Birth and death to the body pertains

Not to the self, eternal in all beings,
So sang Shri Krishna, Universal TeacherTo Arjuna in sacred Bhagavat Gita.

A clear distinction between spirit and matter
To awaken us from long–suffering deep slumber,
That we may know our real nature
As Atma [self], indestructible, imperishable, immutable.

Then with the Atma’s most wondrous light as our guide
The road to beauty, freedom and happiness we march
And at the very start, to ignorance and fear a fatal blow is dealt
As also to putrid selfishness, lust for power and greed for wealth.
In peace and equipoise we serenely move and dwell
With love and compassion to no being withheld.

Sad that of the Atma there is hardly any discussion
Scholars and pandits do scarcely mention,
Its stupendous glories and immeasurable dimensions,
That but a little understanding therein
Cuts deep at the bonds of Karma,
Keeping us firmly rooted in truth and dharma.

Matters not whether rich or poor
Live in stately mansions or on the streets bitter life to endure,
This simple truth not to be ignored
Lacking knowledge of the self, the Atma,
Like a rudderless ship we become
Tossed on the turbulent seas of life.

Or more like a grounded eagle
Thinking it cannot fly,
When it was born to soar the heavens in skillful flight.
Now more than ever our spiritual heritage to reclaim
Breaking the chains we have forged with our own hands,
Aspiring to heights free and unencumbered
For we are the Atma.

CECIL RAMKIRATH,
Bayonne, NJ, USA