOBIND SINGH

KHAAK ROB SARAA-E GURU GOBIND SINGH

The twenty-seven gods are the beggars of Guru Gobind Singh; they are engaged in sweeping his house.

KHAMS WASF PEI-RAA-E GURU GOBIND SINGH

HAFT HAM SHEIDAA-E GURU GOBIND SINGH

The five elements praise Guru Gobind Singh; the seven worlds admire him.

BAR DO AALAM DAST GURU GOBIND SINGH

JUMLA ULVI PAST GURU GOBIND SINGH

Guru Gobind Singh has his hand on both the worlds; all the angels are inferior to him.

LAL SAG GULAAM GURU GOBIND SINGH

DAAD-DAAR-E NAAM GURU GOBIND SINGH

Nand Lal is the slave dog of Guru Gobind Singh; he carries the stamp of Guru Gobind Singh on him.

KAMTAREEN Z SGAAN GURU GOBIND SINGH

REZAA CHEEN-E KHAAN GURU GOBIND SINGH

Nand Lal is lower than all the dogs of Guru Gobind Singh; he (pecks) at the leftovers of his dinner table.

SAA-EL AZ IN-AAM GURU GOBIND SINGH

KHAAK-E PAAK IQDAAM GURU GOBIND SINGH

Nand Lal is begging to get the gift of holy dust of Guru Gobind Singh’s feet.

BAAD JAANASH FIDAA-E GURU GOBIND SINGH

FARQ-O BAR PAA-E GURU GOBIND SINGH

His (Nand Lal’s) life may be sacrificed for Guru Gobind Singh and Nand Lal’s head may always remain at his feet.

Funny Quote of the Day - Sikhs

"The beauty of Sikhs is that they are the finest of human beings, but too humble to ever admit it"

Funny Quote of the Day - Sikhs

"The beauty of Sikhs is that they are the finest of human beings, but too humble to ever admit it"

The Society of Saints - Saadh Sangat

A human being cannot make it on his own, he needs the company of others. The individual consciousness can only become universal consciousness through the group consciousness. This is why "Saadh Sangat" is given so much importance by Shri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, because it is in the society of those who are continually developing and expanding their consciousness that we can rise as human beings, otherwise ordinarily we get bad company or company which does not expand in consciousness, and therefore we fall along with them. On our own we fall and in bad company we fall. So wherever possible we should continually join the society of saints, the Saadh Sangat, and rise into deeper realms of the Self. Sat Naam.

Hymn by Guru Arjan Dev Ji in Melody Soohee on Part 738 of the Shri Guru Granth Sahib Ji

ਸੂਹੀ ਮਹਲਾ ੫ ॥

soohee mehalaa 5 ||

Soohee, Fifth Mehla:

ਬੁਰੇ ਕਾਮ ਕਉ ਊਠਿ ਖਲੋਇਆ ॥

burae kaam ko oot(h) khaloeiaa ||

He gets up early, to do his evil deeds,

ਨਾਮ ਕੀ ਬੇਲਾ ਪੈ ਪੈ ਸੋਇਆ ॥੧॥

naam kee baelaa pai pai soeiaa ||1||

but when it is time to meditate on the Naam, the Name of the Lord, then he sleeps. ||1||

ਅਉਸਰੁ ਅਪਨਾ ਬੂਝੈ ਨ ਇਆਨਾ ॥

aousar apanaa boojhai n eiaanaa ||

The ignorant person does not take advantage of the opportunity.

ਮਾਇਆ ਮੋਹ ਰੰਗਿ ਲਪਟਾਨਾ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥

maaeiaa moh ra(n)g lapattaanaa ||1|| rehaao ||

He is attached to Maya, and engrossed in worldly delights. ||1||Pause||

ਲੋਭ ਲਹਰਿ ਕਉ ਬਿਗਸਿ ਫੂਲਿ ਬੈਠਾ ॥

lobh lehar ko bigas fool bait(h)aa ||

He rides the waves of greed, puffed up with joy.

ਸਾਧ ਜਨਾ ਕਾ ਦਰਸੁ ਨ ਡੀਠਾ ॥੨॥

saadhh janaa kaa dharas n ddeet(h)aa ||2||

He does not see the Blessed Vision of the Darshan of the Holy. ||2||

ਕਬਹੂ ਨ ਸਮਝੈ ਅਗਿਆਨੁ ਗਵਾਰਾ ॥

kabehoo n samajhai agiaan gavaaraa ||

The ignorant clown will never understand.

ਬਹੁਰਿ ਬਹੁਰਿ ਲਪਟਿਓ ਜੰਜਾਰਾ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥

bahur bahur lapattiou ja(n)jaaraa ||1|| rehaao ||

Again and again, he becomes engrossed in entanglements. ||1||Pause||

ਬਿਖੈ ਨਾਦ ਕਰਨ ਸੁਣਿ ਭੀਨਾ ॥

bikhai naadh karan sun bheenaa ||

He listens to the sounds of sin and the music of corruption, and he is pleased.

ਹਰਿ ਜਸੁ ਸੁਨਤ ਆਲਸੁ ਮਨਿ ਕੀਨਾ ॥੩॥

har jas sunath aalas man keenaa ||3||

His mind is too lazy to listen to the Praises of the Lord. ||3||

ਦ੍ਰਿਸਟਿ ਨਾਹੀ ਰੇ ਪੇਖਤ ਅੰਧੇ ॥

dhrisatt naahee rae paekhath a(n)dhhae ||

You do not see with your eyes - you are so blind!

ਛੋਡਿ ਜਾਹਿ ਝੂਠੇ ਸਭਿ ਧੰਧੇ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥

shhodd jaahi jhoot(h)ae sabh dhha(n)dhhae ||1|| rehaao ||

You shall have to leave all these false affairs. ||1||Pause||

ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਬਖਸ ਕਰੀਜੈ ॥

kahu naanak prabh bakhas kareejai ||

Says Nanak, please forgive me, God.

ਕਰਿ ਕਿਰਪਾ ਮੋਹਿ ਸਾਧਸੰਗੁ ਦੀਜੈ ॥੪॥

kar kirapaa mohi saadhhasa(n)g dheejai ||4||

Have Mercy upon me, and bless me with the Saadh Sangat, the Company of the Holy. ||4||

ਤਉ ਕਿਛੁ ਪਾਈਐ ਜਉ ਹੋਈਐ ਰੇਨਾ ॥

tho kishh paaeeai jo hoeeai raenaa ||

He alone obtains something, who becomes the dust under the feet of all.

ਜਿਸਹਿ ਬੁਝਾਏ ਤਿਸੁ ਨਾਮੁ ਲੈਨਾ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥੨॥੮॥

jisehi bujhaaeae this naam lainaa ||1|| rehaao ||2||8||

And he alone repeats the Naam, whom God causes to understand. ||1||Pause||2||8||

By Guru's Grace - 03/01/10

The Society of Saints - Saadh Sangat

A human being cannot make it on his own, he needs the company of others. The individual consciousness can only become universal consciousness through the group consciousness. This is why "Saadh Sangat" is given so much importance by Shri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, because it is in the society of those who are continually developing and expanding their consciousness that we can rise as human beings, otherwise ordinarily we get bad company or company which does not expand in consciousness, and therefore we fall along with them. On our own we fall and in bad company we fall. So wherever possible we should continually join the society of saints, the Saadh Sangat, and rise into deeper realms of the Self. Sat Naam.

Hymn by Guru Arjan Dev Ji in Melody Soohee on Part 738 of the Shri Guru Granth Sahib Ji

ਸੂਹੀ ਮਹਲਾ ੫ ॥

soohee mehalaa 5 ||

Soohee, Fifth Mehla:

ਬੁਰੇ ਕਾਮ ਕਉ ਊਠਿ ਖਲੋਇਆ ॥

burae kaam ko oot(h) khaloeiaa ||

He gets up early, to do his evil deeds,

ਨਾਮ ਕੀ ਬੇਲਾ ਪੈ ਪੈ ਸੋਇਆ ॥੧॥

naam kee baelaa pai pai soeiaa ||1||

but when it is time to meditate on the Naam, the Name of the Lord, then he sleeps. ||1||

ਅਉਸਰੁ ਅਪਨਾ ਬੂਝੈ ਨ ਇਆਨਾ ॥

aousar apanaa boojhai n eiaanaa ||

The ignorant person does not take advantage of the opportunity.

ਮਾਇਆ ਮੋਹ ਰੰਗਿ ਲਪਟਾਨਾ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥

maaeiaa moh ra(n)g lapattaanaa ||1|| rehaao ||

He is attached to Maya, and engrossed in worldly delights. ||1||Pause||

ਲੋਭ ਲਹਰਿ ਕਉ ਬਿਗਸਿ ਫੂਲਿ ਬੈਠਾ ॥

lobh lehar ko bigas fool bait(h)aa ||

He rides the waves of greed, puffed up with joy.

ਸਾਧ ਜਨਾ ਕਾ ਦਰਸੁ ਨ ਡੀਠਾ ॥੨॥

saadhh janaa kaa dharas n ddeet(h)aa ||2||

He does not see the Blessed Vision of the Darshan of the Holy. ||2||

ਕਬਹੂ ਨ ਸਮਝੈ ਅਗਿਆਨੁ ਗਵਾਰਾ ॥

kabehoo n samajhai agiaan gavaaraa ||

The ignorant clown will never understand.

ਬਹੁਰਿ ਬਹੁਰਿ ਲਪਟਿਓ ਜੰਜਾਰਾ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥

bahur bahur lapattiou ja(n)jaaraa ||1|| rehaao ||

Again and again, he becomes engrossed in entanglements. ||1||Pause||

ਬਿਖੈ ਨਾਦ ਕਰਨ ਸੁਣਿ ਭੀਨਾ ॥

bikhai naadh karan sun bheenaa ||

He listens to the sounds of sin and the music of corruption, and he is pleased.

ਹਰਿ ਜਸੁ ਸੁਨਤ ਆਲਸੁ ਮਨਿ ਕੀਨਾ ॥੩॥

har jas sunath aalas man keenaa ||3||

His mind is too lazy to listen to the Praises of the Lord. ||3||

ਦ੍ਰਿਸਟਿ ਨਾਹੀ ਰੇ ਪੇਖਤ ਅੰਧੇ ॥

dhrisatt naahee rae paekhath a(n)dhhae ||

You do not see with your eyes - you are so blind!

ਛੋਡਿ ਜਾਹਿ ਝੂਠੇ ਸਭਿ ਧੰਧੇ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥

shhodd jaahi jhoot(h)ae sabh dhha(n)dhhae ||1|| rehaao ||

You shall have to leave all these false affairs. ||1||Pause||

ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਬਖਸ ਕਰੀਜੈ ॥

kahu naanak prabh bakhas kareejai ||

Says Nanak, please forgive me, God.

ਕਰਿ ਕਿਰਪਾ ਮੋਹਿ ਸਾਧਸੰਗੁ ਦੀਜੈ ॥੪॥

kar kirapaa mohi saadhhasa(n)g dheejai ||4||

Have Mercy upon me, and bless me with the Saadh Sangat, the Company of the Holy. ||4||

ਤਉ ਕਿਛੁ ਪਾਈਐ ਜਉ ਹੋਈਐ ਰੇਨਾ ॥

tho kishh paaeeai jo hoeeai raenaa ||

He alone obtains something, who becomes the dust under the feet of all.

ਜਿਸਹਿ ਬੁਝਾਏ ਤਿਸੁ ਨਾਮੁ ਲੈਨਾ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥੨॥੮॥

jisehi bujhaaeae this naam lainaa ||1|| rehaao ||2||8||

And he alone repeats the Naam, whom God causes to understand. ||1||Pause||2||8||

By Guru's Grace - 03/01/10

How to Write Poetry?

There is no such thing as a good or bad poem, but perhaps some poems are better at transforming the reader than others, which is directly correlated to the purity of heart and mind of the writer. The purer the writer, the more elegant, more heart-centred and more authentic the poetry becomes. Writing poetry is a combination of three elements:

• Soul/Heart (Spiritual) – Infinite flow of love, inspiration and wisdom
• Mind (Mental) – Makes everything understandable in practical, human terms
  
• Body (Physical) – Hands write the poetry and physical plane helps in making intangible concepts tangible
  

All three elements of soul, mind and body should be co-ordinated to create a great poem, although one element shall always dominate in a poem. Where the soul dominates, a poem becomes heart-centred and all those who read that poem shall feel its effects deep within their being. Soul-centred poetry can transform an individual. The most profound example I have been fortunate enough to come across is the Sikh Holy Scripture, the Shri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, which is a perfect combination of words and sounds from the soul that speak to all parts of the human psyche to create a total transformation in being.

Where the mind dominates, a poem becomes very practical and down-to-earth in its advice, again depending upon the degree of clarity of mind of the writer. Where a poet's mind is very jumbled and restless, the poetry shall be jumbled and restless. Where a poet's mind is very emotional and commotional, the poetry shall also be full of emotions and feelings. The reader of this poetry shall also become emotional and commotional. However, where a poet has a clear and controlled mind, the poetry will become very cutting, direct and practical with very little wastage of words to bring a point across. Again, this type of poetry can be seen within passages of the Shri Guru Granth Sahib Ji.

Finally, the body or physical plane is used to write the poetry i.e. the hands, but also the physical plane may be used within poems to represent intangible elements within a tangible context, for example using metaphors such as 'my love shined as bright as the sun', or similes such as 'my anger became red hot like a volcano' or anthropomorphism such as 'the words from her mouth began to dance in my heart'.

It is my personal belief that everyone, including you, should write poetry and experiment with stringing words together about experiences you have in your day-to-day life. The privilege of knowing how to write should be enough reason to write some poetry, not everyone has that privilege and those of us who have should use it to share our deepest emotions,thoughts and ideas that may inspire others in their lives.

Sat Naam.

How to Write Poetry?

There is no such thing as a good or bad poem, but perhaps some poems are better at transforming the reader than others, which is directly correlated to the purity of heart and mind of the writer. The purer the writer, the more elegant, more heart-centred and more authentic the poetry becomes. Writing poetry is a combination of three elements:

• Soul/Heart (Spiritual) – Infinite flow of love, inspiration and wisdom
• Mind (Mental) – Makes everything understandable in practical, human terms
  
• Body (Physical) – Hands write the poetry and physical plane helps in making intangible concepts tangible
  

All three elements of soul, mind and body should be co-ordinated to create a great poem, although one element shall always dominate in a poem. Where the soul dominates, a poem becomes heart-centred and all those who read that poem shall feel its effects deep within their being. Soul-centred poetry can transform an individual. The most profound example I have been fortunate enough to come across is the Sikh Holy Scripture, the Shri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, which is a perfect combination of words and sounds from the soul that speak to all parts of the human psyche to create a total transformation in being.

Where the mind dominates, a poem becomes very practical and down-to-earth in its advice, again depending upon the degree of clarity of mind of the writer. Where a poet's mind is very jumbled and restless, the poetry shall be jumbled and restless. Where a poet's mind is very emotional and commotional, the poetry shall also be full of emotions and feelings. The reader of this poetry shall also become emotional and commotional. However, where a poet has a clear and controlled mind, the poetry will become very cutting, direct and practical with very little wastage of words to bring a point across. Again, this type of poetry can be seen within passages of the Shri Guru Granth Sahib Ji.

Finally, the body or physical plane is used to write the poetry i.e. the hands, but also the physical plane may be used within poems to represent intangible elements within a tangible context, for example using metaphors such as 'my love shined as bright as the sun', or similes such as 'my anger became red hot like a volcano' or anthropomorphism such as 'the words from her mouth began to dance in my heart'.

It is my personal belief that everyone, including you, should write poetry and experiment with stringing words together about experiences you have in your day-to-day life. The privilege of knowing how to write should be enough reason to write some poetry, not everyone has that privilege and those of us who have should use it to share our deepest emotions,thoughts and ideas that may inspire others in their lives.

Sat Naam.