Game of love 263- CONCENTRATING WITHIN

CONCENTRATING WITHIN 

in Sikhi, most of us are usually used to meditating with our tongues/lips by repeating the mantra out loud. 

For there to be any real blessings, progression and development in conquering this mind, it's very important we train our minds to meditate and listen to the mantra within. 

It's ok to meditate out loud but if you look at this practically, it's very difficult to do every second of the day with each and every breath, as our pure Guru asks us to do. No one can meditate out loud In their day to day life styles. We have to revert back to the meditate and concentrate within technique. 

Many people say this is very difficult to do. It's not difficult at all. It only seems difficult, because we lack in concentration and really don't want to put the time, effort and love in to listening to the mantra within. 

There are many benefits of listening to the mantra with the inner ears (conscious mind). Firstly, the mantra controls and balances the mind through configuring the thoughts and not letting them sway. This makes the mind much sharper, alert and more focused to take in all the important stuff it needs to take in and store it there in a clear fashion. It helps with studies, to memorise what we need to. It helps us focus better at work. The mantra keeps us in high spirits and very positive in our day to day life, whilst mediating within. Meditating within helps us reach our higher inner self (subconscious mind). It will help us progress spiritually a lot quicker and one will experience the third world (spirit world) a lot sooner. 

The mantra becomes one with the mind, body and breath through internal meditation and continues automatically over time and practice (ajappa Jaap). The more we focus within and concentrate, the quicker the meditation becomes an automatic recitation and we can tap in to focus whenever we feel the need, depending on whichever concentration level we would like to hear it in. The tenth gate (spiritual opening) is realised and opened quite easily through meditating within. This gives us access to the spirit world. 

People ask, "How do we mediate within?"

Firstly, there are more blessings and maximum achievement for the ones who have been blessed with the mantra by their Guru. Secondly, AmritVela (waking early and reciting the mantra) is a must, as this is the key to the days meditation. Thirdly one should put as much practice in as possible during the day. Fourthly, one should go to as many kirtan, paath smaagams as possible and try sitting in them with their eyes closed and listening to the mantra for as long as possible. 

It's as simple as, closing your eyes and listening to the mantra Vaheguroo clearly with your inner ears and continuing to do so all day and all night. 

After a couple of years of practice, it naturally becomes a part of the mind through the blessings of Guru Ji, depending on how bad we want it and how much we want to meet and love God. 

So it's important we meditate within to reach our goal of oneness and liberation. Go and meet the Guru to receive the name of God and become the radiant, spiritual being who goes on to change the face of the earth. Every single human being on the planet has the potential to do so. Let it be you! 

Hear the silent voice of the spiritual universe within your heart! 

Guru Ramdas Ji Says,
"sathigur har prabh dhas naam dhhiaaee man haree."

"O True Guru, tell me of my Lord God, that I may meditate on the Naam within my mind."

Vaheguroo! 

Game of love 262- PLEASING OTHERS

PLEASING OTHERS

Life can be very tricky. We always need someone in our lives to rely on and for them always to be there for us, or even just to talk to. We do everything for those people. We please them as much as we can. We go to any extent and any level of extreme to  make them happy. 

This is very dangerous for any individual. We should never try and attach ourself to any human being. Doesn't matter who it is. Even if we think the person is very spiritual, we should still not attach ourselves to them. It's ok to take as much inspiration from anyone as possible but attachment to one causes emotional suffering.  

Why do we please others? What do we want from them? What can they give us? 

All of the above is what we desire. Desire is our ego. This is what our mind wants. Our mind wants this in order to be kept entertained. It thinks, if these people don't give me what I want, I will be miserably upset  or others will look down on me. 

We spend our entire life pleasing others, forming groups etc and go on upsetting others as we do so. Through all of this, we feel we have gained eternal happiness. We struggle to realise, we have not gained eternal happiness, we have actually loaded our self with more suffering. 

What is the reason for this? 

In the end no one is going to be there for you. It's just going to be our mind, body and soul. No one will be there to support us in the end. Not many stick and support us in major times of suffering, never mind when we leave this earth. Not many will except our pain and suffering. Most are only there for the happy times. All these wants, desires, pleasing others etc are a massive temporary measure. We create them to pull us through life happily. Even then they don't do the job correctly for us, as we always want more and want to please others further. 

Many talk a big talk saying, "We are best friends and we'l be there til the very last breath." These are mere words for most to fill each other's void. When people move on they take their promises with them. This is the nature of the mind. 

There are not many people in this world who keep their word and value true friendship in the way it should be valued. People can very easily replace you as a friend and many don't feel bad in doing so either. The reason for this is they have not recognised their own soul to even come anywhere close to recognising and truly loving anyone else's. 

Only Naam meditation will truly support us in connecting with our soul and truly recognising all as one. Then we will begin to realise, we don't need to please others, we only need to please God, who will in return keep us loving, happy, content, truthful and ecstatic in this life and the spirit life. 

Once the mind is balanced and conquered, emotions are child's play. The mind can live in whichever state it wants when controlled by Naam meditation.  

So guys, don't please others, only please your Guru and see how your life changes for the better. Guru Ji will not let his children down. 

"If you live for people acceptance, you will die from their rejection." Lecrae. 

Guru Arjun Dev Ji Says, "Meeting the True Guru, all my sufferings have ended, and the Peace of the Lord has come to dwell within my mind.
The Divine Light illuminates my inner being, and I am lovingly absorbed in the One."

Vaheguroo! 

Game of love 261- HEALTH, EXERCISE & FITNESS

HEALTH, EXERCISE & FITNESS

It is a core part of Sikhi to keep ourselves healthy and physically fit. Exercise and healthy eating in Sikhi is a must! 

Guru Ji has called this body vessel our temple and accordingly, we need to be very respectful in our choices around what we feed it. This accompanied with appropriate exercise helps to create body and mind balance which is key to our spiritual development. The foods we eat also affect our consciousness directly. The way food is prepared, the energy of the food we eat, the manner in which we eat it and of course the core constituents of the food we eat all affect its impact on our being. Eating heavy, toxin rich, highly processed foods creates lethargy not only in the body but also the mind. It also sets the stage for disease in the body.

There is immense wisdom in the path that our Guru's set us upon. The lifestyle that we were directed to follow all those centuries ago is now being embraced by millions of people following the findings of modern science. A lifestyle where we eat in moderation, eat simply adhering to a healthy vegetarian diet (rich in vegetables and fruits), eat consciously after meditating so our body is most receptive to receive the gift of food, avoid toxins (alcohol,tobacco/smoke). Clinical studies show that a healthy vegetarian diet reduces the risk of heart disease, cancer, stroke, diabetes and many other diseases.

Foods to avoid include: processed foods (cakes, biscuits, chocolates) high in saturated fats and refined sugar, fizzy drinks (sugar rich and diet versions contain toxic artificial sweeteners and other chemicals), deep fried foods (high in trans fat content). Essentially foods that we enjoy but which should be reserved as an occasional indulgence at the most!

Foods to consume in higher quantities include: fruits and vegetables (raw and organic where possible), legumes / pulses / beans, wholegrains, nuts, seeds, mushrooms, herbs and spices, dark chocolate in moderation, pure water. Dairy in moderation is generally handled reasonably well by the majority of people though it is a mucous forming food with inflammation causing properties and care needs to be taken to consume the purest forms of dairy (organic ideally).

Our main meal should be in the morning as our digestion fire is at it's strongest when we first awake and it is also ensures we have sufficient energy until we take lunch. Our lunch should be more modest in size and the evening meal should be the lightest, eating it no less than two hours before going to sleep, as eating just before bed interferes with our sleep.

Many Sikhs keep their bodies healthy by practicing yoga. This is great, as yoga postures and exercise help us sit for periods of meditation for a lot longer. As Sikhs, our main focus should always be the Shabad (the Guru's Word), all other things are a tool to help us connect more deeply with the Sacred Word of the Guru.

Guru Ji created gatka (sikh martial art) and urged his Sikhs to horse ride and wrestle. Guru Ji made sure his Sikhs were physically fit, active and very mobile through archery and physical service of the congregation too. Back in the days, Sikhs fought many battles and did a lot of travelling, this also kept them very healthy and fit.

Exercise reduces stress and increases concentration levels by producing a chemical called norepinephrine. Exercise releases endorphins to create happiness in ones life. It creates inner confidence, improves self esteem, because of a more positive image. Working out is important to help prevent Alzheimer's later on in life. It produces chemicals in the brain which support and prevent degeneration of the hippocampus (part of the brain for memory & learning). It alleviates anxiety, boosts brain power and sharpens the memory. Exercise helps prevent any form of drug addiction, increases relaxation, it helps us to be more active and get more done. Exercise helps us to become more creative and inspires others to better themselves.

So overall exercise for everyone is very important. A Sikh should regularly exercise to better their mind, body and soul. We should not let ourselves go, as this is also a weakness in the mind.

Unless it is the result of a health disorder, there is no excuse for a Sikh to be overweight or unhealthy. We choose to be overweight and unhealthy. We can definitely do something about it, if we put our mind to it.

So if we want to become spiritual, stronger and more powerful Sikhs of the Guru, it's time to hit the gym, start exercising and eating healthier guys. There are many ways of keeping fit at home also. There are many videos on YouTube which guide us through many forms of various exercises.

Keeping Fit and healthy is not about being better than someone else, it's about being the best that you can be. We owe that to Vaheguroo who blessed us with this body, this life, this breath. 

Bhai Gurdaas Ji
"koee har ma(n)dhar karai ko karai aroorree."

Guru Arjun Dev Ji Says, "The mind is the temple and the body is the fence built around it to protect it.
The Dear Lord has fashioned the body as the temple of the Lord, O my dear beloveds; the Lord continues to dwell there."

ITS YOUR DUTY TO LOOK AFTER IT!!! YOU MAY WANT TO LET YOURSELF DOWN BUT PLEASE DON'T LET YOUR GURU DOWN!!!

Vaheguroo!

Game of love 260- SCARY FACES

SCARY FACES

Guru Sahib ji says, "Those faces are scary who don't sit besides Guru Ji."

What does Guru Ji mean by this? Why are those faces scary? How is that possible? 

Basically, Guru Sahib Ji is telling us that spiritual wisdom is very important in ones life. If one does not know how to balance the mind, control the mind, control ones emotions, control their vices including ego, they will struggle and suffer through this life. 

It is very important we know how to meditate to get through this life or one will suffer. Guru Ji has given us the spiritual ointment through their loving teachings of Gurbani. These teachings walk us through each aspect of life and how we should get through this life perfectly, without being affected by the pressures of the world. 

The pressures of this world are very difficult to get through in this life but when one has been practicing for many years and well in touch with their spirit and mind, then one has no problem controlling their feelings. 

This is the main reason Guru Ji says, "scary are the faces of those who don't sit beside the true Guru and meditate on his name." The pressures of life catch up with these people and their mind is affected rapidly by triggering off their ego and emotions. This continues throughout the life of the individual, as one fails to be content within and wants more to satisfy their luxurious life style. This goes on to cause, stress, depression and anxiety. All the negative emotions are shown on ones outer appearance. The energy/aura they hold will always be of a cold one. 

Guru Sahib Ji also goes on to say, "beautiful are those in this world and the next who meditate on the Gurus mantra. They continue to live in ecstasy and their faces are radiant in both worlds. They gain respect wherever they go. 

It's scientifically proven that those who meditate, their faces and eyes begin to shine, their bodies are filled with unmeasurable energy. Their aura and presence becomes very positive, loving and powerful. This is all the power of the mind, soul and God. 

Many people would be scared if they saw in the mirror, not their faces but their character!! 

"Fareedaa tina mukh daraavane Jinaa visaarian naao"

Bhagat Fareed Ji Says, "Fareed, the faces of those who forget the Lord's Name are dreadful.
They suffer terrible pain here, and hereafter they find no place of rest or refuge."

Vaheguroo! 

Game of love 259- FORGIVENESS

FORGIVENESS

We all make many mistakes in life, however funnily enough, we only see the flaws/mistakes of others. 

What causes us to see the negativity in others? When we see the negative in others, we are actually seeing the true colours of our own mind. 

Most spiritually enlightened people only see the good in all. Even if they've had a fall out with someone, whether it be at home, work etc they would always make it work after. 

The reason for this is the beautiful teachings of our beloved Guru. Our Guru tells us, if we don't know how to forgive, then we might as well not be a sikh. Guru Sahib Ji tells us in the last line of this post, that wherever forgiveness is, that's where God himself will reside. So basically, God resides in the heart of those who have forgiveness. 

We are all guilty of falling out with others and then through our horrible egos and stubborn mindedness, we tend not to forgive them. Where will this stubbornness take us? What will we achieve? It just becomes more awkward between both parties and overtime, a petty fallout has been the cause of a breakup in a beautiful relationship. Fallouts usually tend to leave a crack in relationships forever, if not mended quick enough, through one being humble and saving the relationship through forgiveness. 

Everyone has an ego but this ego has to be controlled and used by us in whichever positive way we can use it. Ego should never be used in a negative way. It will always be hurtful to others, which is the same as hurting God himself, as each soul is God.

So if we have fallen out with someone, let's become the bigger, better and humbler person and forgive them and also forgive ourselves for not understanding the true meaning of love and life. 

Forgiveness doesn't excuse the behaviour of others. Forgiveness makes us stronger, makes us respect ourself, makes us respect others, helps us find peace and most of all prevents the destroying of our own hearts. Forgiveness is the final form of love and it helps us to understand that we all make mistakes. So forgive others, if you would like to be forgiven by God and others. 

Let's not let our egos get the better of us. Don't hold grudges, it only causes suffering within. 

How would we feel, if we fell out with a loved one over something very trivial and they passed away without us speaking or forgiving one another?

Only meditation on the Naam washes the filth of this stubborn, egotistical mind. 

"Jehaa lobh thehaa kaal hai, jehaa khimaa thehh aap."

Bhagat Kabeer Ji Says, "Kabeer, where there is spiritual wisdom, there is righteousness and Dharma. Where there is falsehood, there is sin. Where there is greed there is death. Where there is forgiveness, there is God himself."

Vaheguroo!

Game of love 258- FRIENDSHIP

FRIENDSHIP 

We all want good friends in our lives. Who is a good friend? What is a good friend? How do we find good friends? Does friendship really exist? Who is our real and true friend? 

Many of us have friends. Are these friends there for us in time of need? Are they there to share our sorrow? Do they always want the best for us? Are these friends only our friends because we fill their void? 

Friendship is all about us. We need to be all of the above. When we become all of the above, that is when friendship really works. There are very rare faithful friends who have unconditional love. Most are friends, because they need each other for something. Friendship usually works on condition. If one keeps taking off the other, it won't be long until they've had enough and weaknesses are formed within the relationship. Friendship is a two way process but if you have called someone a friend then that friendship should be a binding relationship for life, whether you speak or never see that person ever again. 

It's easy to keep family but very difficult to keep unconditional friends. There are not many about. It's a nice feeling to have friends but one should never fall in to the trap of being attached to them. There is a fine line between love and attachment. Attachment will cause inner suffering. 

As Sikhs, We should think of the friendship we have with our Guru and God. If we learn how to make our Guru and God our best friends, then that means we have learnt the true friendship of love. For the spiritual person, keeping unconditional friendship is a very easy game, as spiritual people who meditate on the name of God see God in all. They see the virtues of God in all. Guru Ji says the whole world becomes the friend of a God loving person. 

How is this possible? 

Those that meditate on Gods name become one with their spirits. When a human becomes one with their spirit they naturally become one with all spirits, as all spirits are joined to the one but they've just not had this living realisation.

Making best friends with your inner self through Naam meditation is the most loving and peaceful friendship one will ever have. This friendship will support your mind until the end. This friendship will fight against all your vices, thoughts, emotions and actions. This friend will never judge you. This friend will only love and support you. 

To make the sangat (congregation) our friend is also a very vital friendship in Sikhi. One should always remain close to Spiritual like minded people. In the end they will always pull you through. 

So seek the love of Guru Ji and through their spiritual teachings become one with yourself and God by mediating on their beautiful name. In the end even our friends will leave our side. 

Guru Arjun Dev Ji Says "Your devotees are imbued with Your Name; they enjoy peace everywhere.
The entire world is seen to be passing away; only the Lord's Name is lasting and stable.
So make friends with the Holy Saints, so that you may obtain a lasting place of rest. 
Friends, acquaintances, children and relatives - none of these shall be your companion in the end. 
The Lord's Name alone shall go with you; God is the Master of the meek."

Vaheguroo! 

Game of love 257- Amrit Sanchaar (ceremony) - Bairaag (spiritual longing) & Previous Janam (life)

Amrit Sanchaar (ceremony) - Bairaag (spiritual longing) & Previous Janam (life) 

Enjoyed reading this and really wanted to share it! 

We arrived at the location of Amrit Sinchaar (ceremony) Samagam (event). Part of me was still thinking that all this was a dream. I could not believe my good fortune. Soon I was called inside, in the hazoori (sanctuary) of Guru Sahib and Punj Pyare (five beloved ones). Jathedar Bau Mal Singh jee was holding the Siri Sahib, (sword) whilst standing. He asked me in extreme Bir-Ras (powerful/spiritual voice), “why have you come here?” I lost my consciousness when I saw them and heard Bau jee. With a trembling voice I said, “Jee I have come here to drink Amrit.” Bau jee in similar Bir Ras said, “You will have to offer your head.” I almost fainting. I got a flood of Bairaag (spiritual crying). I could not say anything. They sent me outside. Everyone had their peshi (questioned to drink Amrit) done and in the end we all were called in.

On one side all the Singhs were standing and on the other side all the Bibiyaan (women). On the side of Bibiyaan, I was standing on the end. When the Baata (utensil) of Amrit was ready, the Jathedar of the Punj, Respectable Bau Mal Singh jee ran his sweet gaze on all sides and I was the first one to be called. I was made to sit in Bir Aasan (Bir sitting-posture). The gift of Amrit was placed on my hand. When I put this gift in my mouth, I lost the worldly senses. That place became some other Mandal (realm). In Punj Pyare, I could only see Guru Kalgidhar (Siri Guru Gobind Singh jee/10th Guru). I don’t even remember receiving other choolay (drops) of Amrit and nor I remember getting Naam DriR (name of God being implanted within). I was sent to my place in this condition of spiritual intoxication. This was the place where I saw Bau Mal Singh jee in the form of my father (for many lives). I realized my relationship of many lives with him (Bau jee had later confirmed that Bibi Inder Kaur was his mother in his previous life). My mind was filled with deep love and devotion for him. In this condition of spiritual intoxication I reached home and did not sleep all night. At Amritvela (ambrosial hours), we did Ishnaan (bathed) Naam Simran (meditated) & Nitnem (prayed). While reading Siri Anand Sahib (5th prayer), my mind got stuck at the following Pankiti (line):

ਸੁਰਿ ਨਰ ਮੁਨਿ ਜਨ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤੁ ਖੋਜਦੇ ਸੁ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤੁ ਗੁਰ ਤੇ ਪਾਇਆ ॥  "The angelic beings and the silent sages search for the Ambrosial Nectar; this Amrit is obtained from the Guru." Guru Amardas Ji. 

If you want this Amrit, drink it now, as you will never know when your final breath will be. Tomorrow may never arrive. 

Vaheguroo! 

Game of love 256- MAN OF HIS WORD

MAN OF HIS WORD

A Muslim woman called Banu came to visit Hari Singh Nalwa. She had heard a lot about the seven foot tall General of the Sikhs at the time. She had heard, he was powerful, strong, spiritual and a great warrior. 

When she came to visit him, the Gursikhs asked General Hari Singh, if she was ok to come in. She said, she wanted to speak alone to Hari Singh Ji. The Gursikhs asked if this was ok and Hari singh Ji responded, it was fine. 

She said, "I'm here to make a request, which I would not like you to decline."
Hari Singh uttered, "please make your request."
She replied, "I want you be the father of my children. I want my children to be strong and powerful like you"
Hari Singh Ji calmly said, it's not possible, I am married, so therefor I can not give you what you want."
In hearing this the woman got very upset and said, "I have heard Sikhs are very spiritual and compassionate people, with amazingly great characters and they never turn down the request of anyone. I have also heard no one goes away empty handed from the house of Guru Nanak (1st Sikh Guru)."
"You are completely right," lovingly answered  Hari Singh Ji. "No one has ever gone empty handed from the dharr (door) of Guru Nanak Dev Ji and neither will you." 
When Banu heard this response, she became very happy. 
Hari Singh Ji lovingly uttered, "please close your eyes." Banu closed her eyes and was waiting eagerly for a response she desired.  
Hari Singh Ji put his head in Banu's lap and sweetly said, "From now, you are my mother and I am your son. I will look after you til my very last breath."

General Hari Singh Ji lived by this promise for the rest of his life. 

This is the beauty of Sikhi, when Sikhs of the Guru make a promise (Bachan), no matter how hard it is to follow through, they will make sure they live by it. 

Are we still living in the same way today. Do we still have the virtues of the old puraatan Singhs and the stead fast saintly/warrior character. Do we give our word (Bachan) to people and live by it or do our words not hold the power and wealth anymore. 

We need to look inside ourself and live by the beautiful teachings our Gurus have left us with. They are ours to spread in to the universe and make the world a much better, loving, peaceful place to live in. 

Live by the teachings and spread them far and wide. 

Are you doing your bit for your father Guru Gobind Singh Ji? Are you a kehnee te karnee da puttar (live by the teachings) or are you a naalaek puttar (has no respect for his father).

You choose, you decide what you want to be. You can be either. The choice is ours. We just need to take the steps and live it. 

Guru Arjun Dev Ji Says, "Following the Guru's Teachings, compassion, righteousness and contentment are found."

Vaheguroo! 

Game of love 255- POSITIVE ENERGY

POSITIVE ENERGY 

Why is it important for us to be positive at all times? 

It is very difficult to be positive all the time. It takes an immaculate mind to be this way inclined and have such loving energy. 

There are many benefits to being positive all the time. Firstly, to be positive is a great feeling in general. Secondly, if we are positive, others around us also become positive. This is a snowball affect and many become positive around us. Thirdly, when we are positive all the time, it helps us to be very controlled, our mind becomes very balanced and our emotions are also efficiently subdued.

As Sikhs, we call this feeling Chardeekallah (high spirits). When one is forever happy and positive, their spirits are raised and they cannot be touched by any form of negative energy. When we feel this way, our aura and energy is felt by everyone around us. It creates everyone to be happy and positive. This energy works as a form of magnetic force, which tends to pull others closer towards the individual. This energy is the power of the mind and spirit which is connected to the infinite (God). Everyone's spirits and minds are connected, so therefore are pulled closer towards the warm hearted God loving spirit. 

It's very difficult to be happy and positive all the time without meditation. This continuous state can only be achieved through regular meditation. When ones mind is always coloured in the love of Gods mantra, ones mind is cleansed through the thoughts being purified. All emotions are controlled through the Naam mantra. 

Positive energy through meditation can be felt upto a radius of 30 miles or further by other humans. The spirit connects to other spirits through love.

Remember! Every human being on the planet has the potential to experience this positive energy of love by tapping in to themselves through meditation. Why would you want to waste this human treasure for mere shells? 

The mind and spirit is God. Recognise yourself as the one. A persons energy tells you more about themselves than their own words. 

Guru Amardas Ji Says, "The Gurmukhs (Guru's pure Sikhs) never suffer bodily pain.
The Gurmukhs have the pain of egotism taken away.
The minds of the Gurmukhs are immaculate, positive and pure; no filth ever sticks to them again. The Gurmukhs merge in celestial peace."

Vaheguroo! 

Game of love 254- INNER OR OUTWARDLY APPEARANCE!

INNER OR OUTWARDLY APPEARANCE! 

Just by wearing religious robes or having the appearance of a religious person, one does not become a spiritual lover of God. Just by having a religious appearance, ones mind is not cleansed. Just by having a religious appearance, one is not liberated. Just by having a religious appearance one does not become a good person. Just by having a religious appearance one is not happy, peaceful or content. 

The religious appearance is very important for spiritual people, especially for Sikhs. The attire, all the Sikh symbols (panj kakaar) have a massive and meaningful place in the Sikh faith. They help towards ones spirituality massively but one has to recognise this and use and allow these symbols to help us progress in Sikhi, as amazing, loving, beautiful individuals.  

Many of us think, we have our appearance so therefore Guru Ji is closer to us. We are blessed to be baptised and blessed to have been given this blessed appearance but it does not end there. We have a huge responsibility on our shoulders. 

What responsibility do we have? 

We are Sikhs of the Guru, so therefore we should have every quality a human being can adopt. We should be extremely virtuous to all. We need to develop love, compassion, truth, contentment, patience, forgiveness and all the rest of the beautiful qualities in existence. We need to be pure human beings. We need to teach by example. The world needs to look towards us for guidance, strength, support and for us to fill them with happiness in their lives, just by them meeting us. 

Can we honestly say our character is of the above? Because that's the way our character used to be many years ago and there are many examples of it. Are we still living that life style or have we just become "THE SIKHS OF APPEARANCE." Do we realise, we are being judged for everything we do? Do we realise there is no short cut? Do we realise nobody apart from the True Guru can really support us snd bless us through this terrifying world ocean? Are we true to Guru? Do we live by all their spiritual teachings? Or have we become Sikhs only on the outside????? 

We talk about others. We expose others. We love this taste (ras) of bringing others down. Then we suffer when it comes to bite us back through karma. We sewed the seed, we have to reap the outcome. As Sikhs do we know a massive reaching is to "dekh ke andith kardhayna" (to see something wrong, then to ignore it and then speak to the individual In person in a loving manner to put them back on the right track. All this is fine without another soul finding out). 

Do we understand the panj pyaare (five beloved ones) have a huge blessed seva (service). Their seva is supposed to stay in the room of the Amrit sanchaar and not a soul should find out about anything that went on in that room, as Guru sahib blesses the Amrit to the abhlakees. Even their families are not supposed to know, as this is a service given by Guru Ji himself. 

These are just a few examples we have talked about today, of religious people failing to be spiritually inclined and more physically orientated. 

Just remember! We are judged for our every action. If we are not practicing to be blessed, loving, spiritual souls then there is no point in having a religious appearance, as this brings the importance and respect of religion and faith down drastically. Just because we belong to a certain faith, group, religion does not mean we will be saved or better than the other. The work and practice is one of a life time for an individual's loving relationship with God and Guru. No other third person can intervene and save us. 

If we reside the one Name of Vaheguroo (God) within our heart with every breath, Guru sahib Ji will bless our every action and guide our lazy mind through this life in great, loving ease themselves. This is when the physical appearance of an individual is accepted by Guru Ji. Otherwise it's a massive hypocrisy and we need to change this if we want to make the world a better and more spiritual place. We need to get rid of the mere shells and replace them with beautiful rubies, emeralds and gems. 

Come to know the nature of your own mind, In which there is no self, no other but only God. 

Guru Amardas Ji Says, "You may torment your body with extremes of self-discipline, practice intensive meditation and hang upside-down, but your ego will not be eliminated from within.
You may perform religious rituals, and still never obtain the Naam, the Name of the Lord.
Through the Word of the Guru's Shabad, remain dead while yet alive, and the Name of the Lord shall come to dwell within the mind.
Listen, O my mind: hurry to the Protection of the Guru's Sanctuary.
By Guru's Grace you shall be saved. Through the Word of the Guru's Shabad, you shall cross over the terrifying world-ocean of poison."

Vaheguroo! 

Game of love 253- BELIEVE YOU CAN!

BELIEVE YOU CAN! 

Start believing that you’re ready for the next step. You are ready! Think about it. You have everything you need right now to take the next small, realistic step forward. So embrace the opportunities that come your way, and accept the challenges – they’re gifts that will help you to grow.

This works in every walk of life. We always need to believe we are ready for the next step, whether it be work opportunities, school, university or spiritual living. If we don't believe we are ready, there will never be any growth. We are always ready to take steps but get trapped in small bubbles of comfort, which tend to stop any form of progression. Eventually, this becomes a lack of confidence. It's important we take conscious steps forward on a regular basis, in order to build ourselves as strong, powerful, humble, loving and compassionate characters. 

When we are challenged in life, this is an opportunity to excel for the positive as human beings. We usually tend to back away from the challenges and ignore them. Spiritually elevated people will take on any challenge that life brings towards them, as they have all the positive energy they need, to keep them uplifted and push them through any challenge that life brings to them. 

Guru Ji has called out for us many times but we have always been ignorant towards them and ignored their loving calls. Guru Ji is the only one in who will make every challenge of life easier and more successful for us, by stepping in and supporting us through thick and thin. Without a Guru, every challenge is materialistic and will end up departing from us in the end. The challenges become difficult to attain, as we feel we are alone and have no true support. When Guru Ji is there to support us, every challenge will be that of peace, love and joy and which we successfully succeed in. 

Guru Ji loves us all and will always support us. Guru Ji makes one humble request in return and that is to take steps towards Sikhi and develop as spiritual human beings, through Naam meditation and the beautiful teachings of Gurbaani, as this is the substance in which will effortlessly guide us through this terrifying world ocean. 

Positive people have negative thoughts, they just never let them grow and destroy them. Remain positive always and believe you can. This thought brings great strength and growth.  

Guru Nanak Dev Ji Says, "Meeting with the True Guru, they cross over the terrifying world-ocean. In the Court of the Lord, they are honoured and approved."

Vaheguroo! 

Game of love 252- TAKING CHANCES

TAKING CHANCES

Start giving your ideas and dreams a chance. In life, it’s rarely about getting a chance; it’s about taking a chance. You’ll never be 100% sure it will work, but you can always be 100% sure doing nothing won’t work. Most of the time you just have to go for it! And no matter how it turns out, it always ends up just the way it should be. Either you succeed or you learn something. Win-Win.

To be successful and happy in life, it's important we give our ideas and dreams a chance. Our ideas and dreams only come to us so that we can better ourselves as human beings. We always try to be 100% sure before we try doing anything positive in life. Sometimes, it's about just taking that chance  and leaving the rest to Guru Ji. 

Guru Ji wanted all his Sikhs to be pure, powerful, loving and successful human beings. It's only through having every quality and attribute as a human being Sikhi will flourish rapidly in to the world. When others see how loving, content, compassionate, honest, forgiving, kind, tolerant, professional, political, sociable And powerful Sikhs are they will naturally be pulled towards this beautiful way of life. 

Guru Gobind Singh Ji himself was the most perfect human being, with every quality a man can have. So let's not let our Guru down and take steps towards them in their own roop (image) of the dastaar (turban) and unshorn hair. 

We all want to take steps towards our Guru but are worried in what others will think. We will never be happy if we let the world make decisions for us. Think of the blessings we are missing out on. Don't worry about the change, just excel in it so Guru Ji can be proud of you and you can go on to bettering your life spiritually, which in the long run will benefit yourself, family and the rest of the world depending on how advanced our spiritual practice becomes and most of all how many blessings our Guru Showers on us. 

Peace, love, contentment and happiness Cannot be recognised through force; it is only achieved through understanding and taking chances. The chance taken towards Guru Ji is not a chance, it's a purification of this mind, breath, body and soul. 

Guru Arjun Dev Ji Says, "Being so stone-hearted, she has lost her chance to serve the Lord. 

This life is your only chance to meet the Lord of the Universe."

Vaheguroo! 

Game of love 251- HOW TO CREATE HAPPINESS!

HOW TO CREATE HAPPINESS! 

Start creating your own happiness. If you are waiting for someone else to make you happy, you’re missing out. Smile because you can. Choose happiness. Be the change you want to see in the world. Be happy with who you are now, and let your positivity inspire your journey into tomorrow. Happiness is often found when and where you decide to seek it. If you look for happiness within the opportunities you have, you will eventually find it. But if you constantly look for something else, unfortunately, you’ll find that too. 

Happiness has to be created by the individual. If we do not create our own happiness, no one will create it for us. Life is too busy for others to give us any happiness. They can for a short term fix but it will always be temporary. If we want happiness all the time, we will have to create it ourself. 

Most tend to smile very little. It is very important we smile. There are many benefits for smiling. Firstly, it improves the way we look, secondly, we become approachable, thirdly, it creates a positive energy within us and most of all, it develops our confidence further. 

We are our own worst enemy. We choose everything else but happiness. We can choose to be what we want in this world. We can choose to do whatever we want in this world. The key is in our hands yet we struggle immensely to open the door. 

We need to become the change the world needs to see. If we want to see change, let's become that change. We are all much more valuable than what we all think we are worth. The mind is the universe. Choose whatever you want, believe you will become it and nothing can stop you. Faith is the key to all locks. 

It's very important we are happy with who we are now. Who knows if tomorrow will ever come. Life's too short to be desiring all the time. This will stress us further. Make plans, but don't get too caught up in them. Everything will happen at the right time with minimal effort. 

I personally thought i was happy before I realised and was shown the path of Sikhi. This is when I began to realise, I was never really happy at all. I was always up and down. My emotions were everywhere. Guru Ji took pity on me and blessed me in to their beloved sangat. This is when I began to realise and value the true worth of this human life. True, everlasting happiness can only be attained by practicing the spiritual teachings of Sikhi through spiritual and physical discipline. 

Happiness is a journey to be lived and experienced with every breath of Naam meditation. It's not a destination to arrive at. 

Guru Nanak Dev Ji Says, "My mind is pierced through by the Name of the Lord. What else should I contemplate?

Focusing your awareness on the Shabad (mantra/word of God), happiness wells up. Attuned to God, the most excellent peace is found."

Vaheguroo! 

Game of love 250- VALUING THE BREATH

VALUING THE BREATH 

Start enjoying the things you already have. The problem with many of us is that we think we’ll be happy when we reach a certain level in life, a level we see others operating at, your boss with her corner office, that friend of a friend who owns a mansion on the beach, etc. Unfortunately, it takes a while before you get there, and when you get there you’ll likely have a new destination in mind. You’ll end up spending your whole life working towards something new without ever stopping to enjoy the things you have now. So take a quiet moment every morning when you first awake to appreciate where you are and what you already have.

It's important we enjoy the things we already have. If we don't enjoy them now, it maybe too late before we can realise how valuable they really were in our lives. Death is around the corner but we do not realise through the blindfold of ignorance. We will never know when our last breath is. 

Like we said above, we always want to be as good as others, or have what they have. These desires will come to kill us in the end, as even if we were to reach the destination of our colleagues or whoever it was meant to be, what makes us think that we won't desire for better when we get there. 

Is this how we are going to continue on living? Is this really what makes us happy? Surely there needs to be something better out there? Surely we need to be content in some form or another? 

Anyone who desires permanent happiness, will never reach it through desiring materialistic pleasures. This is a temporary fix. The only substance in which will keep us in high spirits and everlasting ecstasy is Naam meditation and the spiritual teachings of Guru Ji. Everything else will be diminished in the end. 

A harvest of peace is produced from a seed of contentment, So avoid running after temporary materialistic pleasures. 

Guru Nanak Dev Ji Says, "Without Naam, the Name of the Lord, there is no love and affection; but with her True Lord, she abides in peace. Through mental truth and contentment, union with the True Friend is attained; through the Guru's Teachings, the Husband Lord is known."

Vaheguroo! 

Game of love 249- RESPECT YOURSELF!

RESPECT YOURSELF! 

Start being more polite to yourself. If you had a friend who spoke to you in the same way that you sometimes speak to yourself, how long would you allow that person to be your friend? The way you treat yourself sets the standard for others. You must love who you are or no one else will.

It's important one speaks to and loves the spirit within with the utmost respect. Until we learn how to do this, we will never be able to give the same love and respect to any other being. 

When you learn how to respect yourself and love who you are, then the whole universe will do the same. This love is not a love of personal ego, it's a love of divine pride. We love our Guru, we love our uniform, we love the sangat (spiritual ones), we love the physical discipline, we love the spiritual teachings. We love everything about Sikhi. So why do we walk around as though we are insecure and not proud of what our Guru created us to be. 

Guru Ji made us beautiful, he gave us the most immaculate spiritual practice. He created us to spread Sikhi and true love in to this world. This can not be done if we are not proud of who we are, if we can not teach by example or if we do not love and respect ourself. All these points are vital in ones development on this spiritual path. 

Most Gursikhs I have spoken to have always said, 'since they started wearing the Gurus crown (dastaar/turban) upon their head, their confidence has escalated dramatically.'

So if you are a Sikh who wears a turban, it's important you learn to love and be confident in who you are. If you are not confident in the Gurus roop it means you lack love and respect for our True, blessed and pure Guru. Our Guru created us to be pure in every form, character and quality. We should not let them down. They should feel very proud of us, as we are here to mirror their purity by seeing the love of God within all. 

This love, respect and confidence only comes through conquering and balancing this deluded mind with every breath of Naam meditation. 

Respect yourself to walk away from anything that no longer serves you, grows you or makes you happy! 

Guru Ramdas Ji Says, "The treasure is deep within, O camel-like mind, but you wander around outside in doubt, searching for it.

Meeting the Perfect Guru, the Primal Being, you shall discover that the Lord, your Best Friend, is within you."

Vaheguroo! 

Game of love 248- MAKING MISTAKES

MAKING MISTAKES! 

Start valuing the lessons your mistakes teach you. Mistakes are okay; they’re the stepping stones of progress. If you’re not failing from time to time, you’re not trying hard enough and you’re not learning. Take risks, stumble, fall, and then get up and try again. Appreciate that you are pushing yourself, learning, growing and improving. Significant achievements are almost invariably realised at the end of a long road of failures. One of the ‘mistakes’ you fear might just be the link to your greatest achievement yet.

Guru Sahib Ji tells us in Gurbaanee, everyone makes mistakes and will continue to make mistakes. The only being that does not make mistakes is Akaal Purakh Vaheguroo (God).  

This does not mean it's ok to make mistakes and continue making them. The sign of a Gursikh is the one who makes a mistake, recognises the mistake they've made and try's not to ever make it again. This is how we better ourselves. If we continue making the same mistakes, this means we are very far away from recognising the state of our own minds. 

The True Gurmukh (Gurus Sikh) is the one that is always in control over his mind. They see the mistake before even making it. They could be tempted by their mind to fall and make mistakes but it's the power of their virtuous, meditative character that avoids them making major mistakes.

We need to recognise who we really are. If we have no faith and discipline, yet just want to be good people, life will become a major struggle. Life is very difficult without being around the energy of spiritual beings (Gursikh Sangat). We always think we are in control but are always defeated by our minds desires and emotions. 

The only cure to avoid us making mistakes is, finding a True Guru who will spiritually guide us through this terrifying world ocean. They will support us through thick and thin. They will never let us go. We just need to believe they are always close. 

When we try to remember God and meditate with every breath, the mind is balanced and controlled every second of the day. Vaheguroo's name stops all negative thoughts flowing through this negative mind. All thoughts are turned to become positive with the blessing of Guru Jis Mantra. 

Knowledge is being aware of what is ok to do, wisdom is knowing when not to do it! 

Guru Nanak Dev Ji says, "Everyone makes mistakes; only the Guru and the Creator are infallible. One who instructs his mind with the Guru's Teachings comes to embrace love for the Lord."

Vaheguroo! 

Game of love 247- GURU'S REWARDS

GURU'S REWARDS

So many amazing blessings can be gained from this story!

Brahmdat was a spiritual Hindu pandit (scholar) at the time of Guru Arjan Dev Ji. He had many followers and detested the Sikhi practices and morals. His followers had heard of Guru Arjan Dev Ji paatshah and wanted to go do Darshan, to see what was so special about Harmandir sahib (Golden Temple Amritsar). Brahmdat angrily uttered, "why do you want to go see that ghristi (someone who lives in a family)? He will never find God being a Ghristi, one must renounce any family life like us. A few days later Guru sahib passed the town where Brahmdat had his Dera (place of worship). 

Guru sahib was singing the shabad, 

'rasna gun gopaal nidh gaain, Shaant Sehaj rehas mann upjio, sagle dookh palaain.' (My tongue sings the Praises of the Lord of the world, the ocean of virtue). 

Brahmdat was transfixed by the bani (Gods word). He listened, as it pierced his heart. That same day he gave permission to his followers to go and have Darshan (blessed vision) of Guru sahib Ji. They said, 'we will arrive in time of Asa ki vaar.' Bhramdat repeated, 'under no circumstances should you listen to all of Asa ki vaar. Just stay for a short while. If you listen to all of it then you will never come back to this life again, as the baani is so pure.' The pandits sat in Darbaar sahib (congregation hall) listening, as they tried to get up and leave, Guru sahib gave a sign for them to sit back down and listen till smaapti (end). 

They were stubborn and got up and left. As they were walking out Khusro (son of jahangir) was passing with his entourage. They were looking for people to carry their palki. He spotted the pandits and thought, they look fresh and they've just listened to Gurbani so they must be full of energy. The pandits were forced to carry the weight of the palki, whilst Khusro and his begums (wive's) sat inside. One of the pandits ran inside and told Guru Arjan Dev Ji what had happened and asked for maafi and for Guru Sahib's help. 

Guru sahib sent a sevadaar (selfless man) to Khusro and told him, to let the pandits off this hard labour, Khusro joined his hands together and said Satbachan (true words) as Guru Sahib wishes. 
The pandits then ran back to Brahmdat and told him everything that had happened. Brahmdat was amazed at how caring and considerate Guru Sahib was. He made plans to visit Guru Sahib himself. Brahmdat came to Sri Harmandir Sahib and Guru Arjan Dev Ji said, 'My condition for you to speak to me, is that you must first let me do your Langar pani seva' (serve you a meal). Guru sahib themselves did seva (served) by making brahmdats langer and then washed the thaals (dishes). Brahmdat cried in amazement at Gurusahibs amazing pyaar (love) and humility. 

He said he forever wanted to remain with Guruji. Guru sahib went further to bless him with a place in the Parkarma (complex) of Harmandir Sahib. The brahmboota is the place in the parkarma, which was blessed in the memory of Pandit Brahmdat who became a Sikh of Guru Arjan Dev Ji Paatshah.

Guru Amardas Ji Says, "Serving the True Guru, all of one's generations are saved."

Vaheguroo! 

Game of love 246- LIVING IN THE PRESENT

LIVING IN THE PRESENT

Start noticing and living in the present. – Right now is a miracle. Right now is the only moment guaranteed to you. Right now is life. So stop thinking about how great things will be in the future. Stop dwelling on what did or didn’t happen in the past. Learn to be in the ‘here and now’ and experience life as it’s happening. Appreciate the world for the beauty that it holds, right now. 

The above is one of the main reasons we are not happy in this life. The only way we can notice and live in the present is by controlling the mind. The problem is, we are always thinking about the past if not the future. When we think about the past, we can not cherish the moment we are living in and we can not give that moment our all. That moment will not come again so it's important we acknowledge it fully and experience it to its fullest. 

We dwell in the past and future but can anyone guarantee that future to us. We will never know what's around the corner. We could plan many things but who knows when we are going to breathe our last breath. Cherish, love and respect the breath you breathe now. 

The above is an impossible task without Naam meditation. No one can live in the present without controlling and conquering this mind. We have to learn to make the mind ours and not let the mind take us towards desires of any kind. How beautiful it would be to tell the mind what to do, instead of the mind leading us duality. 

When we meditate, one naturally begins to think about the present, as the present is God and the taste (ras) is unbearable, which supports us to live in the 'now.' One would not want to leave the state of constantly thinking and meditating on God, whilst experiencing the true ecstasy of love. At this point one is overwhelmed internally and doesn't need the desire of the past and future thoughts floating through ones mind to keep them satisfied and fulfilled. 

It's the mark of an educated and meditative mind to be able to entertain a thought without accepting it. 

Guru Amardas Ji Says, "Without the Guru and meditation, liberation is not attained, and the double-mindedness of Materialism and desire does not go away."

Vaheguroo!  

Game of love 245- THE POWER OF JAPJI!

THE POWER OF JAPJI!

The least we can do is read Japji Sahib Ji every morning, after reading the beautiful explanation below! 

The Mool Mantra is a fate killer. It removes the fate and changes the destiny to complete prosperity.

The 1st pauri is an antidote to depression. It
will lift you from the deepest depression,
insecurity, nightmares and loss.

The 2nd pauri imparts patience and stability.

The 3rd pauri transforms insufficiency, turns
depression into elevation and transforms low
self -esteem into self confidence.

The 4th pauri blesses those trapped in feelings of poverty and lack of means.

The 5th pauri must be recited when you feel a sense of failure within yourself.

The 6th pauri dispels limitation. Recite it when you feel limited, cornered, trapped or coerced.

The 7th pauri will heal you, when you suffer
from greed, madness for power, overbearing
expansion and the need to control, when you
become trapped in your territoriality,.

The 8th pauri gives the power to be a perfect
sage.

The 9th pauri gives expansion.

The 10th pauri grants grace.

The 11th pauri gives virtuousness.

The 12th pauri When you feel small, gives you solidarity of self, self-impressiveness and self-respect.

The 13th pauri gives you the occult knowledge of infinity. It brings deep intuition.

The 14th pauri will show the way When you
can’t find your path to life, when you can't see direction to your destiny, when you can't
achieve fulfillment.

The 15th pauri brings liberation.

The 16th pauri gives knowledge of the universe.

The 17th pauri brings freedom and resurrection.

The 18th pauri fights madness, deep feelings of inferiority and self destructive behavior.

The 19th pauri brings universal knowledge,
inspiration and revelation.

The 20th pauri wipes away all your sins, When the monsters (vices) are nipping at your heels.

The 21st pauri maintains your status, grace and position.

The 22nd pauri brings victory in legal battles. It gives you strategy.

The 23rd pauri dispels darkness and elevates the self.

The 24th pauri breaks through all limitations
with the force of a thunderbolt. So powerful it is that it affects generations, it has the power to kill misfortune.

The 25th pauri prefullfils all your needs.

The 26th pauri transforms nothing into
everything. It banishes losses, misfortunes and miseries.

The 27th pauri shows you the way. It removes obstacles and hurdles.

The 28th pauri has the strongest permutation
and combination of words in the world. It
unites you with God.

The 29th pauri is a shield of protection.

The 30th pauri places you upon the throne of
divinity.

The 31st pauri pulls all virtues from the
heavens.

The 32nd pauri pays your debts and completes your karma.

The 33rd pauri destroys your ego. It removes
negativity, neutralises your destructive nature
and prevents harm to others by your hand.

The 34th pauri brings stability.

The 35th pauri gives you the breadth to do your duty and fulfill your responsibility.

The 36th pauri brings divine realization. It
grants complete understanding of the heavens and the earth.

The 37th pauri cuts the karma. It eradicates the impact of all bad karma.

The 38th pauri gives you the power to rewrite your own destiny.

The Salok brings self-satisfaction, elevation,
acknowledgment and respect.

After one takes Amrit, the power becomes much more powerful and stronger, as Guru Sahib blesses his Sikhs himself to recite the Baanee.

Bhai Gurdas Ji Says, "By becoming Gurmukh (Guru oriented), he makes his life meaningful, he reads Gurbani (sikh holy scriptures/teachings) and makes others understand the importance of Gurbani."

Vaheguroo! 

Game of love 244- EMBRACE THE INDIVIDUAL INSIDE YOU!

EMBRACE THE INDIVIDUAL INSIDE YOU!  

Start being yourself, genuinely and proudly. – Trying to be anyone else is a waste of the person you are. Be yourself. Embrace that individual inside you that has ideas, strengths and beauty like no one else. Be the person you know yourself to be – the best version of you – on your terms. Above all, be true to YOU, and if you cannot put your heart in it, take yourself out of it. 

For a Gurus Sikh, it's important they display the true them. If we do not do this, we are cheating ourself and also lying to the one who knows us better than we know ourselves. We try to become like others, act like them, speak like them, look like them and so on. we are who we are and all we need to become is Gurbaanee (Gurus teachings- gurbaanee banneeai). When we learn to respect and love ourselves and have nothing to hide, we will naturally present our true self to the world. When we are not true to ourselves and are living many different lives for many different people, we find it difficult to be content and find the balance. The world also recognises this as false, as ones true/positive spirit and energy is not felt by the world. 

We are not designed to be anyone else. We are who we are and just better ourselves in that way, by becoming virtuous and balanced humans. When we recognise our inner qualities by beginning to be ourselves and know ourselves better through balancing the mind, then we will never turn to ever imitate another human. We can take the good from many, including animals but we are who we are and embrace that individual inside us (soul), which then becomes the purest of pure by merging with Vaheguroo. So why be like anyone else? Be like your Guru (Guru Gobind Singh) the purest human being with every human quality to step foot on this earth. 

Living a false life affects our mind rapidly. Our mind will sway to which ever way we take it. It wants to be one with God but it ends up playing the part of many different characters in one body. When it becomes one through finding inner peace via the teachings of Guru Ji, their physical discipline of rehit and their spiritual discipline of naam meditation, then it has nothing to worry about. The mind stays content, loving, peaceful, happy and joyous in its own little world. This is the state in where the mind becomes the universe. 

Wise people have said, "To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment."

Guru Nanak Dev Ji Says, "See the brotherhood of all mankind as the highest order of Yogis; conquer your own mind, and conquer the universe."

Vaheguroo!