Yet still, this light eludes us. In our multicultural society, where festivals abound, where our people are engaged in religious activity almost daily, where knowledge is made accessible to all, our own Mother Earth is burdened by the crippling effects of our actions. The gruelling winds of ignorance have swiftly diminished the brilliance of enlightenment everywhere.  Such overpowering darkness has plagued us to such an extent that we find ourselves gripped under a State ofEmergencyat this time.  Indeed, rivers of blood adorn Mother Earth. The battle between good and evil is grossly imbalanced. Such a state of affairs is an antithesis to our religious actions.

The many packed houses of worship during religious celebrations bear testimony to the fact that as a people, there is no doubt that we love to praise the Lord, to commune with Him through various ritualistic actions. Yet, the state of affairs in our land paints a completely different picture where disrespect and disregard for life and limb are openly displayed, where we are judgemental of others and where respect and brotherly kinship are far removed from our daily lives.

Man’s inhumanity to man has reached to such a level that the leadership of our land was left with no choice but to declare a State ofEmergency.  In a way, such a state of restriction can be compared to the role played by Lord Vishnu when the ocean was churned thousands of years ago.  Today, more than ever, there is need to churn the unconscious within to maintain order, rooted in right action. Of course, the mountain of mental advancement, like the great Mandrachal Mountain, is a necessity in this churning process, for without this tool of knowledge, then  egoism, pride, greed, anger and other such qualities remain cemented  within and the sustenance needed, symbolised by Lord Vishnu, will be gradually lost.

As we prepare to celebrate the festival of Kartik Nahaan, SWAHA urges all to delve deep within, to continue to churn and relentlessly seek to emerge with the gems of serenity, tranquility of mind, faith, endurance, renunciation of selfish actions and control of the senses. May the flow of the purifying waters of Gangaa Maataa direct our gaze towards divinity.

It is through the process of reflection we are able to understand the impact of our ancestors on our lives and then the role we are to play in the lives of others. We have been blessed with the greatest value system known to man and that value system is reflected in the teachings of all other World Religions. This value system is embedded in our psyche through the efforts of our ancestors and their sacrifices and so it guides our actions and behaviours. Through reflection we are able to reconnect with our ancestors by recommitting to the ideals cherished by them.

This reflection though, is not just a cognitive exercise, but should lead to some affective outcome where we can appreciate our current status and decide on the way forward for Sanatan Dharma. Western influence has changed the social, religious and psychological landscape of each of us and has forced us to grapple with issues of our beliefs, practices and identity. How do we survive in a world in which we are traditional and cultural immigrants as opposed to natives? This is a discussion that must take place amongst the leadership of Hinduism in Trinidad and Tobago as a priority in defining a future for Hinduism in our nation. Daily, we are under attack and bold efforts made by others within and outside of our fold are threatening the very foundation upon which our great tradition is built.

Sadly, we  sometimes become the architects of our own demise and we are usually participants in such efforts to bring down our own way of life. The choices we make, from our food, clothing, places and people of association, allocation of our resources and the entertainment in which we engage communicate our personal philosophy and hence speak to the values, beliefs and ideals we hold. There is now a greater focus on self gratification and not sacrifice for the welfare of man and Dharma. Cosmetic beauty and leisure have become common place and the size of the Mandir is gradually becoming smaller. The family unit is breaking up and no longer do we see and feel a sense of community. Opportunities for self development are being de-prioritized in exchange for immediate self-gratification and living only for the moment. Such actions, behaviour, philosophies and value system are inconsistent with that of our ancestors.

The focus on such an occasion as Pitra Paksh, in addition to the offering of Tarpan, Pitra Havan and the placing of food on behalf of the dearly departed, allows us to reflect upon our condition and ensures that we are not engaging in tokenism. Indeed, such a period provides us with  a deep reflective process that will truly bring benefits to us  and which will help to decide the positive forward flow of Sanatan Dharma.

The power to bring about change lies in the hands of you and I.

The state of independence, referred to as “swatantrataa” in Sanatan Dharma, is the state to which every one of us strives to achieve, whether we are conscious of it or not. It is the state of full realisation of one’s own true nature. True independence of a land, therefore, can only be achieved through the accumulated efforts of all citizens to attain this state of freedom, the highest state of Divinity.

But the question that begs is how far have we been able to achieve this state as a people? A brief glance at the social landscape of our country has shown that this precious “Maatri bhoomi” (Motherland) of ours has undergone vast desecration and widespread degeneration in the most basic and fundamental values of humankind. On an individual level, there has been a growing chasm between our material and spiritual actions.

Infidelity, lies, dereliction of duty and our general inhumanity to each other, reign supreme. Social mobility has taken precedence everywhere as the incessant search for material comforts and their multiplication are making slaves of us all. “Dharma” has taken a huge nosedive in the ocean of fleeting happiness and pleasures. Degradation of values, morals and ethical standards are being swiftly transmitted to the younger generation who are gradually losing respect for each other.

This heightened fixation on materialism, coupled with the overall disintegration of core morals, and, consequently, stifled human resources all lead to a state of slavery, where humans find themselves enchained within the confines of their own being. Enslaved, we may say, but certainly not independent!

However, hope for freedom is but a natural desire as individuals yearn to reveal their true independent selves. In order to free oneself, here are a few tips towards achieving personal independence which, ultimately, will spread to all beings and to our land:

1. Become a paragon of virtues for ourselves, our fellowmen and our nation.
2. Change the way we behave, how we think and be more proactive in pursuing the positive aspects of life.
3. Be vigilant and be an ambassador for dharma, emphasising the importance of duty.
4. Show real growth and do nothing to de-merit your spirituality.
5. Have a reluctance to indulge in adharmic practices.
6. Indulge in introspection as far as possible.
7. Be like the sun, which burns brilliantly and sheds its light on others. The man of self-realisation can be likened to the sun. All the other planets revolve around the sun. The sun shines majestically on all, appearing as a manifestation of the twelve sovereign powers, serving all, perpetuating life on earth. Such an attitude inspires true independence.

As we mark almost half a century of independence, it is instructive to note that self-improvement is a necessary condition for uplift of a nation. Independence can only be achieved by individual commitment, personal change and reform. Collective positive efforts of a people redound to the benefit of the society and bring true independence to a nation.

The practice of Guru Diksha or the acceptance of a Guru or spiritual preceptor has been established from time immemorial. Throughout the Maha Granth or holy scriptures we have seen the contribution of the greatest of Gurus in the likes of Sage Vashista, the Guru of the Surya Dynasty; Guru Brihaspati, the Guru of the Devtas; Guru Ashtavakra, the Guru of Raja Janak and Sage Vishwamitra.

All of these great Gurus had these qualities in common: they were highly knowledgeable and lived lives of distinction and character. This contributed to the great spiritual powers of these Maha Gurus. These Gurus maintained Truth and so their word had power (Shabd Shakti) to change and influence the life of all.

Sanatan Dharma speaks of liberation as the highest aspiration of man and it recommends that we engage in spiritual action and associate with the saints in order to begin this spiritual journey. By communion with the holy ones, we eventually accept that Guru who will give us that spiritual birth and start us on the road to spiritual awakening. The importance and place of the Guru is captured in the verse below.

“In the beginning one must have a preliminary desire for self-realisation. This will bring one to the stage of trying to associate with persons who are spiritually elevated. In the next stage one becomes initiated by an elevated spiritual master and under his instruction the neophyte devotee begins the process of devotional service. By execution of devotional service under the guidance of the spiritual master, one becomes free from all material attachment, attains steadiness in self-realization and acquires a taste for hearing about the Absolute Personality of Godhead, Sri Krishna. This taste leads one further forward to attachment for Krishna consciousness, which is matured in bhava or the preliminary stage of transcendental love of God. Real love for God is called prema, the highest perfectional stage of life.”

The verse explains the link between the Guru, our current state and the desired state. The definition of the word Guru speaks to the benefits that we derive from the Guru as he is the one who removes darkness and ignorance.

In the context of today’s society, we see a great need for the Guru and the guidance of those who have lived a life of distinction and spirituality. Through association with the Guru, we are able to be guided in the choices we make in life and thus ensure that we remain on the path to success and spirituality. Through guidance in sadhanas, we build bhakti and prem for the divine and thus we are able to elevate ourselves to the highest levels of spiritual excellence.

SWAHA fondly remembers the wisdom of our most caring, compassionate and wise Shankaracharya, the late Shri Pundit Hari Prasadji, who guided us on the path of spiritual excellence: “Although challenges will always exist and hindrances will always be placed in our path, our Scriptures urge us not to give up. Have total faith in Brahm and don’t shun your duty.”

Indeed, this response is most instructive to all, especially today, where everyone speeds along opposite lanes on the busy highway of life, unmindful of the other. How often has it been emphasised that the institution of the family is the bedrock of any society. It is not by chance then, that the seers of Hinduism, in structuring the syllabus of lifelong development for man, have placed the initial educators as parents, followed by the Guru. The natural inference then, is that a society is as strong as the family unit.

So, as the current global news headlines squeal of countless charges of corruption and associated elements, appearing under various brand-names, the questions that beg are “Who failed whom? Where do the corrective steps begin?” A brief glimpse at the styles of leadership embraced by various national administrations in their efforts to stem the spate of crime indicates the global concern for man’s survival, morally. The many social and educational development programmes being initiated, most certainly, may create some small dent in the ballooning whirlpool of adharma. In our country, attempts to review the school’s curriculum, to harness early childhood programmes under the reins of improved constructivism, to focus more on the teaching of religion in school and to address burning social and health issues must be applauded.

However, such efforts are an attack on the symptoms of the ills and not the causes of degradation. In the drive to heal the social diseases of our ailing society, we are simply attempting to change the scenery, not the vision. Such measures, though providing short-term relief, can be compared to repainting a dilapidated building. The pillars of Sanatan Dharma, namely, satyam (truth), soucham (cleanliness), dayaa (compassion) and daan (charity), are the foundation blocks upon which the house of social, intellectual, spiritual and physical development is built. These pillars can only be cemented within an individual from the stage of childhood. Naturally, the seed of growth takes root in the home.

“Satyam maataa, pitaa gyaanam” – Truth is mother, wisdom father. Indeed, parents play a pivotal role in a child’s life. Mothers transmit the spirit of moral, virtuous and spiritual enhancement to their children. The father’s wisdom, like the “dharma-rath” – chariot of dharma – inspires his children to develop qualities of courage, valour, endurance and fortitude. Such qualities serve as a “kavach”, an armour, to keep them in good stead as they ride out on the highway of life.

Studies have shown that parents’ care and love of their off-spring prevent issues such as psychological maladjustment, substance abuse, depression, emotional disruptions and other similar problems, many of which are at the core of criminal activity. It would serve leaders well if technocrats would shift gears and turn to the direction of parents in the process of transformation. Once parents recognise the critical role they play in their children’s success, general uplift is assured. Also, once children acknowledge the sacrifice of parents and honour the divinity in them, the road to self-development, societal uplift and ultimately, national improvement will be a bright one.

Each child is an individual, as well as, a member of a family and community, with rights and responsibilities commensurate with his/her age and developmental stage. The fundamental rights of every child include the three Ps:

• Provision of adequate standard of living, healthcare, education, food, play and recreation.
• Protection from abuse, neglect, exploitation and discrimination.
• Participation in communities, programmes and social service activities.

It is very important that we be aware that such rights exist, and that in fact, it is law that the Convention of Children’s Rights be respected and adhered to in Trinidad and Tobago. Far too often the daily newspapers carry headlines that depict the atrocious crimes that are committed against children in our country. Children are murdered, abused and left to fend for themselves because we, the adults, are too tangled in our own pursuit of ‘happiness’. The birth of a child is a time for merriment, rejoicing and gratitude. It is a time of bonding for the couple, and the larger family circle.

It takes more than parents to mould a child; rather the family, community and society as a whole need to become involved. As a people, we have strayed so far from this thinking that we sometimes notice misguided children or parents and dare not comment or offer advice. The change in approach ought to stem from the older and wiser members of society – the adults. We need to become more committed and engaged in the bigger picture: creating a world in which children are cared for, nurtured, protected and treasured.

It is not the prerogative of adults to rescind the rights to food, education and play. These are basic human rights, whether the child’s behaviour is inappropriate or improper. Furthermore, there are more creative and constructive ways of handling indiscipline in the home and the classroom than beating or, as we commonly say in Trinidad and Tobago, giving licks. Research has demonstrated that beating a child is a form of abuse and exploitation that carries only one message to the child – it is ok to hit when you do not get your way. For this reason, the circle and cycle perpetuates: parent/teacher hits so the child learns that this is a valid approach to dealing with problems, and he/she adopts it. And so, it continues ad infinitum. ‘Spare the rod and spoil the child’ is really not a proverb for our times; it is in fact quite passé and old-fashioned.

The Ramayan teaches that if the children in a society are neglected or ill-treated, the society is doomed to fail and disintegrate. In this light, Swaha has already taken steps to care for children in such conditions. The Vishok Bhavan (Children’s Home) was opened with this thinking in mind. It is our start to making a change and difference in society. Armed with the right knowledge and the right attitude, small in-roads can be reached. Recognising the rights of a child is certainly a culture shock for many Trinbagonians. We are accustomed to exerting our authority without considering the feelings of the child. It is time that this belief undergoes a revolution. The job of parents and teachers is awesome and understandably overwhelming; nobody ever said that it would be easy! We should be well-prepared if we plan to assume such roles. A change in perspective is needed: we are not putting the children in charge; we are simply treating them with the respect, care and love that are privileges of every human being.

He climbed down the side of the cliff and held on to the root just as the lion came roaring to the edge of the cliff, the same spot that he was standing. As he was handing from the root, wary of the lion prowling at the top, he saw two rats, one white and one black, gnawing at the roots. He was in a predicament since there was danger above and danger below; he was surrounded by the inevitability of death.

As he was contemplating his predicament, he looked forward and saw a little nook that hosted a bee hive. He immediately became happy as he realized that the hive was saturated with honey. Oblivious to the impending danger, he pushed his hands into the hive and began to eat the honey to his hearts content.

This Itihaas has multiple meaning and can be considered valuable from many perspectives. Firstly, it tells us that life is fraught with danger and inevitable death. The problem stems when we are unaware of these realities and become lost in the sweetness of life, indulging the senses only.

The two rats represent the passing of time, night and day while the lion represents all the dangers and threats to our existence daily. Time is the greatest force and it waits on no one. Therefore while we indulge the senses, enjoying daily we are sometimes unaware of our responsibilities and our duty to pursue our spiritual nature and goals.

Sanatan Dharma tells us that we have four goals in life – Aarth, Kaam, Dharma and Moksh. Therefore we have material goals (Aarth, Kaam) and also spiritual goals (Dharma, Moksh) and are required to be mindful of both set of goals as we go trough the corridors of life.

The Itihaas may also be looked at from a different perspective also in that there are many negatives and undesirables in this life. We live in a society that is filled with sadness, danger, depression and fear. However in the midst of Kalyug, there are still many opportunities for us to enjoy. Nature and life has many beautiful and sense satisfying stimuli and we are allowed to enjoy life to the fullest, moving our minds away from that which is dark and negative. Good times with family, friends, enjoyment of music and entertainment, enjoyment of Satvic bhojan and accomplishments in life all allow for us to move above the depression of this Dark Age and allow our minds to be happy.

In light of the festive month approaching therefore, be happy and enjoy what the world has to offer. Be mindful however of the passing of time and that the reality of our existence must not be forgotten. Above all, be reminded that in enjoyment and material happiness, Dharma must guide our every action. When we pursue Aarth and Kaam, guided by Dharma then we are on the road to Moksh.

On behalf of SWAHA we wish each and every one of you a very happy end of year and a bight and prosperous new year with the promise of new opportunities, successes and renewed commitment and dedication to ourselves, to our community and most importantly, to our God and Dharma.

Boliyay Shri Swaha Mata Ki Jai!!!!!!!!
Boliyay Shri Sat Sanatan Dharma Ki Jai!!!!!!!

This inner craving for light, though much more espoused at Divali, is the perennial search by humans as we strive to achieve the state of realisation of our own Divinity. In countless ways we seek to have Maataa Lakshmi appear in our lives just as she did when the ocean of milk was churned by the Devtas and danavas. In like manner we too must face our own battles between the forces of good and evil by churning the unconscious within. By harnessing the ego, as was the snake Vasuki, according to mythology, we need to constantly journey on the path of self-restraint and positive virtues, never for a moment relinquishing our efforts in the face of challenges and misfortunes.

With firm belief, perseverance and an unwavering adherence to the pillars on which Sanatan Dharma stands, we plant our feet on the solid rock of our faith and never turn back. Of course, the constant company of Divinity will ensure that the task, though daunting at times, will be accomplished. Such was the role of Bhagavan Vishnu, who assumed the form of Koorma, the tortoise in the ocean. No stranger to truth, no dereliction of duty, no dilution of faith do we subscribe to amidst the stormy ocean. With resilience, solid integrity and enthusiasm and armed with the mountain of mental advancement, we churn deep into the inner recesses of our hearts. We seek the light of Divinity. We yearn for that realisation of “I am Brahman!”

Though the road may seem long, with disappointment and dismay making the churning process an uphill task, it is worthwhile to note that adversity is really a trial of principles and often brings out the true spirit and character of man. This is clearly seen in the deeya that withstands the strong breeze that wafts its way through the cold night air. Despite its challenges, the tiny flame emanating from two or three wicks continues to bring light to the darkened world. In like manner, our vision of light should never be allowed to be thwarted by spells of gloom, but instead, be used to transform the darkness around us. Indeed, achieving the victory of good over evil depends to a great extent on inner fortitude and courage.

With time, effort, sacrifice and surrender to the Lord, this churning process ends. The goal is attained with the appearance of the Divine Mother within. Light triumphs! The innate craving is satiated as light magnifies the awareness of the ever-present divinity within. Agyaan or ignorance with its companions of attractions, dislikes, egoism and the fear of death all fade into oblivion. The consuming darkness of indigence, hunger, anger, material cravings, delusion, cruelty and strife makes way for wealth, both material and spiritual, power, knowledge, wisdom and prosperity. Such transformation facilitates the transcending of the nights of anger, death and delusion. Siddhi-daayani, the bestower of Success, Lakshmi Maataa, assures all Her children of unbounded wealth and prosperity. May each of us experience that close, ever near presence of Lakshmi Maataa in our hearts. May our land be blessed by Her bounties.

Shubh Divali.

Independence allows freedom from the control, influence, support or aid of others. It implies that we, as a country, can comfortably put systems in place to manage the myriad state resources to ensure a successful, happy and peaceful population. There is no doubt that Trinidad and Tobago has made tremendous strides under self-governance. Most citizens can now enjoy a better quality of life; the government has recognised that the vast natural resources that define Trinidad and Tobago can also be extended to those abroad by creating a booming tourism industry. Yet still there remains a lot to be desired.

It was approximately five months ago that the population elected a new government. The people recognised the need for change and they acted upon it. This is, and will continue to be, a tremendous milestone in our country’s history. We have placed our confidence in the vision and plans of a new regime. The expectations are very high and, with most things, we would like swift action.

The authorities are first and foremost responsible for the safety and peace of mind of their citizens. We should be able to enjoy the fruits of our hard labour without fear or anxiety. Certainly a country’s independence should also ensure the independence of each man and woman in its population. Living in fear cannot be freedom.
In addition, society has now undergone a widespread degeneration in the most basic and fundamental values of humankind: infidelity, lies and a general dismissal of duty currently reign supreme. Also, man finds himself more materialistic than before. A better quality of life and a higher standard of living have unfortunately accorded humanity with a more mercenary and worldly nature. We want the best and latest brands, a fad that is quickly being transmitted to the younger generation.
Swaha opines that there are three principal factors that have contributed to society’s current state: a heightened fixation on materialism, an overall disintegration of core morals and consequently, stifled human resources. These have produced a certain lack of spirituality that defies all odds and encourages individuals to commit senseless acts without remorse.

Who do we blame? The government? Society? The media? Only ourselves. We each play an integral role in society, and the strengths of each individual are indicative of a functional community. For this reason, all Swaha centres hold regular Sunday morning services, run extracurricular activities and host countless cultural and religious celebrations. Jaago Musaafir! Wake up! Get involved. Get your friends and family involved. This is the way we can leave our mark on tomorrow’s society.

The promise of the Lord to partake of everything that is offered to Him with love is enunciated clearly by Lord Krishna in Chapter Nine, verse 26, of Bhagavad Gita: “Whosoever offers to Me with love, a leaf, a flower, a fruit or even water, I appear in person before that disinterested devotee of sinless mind, and delightfully partake of it”. This is also exemplified in Shrimad Bhagavat Puraan when the Lord appeared to partake of all the offerings made to him on Mount Goverdhan. Without a doubt, the Lord stretches His hand in acceptance to anything that is offered to Him, with love. These words are echoed through every Hindu scripture and through the lives of every devotee who surrenders his total faith to the Divine. The key factors are faith and love. If these are the chief ingredients in all our offerings, there should be no need to claim ‘miracle’ or ‘phenomenon’.

In proclaiming the attributes of Lord Ganesh, the Ganapati Atharvasheersh stotra states that the Lord is everything, including the five elements from which matter is made. Metaphysically speaking, this milk that is offered signifies consciousness. Incidentally, the elephant head and human body of Lord Ganesh symbolises this state of non-duality. In order to ascend to such a state where one’s vision is one of subjectivity, and unity in diversity, the individual needs to assume a lifestyle that accords him the tool of discriminative power, permitting full awareness of this consciousness. This takes place symbolically, when matter is merged in consciousness.

In this light, one can interpret recent happenings in quite a different way. The act of Lord Ganesh drinking milk is representative of man’s consciousness being consumed by matter. This indicates a loss of knowledge, and a weakening of man’s discriminative ability. Man will find himself now less able to decipher and discriminate right from wrong. Lord Ganesh’s drinking of milk therefore presages greater problems both for the individual, and the world as a whole. Man will find himself further burdened socially, physically and mentally. This event also forewarns an increase in natural disasters.

As expected, news of the milk-drinking event has brought about a rapid increase in Ganesh-awareness and an instant rise in religiousness. Such ‘flashes of faith’ are to be regarded with careful and mindful eyes. Many have claimed that their faith has been strengthened and that they have been motivated to move ahead in the path of religion. While these spurts of outpouring love for the Lord help to inculcate positive vibrations, it is recommended that such emotions become a way of life. Lord Ganesh is the Remover of obstacles, and today He advocates that man embark upon a life of intense austerities and devotion in order to overcome the impending challenges that are foreshadowed by recent milk-drinking.

Pt. Hardeo Persad
Paramacharya Swaha International