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Students, Boys and Girls!
The present Vice Chancellor, the former Vice Chancellor, the Secretary of
the Central Trust and two other students have made excellent speeches in
beautiful vocabulary. In this vast world, wherever you see, you find most
wonderful and joyful events that awaken your inner being and fill your
heart with immense bliss. Our students also have developed great skill,
intelligence and expertise in the fields of sports, games and music and
demonstrated their talents giving joy to one and all. Whatever be the
activity they undertake, they do it to please Swami and not for temporary
happiness.
Right from the time of birth, all activities of man are centred round the
process of learning and acquiring wisdom. It is absolutely necessary to
teach the spirit of idealism to our students so that they fill their
hearts with love and give happiness to one and all. Today, there are a
number of educational institutions all over the world, but, nobody seems
to have understood what education really means. Students fill their heads
with mere bookish knowledge, write examinations, secure pass marks and
claim that they are educated.
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In
spite of his education and intelligence, a foolish man will not
know his true Self and a mean-minded person will not give up his
evil qualities.
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| (Telugu
Poem) |
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Modern
education leads only to argumentation, not to total wisdom. What
is the use of acquiring education which cannot lead you to
immortality? Acquire the knowledge that will make you immortal.
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| (Telugu
Poem) |
Vidya means Jnana
(wisdom). Jnana does not mean worldly intelligence. True education is that
which develops inner vision and makes you experience everlasting bliss. In
what way are the students benefited by the present educational system?
They are merely acquiring degrees and earning the appreciation of the
authorities, but they do not understand the real significance of
education. Modern students are unable to realise the true spirit behind
their participating in sports and cultural events. In all events of sports
and games, you have a winner and also a loser. People are interested only
in the outcome of the events and not in enjoying the spirit of sports. The
aim of sports and games is not to produce a decisive result but to
inculcate the spirit of sportsmanship in the participants. Life is a game,
play it. Life is a dream, realise it. Life is love, enjoy it. It is only
he who understands the import of these statements and realises them in his
daily life is a true student.
Modern system of education, instead of developing the power of
discrimination in students, is making them narrow-minded. It neither
bestows true wisdom nor does it help them to become broad-minded. The
present-day education has become meaningless. The textbooks that are
prescribed for students do not contain the essence of true education. I
wonder why the government promotes such meaningless textbooks! May be,
even the government is unaware of the realities. It appears as though
somebody at some low level is taking these decisions without consulting
the higher authorities. It is bringing a bad name to the government, but
nobody seems to be concerned about it. Such an unhealthy trend is on the
rise. Nobody is making efforts to understand the sacredness associated
with the ancient system of education. Students are interested only in
bookish knowledge, not in the essence of education. Only their textual
knowledge is tested, but not practical knowledge. Students think that
degrees are meant to earn a livelihood. Education is for life, not for a
living. But neither the students nor the parents realise this truth.
Parents are happy if their children score high marks in their
examinations. They are not bothered about the heap of bad remarks their
children get. If only they care to look into the remarks, they will truly
understand the type of education that their children are receiving. Due to
the advancement in modern education, the study of Vedas and Sastras has
declined. In this situation, how can the present education confer true
wisdom on you?
Students!
You should acquire such education which will be beneficial to the society
and the world at large. What is the present state of society? In what way
can we make it ideal? How should one work for the advancement of the
society? Nobody seems to think on these lines. Even the present system of
education does not lay emphasis on service to society. If someone talks
about reforms in the system of education, the students just brush it
aside. They think that textual knowledge is the be-all and end-all of
education. The elders should take up the responsibility to give proper
education to students. Students should uphold the honour of the society.
We should follow the teachings of our ancient sages and seers who have
given us the true meaning of education. It is a sign of foolishness to
become egoistic by merely acquiring a few degrees. You should understand
the needs of society and utilise your education for its progress. People
say they are serving the society, but without really understanding what
the requirements of the society are. Such service is not Samaja Seva
(social service), but Samadhi Seva, meaning a lifeless, mechanical
activity. Society will progress only when the system of education is set
right. As the craze for Western education has increased, the study of
Vedic texts is being neglected. Parents should teach their children what
is good and what is bad right from their childhood. They should not be
satisfied merely by securing admission in a college and acquiring a degree
by their children. They should ensure that their children utilise their
education to serve the nation. The government may not be able to do much
in this regard; it is the responsibility of the parents to guide their
children on proper lines. They should encourage the children to work for
the progress of the nation. But nowadays, parents do not have such
broad-mindedness. Even teachers are not interested in the welfare of the
nation. They feel that their responsibility ends with imparting bookish
knowledge to students. They do not even enquire whether the information
contained in the textbooks is beneficial to society or not. They do not
take up the matter with the government. Even if they do take it up, the
government is not responsive. They are changing educational institutions
into factories which produce degree holders. Students alone are not to be
blamed for this state of affairs. Parents, teachers and the government are
equally responsible for this dismal state of affairs. It is not enough if
students secure high ranks in the class and earn a good name. They should
work for the progress of the society and the nation and thus bring a good
name to parents. Parents should monitor the progress of their children
from time to time, inculcate virtues in them and mould them into
responsible citizens. They should not rest satisfied if their children get
good marks. They should also observe what type of books they read at home.
Some students read meaningless novels. But the parents do not bother to
correct them. On the other hand, they say, “What is wrong in reading
novels? It is enough if they are happy.” In this manner, they spoil
their own children. They do not care to observe how their children behave
in their absence. There is no point in merely educating the children
without correcting their behaviour. Parents should emulate the ideals of
our forefathers who brought up their children in the most ideal way.
Embodiments of Love!
The modern system of education needs reforms. Parents today, take pride
that their children are studying in English medium schools and are able to
recite English poems. They fail to understand what type of impact and
influence this modern education has on their children. The tiny tots in
kindergarten are taught nursery rhymes like “Ba … Ba … Black
Sheep”. Because of such education, the children are ultimately becoming
black sheep themselves. I am really pained and disgusted watching the
present-day system of education which is totally spoiling the lives of
students. That is why I have established educational institutions spending
crores of rupees to mould the character of students. I am providing even
textbooks free of cost to the students. In the present-day world, the
situation is so bad that even for admission to a primary school one has to
register well in advance paying thousands of rupees as donation. Parents
are happy if their wards get admission in what they consider good schools,
but they do not bother about the benefit that would accrue on account of
such an educational system. The children do not appreciate the privations
the parents have to undergo for educating them. Parents take loans and
even forgo proper food and sleep to educate their children. Ultimately,
the children do not benefit out of this system of education. They are
unable to understand what is good and what is bad for them. Today when the
quality of education has become so ‘cheap’; how can such education
make one a ‘chief’? Neither the parents nor the teachers nor the
students are able to understand how the society and the nation are
benefited by the present system of education. Therefore, all of them
should join hands and work unitedly to bring about a complete
transformation in the society. At present students’ agitation is on the
increase. However, it is not their fault. They are in themselves very
good-natured. Fault lies with the teachers, elders and the government. It
is a decided factor that the present system of education is not designed
to mould the character of the students. There are many good students, but
parents, teachers and textbooks do not guide them properly. It is high
time that the parents opened their eyes and seen the real state of
affairs. They should see to it that their children come up in their life
by acquiring proper education. They should encourage their children to
pursue such type of education which will lead them to immortality. Of
course, secular education is also necessary. But, secular education should
be harmonised with spiritual education to mould the character of the
students and make them better citizens of the country.
Students!
Do not feel proud that you are pursuing higher education. Along with
higher education, you should cultivate noble qualities. Education bereft
of virtues is useless. The end of education is character. Today many
students read useless, even immoral fiction novels. The authorities should
ensure that such books are not sold in the market. Students should read
only such books which can improve their character. They should participate
in sports and games in the true spirit. This advice would equally apply to
the girl students as well. They question, “When boys ride motor bikes,
why can’t we do the same?” In this way they argue and waste their
time. Nobody says that girls should not ride motor bikes. But one should
act according to the time and circumstances. The number of fatal accidents
of young people involved in two wheelers is on the increase. Parents make
many sacrifices to bring up their children. But, if the precious lives of
students are lost in motor cycle accidents, I can understand their agony.
Today, girls want
to compete with boys in every field. They also aspire for name and fame.
Their argument is, “In what way are we inferior to boys? Why can’t we
acquire the same type of education as boys?” However, each one should
acquire such type of education that is appropriate and suitable to them.
It is essential for women to look after their families well and shape the
character of their children in an ideal manner. Along with inculcating
virtues in children, they should also be given proper education. The
present-day education is leading students in the wrong direction. Parents
are to be partly blamed for this. They want their children to acquire high
qualifications and get married to another highly qualified person. Some
parents while trying to fix up marriage alliance ask, “My daughter has
completed her post graduation. She is good looking. What about your son?
Has he completed his post graduation? Is he handsome?” In fact, beauty
is related to character, not to the physical appearance. Beauty of
character is what one should aspire for. Is it always possible to get a
post graduate bridegroom for a post graduate bride? The present-day
education is leading to unhealthy competition and conflicts. I do not say
that girls should not pursue higher education. If I am against women’s
education, why should I establish women’s colleges? I have established
various educational institutions with the sole purpose of inculcating
virtues in students. I am providing education free of cost. There are no
examination fees even. My only aim is that students should acquire proper
education, become ideal citizens and give happiness to their parents.
Students!
Do not misunderstand My words. I am telling you all this for your own
welfare and progress. You should acquire such education which will bring a
good name to you and uphold the reputation of your family. Do not become
egoistic and take to wrong ways in the name of freedom. I quite often
caution the boys not to look here and there while walking on the road.
Some boys, while speeding on their motor bikes, keep looking at girls who
are passing by. In the process their attention is diverted and they end up
in accidents. If your character is good, you will always be protected. You
should always keep your senses under control. You should always have a
check on your vision, listening and speech. Buddha undertook various
spiritual practices with a view to have mastery over his senses.
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Why
are the eyes given to you?
Is it to look here and there? No.
The
eyes are meant to see the beautiful form of the Lord.
Why are the ears given to you?
Is it to listen to vain gossip? No.
The ears are meant to hear the glories of the Lord.
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| (Telugu
Poem) |
The ears are given
for hearing good words and putting them into practice and thereby lead a
virtuous life. Having realised that God has given the sense organs for the
purpose of leading a virtuous life, Buddha discarded all ritualised
spiritual practices and put his senses to sacred use. He assured himself
that what he had to achieve in life was virtues, and not sensual
pleasures. He realised that conscience was his true Guru and made efforts
to control his sense organs like eyes and tongue. If these two sense
organs are controlled, all the other organs would automatically come under
control. Having thus set a goal for himself in life, Buddha entered the
wide world, after renouncing his wife and only child. I am not however
advising you to leave your wife and children and go to the forest like
Buddha. You look after them well and fulfil your responsibilities towards
them. Teach your children noble qualities and bring them up in life. Lead
a life of virtue. This is what Buddha taught. If you cultivate Samyak
Drishti (right vision) like the Buddha, the whole world will be under your
control.
Do not pay heed to the wrong advice of others. Foster noble qualities. If
you can control your senses, that itself amounts to realising the essence
of the epic, Bhagavata. The study of the epic Bhagavata is meant to
transform you into a man of virtue. Hence, control your senses and become
a master of the world. This is what you have to strive for, today. Explain
to your parents also about your priorities in life. Tell them,”Mother!
You expect me to go for a job which offers a fat salary. But, high
salaries are not as important as a virtuous life. If we give preference to
money instead of a noble life, our life itself will be ruined.” When you
keep your senses under control, you will become a person of noble
qualities. You will also gain the strength of character. Hanuman, the
illustrious servant of Lord Rama is an example of such noble qualities. He
was extolled as ‘Santhudu’, ‘Gunavantudu’ and ‘Balavantudu’
(calm and serene, one of virtues, one of mighty strength). He became a
great Guru because of his noble qualities. We should emulate his noble
qualities.
Dear
Students!
You are like pure gold. You are people of noble qualities. You are
precious. But, some of you are misguided by bad elements. Even if others
try to mislead you, do not deviate from your chosen path. Stand firm. Only
then will you acquire name and fame. This is My advice to the students. In
today’s education you are taught skills which will enable you to rise up
in your career, but, nobody teaches moral education. Morality is the most
important aspect of education. Money comes and goes, morality comes and
grows. Therefore, cultivate morality. That will earn you respect from
society.
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God
is your sole refuge wherever you may be, be it in a forest or in
the sky or in a city or in a village or on the top of a mountain
or in the middle of a deep sea.
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| (Telugu
Poem) |
Cultivate noble
qualities. I shall give you everything. Nay, I shall give Myself to those
who cultivate noble qualities and also to those who teach them. In fact, I
am living only for their sake. I do not seek anything in return from them.
Lead a life of character and nobility. Bring good name to your parents,
your institution and to Swami.
Dear Students!
You are all men of noble qualities, but you are influenced by the
contemporary society to a certain extent. Therefore, do not succumb to
distracting influences. First and foremost, make proper use of your
senses. Any elders you come across, revere them as your father and mother.
Earn good name for yourself by your thoughts, words and deeds.
Join good company, speak good words, cultivate Samyak Drishti and pursue
good education that will build your character – this is what I expect
from you, students. In fact, this is what your parents also wish for. No
father or mother will expect their children to be spoiled. But, they are
unable to advise the children properly and put them in order, out of some
sort of inhibition. Of course, I have no such qualms. Therefore, I am
advising you, with all the emphasis at My command, to see good, be good
and do good. Cultivate noble qualities. Thyaga (sacrifice) is the noblest
of all qualities, not Bhoga (indulgence). In fact, Bhoga will lead you to
Roga (disease). The Veda has proclaimed Na Karmana Na Prajaya Dhanena
Thyagenaike Amrutatthwamanasu (immortality is not attained through action,
progeny or wealth; it is attained only by sacrifice). Hence, Bangaru! (My
dear golden students) cultivate such noble qualities as Thyaga. I am
prepared to sacrifice everything for you. But, you must also be in a
position to receive My grace. I am yours and you are Mine. That should be
the relationship between us. Try to understand Swami’s love. All this is
meant to advise you to tread the right path. Do not go against the wishes
of your parents. If, by any chance, you have to differ from their views,
explain to them lovingly your viewpoint. They will also feel happy that
you have respected their feelings. The Veda has declared, Matru Devo
Bhava, Pitru Devo Bhava, Acharya Devo Bhava, Atithi Devo Bhava (revere
your mother, father, preceptor and guest as God). Speak sweetly and softly
to your parents. Convince them, if necessary. I am prepared to sacrifice
anything for the sake of such students. Several students join our
educational institutions. Some of them may not be in a position to pay
fees. Therefore, we have decided that all education in Sathya Sai
institutions should be totally free and no fees be collected from the
students. You should be free from all anxieties and enjoy peace. By
conforming to good behaviour only can peace be obtained. Several students
today wish to enjoy good things in life, but are following wrong methods.
They wish to partake of sugar, but consume bitter pills. They say one
thing and do another. That is why it is said
Manasyekam
Vachasyekam Karmanyekam Mahatmanam
Manasyanyath
Vachasyanyath Karmanyanyath Duratmanam
(those whose thoughts,
words and deeds are in perfect harmony are noble ones; those who lack
harmony of these are wicked)
I like such students whose thoughts,
words and deeds are in perfect accord. I am prepared to sacrifice anything
for them, nay, I will give away Myself to such people.
Dear Students!
Knowingly or unknowingly you might have committed mistakes in the past.
But, at least in future, cultivate good qualities and try to keep your
parents as well as Swami always happy.
(Swami called students from Primary School, Higher Secondary School and
also from the three campuses and gave away glittering silver trophies in
appreciation of their performance in the Sports and Cultural Meet.) |
