The Special Role of Education

Students!

Accept My Blessings. Because I am now immersed in activities that do not allow a moment's break, I do not have the opportunity to talk to you all directly.

Sai is always with each of you wherever you are. Be assured. The problems of the country can be solved only when the special role of education is recognised and efforts made to realise it. On you, the students, depends the progress or decline of the country. You are the builders of future India. You are the roots of the tree, the basement of the building. You have to journey longer than the others. So it is not enough if you pour over plenty of books. You must equip yourselves to be the guardians of the society and the pillars of the nation. You must fill your consciousness with a sense of responsibility. You have to revive the culture of Bharath.

Discipline and the sense of duty has to blossom in you. Do not struggle only for "Marks," but try to avoid "Remarks" on your conduct. You must act as supports of peace in the country and must not, like the uneducated, lose control of yourselves and take part in anti-social activities and destructive incidents. You must shape yourselves as Divine Messengers of the ideals of intelligent service that is the hallmark of a good citizen. For, the purpose of education is the transformation of all aspects of life into full strength and joy.

It is not the provision of begging bowls to the youth, and calling them degrees. Jobs are not so fundamental; inner joy is the important gain. Suyoga is more important than Udyoga (Employment). From the menial to the minister, the current cry is for jobs. Udyoga really means ‘Higher Yoga’ and it is available to everyone at all times. Education must confer humility; it must transform, moral, mental and spiritual fields and purify thought, word and deed. The educated must gladden the heart of the parents; when that is done, it bears fruit.

Education is for life; not for earning a living, remember. May you all be earnest and skilled builders of a Happy and Prosperous Country. May the anxiety that has developed soon be dissolved. May all of you contribute to the establishment of Ananda in all hearts.

Sai is always with you. Be Happy with Sai's Love.

With Love and Blessings,

Baba. (10.3.88)