Leadership is a term often associated with power, influence, and the ability to guide others. However, true leadership starts from within. Before one can effectively lead others, one must first have mastery over oneself, particularly over one's mind and its inherent tendencies. This inner leadership, rooted in self-awareness and self-control, is the foundation upon which great leaders are built.

Understanding Mental Propensities

Mental propensities are the inherent tendencies or inclinations of the mind. These can range from emotions like fear and hope to desires such as greed. Every individual possesses these propensities to varying degrees, and they play a significant role in shaping our thoughts, actions, and decisions.

Greed: An innate human tendency, greed can drive individuals to act selfishly, often at the expense of others. While ambition is healthy, unchecked greed can lead to unethical decisions and actions.

Fear: Fear is a natural emotion that can either paralyze us or propel us forward. Leaders must learn to manage and channel their fears constructively.

Hope: A powerful motivator, hope can inspire and drive positive change. However, unrealistic hope can lead to disappointment and disillusionment.

For a leader, the unchecked sway of these propensities can cloud judgment, leading to decisions that may not be in the best interest of the collective. Hence, mastering these tendencies is crucial.

Yoga: The Path to Self-Control

Yoga, an ancient discipline, offers tools and techniques to achieve self-control and heightened self-awareness. Central to this are the Cakras (chakras), which are subtle energy centers that influence our mental propensities.

Cakras (chakras) and Endocrine Glands: Each Cakra (chakra) corresponds to a specific endocrine gland in the body, responsible for hormone production. These hormones, in turn, influence our mental states and propensities. An imbalance in a Cakra (chakra) can lead to an overactive or underactive propensity.

Meditation: The most important Yogic practice

The cornerstone of self-awareness, meditation allows individuals to dive into the higher layers of the mind unassailed by the propensities and learn to operate from within those layers. The higher layers receive a clearer reflection of the infinite perfect Consciousness within. Through consistent practice, one can gain control over their mental propensities, ensuring they act as guides rather than dictators.

Asanas and Concentration: Physical postures (asanas) combined with yogic concentration techniques help balance the Cakras (chakras), ensuring a harmonious flow of energy and a balanced mind.

Leading in Today's World

In an ever-evolving world, leaders are needed who are not just knowledgeable but also self-aware and balanced. By leading oneself, individuals can set an example for others, guiding them not just through words but through actions. When leaders are grounded in self-awareness and self-control, their decisions reflect clarity, compassion, and foresight.

In conclusion, the journey to effective leadership begins with leading oneself. By embracing disciplines like Yoga, individuals can cultivate the inner balance and self-control essential for leadership. As more individuals embark on this journey of self-leadership, society as a whole stands to benefit, paving the way for a future led by conscious, compassionate, and balanced leaders.

Martin Luther King Jr., a beacon of hope and a symbol of the civil rights movement, once poignantly remarked, "In the end, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends." This profound statement encapsulates the pain of being abandoned by those we consider allies, especially during times of adversity.

The Silence of Friends

It's a bitter truth that when someone is down, they often find themselves ignored, sidelined, or even criticized. The world has a way of turning its back on those who are struggling, leaving them to fend for themselves. Yet, it's during these challenging times that the true colors of those around us are revealed. While adversity can be a lonely journey, it's also a litmus test for genuine friendship and loyalty.

However, as the narrative often goes, once an individual rises from their struggles, overcoming all odds through sheer determination and resilience, the landscape changes. Suddenly, many "friends" reappear, drawn to the newfound success and strength of the individual they once ignored.

The Unwavering Support of Righteousness

In the face of such abandonment, there remains a steadfast ally: righteousness. When one is grounded in righteousness, even if the world turns its back, that righteousness remains unwavering. It becomes the anchor, the guiding light that pulls one out of the darkest depths.

In Yoga philosophy, this righteousness is termed 'Dharma'. Dharma is more than just a concept; it's a way of life, a path of moral and ethical living. When one stands firmly by Dharma, even if everyone else abandons them, Dharma stays. It's a protective shield, a force that ensures that justice and truth prevail. And when one emerges triumphant, having been guided by the principles of Dharma, the world watches in awe.

The Return of the Prodigal Friends

The irony of life is that success often brings back those who were absent during the struggle. Those "friends" who were silent during the toughest times return, often with heads bowed in embarrassment and shame. Their silence during the trials speaks louder than any words, and their return during times of triumph is a testament to the fickle nature of human relationships.

Conclusion

Martin Luther King Jr.'s words serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of standing by those fighting for justice, truth, and righteousness. It's easy to be a friend during good times, but true friendship is tested during adversity. As individuals, we must strive to be the voice that breaks the silence, the ally that stands by righteousness, and the friend that remains loyal through thick and thin. For in the end, it's not the challenges that define us, but how we rise above them, guided by the unwavering principles of Dharma.

Hope is a beacon of light in the darkest of times, a force that propels us forward even when the odds seem insurmountable. It's the belief in a brighter tomorrow, the faith that things will get better, and the courage to face adversity. While some individuals naturally exude hope, others may find it challenging to maintain. Fortunately, there are various approaches one can adopt to cultivate hope, and among them, Yoga stands out as a holistic method that addresses the physical, mental, and spiritual dimensions of our being.

1. The Physical Approach to Hope

At the physical level, hope is intricately linked to the Thymus gland, a vital organ located behind the breastbone. This gland plays a crucial role in our immune system and is responsible for the production of certain hormones. A healthy Thymus gland can influence our overall well-being and, by extension, our sense of hope.

Yoga, with its myriad of postures, directly impacts the hormone production of the Thymus gland. Specific asanas or poses stimulate the gland, ensuring its optimal functioning. As a result, one can experience a boost in energy, vitality, and a renewed sense of hope.

2. The Mental Approach to Hope

Moving beyond the physical, hope also resides in the mental realm, specifically in the Anahata cakra(1) (chakra). Also known as the heart cakra, the Anahata is situated at the midpoint of the chest and is considered the seat of love, compassion, and hope.

Yoga offers techniques for cakra concentration, allowing individuals to focus their energy on the Anahata cakra. Additionally, pranayama, the ancient art of breath control, serves as a powerful tool to strengthen and balance this cakra. By harnessing the power of the Anahata cakra, one can elevate their mental state, fostering a deeper sense of hope and positivity.

3. The Spiritual Approach to Hope

The spiritual dimension of hope transcends our worldly understanding. It's the connection between our individual consciousness and the vast cosmic consciousness. This infinite source of wisdom and positivity is what many seek to tap into, to experience boundless hope.

Yoga, with its profound meditation techniques, offers a pathway to this connection. Through deep meditation, one can align their individual consciousness with the cosmic consciousness, experiencing a sense of oneness and infinite hope.

Conclusion

In a world filled with uncertainties, hope remains our steadfast companion. While there are various methods to nurture hope, Yoga excels as a comprehensive approach. By addressing the physical, mental, and spiritual facets of our existence, Yoga provides a roadmap to a life filled with hope, resilience, and positivity. Whether you're a seasoned yogi or a curious beginner, embracing the teachings of Yoga can be a transformative journey towards cultivating unwavering hope.

Note: (1) The roman transliteration is “Cakra” while the pronounciation is “Chakra”. The letter “Ca” in Sanskrit is pronounced “Cha” in English. 

Meditation is a profound journey inward, a deep dive into the mind's recesses to uncover peace, clarity, and understanding. While individual meditation has its virtues, the practice of collective meditation amplifies these benefits, transforming them into a shared experience of spiritual and mental rejuvenation. 

For dedicated meditators, the incorporation of weekly collective meditation sessions can be a game-changer. Here's why:

1. Shared Energies Intensify Inner Peace

When individuals meditate, they tap into a source of internal energy and peace. Imagine then, the confluence of multiple such energies in a shared space. The room becomes alive with harmonious vibrations, and these unified energies can significantly enhance the meditative experience. Meditating in a group can create a powerful aura, which, in turn, elevates each individual's spiritual journey.

2. A Fresh Perspective on Life's Difficulties

Our perceptions shape our reality. Challenges, setbacks, and problems may seem monumental when viewed from a clouded lens. Yet, the clarity achieved through collective meditation can offer a different perspective. By joining energies with fellow meditators, we can access deeper layers of understanding and insight. This clarity ensures that issues don't appear as insurmountable obstacles but as challenges that can be faced and overcome.

3. Re-energizing the Mind

While daily individual meditation keeps the mind calm and focused, a weekly collective session acts as a booster shot, supercharging the mind. The shared energy, collective focus, and group intent combine to create an environment where meditators can recharge their mental batteries, ensuring they face the week ahead with an uplifted spirit and a fortified resolve.

4. Harnessing the Potential of Higher Mental Layers

The mind is not a monolithic entity; it consists of various layers, each with its potential and depth. Collective meditation facilitates access to these higher layers, tapping into a realm of elevated consciousness. This heightened state of awareness not only enhances the meditative experience but also aids in personal growth, introspection, and deeper self-understanding.

5. The Ripple Effect of Collective Positivity

The power of collective meditation doesn't end with the session. The positive vibes and the harmonious energy created during these group sessions act as ripples, influencing our surroundings. Engaging with the world with an elevated state of mind can result in more harmonious relationships, better decision-making, and a general sense of wellbeing.

In conclusion, while personal meditation is the cornerstone of a meditative practice, the addition of collective sessions can elevate the experience to new heights. The synergy of shared energies, collective intent, and mutual support creates an environment where meditators can thrive, grow, and face life's challenges with newfound clarity and purpose. It's more than just an addition to one's routine; it's a transformative experience that can reshape one's outlook on life.

In the seemingly never-ending whirlwind of life's duties, tasks, and responsibilities, it can be challenging to carve out time for personal care and wellbeing. It's easy to become caught up in the hustle and let self-care practices fall to the wayside. However, your personal routine is one of the most critical aspects of your life - and indeed, the core element of our teachings. Therefore, the integration of meditation and Yoga practices into your daily routine should not be an afterthought, but a well-planned, intentional action.

The first step in weaving meditation into your daily life is to set aside time each morning before breakfast. Establish meditation as a pivotal part of your morning routine. If you start your day with a shower, consider transitioning to your morning meditation right afterward. This approach aligns your body's freshness with a similarly alert mind, providing an optimal environment for deep, reflective meditation. If you're not an early shower person, at least ensure your body is refreshed before you sit down for meditation with a half-bath*.

Only after you've concluded your morning meditation should you engage in daily activities such as eating, checking messages, perusing social media, or beginning work or school. To accommodate this new routine, you may have to wake up slightly earlier than usual, which in turn might prompt you to hit the bed a bit earlier. While adjusting your sleep schedule can be an initial challenge, overcoming this hurdle and prioritizing morning meditation is an important step in your journey.

The second meditation slot should be in the early evening, before your evening meal. As soon as you get home from work or school, take some time to refresh your body and transition into your evening meditation. Following your meditation, you're then free to interact with family and friends or engage in other activities. If your home environment doesn't lend itself to peaceful meditation, consider finding an alternative space. Perhaps your workplace has a quiet area, or maybe there's a peaceful park en route to your home where you can center yourself.

If circumstances ever prevent you from meditating before your evening meal, consider meditating before sleep as a last resort. While this isn't ideal due to the likelihood of falling asleep mid-meditation, it's better than skipping your session altogether.

No matter what, strive to complete two meditation sessions each day. To begin, these sessions could be as brief as 10 minutes each. Gradually, as your comfort and skill with meditation grow, you can extend these periods. Nonetheless, make sure to meet the minimum requirement of twice daily meditation, every day.

Incorporating meditation into your daily routine not only enhances your mindfulness and overall wellbeing but also lays the groundwork for a balanced, harmonious life. Committing to this change may be challenging, but the rewards - mental clarity, stress reduction, increased focus, and overall serenity - are well worth the effort. Dedicate yourself to this transformative practice, and watch as the benefits permeate every aspect of your life.

*half-bath: a Yogic technique to refresh all sensory and motor organs in order to re-energize the body.

In our fast-paced modern society, the pursuit of material possessions and worldly success often takes center stage. The allure of ownership and the promise of a better life through material goods are continuously marketed to us. From the latest gadgets to luxurious cars and extravagant homes, we are constantly encouraged to acquire more.

Even ancient spiritual practices like meditation and yoga have not been spared from this materialistic approach. They have been commercialized and transformed into tools for stress management or productivity enhancement. The true essence of spirituality seems to have been overshadowed by the desire for external achievements and societal expectations.

From an early age, we are conditioned to follow a predefined path. Starting from kindergarten, we are indoctrinated to conform to societal norms. As we progress through high school and college, the pressure to excel and secure well-paying jobs mounts. We find ourselves burdened with loans and commitments, driving us to relentlessly pursue success in our careers.

The pursuit of material possessions and the relentless pursuit of career success leave little room for introspection or questioning the true purpose of our lives. The system encourages us to be constantly busy, with no time to pause, reflect, or explore our inner selves. 

This is not new. When I finished college, I was doing an internship in a company. There were four interns, and they were going to hire three of us. Although we were friends, we were also made competitors. Each one had to impress more to be hired. At that time, I got involved with Yoga and meditation, which proved to be a lifesaver for me. I took a short time off to attend a weekend retreat, and my boss had no problem with it. However, later on, when it was time to decide who should be let go, I was called by the boss and told that they had decided to let me go because I had other interests and had taken time off for that. They wanted people who considered their job and the company the most important thing.

Amidst this chaotic and materialistic existence, it is possible to seek solace in spirituality. It is possible to realize that there is more to life than the accumulation of possessions and the pursuit of external achievements. It is possible to understand that true fulfillment lies in nourishing the spirit and nurturing the soul.

Spirituality provides a pathway to inner peace, contentment, and genuine happiness. It is a journey of self-discovery and self-awareness. Instead of seeking validation from the outside world, spiritual seekers turn inward to find their true selves and connect with something greater than themselves.

The subtle nature of spiritual wealth makes it difficult to quantify in material terms. Unlike physical possessions, spiritual growth cannot be measured in monetary value or external accolades. It is a personal journey that defies societal norms and expectations.

However, for spirituality to flourish and have a positive impact on the world, it needs an infrastructure. It requires locations, centers, communication, and dedicated individuals working towards its propagation. Just as materialism invests resources to convince people of its greatness, spirituality also needs resources to awaken people to the purpose of life.

If you are a spiritualist or aspire to be one, then investing your personal resources into spirituality becomes essential. Whether it be financial, intellectual, or the capacity to work, contributing to spirituality helps it grow and spread its influence.

However, it is a misconception to assume that spirituality should be entirely free or affordable to all at minimal cost. By undervaluing spiritual resources, we risk starving the efforts to propagate spirituality while allowing materialists to hoard resources for their own gain. Yes, nobody should be denied the chance to learn about spirituality. Those who lack resources should be supported and sponsored, but those who have financial, intelectual, or other resources should contribute to the spiritual cause, to their capacity. 

While it is true that spiritualists cultivate qualities such as compassion, empathy, gratitude, and humility, they must also cultivate strength and a fighting spirit. Materialists may not be moved solely by compassion and change their ways; circumstantial pressure and societal activism may be necessary to challenge the status quo.

Spirituality should not be viewed solely as a personal, individual affair as propagated by materialism. True spirituality is a social affair, a vision for the society we desire to live in. It is not enough to be a spiritualist in a materialist society; we need to work collectively to bring about a shift in the consciousness of the whole society.

Young people, especially, need to awaken to the importance of spirituality. Choosing a life driven by purpose and inner growth instead of material accumulation can lead to a more fulfilling and meaningful existence. That does not mean negation of the material world but its proper utilization. 

To truly invest in spirituality is to invest in oneself—to discover the essence of who we are, to connect with our true purpose, and to lead lives that align with our values and beliefs. It is a journey that demands courage, introspection, and a willingness to challenge societal norms.

As we prioritize our spiritual well-being, we liberate ourselves from the shackles of materialism and find freedom in embracing our authentic selves. It is not against spirituality to have a wealthy society that can sustain its members, provide comfort, and well-being. In fact, a society of spiritualists will be able to share resources more equitably, benefiting everyone. However, this vision will not be handed to us by the materially privileged; it requires our active involvement and collective effort.

The idea is not to shun material resources but to use them for spiritual purpose and societal betterment. As we unite in the pursuit of spirituality, we can foster a world where true fulfillment and inner peace prevail, a world we all long to live in.

In this context personal discipline plays a fundamental role. We need to be able to control our minds and bodies. We need to be able to guide ourselves from the higher layers of our mind. Spiritual practice is essential for this personal development. 

In Ananda Marga, an acarya is a spiritual teacher who has been authorized by Shrii Shrii Anandamurti to impart initiation into the various yoga systems, including all of the lessons of meditation and asanas as required. Acaryas are also responsible for guiding and mentoring their students on the spiritual path.

The role of an acarya in Ananda Marga is to:

• Impart spiritual knowledge and guidance. Acaryas are responsible for teaching their students about the philosophy and practices of Ananda Marga. They also provide guidance and support to their students as they progress on the spiritual path.

• Initiate students into the various systems of Ananda Marga Yoga. Acaryas are authorized to initiate students into deeper Yoga practices, which is the process of transforming the mind and body in order to achieve spiritual liberation. The Acaryas of Ananda Marga can initiate in the systems of Prárambhika, Sádhárańa, and Sahaja Yoga. 

• Oversee the spiritual development of their students. Acaryas monitor the spiritual progress of their students and provide them with feedback and guidance. They also help their students to overcome any obstacles that they may encounter on the spiritual path.

• Serve as role models for their students. Acaryas are expected to live their lives in accordance with the principles of Ananda Marga. They are also expected to be role models for their students, demonstrating the values and practices of the spiritual path.

The role of an acarya in Ananda Marga is an important one. Acaryas play a vital role in helping their students to achieve spiritual liberation. They are also responsible for transmitting the teachings of Ananda Marga to the next generation.

Here are some additional qualities that are considered important for an acarya in Ananda Marga:

• Spiritual maturity. Acaryas are expected to have a deep understanding of the philosophy and practices of Ananda Marga. They should also have a strong foundation in meditation and other yogic practices.

• Integrity. Acaryas are expected to live their lives in accordance with the principles of Ananda Marga. They should be honest, trustworthy, and selfless.

• Compassion. Acaryas should have a deep sense of compassion for their students. They should be patient, understanding, and supportive.

• Discernment. Acaryas should be able to assess the spiritual progress of their students and provide them with appropriate guidance. They should also be able to identify and address any obstacles that their students may be facing.

If you are interested in becoming an acarya in Ananda Marga, there are a few things that you can do. First, you should study the philosophy and practices of Ananda Marga. You should also practice meditation and other yogic practices. Second, you should find a qualified acarya who can mentor you and guide you on the spiritual path. Finally, with the guidance of your Acarya you should apply to the Ananda Marga organization to become an acarya.

Cleanliness is not merely about maintaining a presentable appearance or a tidy living space. It goes far beyond the superficial aspects and extends to the very core of our well-being. Physical and mental cleanliness are two interconnected facets that play a vital role in shaping our health, relationships, and overall quality of life.

External Physical Cleanliness: Caring for Our Body and Environment

External physical cleanliness encompasses the hygiene and upkeep of our body, clothing, and surroundings. Taking care of our physical well-being is not only a matter of personal pride but also reflects our respect for ourselves and those around us.

Body cleanliness begins with regular bathing and using appropriate products like cotton swabs and optionally lotions, oils, and other. The act of bathing not only cleanses the body but also refreshes the mind, promoting a sense of rejuvenation and readiness to face the day ahead.

Keeping our environment clean, including our homes, is equally important. A neat and organized living space fosters a sense of peace and tranquility, reducing stress and promoting a harmonious living environment.

Internal Physical Cleanliness:

Additionally, it is crucial to be mindful of what we allow into our bodies through our diet. A balanced and nutritious diet, preferably lacto-vegetarian as recommended by yogis, nourishes both the body and mind. Avoiding intoxicating substances, tobacco, and vaping is essential to safeguard our physical and mental health. 

Mental Cleanliness: Nurturing the Body-Mind Connection

Mental cleanliness can also be divided into two. External mental cleanliness and internal mental cleanliness.

Internal Mental Cleanliness: The content we consume, such as the music we listen to, the books we read, and the movies we watch, has a profound impact on our mental state. Being selective about the information and media we expose ourselves to helps maintain a positive and healthy mindset. It involves being conscious of what we allow into our minds through our senses, such as what we see, hear, touch, smell, and taste.

External Mental Cleanliness: it delves deeper into the realm of our thoughts, emotions, and the influences that shape our minds. The most challenging aspect of internal mental cleanliness lies in managing our own thoughts and emotions. It is natural for envy, jealousy, and negative emotions to arise at times, but it is essential to address them constructively. Recognizing harmful thoughts and applying counter-thoughts that promote positivity and understanding can help purify our minds from negativity.

Mental cleanliness also involves cultivating mindfulness and self-awareness. Engaging in practices like meditation and introspection allows us to delve into the depths of our minds, understanding our emotions, and fostering inner peace and emotional resilience.

The Yogic Perspective: Shaoca (pronounced Shaucha) as a Foundation for Self-Development

In the ancient yogic tradition, cleanliness is termed "Shaoca," and it is considered the first step towards self-development. Yogis emphasize the importance of cultivating both physical and mental cleanliness to establish a strong foundation for spiritual growth.

Practicing Shaoca involves a “customs check point” for everything that enters our body and mind, ensuring that it will have a positive impact. This includes the food we eat, the media we consume, the people we surround ourselves with, and the thoughts we entertain.

By devoting time and effort to cleanliness, we establish a strong relationship with ourselves. It paves the way for greater self-awareness, self-compassion, and an enhanced understanding of our inner world.

Conclusion

The importance of physical and mental cleanliness cannot be overstated. It is a holistic approach that encompasses the care of our body, mind, and environment. Nurturing our physical health ensures that we have the energy and vitality to lead fulfilling lives, while mental cleanliness empowers us to navigate challenges with clarity and emotional resilience.

The practice of Shaoca, as advocated by yogis, encourages us to be conscious of what we consume, both externally and internally. By choosing what nourishes our body and mind positively, we create a harmonious and balanced existence.

As we embark on the journey of self-development and inner growth, let us embrace the significance of physical and mental cleanliness. By taking care of ourselves holistically, we lay the foundation for a happier, healthier, and more harmonious life. It is a journey worth undertaking—one that leads to greater self-discovery, inner peace, and the realization of our highest potential.

Introduction

Is the future of our planet, Earth, bright or gloomy? This question might weigh heavily on our minds. It is essential to recognize that we are not passive observers of the future but active creators. The outcome lies in our hands, and it is up to us to envision and work towards a brighter tomorrow. This article explores the role of human actions and the power of the mind in shaping the future we desire.

The Power of Imagination

The first step towards shaping a brighter future is to imagine it vividly. It is through our imagination that we set goals, aspirations, and visions for the world we want to create. By visualizing a better future, we ignite the spark that fuels our determination and motivates us to take action. Our imagination becomes the blueprint for progress, serving as a guiding light through uncertain times.

Action Speaks Louder than Words

Imagination is the starting point to shape the future; action is what will create it. We cannot merely hope for a better tomorrow; we must be active participants in making it happen. Waiting for others to create the future we envision is not a viable option. Each individual's actions collectively contribute to the overall outcome, so we must be proactive in driving positive change. We can not wait for anyone to take the step. We are the ones. 

Bettering Ourselves as Human Beings

Creating a brighter future requires not only external efforts but also internal growth. As human beings, we possess incredible potential and untapped capabilities within our minds. It is essential to work on improving ourselves every day, nurturing the diverse aspects of our minds.

Within each of us lies a little Da Vinci and a little Einstein, representing creativity and intelligence. By allowing these traits to flourish, we can bring innovative solutions to complex problems. Similarly, there is a little Buddha within us, representing wisdom and enlightenment. By awakening this part of our mind, we can cultivate compassion and empathy, fostering a world of harmony and understanding. We have to create the circumstantial pressure that others have to join in our efforts. 

Meditation: Unlocking the Mind's Potential

One powerful tool for developing our minds and unlocking our potential is meditation. Through consistent practice, meditation helps us explore different layers of consciousness, from the external conscious to the subconscious, to the supramental levels and to the levels of special wisdom. It offers a pathway to tap into the ultimate layer of our mind which holds universal peace and love, empowering us to become better versions of ourselves.

By meditating, we connect with our innermost self, gaining insights into our purpose and the collective purpose of humanity. Meditation brings clarity, resilience, and a sense of oneness with the world, aligning our thoughts, words, and actions with our purpose.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the future is not predetermined, and its brightness or gloominess is determined by the choices we make today. As active co-creators of the world we live in, we must dare to imagine a better future and take concrete steps to bring it to fruition. It is crucial to improve ourselves as human beings, unlocking the full potential of our minds through meditation and self-discovery. It is also crucial to understand that we must start acting now. There is no time to waste. 

Let us not underestimate the power we hold within ourselves. By embracing our creative nature, compassion, and capacity for positive change, we can collectively shape a future that reflects the best of humanity. It is time to unleash the power of imagination, fueled by action, and create the bright and promising future that our planet deserves.

In our fast-paced and often chaotic modern world, the concept of meditation has gained significant popularity as a means to find inner peace and tranquility. However, amidst the various interpretations and presentations of meditation, a fundamental misconception has arisen. Nowadays, meditation is often perceived as the state of having an empty mind, free of thoughts and emotions. While quieting the mind is undoubtedly an important aspect of meditation, the true essence of this ancient practice lies in something far more profound - Universal Love.

The idea of thoughtlessness or nothingness in meditation can be misleading and discouraging for many, as achieving a completely thought-free mind can be an arduous task, if not impossible. The mind is inherently active, and thoughts naturally arise. Attempting to suppress or eliminate them entirely can lead to frustration and a sense of failure. But, meditation is not about eliminating thoughts; it's not about emptying the mind. It is about filling up the mind with something that we can only find deep within ourselves. 

The essence of real meditation lies in filling the mind with Universal Love. Love, the most potent force in the universe, is the driving power that maintains the harmony of celestial bodies, the cohesion of atoms, and the vitality of human existence. Yet, love is often misconstrued as limited to the affection we feel for other physical beings or material possessions. True meditation reveals that love encompasses much more.

Infinite love transcends the boundaries of the physical and embraces the spiritual. It is the love that connects us to the boundless Consciousness that permeates all existence, a love that springs from the very essence of our being. When we tap into this source of infinite love, we connect with something far greater than ourselves, something that unifies all life and empowers us with a profound sense of unity and oneness with the universe.

Meditation is also not the elimination of all emotion, to be flat, some may say undisturbed. In fact, sometime ago I conducted a meditation session with a small group of people who came to our center for a weekend. They rented our facilities but invited me for a 1-hour practical workshop about meditation. I explained about mantra meditation and invited them to chant our universal mantra with me while I played the guitar. We alternated moments of chanting with moments of silent meditation with the mantra. At the end I asked them to share their experience. One person said that she had a very strong emotional experience and that surprised her because she thought that in meditation one should remove all emotions. Then others also expressed that they had also experiences that touched them deeply. I explained that real meditation should lead to the deepest and most profound experiences a human being can have and what they felt was just a glimpse of what can come with the regular practice. Then I decided to write an article about it. I wanted to tell that meditation is not about nothingness nor thoughtlessness. It is about fullfilment and realization. Even Buddha, as I understand, searched for Nirvana, not for an empty mind. Maybe we think today that Nirvana is an empty mind but for me it is a full mind. 

The journey to accessing this reservoir of love within us begins with practice. We need to learn the technique of meditation, the mantra that can awake Universal Love. In the external world we must first cultivate compassion for others and acceptance for ourselves. But the most important thing is to practice twice daily the meditation system. 

We see here a two-fold approach. One part is to practice meditation individually twice a day for some minutes which could start with as little as 5 or 10 minutes. The other part is 

acknowledging our imperfections, embracing our humanity with kindness and understanding, and applying some principles in our relationship with ourselves and our relationship with others.  

As we establish a foundation of self-love, we can extend this love outward to others and the world around us. This interconnectedness is at the core of Universal Love – recognizing that we are all part of the same fabric of existence, and that love knows no boundaries or divisions.

Meditation acts as a bridge that allows us to access this universal source of love. The regular practice let’s us connect stronger with the inner source. 

Don’t expect your meditation practices to be just moments of inner peace and bliss. There are obstacles within our mind that cover or seal away that inner source from the surfaces of our mind. A meditation session may as well be the moment you are struggling to remove those obstacles and to remove them you will be engaging with them. Therefore, don’t ever feel unmotivated because your meditation was a struggle with your mind. That struggle means there was progress. 

Make an analogy with physical exercises. If you want to be physically in shape, you may go to the gymn to exercise. That gymn session will be a struggle for your body. You will sweat, your muscles will get sore, your body will be challenged but the result, in the long run, is that you will be in good physical shape. 

Meditation is like mentally going to the gymn. Your mind will be challenged, it may think even more, your might find difficult even to repeat the mantra just a few times. But in the long run you will notice that your mind is better. And it will be better in ways that you were not expecting. Much of the literature about meditation creates misunderstood expectations around the practice. But you will only understand what really happens if you do not limit your mind with your expectations. 

At the same time, don’t consciously concentrate on observing the thoughts and emotions that arise within you. Even trying to observe them without attachment is actually putting your mind in that direction. Your effort should be to concentrate on the mantra that can open ourselves up to the vastness of Universal Love that resides within.

Practicing meditation with the intention of filling our minds with Universal Love can have profound effects on our lives. As we connect with this boundless love, our relationships become richer, our actions more compassionate, and our perspective more expansive. We begin to see beyond the surface-level differences that separate us and embrace the inherent unity that binds all living beings.

Furthermore, meditating on Universal Love can lead to an increased sense of gratitude and contentment. Instead of constantly seeking external validation or material possessions to find fulfillment, we discover that the true source of lasting happiness lies within us – in the infinite wellspring of love that connects us to everything around us.

In conclusion, the modern portrayal of meditation as thoughtlessness or emptying the mind fails to capture the true essence of this ancient practice. Real meditation is about filling the mind with Universal Love, a love that goes beyond limited affection for physical beings or possessions. By connecting with the infinite Consciousness within us and all things, we unveil the power of love to transform our lives and the world. So, let us embrace meditation as a means to open our hearts and minds to the boundless love that flows through the universe, uniting us all in a tapestry of oneness. And let us embrace this practice of meditation is what can give us the inspiration and capacity to transform the world within us and outside us.