29-31 Dec 2024, Amritapuri – AYUDH International Representatives Meet
The AYUDH International Representatives Meet, titled “A Meeting of Hearts,” brought together over 300 youth leaders from 27 countries, uniting representatives from Europe, the Americas, Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, and India.
For three days, participants immersed themselves in Amma’s divine presence, engaging in meditation, spiritual talks, bhajans, and darshan. One of the highlights was an interactive session with Amma, where AYUDHians sought her guidance and shared their aspirations.
Amma told everyone, “We are here on this planet as if on a picnic—to look around and experience things. We don’t really belong here permanently. So, what is your vision of life?” She asked them to elaborate, and a few people shared their thoughts, many of which were inspiring.
Love is the essence
After listening to them Amma replied, “You need to understand the spiritual aspect of every religion, which is love. Religion is like the peel of a fruit, and discipline is needed to reach the sweet essence within. Then, like a river merging with the ocean, we can become one with love, effortlessly. This valuable lesson was gifted to the world by our culture.
Even if you don’t call our culture ‘Amma,’ you shouldn’t let others ridicule it or call her a prostitute. At the very least, we should study and understand the essence of our culture. Love is the foundation; love is the essence of all religions.”
Honeybee and flowers
Amma continued, “In a garden, there may be many different kinds of flowers, and some flower plants grow even in the wilderness. Yet, a honeybee isn’t concerned with the type of flower; it focuses on the nectar.
Likewise, we should develop a vision that sees goodness in everything. We shouldn’t get entangled in external pomp and rituals. Right now, it’s as though we’re eating the banana peel and throwing away the actual fruit.”
Practicality of religious practices
“Sometimes these religious practices might not appear logical, but each has a practical use. For a blind person, we teach reading through Braille. For little children, we use picture books to teach them about elephants and parrots. Later, when they see a real elephant, they recognize it because of the pictures. The teacher who taught you picture books also knew very well that it is not the real elephant.
In the same way, religious practices operate on different levels. An intellectual may find certain aspects unacceptable, but if we look deeper, we realize that practices often have a purpose. They are tailored to the level of understanding of the people. We have to go to their level to see it.”
New Year
“New Year is approaching. God has given us the canvas of life. We have our pen or brush filled with ink or paint. It’s up to us what we write or paint on this canvas.
If we choose positive thoughts, kind words and compassionate deeds, the coming year will surely be blessed. But if we do the opposite, we must bear the consequences. We must decide what we are going to write, and our life will take shape accordingly.”
Newness is now
One participant from Mysuru said, “After listening to Swamiji’s satsang on awareness and adaptability, I promise you, Amma, that starting next year—meaning day after tomorrow—I will try to adapt to every situation.”
Without missing a beat, Amma corrected her: “Not from day after tomorrow. You should start today. We must create newness within. The sun doesn’t actually rise or set; it’s the earth’s rotation that makes it appear so.
Remember, tomorrow will never become today. If you keep waiting for tomorrow, your life is bound by the calendar. We have to shape our own future—starting now.”
Raise your voice in public
A young woman shared, “Whenever I go out, if I see something wrong happening, I ask my mother, ‘Can I speak up?’ She always says, ‘No, you’re alone. Don’t go.’ What should I do Amma?”
In a sweet voice of pride and concern, Amma replied: “Many mothers are fearful and hesitate to let their daughters speak out in public. Their minds are conditioned by society’s norms, which haven’t fully changed. Untill recently, women have been viewed as objects of enjoyment, so mothers worry about their safety.
We need to stay alert and understand the society around us. Even in a literate state like Kerala, girls still can’t safely travel alone at night in some areas. We must analyze situations carefully and also consider our parents’ perspectives and life experiences. By understanding these factors, we can act wisely while still standing up for what’s right.”
The meet culminated on New Year’s Eve with a spectacular dance performance titled “Only Love” dedicated to Amma. As the clock struck midnight, participants in traditional attire joined hands and danced, celebrating the arrival of the new year in Amma’s divine presence. The moment left everyone inspired to carry the spirit of love and service into the world.
-Sakshi
