11 April, Amritapuri

It was a lovely evening yesterday. Amma’s Devi Bhava was going on in Australia. Devi Bhava is always a beautiful chance for the Ashramites to see and sometimes even talk to Amma as it is live telecasted to Amritapuri, albeit not always. It was almost 2 a.m. last night and Devi Bhava closing ceremony was about to start. Ashram’s halls were set and some brahmacharins were already there. In the main stage, just when the bell was rung to announce the showering of flowers, a surprise seemed attracting all those present. Thumbhan, our Ashram pet dog, had climbed the stairs and had chosen a good location as if he wanted to view the telecast properly too. He first came wagging his tail saluting all those present there and then chose a nice mat to sit facing the TV screen.

The brahmacharin who arranged the video telecast went to zoom the video on to Thumbhan. Amma showered petals to bless all Her children. As everyone’s eyes remained transfixed at Amma’s benevolent glimpse, the flower petals reminded of Divine Grace. Captivating beauty in the blue-green saree rendered everyone immobile. After the Darshan, all of us got up to leave and one could notice Thumbhan running ahead and leaving the hall. At Amritapuri, even dogs teach us how to lead an enriched living through their simple, honest qualities.

So with Amma in our hearts, happiness in our mind, we awakened to the new day.

– Shyam