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Ramesh, a professional auto driver from Uttarahalli, Bangalore, embarked on an unexpected spiritual journey that transformed his life. On a bustling weekday afternoon, as he tirelessly ferried passengers, he had a chance encounter with a Sai sister. This serendipitous meeting opened the doors to Sri Sathya Sai Vaatsalyam, a place he had never heard of until just a few months ago.
Read on to know how a random meeting turned into a life-altering event for Ramesh.
A Chance Encounter and the Birth of Curiosity
As Ramesh drove the Sai sister to the Narayana Seva location, he was eager to learn more about this volunteering activity and the significance of Narayana Seva. His curiosity was piqued, and he couldn’t help but inquire about the Narayana Seva schedule. This conversation planted the seeds of interest, and he expressed a strong desire to visit the Sri Sathya Sai Vaatsalyam campus and serve as a volunteer.
Upon reaching the destination, his readiness to assist didn’t end with dropping off the Sai sister. When she asked if he could wait and take her back home after the Seva, Ramesh agreed without hesitation. His selflessness was evident, and it marked the beginning of his journey into the world of Seva.
At the conclusion of the trip, in addition to the fare, Ramesh received a package of freshly-prepared Narayana Seva prasadam. This humble offering not only filled his hungry stomach but also filled his heart with gratitude and eagerness to be part of this selfless service. Ramesh even committed to providing his transportation services to her every week, a small but meaningful way for him to be involved in this noble cause.
The Transformative Visit to Sri Sathya Sai Vaatsalyam
A few months later, the same Sai sister needed Ramesh’s service to travel to Sri Sathya Sai Vaatsalyam in Uyyamballi village, Kanakapura Taluk. As he approached the Ashram, he was overwhelmed with delight. The campus, nestled in lush green surroundings, was beautifully adorned and equipped with top-notch facilities for Seva activities.
Upon stepping inside, Ramesh felt an immediate sense of purity and tranquility that washed away the chaos of his daily life. The positivity he gained from merely being in the Ashram and the fulfillment he experienced while serving others ignited a desire to become a better person. He was inspired by the essence of ‘Paropakaratham Idam Shariram‘ – this body is meant for the service of others, the motto of the Sri Sathya Sai Premaarpitham Foundation.
Transformation and Lifelong Commitment
Ramesh’s visits to Sri Sathya Sai Vaatsalyam became more frequent, and with each visit, he underwent a significant transformation. He describes the Ashram as “Sarva Janangada Shantiya Thota,” borrowing lines from the Kannada State Anthem – Jaya Bharatha Jananiya Tanujathe, which means that people of all religions and castes live together in peace like a garden filled with different beautiful flowers.
What struck Ramesh the most was “the discipline that volunteers adhered to and the humility with which everyone treated each other”. He was thrilled to learn that the Ashram provided equal opportunities for individuals to serve, regardless of their backgrounds. Ramesh also appreciated the well-planned and systematic facilities at the Ashram, which helped him connect with his inner peace.
He shares, “It often felt like the Ashram resembled a ‘Shanti Dhama’, a place where worries and sorrows vanished, replaced by positivity, peace, and uplifting thoughts.”
Ramesh likened the Ashram to a magical land, a place that made him forget his personal worries when he engaged in Seva activities. His visits brought about positive changes in his life, including reduced anger, negative thoughts, and improved health and discipline. He believed he had gravitated towards a more spiritual and divine path and aspired to carry the positivity he found at the Ashram into his daily life.
Constantly listening to Bhagwan’s Bhajan and discourses as he drove his auto, Ramesh drew strength and positivity for his busy days from these teachings. His commitment to these spiritual practices began to radiate in his interactions with passengers, making their journeys not just about reaching a destination but also about sharing moments of serenity and inspiration.
Ramesh’s spiritual journey from a chance encounter with a Sai sister to a dedicated Seva enthusiast is a testament to the transformative power of selfless service and spiritual environments. His story serves as a reminder that even the busiest lives can be enriched with purpose and inner peace through acts of kindness and devotion.
Ramesh’s commitment to carrying the lessons he learned at Sri Sathya Sai Vaatsalyam into his daily life is an inspiring example for all of us to follow on our own spiritual journeys.
