Tuesday 6th July 2010 - Update
Update from Chicago: Rev. Dada's visit to Lake Michigan
Dada's first love has always been the sea. As we are not near any coast line in Chicago, we tried the next best thing by taking Dada to the vast Lake Michigan. It commences in Chicago and ends in Toronto, Canada.
The thought of this trip for Dada, after so many days of being indoors, had everyone extremely excited. Dada's therapist was on leave that day, yet she decided to come and join him on this excursion. The doctor in charge of Dada, Dr. Pang, also came along. Amidst all this jubilation, we set out with Dada for the Lake.
It was a bright and sunny day, with not a break in the electric blue sky. The water of the Lake shimmered. The waterfront was crowded and flooded with people, all out to enjoy this beautiful day. Unlike the tumultuous waves of the ocean, the ripples on the Lake were gentle and calm. It was such a pleasure to see the sun shining on Dada's face, and the puffs of wind playfully pass through his hair. The balmy breeze was soothing and comforting and Dada continued to enjoy this entire scene through the window of his car. Unlike the rest of us, Dada's demeanour was one of peace and equanimity. He said that whether it was sunny or raining, whether hot or cold, inside or outside, he was happy and full of bliss. For he believes that whatever God has planned for Him is the very best.
Dada said that looking at this lake, he was reminded of the time when Jesus gave his teaching at the Lake of Galilee. Jesus had come across some fishermen who were busy plying their trade. He told them to come unto him, for he would teach them, how to catch men instead of fish, and teach them how to come close to God. They were so lucky and fortunate, to have come into close proximity of a saviour of Humanity.
Dada then said that it was so important in life to have a Guru. The Guru transports us to a new world of new dimensions, which is fragrant, fair and fresh. In comparison, this world is so dark and gloomy.
Whatever happens in our lives, Dada added is our Karma. Its seed lies dormant within us. Sooner or later, maybe even in the next birth, it will surely sprout and grow into a tree, which will bear fruit. The fruit may be sweet or bitter, sour or tasteless, we have to eat it.
Hence, do not cry or shout or shed tears of sorrow. But let our hearts roll out in gratitude to God. Let the mantra of our life be 'Shukur, shukur', thank you Lord.
By God's grace, Dada continues to make good progress. Every day he gives a short talk of three to five minutes in the evening satsang. The entire medical team is satisfied with Dada’s progress. We hope it will not be long before Dada moves out of Chicago to New Jersey. The following Sunday, the 11th of July, if it be God’s will, a small satsang in sindhi has been planned wherein Dada can share his wisdom, and people can listen to him, after such a long gap. On July 18th a Question & Answer session in English has been planned.
Krishna Kumari
Thursday 1st July 2010 - Update
The Will of God is Supreme: Update on Rev. Dada J.P. Vaswani's Recovery
Dada's ever growing strength and improving health ensure that his progress is continuous, steady and encouraging. Dada's physiotherapist, Caroline, is extremely pleased with the improvement in his condition and works very hard at ensuring that Dada obtains the maximum support. In return, he puts in his best effort. In gratitude for her sincere efforts, Dada wrote a sweet poem for her.
Dada told her that he has had many teachers in his life, but she has been the best teacher for him. She said that this was so because he has been and is the best student, and hence, has been her inspiration. She is aiming high and looking forward to the day, when he completes his physiotherapy in Chicago, and walks all the 1000 miles to New York. Unfazed, Dada sportingly replied that he would surely do so, but on the map. Once again, he provides us with a glimpse of his ever-prevalent humour and his instantaneous presence of mind.
Dada is regularly made to play board games like scrabble, etc. This is an essential part of his occupational therapy. For instance, while playing scrabble, he has to pick up and arrange the letters. This provides excellent movement and exercise for the arms, wrists and fingers. Yet, it is fun, so the therapy does not appear to be a dreary chore.
Dada's doctor, Dr. Pang, is extremely pleased with Dada's encouraging and steady progress. He is totally taken up by Dada, and sometimes even attends satsang, even though he does not understand a word. He just loves the positive energy that emanates from Dada at such times. He, like all of us, is looking forward to the day when Dada, with the help of a walking stick, can walk on his own. After that he feels, Dada will be ready to proceed to New York.
Dada is not just laying idle in bed. His daily schedule is very tight. His physiotherapy commences at 7 a.m. He is finally free only at 11.30 p.m. But he is doing well, so it makes all the effort worth it.
Dada gives some impromptu upadesh and even conducts miniature Q & A sessions. A visitor once asked Dada for one simple rule to follow in life. Dada replied, "God is inside and outside. This knowledge should enable you to live like a child, with no worry, anxiety or fear. Everything is regulated by Him, so we should leave all in His Hands."
Many times, while the physiotherapist, Caroline, conducts the excercises, she is concerned if they are taking too much of a toll on Dada's body. So, she often asks him if everything is alright. Dada lovingly replies, "All my experiences from you are for my good, to improve my muscle tone and enable me to walk. Similarly, God too sends us experiences which are for our enrichment and good."
Initially, Dada used to avoid the excercises for he would find them strenuous, painful and tiring. In the same manner, we desist all that is sent to us by God. But now when Dada is able to guage their benefits and assistance towards recovery, he not only co-operates but enthusiastically tries to achieve even more. Now, when he is told to take 10 steps, he goes ahead and takes 14. This should be our attitude even while braving the apparently painful incidences sent by God, knowing that ultimately they are for our betterment.
There is still a long and laborious journey ahead for Dada. But then every journey is traversed through steps and Dada's quick, baby steps will soon enable him to run, transcending all obstacles, and reaching out to all of us.
Several times Dada has been asked the question, "Why did God send this suffering to you?" and each time Dada has given a different answer, depending on the perspective and on the individual. This time when Dada was once again asked this question, he said, "The Will of God is supreme and has to be obeyed at all costs. The best part is that some form of good emerges from everything that He wills. Hence, while living one's life according to God's Will, one has nothing to lose".
We are sure that Dada, who always bows down in acquiescence to the Lord's Will, will soon be up and going about his daily routine lithely, with energy and vitality.
Krishna Kumari
Saturday 26th June 2010 - Update
48 Days…… and counting
UPDATE ON REV. DADA -
This time, Dada's sojourn at the hospital for 48 days, has been the longest one ever. It has been a time of tears and smiles. It has been a period of dark clouds interspersed with occasional sunshine. The agony and pain that Dada has undergone has been intense and long drawn out, piercing the hearts, not only of those who have watched him, but of all those who love him. It has been a time of tremendous struggle, but it has seen the victory of faith, courage, acceptance, surrender and all that is positive. These 48 days have been witness to the impossible becoming possible. This victory has quietened the nay-sayers and reinforced the faith of the believers. Verily have the sages and saints said that continue to pray, for, this too shall pass. The rocky road has been traversed, but the journey is not yet complete.
Now, Dada has been moved to the 10th floor of the building, which comprises of private apartments. Dada has been allocated a separate, private apartment to himself, with one wall consisting of huge glass window. Dada's bed has been moved alongside the window, to enable him to look out and enjoy the view. He can sit up in bed and see the traffic and the people go by; he can enjoy the beauty of the trees, the greenery and the tall and stately buildings and sometimes the luxury of a beautiful sunset in the windy city of Chicago.
The Director of Apartments, Ms. Nancy says that she has not met a person like Dada; he is different and unique. His knowledge, depth and understanding of Christianity far supersedes even that of actual Christians. The staff working in the area regards the Sangat visiting Dada in Chicago, as one huge family. They say that they have never seen a family that is so united and caring of one another.
When our meals are being cooked in our kitchen, the aroma of the Indian food pervades the entire 10th floor, making the mouths water of all the Americans in the vicinity. Our American friends often join us for breakfast or dinner. They simply love our curry, pakwan-dal, aloo-puri and so on. Such experiences and incidents make the treat and the pleasure mutual.
Dada is now free to follow his own schedule and is extremely chirpy and cheerful. His physical trainer, Caroline simply adores Dada, and begins her day with the customary 'good morning' followed by Dada Shyam and does not end it without a cheery 'good-bye' and Dada Shyam . During the day, whenever she has any free time between patients, she drops in to check on Dada. But along with all this, both she and Dada are extremely serious and sincere about the physiotherapy. He approaches it like a pro, with eagerness and enthusiasm. Its positive effects are evident in the limbs gaining in strength and in the toning of the muscles. On sunny days, Dada is taken in his wheelchair for a small round outdoors for some fresh air and sunshine. The entire staff is so loving and caring and the main support has been the efforts of Dr. Chablani, who has been holding the fort.
Once, a casual remark was made to Dada about the extent of his suffering. To this Dada had said, this is but a minuscule portion of true suffering; this is nothing. Dada continued, this world is running or surviving due to the sufferings being undertaken by its saints. It is they, who through their suffering are holding and supporting the weight of the world and by sending out healing vibrations. The world is saved by them.
Tears flood the eyes on recollecting the extent of Dada's suffering. But now everything seems to be falling into place. Small and simple things like Dada getting good sleep, or eating well, or having a good physiotherapy bring radiant smiles to our faces.
Dada narrated a story yesterday of a happily married couple who became estranged once the husband became an alcoholic. They both did not communicate with each other for four years. Each one tried in their own way to salvage the situation, but to no avail. The wife would concentrate on looking after the children, but the husband refused to go to work and hit the bottle from morn to night.
Finally she divorced him because all the money was going in his drinks, and she wanted to utilise every penny for the children. They forgot about each other, till 14 years later, the phone rings and the hospital informs the wife about the terminally ill cancer patient in their ward who has given the hospital their name.
This news caused turmoil within her because all the hate, revenge and resentment bottled up throughout these years, within her, surfaced. But ultimately peace and calm prevailed and she decided to take the children, who had grown up in this time, to the hospital, to meet their father. He was overjoyed to see them all. The children served and entertained him. Hence his last few days on this earth were peaceful and he died with a smile on his lips.
Dada thus brought home the fact that life is too short to hate, take revenge or resent anybody. It is better to give love. He gave the practical suggestion that when thoughts of hate or anger arise, one should replace them with happy and positive thoughts. This is beneficial even for us for it will give rise to a change within us, filling us with a new joy and peace.
So far, a further stay in Chicago of a minimum of two to three weeks is expected. After this, further treatment in the United States has to be continued for another 6-8 weeks. Every one's continued prayers and good wishes will make even this period a successful one---for, this too shall pass!
Krishna Kumari
Monday 21st June 2010 - Update
Father's Day Update from Chicago
With joy and gratitude we greet this glorious Father's Day----gratitude to the Divine Father for bestowing on us the joy of the presence of our spiritual Father, our Guru, our Master, our beloved Dada. Having Dada in our midst on this day is the greatest gift on earth.
What has this marvellous Father not done for us? He makes each one of us feel close and an integral part of him. He embraces all our problems and in exchange showers us with all his love and warmth. This Father firmly guides, gently corrects and warmly supports us at every step. Without this Father we are lost, aimless and directionless. May the good Lord continue to bless with this wonderful Dad(a) of ours with health, strength and vigour.
Dada's physical progress has been slow, but it is sure and steady, making it definite that he will come out of all this a true winner. Dada takes his physiotherapy with enthusiasm, and this has helped to build up a decent appetite. Attempts are made to take him out of his room daily, in a wheelchair, to get some fresh air. Dada will shortly be discharged from the hospital and will be moving into a private residence. He will continue with his physiotherapy and other treatments, on an out-patient basis.
Dada narrated to us an incident from the life of Arun Gandhi, Mahatma Gandhi's grandson. When Arun was in his teens, he was living with his parents. One day, he was thrilled at being asked to drive his father to the city, who had to attend a conference for the entire day. The mother gave him a list of groceries that needed to be purchased and some other chores such as servicing the car had to be performed. He was very glad to drive his father to town. After dropping off his father, he was told that he had to be picked up at 5 p.m., and the two would once again drive home together.
Arun dropped off the car for servicing and went to catch a John Wayne movie. He was so engrossed in it that he lost all track of time. By the time he picked up the car from the garage and reached his father, it was 6 p.m., an hour later than the stipulated time. Feeling sheepish about his misdemeanour, he tried to cover up by laying the blame of the delay on the garage.
Now, in the absence of his son, the father had already called the garage and found out that the car was ready, but that no one had yet come to pick it up. He was extremely disheartened to hear his son lie, but instead of deriding him, he blamed himself for not having brought up his son correctly. Hence, he decided to punish himself by walking the 18 miles back to the house. For the most part, the roads were unpaved and unlit. The son tried to dissuade him, but to no avail.
Arun followed slowly behind his father, in the car, and the entire journey took five and a half hours. He was steeped in shame, remorse and guilt for being the cause of such agony for his father, just for the sake of a stupid lie. But in the process he learnt a lesson which was unforgettable.
All saints, gurus, our spiritual fathers, prefer to undergo suffering themselves in order to teach us. We learn lessons of life through them. This is the purpose for which Dada has come in our midst, to extricate us from the web of the bewitching maya of this world. He is the Father, who when unable to sleep at night, uses the time to pray for all his children. When his physiotherapist heard this, he said he would tell God to enable Dada to sleep, as he prays enough even during the day. To this Dada with a laugh replied, that there can never be 'enough' of prayer, for each breath should be a prayer of goodwill for all, and there can never be enough breaths.
Often at night, while awake, Dada recites the 'Jap Sahib’:
Ek Onkar--He is the One, the One without a second.
Satnaam—His name is Truth. (To realise him we need to walk the way of truth)
Karta Purukh—He is the Creative principle: out of Him is everything that is.
Nirbhau—He hath no fear.
Nirvair—He hateth none.
Akaal Murat—He is the deathless one. Death cannot draw nigh unto Him.
Ajuni--The Unborn and Undying, for He has not entered the wheel of birth and death.
Sainbhau--The Self-effulgent and Self-manifested, the Source of Light and existence.
Gur Prasad—He may be known through the Grace of the Guru.
Jap—Meditate.
Aad Sach, Jugaad Sach, Haibhi Sach, Nanak hosi bhi Sach--Meditate on Him who was before the beginning, the Ageless One who is and will be for ever and ever more.
Just as Bhishma Pitamaha, of the Mahabharata, lay on a bed of arrows, uncomplainingly, so has beloved Dada borne agonising shafts of pain, today being the 44th day, with not a murmur or a complaint. He continues to tread the path of tapasya, doing so much for all of us, in order for us to emerge spiritually victorious. With such a dear Father as our guide and support, what can ever go wrong with us? We bow down to him with love, humility and gratitude, and continue to encompass him with our loving prayers.
Krishna Kumari
Tuesday 8th June 2010 - Update
A Month of Mercy - Update on Rev. Dada's Recovery
It was on 7th May, that fateful day, that Dada had his fall, with such massive repercussions. It is a month since then. What do we call this month? When asked, Dada said for me it has been a Month of Mercy. For God, in His infinite mercy, has chosen me to bear this cross of pain and suffering, in order to lighten the load of others and bring comfort and relief to their stressful lives.
This is not as far-fetched as it sounds. Throughout this month, we have been receiving messages from around the world, from devotees who have experienced respite from their problems in different ways. A devotee in his early seventies had a major fall, but recuperated from the ensuing surgery in no time, and is normal and mobile. Another one had developed muscle damage near the hips and had been experiencing pain for over seven months. No medication would help. Now she is pain-free and going about her regular chores.
In this manner there have been several other such incidents. These very same devotees would gladly exchange their relief and bear the pain, if they could but alleviate Dada's suffering. But as they are unable to do so, they are bowing down to His will, and at least expressing the fact that Dada's offering, sacrifice, suffering and pain are not in vain.
For all of us, it is a Month of Mercy wherein we have all been praying and pleading with God to pour His mercy on Dada, and make him healthy and whole again. Only the nectar of mercy from heaven when poured on him can make this a possibility and a reality. We have to hold on to this faith as our staff, to guide and support us during this trying time. Hopefully this month of intense prayer and yearning will have strengthened us to a point where we can focus on channelising all this positive energy towards beloved Dada.
Dada proclaimed aloud--Hold and behold all with mercy. May this Month of Mercy teach us all to view each and every one around us with the warmth and caring of mercy.
Though we are looking upon this time as a Month of Mercy, yet in many ways it has been a long, tedious and trying time. In some ways it seems so unfair that the simple joy of being with the children and gently playing and interacting with them, should have led to so much suffering and pain for Dada. Yet again, it has enabled us to learn and accept the great lesson that everything is according to the will of God. In His will is the highest good.
Dadi Janki, the head of the Brahmakumaris, came to meet Dada. On seeing him she said, “I feel like dancing for I have met my comrade. He is verily my comrade. This fall and injury is merely a 'lila' or a play of Dada. He has done it of his own will in order to remove our fears and worry."
Dada narrated a beautiful story about how Burbank, demonstrated the inexplicable and intense power of love. He would shower tremendous love on his roses and speak lovingly to them. In his daily conversation he specifically asked them to grow without thorns and so it happened. The roses that grew did so, without any thorns. It is with this intensity that we should love God and one another, in order to truly experience the power of love.
Krishna Kumari
Monday 1st June 2010 - Update
Let Us Do Positive Visualising for Rev. Dada - Report from Chicago
Rev. Dada has been moved to the Physiotherapy Unit of the hospital for his rehabilitation. His daily programme consists of tremendous effort towards successfully participating in the Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy being done on him. Considering the mountainous hurdles that Dada has overcome so far, he is, by God's grace, doing reasonably well. There is still, of course, a lot of pain. But though he is unable to move around much, Dada is not slothful or torpid, he is not disgusted or dejected. In fact, fully alert and aware, he pours in all his energy, will- power, patience and perseverance in attempting to physically return to normalcy as soon as possible.
Hence, when he is working with the therapists, he is extremely co-operative. In fact, on seeing Dada, they say, the Smiling One has come. It is truly awe-inspiring to see that since his fall, not even for a second, has Dada's smile left his face. The smile is not just put on for our benefit; it is truly genuine. This is evident from the fact that he is filled with gratitude, uttering the words, "Thank you God for giving me this beautiful gift. I, myself, have asked You for this gift of bestowing on me the pain of others, so that they may suffer less. Hence, I gladly accept all this pain."
This shows that Dada has been praying to free all of us from suffering and pain. This portrays the overwhelming extent and depth of his love for us. It far surpasses any earthly love, totally unselfish, sacrificial, noble and unconditional.
Several devotees have questioned Dada, if Karma binds a saint. To this, Dada clarified, Karma does not bind a saint, but a saint may willingly pay off the Karma of himself and of his devotees. Dada urged that from now on we should be very careful of what we sow. If there is any thought of ill-will or harm to another, it should be immediately replaced with a good thought, and thus get rid of any negativity. In this manner, bad karma will be replaced by good karma.
Dada said that just as a candle cannot be lit without fire, similarly man cannot exist without God. Also, just as the flame of a candle cannot survive without oxygen, so too, man cannot live without 'satsang'.
One day, a therapist told Dada, "You look like a young man." Dada smilingly corrected him," I am a young man."
A doctor named Dr. Harvey West came to check on Dada. On hearing his name Dada said, " You are from the West and I am from the East, and it is here that we have met. It is the need of the hour for the East and the West to come together for the beginning of a new civilization."
Once a therapist inquired from Dada if he was tired. Dada replied, " I never get tired as long as there are three things I can do--- pray without sleeping, smile all the while and serve as many as I can."
And so, Dada continues to keep up with his therapy. It is a long road, but he never complains. To further help him in his tireless endeavour let us together, for 10 minutes daily, do some positive visualising, seeing Dada up and about, walking at his usual brisk pace, talking to us, sitting in our midst, blessing us, guiding us, travelling energetically from one place to another and continuing to give his enriching and enlightening discourses.
Krishna Kumari
Sunday 30th May 2010 - Update
Important Update -
Rev. Dada has developed fever just now.
We request prayers by everyone.
Thanking you,
For Sadhu Vaswani Mission
Mobile +91-9850993151
The PR Office
Sadhu Vaswani Mission
Tuesday 25th May 2010 - Update
UDHAV COMES TO THE GOPIS .......[DR SANCHETI AT THE PUNE SANGAT]
Udhav comes to the Gopis...
Ages ago, Udhav was sent by Shyam as a messenger to the Gopis carrying his message. Udhav had never seen the bhakti, the devotion, the love that they had for Shyam.
Ages later, on May 22, 2010, at the Pune Mission, came the esteemed doctor – Dr K.H. Sancheti to meet the Pune sangat. He was to report on his meeting of Rev. Dada J.P. Vaswani at Chicago and on Dada's health.
Dada had been injured and since then the Pune sangat had that worrisome look on their faces, their hearts full of prayers and that thirst for Dada, their hidden tears of their concern for Dada. A million questions on their minds of Dada’s health and the only question going around as they would talk to one another every day – "What is the latest on Dada? Any update on his health?" Any news of Dada was welcome like a morsel to a hungry one.
Dr. K.H. Sancheti is the top orthopedic surgeon of India and Dada’s specialist who helped Dada during his shoulder injury in January early this year. Dr. Sancheti had come to know Dada well in his daily visits to him, and theirs had blossomed into a friendship. But he had never come close to the sangat that much.
Having helped Dada through the recovery process of the injury in January and as his orthopedic specialist, Dr Sancheti felt that he should be with Dada at this difficult surgery – of elbow replacement. As Dr Sancheti received the permission to go out there to oversee the surgery, the doctor rushed, canceling all his appointments, without even a second thought at his impending schedule.
To the Chicago airport, soon at the hospital room – and Dada greeted him first, recognizing Dr Sancheti immediately –and before Dr Sancheti could even ask Dada of his health, Dada was showing care for him – “How was your flight? Was the trip comfortable? Why did you take the trouble of coming to Chicago, I would have come to you doctor?” Dada had the same smile, the same radiant composure that Dr Sancheti had seen him last at Pune. Three fractures, 2 major surgeries done, and next major surgery only a day away, and Dada was more concerned about Dr Sancheti.
The next day when Dada was going into surgery, Dr Sancheti was amazed that instead of the doctor consoling the patient before the surgery, it was the patient here who was consoling the doctor - Dada asking Dr Sancheti not to worry and that he would be alright.
Because of Dada’s heart condition, the surgery was under local anesthesia to the arm area. Dr. Sancheti related - normally, if the surgery went past half hour, general anesthesia is administered to the whole body. This operation lasted 3 hours and even with repeated concern from the anesthetists, Dada did not even once ask for general anesthesia, telling the surgeons that he had handed over his arm to them in complete faith.
The surgery went well and Dada was soon in the private room.
Dr. Sancheti too returned back and today he had come to the Pune Sangat – like the Gopis who awaited news of their Shyam. As soon as he walked in the Satsang Hall, it brought the glow back to their faces. The smiles could not have been brighter for this messenger from Dada.
Asked to speak and give the news of Dada, Dr Sancheti was awed at the faces that looked at him – awed by the love that flowed just to hear few words of their Master.
The doctor related his experience to the Pune Sangat…
Dada was as alert as ever, not even losing the track of time. He admitted that in his 50 years of practice, in life, he had not seen a patient like Dada –who could handle all the surgeries so well – with such high will-power and faith.
To claps and cheers, Dr. Sancheti announced that he had 100% faith and he knew for sure that Dada would be able to perform all his bodily functions just like before – walk like before, eat like before, write like before…and talk like before. It would take 1-2 months for Dada to recover fully – that Dada would walk to them just like before, those arms, those hands would rise to greet and bless everyone like before…
At the end, he admitted Dada’s devotees are special – their love for Dada tremendous which he had not seen anywhere, the prayers of devotees that had helped Dada immensely.
After the speech, the devotees thronged him, their messenger from Dada – through his words, they had seen their Master – some touched his feet, some just held his hand, some grabbed his hand to put on their heads for blessings, some just had tears – on each lip, there was gratitude to the messenger, in each eye – that love for the Master.
All this love and devotion enveloped the doctor and as his steps took him away from the grounds of the Mission campus, in his eyes too – everyone seemed to notice surely - Udhav too had become a Gopi ...
Monday 24th May 2010 - Update
Update on Dada'a Recovery by Krishna Kumari
By God's grace, on the 17th of May, Dada's second surgery on his right elbow, after his massive fall, went off without a hitch. It was a long and complicated procedure, which took more than three hours. Our hearts were in our mouths, but we were shored up with prayers and with the knowledge of the expertise of the surgeons. The doctors emerged from the operation theatre totally satisfied with the way the surgery had proceeded.
Prior to the surgery, the doctors had asked Dada if he was comfortable. Dada replied, “Comfort is made up of two words--'come' and 'fort'. A 'fort' is a place of refuge. So, if we 'come' and seek 'refuge' at the lotus feet of the Lord, we will always be comfortable."
Dada's reply had them speechless, but also assured them that this unusual patient of theirs was in 'comfort'.
Dada bestowed on all, his beautiful smile before being wheeled in for the surgery. His countenance, at every stage, has only reflected calm and peace. Never a shadow of doubt, sorrow, frustration or despair has ever crossed his face. It is unbelievable how such a blow has befallen a body that is so delicate, tender and frail, The intensity of the pain suffered has been astronomical, far beyond the regular levels of suffering, and yet Dada continues to smile and ever thank God, the doctors, the nurses and all those who come in contact with him.
Every day, there is a different Mantra of gratitude. One day it is 'Thank you God'. On another it is 'Hare Ram'. Or then it is 'Sat Naam
Mushkul Aasaan', and so on. He holds on to these as to the Shepherd's Staff for support, never once complaining or expressing his pain. It makes one wonder at the mettle our Guru is made of! But it is also unbearable to watch him go through this fire of suffering.
Fortunately, Dada emerged from the recovery room, with a smile still visible on his face, providing us with much needed assurance.
After the success of the procedure done on Dada's right elbow on Monday, 17th May, we were all filled with relief and gratitude. But we did not have much time to sit back and feel complacent, for God's ways are mysterious and incomprehensible. He had us on our toes immediately with the information which the doctors passed on to us, that there seemed to be no movement on the left side of Dada's body.
This really alarmed the doctors and had us all in shock. Dada's left side would not respond to any touch or movement. After various tests and several discussions, the doctors diagnosed the problem as a mild stroke which had affected the left side. Word went round the globe and prayers and chants for Dada's recovery began immediately.
Between Monday evening and Sunday, the progress has been slow but encouraging. Physiotherapy and occupational therapy take place on Dada every day. Not only is Dada very co-operative at such times, but actually enjoys the process of therapy, and asks them for more. With Dada's ever-willing and upbeat attitude, the therapists said that today's therapy was a cheerleading session.
Finally, some movement has been visible on Dada's left side. With all these torrents of prayers, and the grace of Divine intervention, Dada is bound to recover completely. Let us all continue maintaining our hotline to God, unstintingly.
With hope ever-rising in our hearts, we all continue to plead with Him to make Dada healthy and whole again soon. God has enabled Dada to overcome the two major hurdles of the two surgeries. May He give him a boost, similarly, over the third obstacle of recovery. Just as Dada's fall occurred in the flash of a second, let us all pray, that in a flash of second Dada may come back to normal life again.
Wednesday 19th May 2010 - Update
Partial recovery of movement of left side. Your prayers are working. Doctors are hopeful of complete recovery.
Your prayers are valuable so please do keep praying for Dada.
Thank You.
--
The PR Office
Sadhu Vaswani Mission
Pune, India
Tuesday 18th May 2010 - Update (10.30 GMT)
URGENT ADVISORY: HEALINGS / PRAYERS NEEDED FR REV. DADA JP VASWANI
We have a special request to everyone out there in the world -
Rev. Dada JP Vaswani, Spiritual Head of Sadhu Vaswani Mission (with centers all over the world) has had a stroke on the left side of his body and has been operated for three fractures at Chicago, USA. The next twenty four hours are very important....as doctors say that the stroke is reversible so please send in all your prayers and prayers and more prayers.
The world needs him to come back soon and continue all his good work.
More information / updates available at http://twitter.com/dadajpvaswani and http://www.facebook.com/sadhuvaswani
Please do consider our humble request. We feel deeply grateful.
Yours Sincerely,
Naresh Singhani
For Sadhu Vaswani Mission
Mobile +91-9850993151
The PR Office
Sadhu Vaswani Mission
Pune, India
Tuesday 18th May 2010 - Update
URGENT ADVISORY: Dada after successful surgery, all of a sudden Dada is not well now. The Next hours are crucial and we request everyone to pray for him.
Please form prayer groups if possible immediately or individually to pray for Dada.
Please inform all.
Thank you
--
The PR Office
Sadhu Vaswani Mission
Pune, India
Monday 17th May 2010 - Update
GOOD NEWS: DADA'S ELBOW SURGERY SUCCESSFUL
Dada's elbow surgery completes successfully...more details to follow.
Thank you everyone for your unceasing, fervent, loving, devout prayers for Rev. Dada.
For Sadhu Vaswani Mission,
--
The PR Office
Sadhu Vaswani Mission
Pune, India
Saturday 15th May 2010 - Update
REV. DADA JP VASWANI REMARKS - "IT IS A RISE, NOT A FALL"
Krishna Kumari writes from Chicago -
The fortunate day has dawned, the day following the surgery, the 11th of May. The massive operation is behind us and Dada has been responding well to the post-operative care and treatment. The hospital that Dada is being treated in is known as the Rush Medical Centre, in Chicago. It is one of the best hospitals, with state of art equipment. The doctors are well experienced , and the entire para medical staff is extremely well-trained. They are all extremely kind, polite, patient, outgoing and friendly.
This medical facility is the foremost in orthopaedic treatment, All these arrangements have been made with the kind assistance of Dr. Ramesh Chablani. Dada refers to him as an angel of God who has been sent for us on this earth, for he has the capability of feeling the pain of others. This dedicated doctor reserves this treatment not only for Dada, whom he regards as more than Guru and father, but towards all his patients. Even his colleagues, and other doctors, nurses and patients speak highly of him.
Dada, having undergone two such painful and traumatic surgeries, still has a countenance which reflects his inner peace and a demeanour of acceptance and joy. The doctors, nurses and occupational therapist who have come in contact with Dada marvel at his forebearance even in the face of so much physical suffering. He has had a metal plate, rod and screws inserted in his body and yet all he does is smile and is filled with gratitude. Dada is thankful that the entire procedure has gone through peacefully, with Divine grace converting a mountain into a molehill.
They have started physiotherapy on Dada immediately the next day after surgery. The doctors say that this is the most important component for healing. Without the instant follow-up of physiotherapy, all the efforts of surgery are in vain. The latter is only corrective, but it is the former which accomplishes mobility and normalcy.
Dada's sense of humour surfaces even during these difficult times, for he never believes in being morbid. When Nurse Jill said that she was sorry about Dada's fall. He replied, it is a rise, not a fall. Just as a child rises up after a fall, so has he risen. To the occupational therapist, Jackie Calvill, Dada suggested that he should have some breakfast, and gifted him the book, 'Health and Happiness'.
When the orthopaedic surgeon, Dr. Walter Virkus, was explaining to Dada the details of the procedure he was going to perform on him, Dada merely said, the healing is in your hands. This made the doctor exclaim, "I wish it was that easy".
The journey of recovery being embarked upon by Dada is a long and arduous one, and these are the first slow but steady steps. With the prayers of all of you all over the world continuing to flow, with your love and good wishes, Dada is bound to heal and get energised and resuscitated, till he finally reaches the goal of complete health.
-Krishna Kumari
--
The PR Office
Sadhu Vaswani Mission
Pune, India
Friday 14th May 2010 - Update
The Weekend of Prayers:
We move into the weekend soon - time to spend with family. May this weekend be full of prayers for our dearest family member - Rev. Dada. As one BIG family, may our prayers be by his side in Chicago more fervent than ever before..for come Monday many of us will be heading to work, but Dada will be heading for his 3rd surgery. A weekend of prayers indeed may it be by us all....
Dada Shyam!
--
The PR Office
Sadhu Vaswani Mission
Pune, India
Wednesday 12th May 2010 - Update 10:10 PM IST
In a message just received @ 10:10 PM IST from Krishna Kumari - "Dada is sitting right now on a chair" - and her cheer echoes all over the world as doctors make him sit for the first time...for his Physio. Wonder of Wonders our Dada !!
Physio has indeed started for Rev. Dada today. His pain has reduced.
Dada's elbow surgery is now scheduled for Monday, May 17 at 12:00 noon Chicago time / 10:30pm IST
We all need to continue praying....
--
The PR Office
Sadhu Vaswani Mission
Pune, India
Wednesday 12th May 2010 - Update
FIRST HAND REPORT - from Krishna Kumari
The Sadhana Camp in Panama commenced on a high note, with great expectations and a mood of jubilation. All the participants eagerly looked forward to this special time with Dada. He greeted each one with a joyous and deep smile, welcoming everyone warmly to this beauteous time of closeness to the Divine, away from the fret and fury of daily life.
The theme that Dada presented was--
'Hujan gad hamesha,
Na dum be rahaan dhaar.'
Thus he entreated the Lord--- May I always be with You. Every thought, every act I perform must be in Thy presence. Whether I am eating, sleeping, walking or working, it should be in Your awareness. Whatever we have, we must share with others. O Lord, everything is for Thy sake!
Thus this whole day of the 7th of May passed in a mood of elevation and bliss. But at night, at around 10 p.m., Dada was on his way to participate in the Camp fire that had been organised. Outside the elevator he saw some children playing ping-pong. Dada’s heart which is totally child-like, spontaneously responded to them. So, he joined them in their game and gleefully played a good volley. Unfortunately, while lobbing one of the shots, Dada stepped backwards, lost his balance, and fell with full force on the hard floor, damaging the right side of his body.
Naturally, he was in excruciating pain, and could not be moved from the floor till the ambulance arrived. Quickly, the devotees gathered around him, rushing to make appropriate arrangements. Dada registered their stressed stances, their faces reflecting fear and worry. In return, amazingly, Dada reflected the same serene smile with which he had initially greeted them, even though the severity of his pain was visible.
The move to the ambulance took its toll. Instead of groaning with pain, Dada would utter 'Hey Ram'. He should have been wincing, his face distorted with pain. Instead, that same steady smile was reflected from his face. The ambulance staff were wonder-struck by his attitude. Even in his interaction with the doctors and nurses, the quality of the smile may have varied, either very broad, or subtly present, but it never left his face, totally melting the hearts of all those who came in contact with him.
Later, Dada was airlifted in an air-ambulance, which, along with all the necessary instruments, was also equipped with a doctor and a nurse, to take care of Dada. He perpetually kept on thanking them, and they, not being used to such patients, were embarrassed, saying that they were just doing their job. But, despite his discomfort, Dada kept on enquiring about their comfort, showing concern for them. Thus, he landed safely in Chicago.
Dada had fractured the right hip—femur bone, the right shoulder—humerus bone and the right olecranon (elbow). As repairing all this required major surgery, Dada was first stabilised. The slightest movement caused intense pain, but Dada continued to be cheerful, ever smiling and relaxed.
On the 10th of May, the first surgery took place on Dada's hip and shoulder. As so many vital areas have been injured on the same side, the surgery had to be performed with extreme care, so as not to put any pressure on any of the injured areas.
A rod and two screws (intramedullary nail)were inserted into the femur bone.
A plate and multiple screws were inserted in the humerus bone.Naturally, the levels of pain were very high, but Dada, with his patience and perseverance, retained his encouraging and trade-mark smile.
By God's grace the operation went-off successfully, yet Dada could see all the strained and tense faces of his devotees around him. With a gentle smile he constantly recited the words --Gratitude to Thee, O Lord. Let me bear this for Thy sake. I accept this gift from You gladly, 'Tere Liye, Tere Liye'.
Even under these extreme conditions, our beloved Guru continues to be a living example for all that we should aspire to be.
- Krishna Kumari
--
The PR Office
Sadhu Vaswani Mission
Pune, India
Tuesday 11th May 2010 - Update 10:00 PM IST
Rev. Dada slept well through the night under tranquilizers.
More feedback from Dada's doctors -
Doctors said that Dada's surgery went very well though there were severe injuries to the bones. Full right side of the body is affected with pain on every movement of the body. They will advise on the day of next surgery - to the elbow, expected to be Thurs or Friday.
Please keep praying for Rev. Dada - as he bears all that pain for our sake.
The Pune Mission continues paaths/jaaps non-stop. Special Sevas are also being done, including distribution of fruits at the Orthopaedic sections of the Inlaks Budhrani Hospital and the Sassoon Hospital.
Dada Shyam!
--
The PR Office
Sadhu Vaswani Mission
Pune, India
Tuesday 11th May 2010 - Update 06:20 (UK Time)
Rev. Dada's surgery of hip & shoulder is now completed and was successful. Shoulder surgery was especially difficult and took a long time to complete.
3rd surgery of Dada’s elbow is scheduled for this Thursday 13th May. The Elbow bone is quite damaged so you are kindly requested to please re-inforce your prayers for Thursday's surgery.
The Mission is deeply grateful for everyone's continued prayers.
Dada Shyam!
--
The PR Office
Sadhu Vaswani Mission
Pune, India
Monday 10th May 2010 - Update 20:30 (UK Time)
Dada's first surgery of the hip is over. He had two incisions made. The surgery was successful.
Shortly the doctor's will realign Dada's shoulder. No replacement is needed Thank God.
Possibly in a few days Dada may need an elbow replacement. If not Doctor's will try to fuse the bones together with restricted movements.
Monday 10th May 2010 - Update
Please note that Rev. Dada's updated Surgery Time has been recheduled for Monday, May 10 at 12:00 PM Chicago Time (6:00 PM UK time)
All are kindly requested to pray for Dada / do MAHAMRITYUNJAYA MANTRA JAAP from 12:00 PM Chicago Time (6:00 PM UK time)
Please spread the word
Thank You
Dada Shyam
The PR Office
Sadhu Vaswani Mission
Pune, India
Sunday 9th May 2010 - Update
Rev. Dada JP Vaswani had a major fall in the Panama Sadhana Camp. It resulted in 3 fractures - one on His shoulder, one above His right elbow and one on His right femur.
Dada was flown in an air-ambulance from Panama to Chicago.
Dada has reached Chicago this morning IST, and has been rushed into hospital under the care of an expert team of doctors.
While being received at the Chicago airport, he recognized all of the receiving group with a smile - though deeply in pain, he had that peaceful look on his face...
May it be God-Speed ahead in his healing with everyones continued prayers....
Saturday 8th May 2010 - Update
Revered Dada JP Vaswani has had a major fall this morning (6:30am - London time) in the Panama Sadhana Camp. He has been rushed to hospital in Panama.
It has been confirmed that he has suffered 3 fractures: one on his shoulder, one above his right elbow and one on his right femur. He is scheduled to be taken by air ambulance to Chicago for surgery.
Dada's Yatra - Puerto Rico 13th April 2010
Dada's arrival in San Juan, Puerto Rico, on 13th April, was greeted by heavy showers, with the sun soon peeping through the clouds to smile on Dada and his group. As it is a tropical island, the climate is extremely unpredictable and volatile. One moment it is hot and humid and the other it is cloudy and windy. There is rain in one part of the island and a few furlongs down, it is bone dry.
Dada is truly enjoying this tryst with Nature. The daily schedule is more or less the same, with a few variations. Every morning Dada goes for his morning walk for 2-3 hours and satsang is conducted in the morning and evening at the residence. He takes his walk sometimes at the edge of the ocean, along the frothy line of the tide. Or else he rests for a while under the shade of a cluster of trees. Often, he walks up to a rock and sits on it, relaxing, unwinding and soaking in the beautiful, natural ambience. Many times he does his work in the open air. On certain occasions Dada is driven in a golf cart, or he even drives it himself, and thoroughly enjoys the experience, with the echoes of his joyful laughter trailing behind.
One day, while resting his gaze on the bounty of Nature, Dada said that we should touch everything with reverence, every leaf, tree, or insect. Loosely translating from a Sindhi saying, Dada said, there lies tremendous wealth behind every blade of grass. We must learn to value and appreciate it. The conducive climate and the natural surroundings of this tropical wonder have made Dada extremely relaxed and rested.
Dada narrated a story based on an incident in the life of Gautama Buddha. Once, he needed to be rowed across to the other shore, and asked the boatman there to help him do so. The boatman said he would only do so if the Buddha had something to give him. The Buddha said that he had nothing, so was unable to pay him. The boatman refused to take him across.
Some time later, the village in which the boatman lived was being decorated and being prepared to welcome some dignitary. When the boatman asked around, he was told that a renowned ascetic was visiting their village, who had to power to bestow 'mukti', salvation on the deserving.
When the boatman went to see this personage, he was astonished to see that it was the same person whom he had refused to row across in his boat a few years ago, due to lack of payment. He was ashamed and could not approach him. But the Buddha, on seeing him, called him towards him, and blessed him abundantly. Thus teaching us that we should not brush aside anybody. We should help all whom we can, for we never know who that individual may turn out to be.
Once when Dada was asked what were the best moments of his life, Dada reminisced about the beautiful time he spent alone with Sadhu Vaswani for a few days. This was in 1931, in Karachi, during the time of the Satyagraha Movement. As Sadhu Vaswani had participated in it, the police had got hold of him and were putting him in jail. Seeing this, Dada slipped in between the crowds and stood beside his Master, so he could be imprisoned along with him, knowing that Sadhu Vaswani would require help with his personal care. It was to have been for 14 days but was reduced to 4, due to political pressure to release Sadhu Vaswani. But those 4 days in jail were heaven for Dada, for he, for the first time, had an opportunity to be alone with his Guru, and serve and assist him in his daily chores, all by himself.
Dada, one day, spoke about the law of gravity, and that how everything on this earth responds to and depends upon this gravitation. He continued that the centre of gravitation of each individual is his character, which is determined by each one's karma. But this character can be modified by one's will power and through the grace of the Guru.
While talking about the unending mercy of the Guru, Dada once narrated the story of a man named Tola, who was a multi-millionaire, but was also an inveterate gambler. In time, he loses everything and is reduced to complete poverty. He has to sleep on the roadside, with no cover to even keep him warm.
One day, a man passing by that way recognised Tola and was amazed to see the sorry state to which such a wealthy man had been reduced. He brought a blanket and covered him with that. The next day, Tola was again filled with the desire to gamble. So, he sold the blanket and gambled away the money. That night the man again found Tola shivering in the cold. He got another blanket and covered him. In this manner, Tola was assailed by the itch to gamble 12 times and 12 times the man brought him a blanket.
On the 13th time Tola questioned himself and wondered at the goodness of the man. It is then that the hidden soul in him was awakened. We too are the same as Tola. We too are consumed by some itch or bad habit. It is only when a special person of God untiringly pours his grace on us that we are transformed.
On Saturday, 17th April, Dada's English talk was well-attended by an overwhelming number of local people. They gamely joined in the kirtan with their clapping and were so engrossed in Dada's talk that they just would not let him end, requesting him to go on. Dada ended up giving a very long discourse, followed by a session on meditation.
Dada spoke on stress which is aggravated by our petty annoyances. But one of the major causes of stress is our constant rushing around, we have no time. Someone from the audience wondered if we had more than 24 hours at our disposal, would life be easier? Dada replied that even if each day comprised of 30 hours, it would not suffice. We should take hold of the time we have at our disposal and make the most of it. We should work towards transcending time and space. One of the ways is to devote a minute from each hour to silence. These 24 minutes of each day will go a long way towards being an effective stress buster.
Dada was asked the question, is it necessary to give up all our desires in order to attain self-realisation? Dada replied in the affirmative, saying that even one single desire cannot be retained if one wants to attain salvation. Just as every fibre of the thread has to be put together to successfully thread the needle, or just as the tiniest piece of wire has to be intact in order to obtain cent percent electricity or there is zero percent transfer of power, similarly every desire has to be eradicated. The best way is to offer everything to the Lord, then there is no desire towards the outcome of the action.
There was another question about the first requirement of spiritual life. Dada answered, it is the purity of life, then all else will flow unto thee. We succumb to temptation easily. But with purity, God's mercy and love will flow through us.
The following incident depicts Dada's caring nature. There is a lady, Yamira, who drives one and a half hours each way, every day, to meet Dada. Dada commended her efforts, but she said Dada has come thousands of miles to meet us, if I drive for a few miles to meet him, it is no big deal. But one day she got delayed and it was around 11 p.m. before she left for home. Dada was extremely concerned, and urged her to call us and let us know when she reached home safely, just like a loving and caring father.
Shivali, the daughter of the host, mentioned that since that age of 6 she has Dada's photograph in her room and over the years has developed a loving relationship with Dada, making her regard him as a role model.
Each devotee of Dada has their own, individual and personal relationship with Dada, and he is able to keep up with each of them.
There are four qualities of a truly evolved soul--
1) In the presence of such a one, the agitation within us subsides and our minds become calm and still, and all our anger dissipates.
2) Such a one is able to perceive and cognize the good in all.
3) Such a soul is a source of light, spreading that brightness and joy wherever he is.
4) He has no thought for his own personal comfort, but only considers the comfort and happiness of others.
As is obvious, such a soul is our beloved Dada who possesses all these four qualities and many more.
Dada's Yatra - Chicago
Dada arrived in Chicago on the 5th of April and was pleasantly surprised to be greeted by sunny skies and beautiful weather. It was a welcome change from the cold and damp climate of London, though its denizens had kept Dada warm in the cocoon of their love. The familiar and happy faces that surrounded him at the airport in Chicago made the temperature rise, making it more comfortable .Though it had been a long journey, Dada had handled it well.
The eye-checkup was scheduled for Dada on the following day. The doctors were very kind and gentle in their care for Dada. On checking his eyes they found that the eyes had gone too dry, maybe due to the extensive flying that Dada had just undertaken. Hence, they informed Dada that the surgery had to be postponed. They prescribed some eye drops for him to keep his eyes lubricated, and suggested that the surgery should be planned for May.
As it had been expected that Dada would undergo surgery, no programmes had been organised during Dada's stay in Chicago, except for the Sindhi Ruh-Rihan on Saturday. In his moving talk, Dada brought home the fact that nothing is permanent. Everything around us is in a state of flux or change. Joy is followed by sorrow, but even every sorrow has to be replaced by a pleasant experience. Only God is permanent in this changing world. Hence we should build our lives on this solid Rock.
As Dada encourages the use of the Sindhi language, at least during the session of the Sindhi Ruh Rihan, the President of the Sindhi Association in Chicago, who is quite a young person, made a valiant effort at speaking to and addressing the audience in Sindhi. He mentioned that when in school he had been asked to write an essay on who had been the greatest influence in his life. He had written that it was Dada, who was his role model and who had affected him the most.
There were even people who were amazed at Dada's astounding memory. After the Ruh Rihan, several devotees approached Dada. Among them was an old man. Dada addressed him by his name. He had not met Dada for a while and was wonderstruck that Dada had remembered him. Dada also mentioned that he remembers the old man’s father who had been close to Sadhu Vaswani. The man was surprised that Dada did not forget even the details of their lives.
During all the days in Chicago, even with no specific events, Dada's every breath, every word, every act, whether walking, working, eating, sleeping etc., has been seeped with teachings, making his very life a scripture. There is so much to learn from every single thing he does. For instance, a letter had to be sent out, but Dada noticed that the size of the envelope was much bigger than the letter, making it look uncouth and sloppy. As Dada did not have a smaller envelope in hand, the flaps of the original one were carefully opened. The envelope was then cut symmetrically and made smaller, with the flaps neatly stuck together again. When asked about this effort, Dada said, everything should be done in the most perfect way, because every act is an offering unto the Lord.
Once, during the time of his walk it was a bit chilly, so it was decided that Dada should be taken to the mall for a walk. In the mall, Dada saw a shop which was fascinating and was called Magiquest. Dada decided to enter the shop, and did so like a child, for it was akin to entering a magic kingdom. Each customer who entered was presented with a magic wand. By using the magic wand on several objects displayed, the hidden light, would light up. The wonder and joy this caused was amazing. It suddenly struck us that, for us, Dada was like this magic wand, and whosoever had the good fortune of being tapped by him, was kindled and enlightened.
One day, while taking his walk out in the open grounds, Dada passed by a lake. There was a family by that lake who was engrossed in fishing. The others walking with Dada tried to bypass this, knowing Dada's feelings regarding the taking of life. But Dada walked towards the family and went up and spoke to them. The father, who was a wrestling coach by profession, had just caught a huge fish on his line. Dada said, he was prepared to give him whatever he wished, if he would but release the fish and put it back in the lake. The daughter said that she wished to be famous like Obama.
Everyone smiled, and then the father said what would they do about dinner? To this Dada replied, what if he were the fish and had been captured to fill someone's stomach, how would he feel? With a sheepish look, the father released the fish back into the lake. Dada blessed them profusely and said that life is so precious but we do not realise its value till it is taken away from us.
Dada continued, what the world needs today is compassion. If compassion prevailed in every heart, then the whole world would be created anew. Hence, his walks too were suffused with his teachings.
Every night, after dinner, the fortunate and privileged few who had the opportunity of sitting with Dada, would be satiated with the dessert of Dada's talks, which comprised of his goodness, his knowledge, wisdom and spirituality. At one such conversation a doctor asked Dada, how he could keep so busy and attain so much even at this age? Did he not ever tire and get exhausted? Dada, with his enigmatic smile replied, that if he were the one doing all this, he would surely be tired. But it is not he, it is Krishna who is the doer, and Krishna never gets tired.
Dada has been in the midst of so many devotees and everyone feels that they have a unique relationship with Dada. This is so because Dada does not just come across as the Guru, he is also a friend, a father, a mother, a parent who protects and cares. He anticipates the needs of each one, whether big or small, and provides for the same even before he is asked.
One day, an elderly and frail man came to meet Dada. On seeing him, Dada immediately went towards him and held his hand, gently stroked his arm and spoke loving words to him. The man's eyes filled up with tears for he felt he was so insignificant and yet Dada was bestowing so much love on him.
Dada filled up these few days in Chicago with a lot of reading and writing and daily satsangs in the evenings, in the house, were a must.
On the 12th, the well-known American singer of Indian bhajans and kirtan, Krishna Das, came to meet Dada. He gave a beautiful rendition of some bhajans. Dada showered him with love and affection, which made his eyes moist. He was deeply affected by how humble Dada was. There was kirtan for about 45 minutes. Dada said that when God is remembered with love, devotion and tears, then even He comes running to us.
Thus, Dada's stay in Chicago, as usual, turned out to be a momentous one, despite the absence of official programmes. On the 13th of April, Dada left for San Juan for his retreat.