Are we happy with our surroundings? Are we happy with our own performances and achievements? And, do we keep thinking to change and improve upon them, but find ourselves stranded and ineffective? What to do then? What does Amma say on this?

In Chicago, in 1993 Amma said:- "Contentment and happiness depend solely on the mind, not on external objects or circumstances. Happiness really depends on self-control. Both heaven and hell are created by the mind. Even the highest heaven turns into hell if the mind is agitated; whereas, even the lowest hell will become a blissful abode for a man endowed with a peaceful and relaxed mind. Religion is the science which teaches us how to live a happy and blissful life while still living in this diverse world."

The underlined portions direct us to the path of happiness.

 It is the mind that needs to be tamed.

 It is desired to have self-control.

 Religion is the science for happiness.

Amma further said: “All the chaos and confusion that prevail in an individual's life, at the national level and in the world as a whole, exist only because we have failed to practice true religious principles in our day to day lives.”

Summarily, our Guru guides us to follow the real moral and spiritual principles in practice, not to let them be just written in scriptures or spoken by some leaders!

Is there any religion in the world worth its name that doesn’t preach values of life for a good moral and ethical behaviour with everyone? Why most of us have though read them, yet have not adopted in our lives?

Who can oppose love and compassion for all? Still, what is it that creates confusion and chaos in society? Even though we may agree to accept others as equals, why at times it becomes difficult for us to behave in the ideal social manner?

Is it not the lack of our self-control and a disregard for the needs and space of others around us? How to overcome that weakness of our minds in trying times? And, shall we not change our world by simply changing our own selves?

Yes, we can and shall surely change everything around us by self-introspection and by broadening attitude of our minds. Amma’s IAM (Integrated Amrita Meditation) techniques and Amrita Yoga do go a long way to help us move forward for a healthy change in us and in our connection with our surroundings too. Let us resolve to practice these daily to be happier and healthier human beings!

- Aalok