Without attaining true humanity, one cannot understand the sweetness and purpose of life. Therefore, the cultivation of character is one of the most important disciplines of life. A person who remains absorbed in selfishness can never truly earn respect in society. Hence, one must strive to cultivate selflessness. The practice of selflessness requires a spirit of sacrifice and self-surrender. True self-surrender becomes possible when greater importance is given to the development of the inner self rather than to the ego. The play of the immature ego comes to an end through the search for the higher Self.

When one dedicates oneself to the pursuit of the higher Self, inner strength awakens, along with a noble call to work for the welfare of society. This call arises from the deepest core of the heart. It enables us to see ourselves in everyone and everyone in ourselves. From this realization emerges the profound spirit of service. The highest form of service is worship, that is, complete self-surrender. The fulfilment of self-surrender comes through serving humanity with the awareness that every living being is Shiva. The realization that “Jiva is Shiva” means connecting oneself with a higher and nobler vision of life.

Student life is the most appropriate time to cultivate this ideal. The foundation of a secure and meaningful future is laid through good habits during student life. Good habits and sincere, disciplined action lead to a better and elevated life. The prayer for a noble life becomes meaningful when it is accompanied by a sincere wish for the welfare and well-being of all.

Jai Ma! Jai Ma! Jai Ma!

Swami Bhaskarananda
( President )
Panchakot Raj Sister Nivedita Vidyapith