Peace is not a product of an intellectual exercise. It is an inner blossoming that occurs with meditation.
Mata AmritanandamayiIf you see deficiencies in others, your duty is to forgive instead of pointing at it.
Mata AmritanandamayiIsn't it human beings who impart vitality to the image in the temple? If no one sculpts the stone, it doesn't become an image. If no one installs it in the temple, it does not acquire any sanctity. If no worship is done, it does not acquire any power. Without human effort there cannot be any temples. What is wrong then in saying that we should view great masters as equal to God? Temples installed by such spiritual masters have a special energy of their own.
Mata AmritanandamayiGrace is openness. By remaining open, you let go of your ego and narrow-minded views, and allow divine grace to express itself through you.
Mata AmritanandamayiChildren, we should visit homes of the poor, orphanages and hospitals from time to time. We should take our family members along and offer assistance and look after the welfare of inmates. A word spoken with love and concern will give them more comfort than any amount of money. That will lead to the expansion of our hearts as well.
Mata AmritanandamayiChildren, daily practice of yoga or sun salutations (surya-namaskara) is very good for health and for spiritual practice. Lack of proper exercise is the cause of many of today's diseases. If we can get somewhere in time on foot, always walk instead of taking a vehicle. It is good exercise. Only if we have to go far should we depend on vehicles. Use a bicycle, whenever possible. This will save money, too.
Mata Amritanandamayi