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Source: The Hindu (http://www.the-hindu.com)

 

Two categories of human beings

 

CHENNAI, JAN. 8. Among human beings, we generally come across two

types - those who spend their time and energy on the spiritual

path resorting to acquisition of knowledge, conducting worship

and doing service, without however sacrificing the household

chores and responsibilities. With the merits so gained, they will

lead life of purity and contentment. The other category of

people, with materialistic outlook, will fritter away their

efforts chasing the vanishing pleasures, not realising that the

same, in the long run will result in mental agony, distress and

physical discomfort.

 

Their existence in life can be compared to the tortoise which

kept floating in a big vessel containing cold water. As the

latter is heated from below, it will enjoy the stay there

initially because of the warmth. But as the water becomes hot, it

will be unable to withstand the temperature and ultimately

perish. Pleasures may fetch temporary happiness but they will

push men into an abyss gradually.

 

People should endeavour to ascertain the source of such pleasures

and realise how their lives are also being buffeted by various

agencies but still they can experience bliss if they keep their

heads cool and remain unperturbed by favourable as well as

adverse factors. People, who are not warned about the

consequences of their deeds, should try to return to the path of

religion and uphold the directives given in our holy texts. God,

who is merciful and ready to help those who wish to give up their

attachment, sends saints to guide such aspiring people. Such

divine souls will never claim any superiority. Those who happen

to move intimately with such saints will derive all benefits and

will be weaned away from the allurements. One such dignitary who

was with us not long ago was Sri Pamban Swamigal who was so

compassionate to every creation of God, be it a man or an animal

or any living organism.

 

There was a strange incident in the life of this saint, who had

adored Lord Subramania in his several books and hymns when he was

admitted in the General Hospital in Chennai for a fracture in

December 1920. Doctors felt that the broken bones would not

unite. As one who totally relied on God's mercy, he refused for

an amputation. His disciples then invoked God through the

continuous recitation of the Swamigal's ``Shanmuka Kavacham'' and

the bones got set. This incident is being celebrated by devotees

as he had vision of Subramania, dancing on two peacocks, with a

charming child lying nearby. Sri C. V. Sadanandam, narrated the

life of this religious guide and the details about the ``Mayoora

Vahana Sevai'' in a lecture.

 

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