It was a grim situation. Tatya Kote fell at the feet of Sainath and urged Him to revive Bayaja maa, his mother. Bayajabai, herself a devout devotee of Sainath, was on the deathbed waiting for the last word from the only God she had known. How does God convince a grieving devotee who wants his mother to be alive? How can a guru explain his disciple the irreversible course of nature, the temporariness of body, and the everlasting attribute of atman?

Sainath lovingly coaxes Tatya and assures him that He would rejuvenate Bayajabai from death provided Tatya showed him one single household on earth, where there is no death! Is this possible? Cycle of events in human life seem to follow a predestined path that is hard to understand. Death seems to be one such event that reminds the mundane man, the temporary nature of the human body and its attributes. The duty of Guru is to lead the disciple in the right path, in life and death. Sainath's guidance in this matter is quite clear. He has always guided the faithful in the right direction. A close examination of His message would reinforce the same thought. Several incidents depict the way Sainath helped His devotees by averting what could be termed as, a certain death. In some cases, He has blessed His children by providing a righteous demise, the examples of Megha, Vijayanand, Balaram Mankar and the Tiger to name a few (vide Chapter XXXI, Sai Satcharitha). Sainath Himself is believed to have given His physical body to protect ailing Ramachandra Patil, another devotee who was on the deathbed during the fateful Vijayadashami day in 1918.

The question that why one should die may not be as important as how one should live or what is to be accomplished by human life. For one who believes in Saibaba, the "thrikaala gnaani" (one who is aware of the past, present, and the future), the fear of death should never be a matter of concern because His guidance will remove one's attachment to the fear of life. Why does one want to fear death when he is not afraid of the life, which is more dreaded karmic cobweb capable of multitude of myth and deceit; the tigers and wolves that Sainath referred to? Finally, what does one achieve from a Guru who fulfils small desires but appears to let the disciple suffer by not coming to rescue at times of larger calamities? The wisdom! The realization that the karmic cycle of joy and sorrow is superceded by bhakthi (devotion) and saadhana (perseverance).
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Contributed Article: The Power of Confession

Beloved Saibandhus, Baba is only savior in my life, over the past many years of my devotion to Baba, he opened my mind in many ways. I surrendered and submitted myself to Him totally and He helped to remove all cobwebs from my conscious. It was the order of Baba to tell everything in front of all Saibandhus to get His pardon. Hence, I took a bold decision and appealed to all devotees to pray for me. It was a divine opportunity given by Baba and He notices all my progress in all stages.

I received my first gift from Baba immediately after posting my mail (April, 14, 2002) to Sai Vichaar, a package of Saibaba Books from a Saibandhu at Chennai. I was waiting for the publication in Sai Vichaar from that moment onwards; But Baba decided appropriate timing that another gift materializing. Yes, the moment the letter published (May 09, 2002), my financial problems eased and most comfortable in funds inflow. As it is just beginning of miracles, there follows many helps from Baba. Baba helped to close down the vexed loss making business without any trouble from all concerned.

Now I am feeling that Baba is within me throughout day and night, He is guiding me what to do, and helping me how to do. In short, Baba gifted me a New Life and helping me to advance in spiritual path.

There is a sure reward from Baba for all your actions. Baba Himself told in Sri Sai Satcharitha, Chapter VI "Denounce worldly honors, try to get Lord's grace and blessings and be honored in His court. Do not be deluded by worldly honor". With Baba's permission, I will present more and more of His helps in the forthcoming issues.

I conclude this letter by giving an incident how Baba prevented His devotee H.V. Sathe's temptation. "...But Baba of his own kindness wanted to correct his errors and train him aright. For instance, on one occasion when he was at Shirdi, his thoughts got loose and he went to visit a house of a lady who had a very doubtful reputation. Before going there, he paid his respects to Baba. Baba asked him, 'Have you been to Sala? (Meaning that lady's residence), Then Sathe answered, "You have made me Deputy collector, would I have become that unless I went to school?" Baba, finding that he mistook his meaning, kept quiet. Later in the day, he visited that lady. There behind a closed door or partially closed door, he was carrying on a conversation, which would soon have hurled him into spiritual ruin. However, suddenly the door was flung open, and at the threshold stood Baba, who waved his arms and made gestures to Sathe telling him, "What You came all the way to your Guru and you are descending to hell". Well at once, like a thief caught in the act, Sathe repented. Baba disappeared and Sathe left that Sala and never visited her again. Thus, his purity was saved by Baba. (From 'Life of Saibaba' by HH Pujyasri B V Narasimhaswamiji). Yes, Baba saved my purity too. Hence, I told at the beginning of this letter, 'Baba is only savior in my life' Om Sai Sri Sai Jaya Jaya Sai.

(Contributed by N. Sivanandam, Coimbatore, India)

Contributed Article: Pranaprathistapana at Hyderabad

Hyderabad Shirdi Sai devotees excitement reached its pinnacle on 17th and 18th of May, when another Shirdi Sai temple was inaugurated at Vijayapuri colony in Vanasthalipuram on 17th of May and inauguration of Dhyana Mandir at Sri Lakshminagar colony in Saidabad on 18th Morning. These two programs were graced by Guruji Shri C.B Satphathyji and witnessed by thousands of devotees.

The Lord Shirdi Sainath has blessed these two occasions, which was evident in the sudden change of the weather. Originally, Hyderabd is burning hot in the summer but, our "oldman" was taking care of His own program. The heavens had opened up on 16th night and brought a sense of relief to the residents of Hyderabad.Surprisingly enough the weather was comparatively cooler on 17th and 18th as well. The effort time and sacrifice put in by the devotees, commitee members and their family and friends is highly commended. The elaborate arrangements made for the convenience of devotees who had come to witness the events is to be greatly appreciated. The devotees went satiated spiritually and gastronomically. The whole air was resounding with the chanting of "Shirdi Sainath Maharaj Ki Jai". The fevering devotion and excitement of the devotees was obvious in their concentration and misted eyes which flowed with ecstasy looking at the divine beauty and lustre on the Murthy of BABA at Vanasthalipuram on 17th and pooja performed at inauguration of Dhyan Mandir on 18th at Saidabad temple. All the devotees participated in the Madhyahnaaarthi at the two events. Shirdi Sai Baba World Congregation Samsthan organised a discourse by Guruji on the 17th evening at Exhibition grounds.

The devotees who had come to attend the events were enchanted by love and compassion shown by Guruji. The most impressive and main feature of these events were the discourses given by Guruji C.B Sathpathyji on Sai Philosophy. Guruji said that all the people are equal in the eyes of Shirdi Sai Baba who is the ultimate Sadguru. During His time Shirdi Sai Baba never showed any distinction between children, men or women. Infact BABA was served selflessly by Bayajabai, Radhakrishna Mai, Lakshimi Bai Shinde, Mrs Kaparde,Mrs Saptanekar. All these women served Baba by feeding him and cleaning the masjid and chavadi where He slept. Guruji said that man lives in the dellusion that he cannot progress spiritually when he is tied down with marital responsibilities. Hence man seeks to be yogi or sanyasi or practice austerity and leave worldly attachments to attain god realisation. Guruji infact stressed that the bonds formed in the present brith are due to the 'rinanubanda' of our previous births hence we are attached emotionally to people. And a householder can achieve greater heights in spirituality by bringing a balanace in his family life and time spent for enchancing his spiritual knowledge. Guruji quoted the examples of Guru Nanak and Buddha who are the householders and evolved to highest level in spirituality after fulfilling their household duties. The true qualities of a devotee are love, compassion and selflessness. Only when a person has these qualities then he/she can rise spiritually.

Guruji time and again stressed to the audience that SAI SATCHARITRA is the only word of Baba which gives us answers for our problems and queries.He said that every one should read atleast a page of the holy book which was written during the time of Baba and with Baba's blessings. Mere reading is of no use, the advises given by Baba should be practiced. This statement was emphasised by BABA himself when he spoke with Mr VH.Thakur in Chapter 21 page 111 of Sai Satcharita by NV Gunaji. Baba said "What Appa told you was all right, but these things have to be practised and lived. Mere reading won't do. You have to think and carry out what you read, otherwise, it is of no use. Mere book-learning, without the grace of the Guru, and self-realisation is of no avail."

Guruji said that during the process of God realisation, man deviates from serving Sadguru. He said that "one should not add personal agenda in BABA's agenda". He elaborated it saying that man should not try to make use of Sadguru's name in furthering his popularity or gain financially. It is very vital that one keeps away the personal issues while serving Baba. He also emphasised that one need not seek to see Sadguru, Having faith and patience alone earns Sadguru's grace which is showered on the devotee through other human beings. Sadguru's touch, look and thought alone is enough to know that He is there for us and cares about us. Miracles should never be used as visiting cards of a Guru. Seeking for miracles brings about destruction of a person and puts a stop to the spiritual growth. An emotionally heightened person has a wrong perception of the guru as he tends to add his emotional feelings to what the guru has said. A balanced and stable mind is successful in pursuing the path of spirituality. Shirdi Sai has proved in his time itself that both Hindu's and Muslims are one and the same. It is the same god called with different names. Though Baba was called a fakir and dressed like one, he respected all religions and advocated Unity among different religions during His time.

Guruji has elaborated all his statements with beautiful examples which made it more interesting and practical to understand by the audience as they pertain to current context and situations. On17th evening at exhibition grounds the program ended with melodious devotional songs by young artists. On request of the audience Guruji sang a prarthana. The dance performance by small children to the tune of "Sai ki palliki challi rey" was colourful and magnificient and moved the audience.

The two days passed off without a hitch by the grace of Sadguru Sainath and the devotees who attended these events are eagerly looking forward to such events in future. May the fire of devotion ever be lit in the hearts of people forever and wipe out the feelings of anger and hatred and ever live in harmony and love.I consider myself to be fortunate to be present here during these two days.

(Contributed by Anitha Kandukuri, Canberra, Australia)
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Experiences of Devotees

Sandeep
Time and again reading experiences from other devotees made me think that if everyone is experiencing miracles on an everyday basis when am I going to be at the receiving end of this blessing from Sai. I must also at this point mention that given my scientific vigor and passion to explain everything without truly accepting them as miracles, further clouded my judgment on whether miracles do happen. Then one day it happened to me and I knew there could be no other explanation.

I was flying to India with my wife for our permanent residency interview. We were on extremely tight schedule with our flight reaching Bombay at 4:00 am in the morning and our medical appt for residency clearance scheduled at 7:30 am on the same day. There was no tolerance for any delay. A couple hours of delay would cause us to miss our medical appt without which we could not have appeared for our interview the following day leading to several issues with our immigration status. Our flight from US took off on time but within 1/2 hr of takeoff, we were alerted that there was some problem with the flight and that we had to turn around and land back at the airport we took off from. I glanced at my watch and said to myself that we should be fine as long as we reach Amsterdam to make our connection. Well, our flight was delayed for the next six hours and there was no way in hell we would have made our connection. But deep down in the corner of heart, confronting this irreversible situation, I remembered Sai and said to myself" If you do truly help your devotees in their times of need, help me out of this situation". I opened the Sai Satcharitha from my backpack and started reading it. Within 15 minutes, the pilot said that we would be ready to take off ASAP. He also announced that he had clearance from his superior to go full throttle to gain some of the lost time. I glanced at my watch again. The only way we would make our connection was if we went full speed, received clearance as soon as we approach Amsterdam and land safely giving us at least 1/2 hr to make it to our connection. Being a frequent flyer myself, I knew that for all these things to happen at the same time was next to impossible. But not in Sai's books. HE made it happen. We reached Amsterdam 12 minutes prior to the departure of our flight to Bombay, ran from one gate to the other and made our connection. Even today, I wonder how the bags I had checked in MADE this connection!

Harini
Om SaiSharanam! I am an ardent devotee of Shiridi Sainath, since past 9 years. I am taking this privilege, to share some unique experiences with Baba that happened in my life. The awesome presence of Baba was really felt during my M.Sc first year exams. When, as usually I was feeling quite edgy about how I would fare and that night I was up late studying and slept to appear for the exam next day. At around 3:30 A.m. to my surprise, I was waked up by my mother who was asking me if I turned on our audio in the dining area, to play Baba's songs. I was wonderstruck too, to hear the song playing at high volume from my bedroom. She happened to go and inquire my father and our servant boy too. None of us was responsible for playing Baba's cassette, that early in the morning. We were quite confused, astonished and still do, for how, on this earth could the Audio turn on itself and play the song. And the song goes this way `randi randi randi shiridi ki raarandi ` i.e. ' Come come come to Shirdi `. Two days later and after I finished my exams successfully, we heard that my elder sister was visiting from USA. She had asked us to book the tickets to Shirdi. We had no words to express the thrill and above all, for Baba's intention and unfathomable way of driving us to Shirdi.

Another remarkable experience was in 1999 when, I was about to come to USA to join my husband. I used to visit Baba's temple almost every Thursday near my place in Hyderabad. It was the last day I visited before coming to US and was in melancholy, feeling that I would miss for sure, all the ambience of the Sai temple and as life itself was a big puzzle from then on...I was strongly wishing for some how getting opportunities to serve Baba further. Well, we were living in NY where my husband was working as a SW consultant .The first person whom I got introduced to in USA i.e. in NY was indeed an staunch follower of Sai and I felt at great ease in the first encounter itself. Through her, the foremost thing I came to know was the presence of a wonderful Baba's temple in flushing. Then on, we used to visit flushing temple whenever it was feasible and I find no words to say about the tranquility we obtained with the devotees and their activities at the temple. Through them, I came to know about this phenomenal saibaba.org website too.

After moving on to Austin (TX) within next 6 months, surprisingly, I did gain acquaintance with quite a few of Saibaba devotees. We have often satsangs and get to share each others experiences. With his sole benediction, I'm able to happily serve him at my best and feel no abandonment of him even a bit. My husband, who was just aware of Shirdi Sai Baba, is now become a strong devotee of him, after realizing his omniscience and omnipresence in our lives. Thanks a whole bunch, for all those who came up with the Idea of ' Saichitra yatra` through which we are given more chances to meet the devotees and to avail such events spending time towards Baba. The reason for my narration is to convey that `Baba is there for all of us when ever & where ever we seek for him`. Just hold firm with his divinely words: FAITH, DEVOTION and PATIENCE. My strong prayers for all the devotees who are in desperate help and Sai shall bring soon the peace and happiness around the globe. Note: Devotees in and around Austin, willing to host Baba's picture can email me at harinibilla@hotmail.com or phone at 512- 873 -9755. Bow to Sadguru Sainath......
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Devotees say...

Gridhar Vaswani
I am a devotee of Shri Sadguru Sai. I along with my family immigrated to Vancouver, Canada in Aug. 2000. By His grace, I found a job and trying to settle down in this new country. I tried to go to Shirdi every year when I was in India. I now visit Shirdi practically daily. Thanks to saibaba.org. But I am missing the paawan bhumi of Shirdi. I don't know when Sai will call me. Though I know Sai is with us always, but still looking for A Sai Mandir in Vancouver or near by like Seattle etc. please do let me know. I shall be highly grateful.

A Sai devotee
A couple of weeks ago, I had been very tense about my projects and exams. I am exploring a new field and was struggling with my work. I had prayed to Baba and had posted a prayer requesting him to grant me what I deserved as I had worked very hard. He heard my prayers and helped me get very good grades. I doubt whether it would have been possible without his help. Thank you Baba.

A Sai devotee
Dear Sai devotees, Can anyone tell me where I can buy a copy of the book "Devotees' experiences of Sai Baba" by Shri Narasimhaswami?

TKDCS.
Dear Devotee, Reference: SaiVichar 10 April 2002. I have got back my auspicious Diary and Laptop in a miracle by Shirdi Maharaj. It confirmed me the faith in him. Even though I am a devotee for the past 12 years or more, I got shaked up many questions raised in my mind about Shirdi Maharaj for his love towards me. His ways are unpredictable. He justifies Things. Thank you dear sister.
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Prayer Club

Prasath
Jai Sai Ram Jai Jai Sai Ram .Oh lord when ever iam in trouble you used to save from that but now what happend I am in deep trouble I don't know where to go please Sai just show a light in my life I am still believing you. I want to leave my life in your lotus feet please Baba bless so that I can come to Shirdi to see you please Baba kripa karo guru deva .Jai Jai Jai guru deva

Suman Sharma
SAIRAM, Baba you are omnipresent you can see our past present and future we as human beings cannot see this and always keep on asking you to fulfill our desires and wishes which are endless. Sai please bless all and do give us what is right for us because you are the one who knows what is right and wrong. Please make our faith strong and guide us in all our actions and thoughts.

Sandeep
Sai Baba as you know my mom is sick. She is having some problem that was given to her by her in-laws and my aunts. She is such a nice lady who cannot even think of hurting anybody and all thru her life she is suffering because of these people. Now she has become so sick that she cannot enjoy her life, as she should at this age. Sai please give her peace of mind and good health. Let those people not trouble her. Give her good health and happiness. Please Sai, please make her healthy and happy. I just want to see my mom happy and healthy. You are very powerful and you can do anything you like. Please make let my mom have what she deserves. I love my mom so much. She means everything to me.

A Sai devotee
Dear Baba, You know very well what is happening in my life. Please forgive for all my sins if any and please bless me with a kid. I have done all the pooja, visited all astrologers, and visited all the temples including Shirdi. However, no result. Why are you doing this to me? My parents are your devotees and my niece's name starts with your name. Why are you doing this to me? Before I got married, I had visited Shirdi in October and prayed to be married before February, and my marriage was fixed in February. Now why are you doing this to me? I don't want to be alive with this kind of life without a kid. Please BABA, please grant my wish.

Shalini Agarwal
I never am done asking for help from you all Sai devotees! I know I should help you all more too. Please Sai and Sai devotees, help my husband understand that I do need surgery. Help him see through it. I know he is worried about me, but has to listen to me, please pray for me, I am really suffering! Thanks!
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Quotation of the Week
"It is of primary importance to attune with God through prayer, worship and the chanting of God's holy names. Then God Himself will give you good guidance" - Ganapathi Sri Sachchidananda Swami ji
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Question of the Week

Q. Does Baba punish one for his/her bad actions?

A. by Shyamala Hari
Satcharitha gives us the story of Sapatnekars. Mr.Sapatnekar lost his only son and was heart broken. When he went to Baba and prostrated, he received a "Get away from here" yelling from Baba. Sapatnekar continued to get this reception. Every time he approached Baba until one year later, when Baba was pleased with Mrs. Sapatnekar's devotion and Sapatnekar again tried to receive Baba's blessings along with his wife. At that time, Baba explained why he was angry with Sapatnekar earlier. Baba said "This fellow blames Me and charges Me with killing his son. Do I kill people's children? Why does this fellow come to the Masjid and cry? Now I will do this, I will again bring that very child back in his wife's womb." With these words He placed His blessing and on his head and comforted him saying - "These feet are old and holy, you are care-free now; place entire faith in Me and you will soon get your object." Baba often said that one has to suffer the consequences of one's past Karma. Sometimes, to relieve devotees' sufferings, Baba even took their suffering on Himself. Whatever we undergo, pleasure or pain, is a result of our past actions and Baba does not take it upon Himself to punish us for our bad actions. However, if we appeal to Him for help, He takes it upon Himself to reduce or eliminate the suffering by some means, which He only knows. He is there to help but never hurt.
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Sai Activities

Sai Vani

Sai Vani a one hour audio program dedicated to Shri Sadguru Sainath Maharaj will air on 89.3FM radio station in New Jersey, USA every Sunday from 8am to 9pm. The same program will also be aired for the first few weeks on Thusrdays evenings. For the broadcast timings listen to the promotion on 89.3FM radio in NJ.

For the rest of the Sai devotees worldwide, the program will be put on the net at www.saibaba.org next week. Log on to the web site next week and listen to the first part.

Akhanda Sainaama Jaap, United Arab Emirates
With the Blessings of Lord Sainath and Parama Pujya Shivanesan Swamiji, Akhanda Sainama Jaap (OM SAI SRISAI JAYA JAYA SAI) and Sai Bhajans are being held at Hotel Imperial Suites (8th Floor Hall), P.BOX 52444, Bur Dubai, UAE on the 6th, 7th and 8th of June 2002 by the devotees of New Delhi and Hyderabad. There will be Nama Jaap / Bhajans in devotees residences and other holy places at the invitation of devotees and Mandir Committees.

For details please contact: Shri D S Agarwal (adexport@vsnl.com); Shri Daulat (mpile@emirates.net.ae); Shri Sanjay Pal (Tel:0504941815); Shri D Sankaraiah (sainama@yahoo.com)

Shirdi Sai Baba Prayer Center, VA
Saibaba.org invites you to join in Shirdi Sai prayers, Bhajans, Kirtans, arathis, etc every sunday at Compton Village Community Center from 10am to 1pm starting Sunday, May 26th. For more details contact Padma Balusu at (703) 631-0972, Kumar Swami at (703) 352-6704 or email us at maildrop@saibaba.org

Shri Shirdi Sai Chitra Yatra 2002 in UK
Devotees may participate in Shri Shirdi Sai Chitra Yatra currently underway in UK. To invite Baba to your home and for further details please contact Manu Bajaj at bajaj_manu@yahoo.com or call at +44 7905 933 489 in Wembley, UK

Shirdi Sai Baba Prayer Center, NJ
Sai Devotees of New Jersey and saibaba.org invite you to join us for Sai bhajans, Sai leela, Saicharitra readings, aarti and prasad every sunday at VFW hall at Henderson Rd, Kendall Park, NJ from 3pm-6pm. For further details or directions contact Kumad Sachdev at (732) 257-1438, Shyam Addanki at (804) 967-0833, Prasanna Vadan at (510) 469-6973 or email us at maildrop@saibaba.org.

Shirdi Sai Chitra Yatra, Toronto, Canada
Devotees in TORONTO, are invited to please join us in Satsang and bhajans as part of Shirdi Sai Chitra Yatra at Durga Mandir 2691 Markham Rd. Unit #5 every Thursday from 6:30pm to 8:00pm. For any details and directions contact Shammi Chopra at 905 887 1752 or shchopra@trebnet.com or visit www.saibaba.org

Shirdi Sai Chitra Yatra and Sai Satsang, Twin Cities, MN
For Shirdi Sai Satsang and Sai Chitra Yatra in Twin Cities MN, please contact Ravin or Sunitha at 763-862-3910.

Shri Shirdi Sai Chitra Yatra 2002 in USA
"Shri Shirdi Sai Chitra Yatra(Pictorial Journey)", started in USA on Jan 01, 2002. With anchor points across USA concurrently participating from day one, this unique event is off to a great start.

The journey which involves the ceremonial travel of Baba in the form of a portrait will stop at all Baba devotees homes who are interested in being a host to his protrait. The Yatra which will run till fall of this year, is open to one and all. There is no fees or charges involved to take part in this event. You may participate either as a host home or serve as an anchor point in your community.

Vist online at yatra page for all the details and to register.

For questions, comments, suggestions or to get details on an Anchor home in your area, send us an email at maildrop@saibaba.org with the subject line of "Shri Sai Chitra Yatra".
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