God, a willing slave to devotees

There are so many easy ways by which we can remember God in our daily lives. God has given us two hands to join them in daily prayer, wherever we are, with very little effort. Even chanting His name is an easy-to-follow ritual— we can do that any time of the day, for just a few minutes. Whenever you come across tulsi leaves, close your eyes and inhale its fresh fragrance, and your mind will automatically turn towards God. 

Despite all these easy avenues, if one still has problems with praying to God without distraction for even a few minutes at a stretch, then there is one more provision to get closer to God. Your ears—use them to listen to discourses, parables and lectures on God, or sacred literature. Some people always crave the company of others, and find that praying, which ideally should be done when one is alone, is a near-impossible task for them when alone. Such people can walk to the nearest place of worship and be guided towards bhakti, by looking upon the idol. 

Our wise men tell us that bhakti alone is enough in this world to get close to God. Of course, we all lead our daily lives, and carry out our duties diligently and some may think that that is good enough. Being a karma yogi and doing your prescribed duty is good and will fetch you benefits later. However, one can enjoy the benefits of bhakti in real time. There are so many things about your favourite God/Goddess that help you to get on to the path of devotion— even material things. An oddiyanam (waist belt) will make you think of Lakshmi. A peacock feather will make one think of Krishna or Muruga. A lovely lotus will make you think of the Lord’s feet, a small conch on the beach or in your friend’s house will automatically turn your mind towards God. 

When you find your way to bhakti margam, God Himself will protect you. Take the example of Gajendra, the elephant. A devotee of Vishnu, he had been a king in his previous birth and was cursed by sage Agastya to turn into an elephant. But Vishnu kept an eye on him and offered Gajendra moksham when he wanted it. Similarly, when Dhruva was five years old, he undertook severe penance for five months. When he started on it, all he wanted was his father’s affection, which was being denied him. However, by the end of the tapas, when Bhagawan asked him what he sought, Dhruva replied, “Seeing your swaroopam is all I want.” 

Anyone can attain bhakti , by following any of the ways mentioned above. God has said that whenever a bhakta calls, “I will come.” Take the case of Prahalad. He enjoyed listening to discourses on God even when he was in a foetal state. Although he was the son of a tyrant, God protected him, just as he came to the rescue of King Ambareesh. The devout king was about to break his fast when sage Durvasa appeared in court with his entourage. When the king invited him for breakfast, Durvasa said he had to carry out his ablutions first. However, he failed to return to court despite the passing of hours and Ambareesh broke his fast. The furious sage cursed the king to death. However, Ambareesh pleaded with him, seeking pardon,  but the sage was unmoved. Seeing the predicament of his devotee Ambareesh, Mahavishnu’s weapon chakra began chasing Durvasa. When the sage sought the Lord’s protection, Vishnu said, “How can I save you from my bhakta whom you are threatening to harm? Do you not know I am a willing slave to those who pray to me? You would do better to seek Ambareesh’s pardon.” Durvasa did as he was directed. 

One moment of deep piety is better than a thousand words. Meditate upon the Divine at least once a day, to receive His protection.