Health and Wellness

This is an integral part of the divine scheme that the road to happiness opens after crossing the path of thorns.

This is why when Pujya Gurudev started the publication of Akhand Jyoti, he wrote the following lines in the editorial: Sudh³ bºja bone se pahle k³lk¿ta pºn³ hog³ | Pahana mauta k³ mukuta viïvahita m³nava ko jºn³ hog³ || Meaning: Without taking the pains and atoning for the accumulated sins, it is impossible to create the circumstances for the descent of a new golden era. Where is the possibility of creation without destruction?

It is true that the problems have increased, and the darkness has deepened, but it is a part of the well-planned scheme. If one takes pains early in life in refining and disciplining oneself, he can enjoy later. The essence of Tapa-Sadhana is taking pains and struggling for the right cause. Every traveler walking on this divine path has to bear such pains/troubles. Pujya Gurudev writes in his autobiography – ‘Before becoming God, Lord Krishna in the childhood itself had to deal with the poison of Putana and the attacks of Bakasur, Aghasur, Kaliya snake, etc.’

Every traveler on the path of greatness has to face grave dangers. We all know that King Harishchandra, before being honored as ‘Satyavadi’ (truthful), had to pass through several gruesome events. Likewise, Pandavas had to hide in the forest for 12 years before the coronation and bear the harsh nature. Lord Rama also had to wander in the forests before establishing Ramarajya. The follower of the same path was Prahlad, who had to go through the fire. Prince Dhruv and Mira Bai had to pass through similar difficulties. These pains/problems are the inherent part of the process of self-refinement and the change of era.

The purpose of writing these lines here is to keep in mind that the path that Gayatri Parijans have adopted is the path of acid-test. This is the testing time of our eligibility. In such times, all of us should keep our will strong and try to nourish the tree of Gayatri Pariwar planted by Pujya Gurudev and Vandaniya Mataji. This will be the best tribute to our Gurusatta on Vasant Parva.

With prayer-filled wishes for a happy, healthy, and harmonious New Year 2022,

(Pranav Pandya)

Life is a forge! Yes, and hammer and anvil, too! You’ll be roasted, smelted, and pounded, and you’ll hardly know what is happening to you. But stand boldly to it! Metal is worthless till it is shaped and tempered! More labor than luck. Face the pounding, don’t fear the proving, and you’ll stand well against any hammer and anvil.

- Lloyd Alexander

In order to be successful in the new year, stay focused, develop a positive attitude, and be passionate about your dreams. - Bamigboye Olurotimi

AKHAND JYOTI 6 JAN.-FEB. 2022