Dear Sister Jayanti,

Happy to note that you are ok. In any disaster, the poor suffer
the most, as was also evident with hurricane Katrina, and during the
current Bangladesh floods as well.

You mentioned, that the presence of "mainstream" activists helped the aid and rescue efforts.

It is indeed wonderful, to see the immortal words of Swami Vivekananda being put into practical application:

"You have read - 'Look upon your mother as God; look upon your father as God.' But I say. The poor, the illiterate, the ignorant, the afflicted - let these be your God. Know that the service to these alone is the highest religion."

Om Tat Sat

PS: Those of you who visit the Nahabat Guestbook for 'Daily Readings from In the Company of the Holy Mother' @ http://nahabat.tux.nu have noticed that the Lycos Server has been down for over 24 hours now. We hope that they correct this problem soon.

How insightful you are, Tom. One thing I have found in many of the activists I have come to know is a deep spiritual quality. They may not acknowledge this. Many have rejected "organized religion." Yet, there is a genuine, unsentimental, and unassuming respect for others and willingness to assist.

It is that "unsentimental" (detachment) and "unassuming" (renunciation) that both reveals the spiritual base and renders their assistance effective.

So very true, sister Jayanti.

The same can be said for the many selfless volunteers, who render valuable service in hospitals, geriatric centers, food banks, etc.

Quietly going about their work, it never crosses their minds, that they are the 'real heroes' of our society.

As a matter of fact, it is totally unthinkable, that our world would be able to do without them.

The core strength of our Western Democracies, lies in the long tradition of volunteerism.

As you noted, they are unconsciously practicing a form of Karma Yoga, without even acknowledging their deep spiritual qualities.