Slokam 2

Kardamma,  is said to have married the daughter of Manu and continued the process of the propagation of the human race.  Kardamma is said to have been born from the shadows of Brahma.  This is probably a poetic way of saying that the source of all creation is the same.  Kardamma is said to have spent ten thousand years at the feet of the Paramathma.

In the Kali Yuga, it may seem that it is not possible to do this, because of the distractions that demonize the mind. It is indeed a huge challenge in the Kali Yuga.  It will not be wise to ignore the fact that even putting food on the table is a huge challenge.  Then how are we going to stop the mind from panicking, seeking desires, wallowing in misery?

Along with the challenge of tremendous personal insecurity has also been granted the benefit of advances in science and physical comforts.  One of the means to attain the true objectives of life in the confused and chaotic environment is subtle meditation. 

Dedicate every breath, and more importantly, every thought to the Paramathma. Once we take our “ownership” out of the mind,  and distance ourselves even from our own physical body parts,  we can maintain tranquility within chaos.  Just as the center of a tornado is completely still,  our innermost self will be an universe of complete peace and tranquility in this world of turbulence. 

This world of Maya has been allowed to remain completely within our control.  One key caveat is that we should seek detachment.  If we seek pleasures or material wealth, the situation will reverse, with Maya taking full control of us. After that, it will be very very difficult to reverse the situation.

We cannot practice detachment, and we cannot practice not seeking rewards, unless we are sure that our basic needs will be met.  This is where our dedication or Bhakthi will be fully tested.  There is no assurance provided that our needs will be met. There is no assurance in life about anything.  This is the ultimate beauty of this existence. 

We have to take that step towards the Paramathma without the benefit of a “written contract”.  That is true Bhakthi.

Moksham will not be granted unless Bhakthi is genuine and unwavering.  This is the meaning of all the misery and suffering that we may experience in this life.

Will we have Bhakthi even if we do not succeed in anything that we do? Will we still have Bhakthi when physical disability and pain have to be endured? Will we still have Bhakthi when we are in material poverty in an ocean of prosperity?  These are the big tests and situations that will test our dedication.  If we are unable to bear what we think is “discrimination”,  we will have to start all over again. 

As long as our meditative efforts are not dropped by the way side, the Paramthma will always be there to guide and provide encouragement to stay on the course, for as long as it takes. No one will be left behind. 

May we be endowed to return the Paramthma’s compliment of holding our hands for eternity, by being unwavering in our Bhakthi, no matter what the pitfalls and calamities in our worldly lives.