Tag: humanity

Posted in Being Prayerful, Celebrate Today, Celebrating Existence, Celebrating Life, Life

To Err Is to Be Human: Celebrating the Power of Learning

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

To err is human, but every mistake carries a lesson. Discover how embracing imperfection, resilience, and the power of learning can transform your journey of personal growth and self-discovery. These timeless words remind us of something simple yet profound—we are not meant to be perfect; we are meant to be human. And in being human, we are invited into the sacred dance of growth, where mistakes are not failures but faithful companions on our journey of becoming.

The Beauty in Stumbling

Each misstep whispers a lesson. When we stumble, we discover new ways of standing tall. When we falter, we learn the strength of rising again. History itself shows us this truth—every great invention, every bold breakthrough, every step forward came through countless trials, errors, and renewed attempts. Our lives reflect the same rhythm. Mistakes are not detours; they are part of the road itself.

Learning: The Heart of Being Alive

There is immense power in learning. Every error holds a hidden gift, waiting for us to unwrap it with reflection and courage. To learn is to take what once felt heavy and turn it into wisdom. To learn is to transform a wrong turn into a guiding light. The very act of learning proves that we are alive, growing, and endlessly capable of more.

Embracing Our Shared Humanity

When we accept our imperfections, we open ourselves to compassion—both for ourselves and for others. We see that everyone carries their own journey of lessons, victories, and second chances. In celebrating our humanness, we find connection. We realize that what unites us is not perfection, but the courage to keep trying, keep learning, and keep loving despite the stumbles along the way.

Becoming Through Mistakes

To err is to be human. But to embrace those errors as opportunities—to rise, to grow, to learn—that is to truly live. Every mistake can be a stepping stone to something greater, if we allow it to be. So let us celebrate being human, not despite our flaws, but because of them.

For in every error, there is a lesson.
In every lesson, there is growth.
And in every act of growth, there is the miracle of becoming.

Life Lessons I Have Learnt

Through my own journey, I’ve discovered:

  1. Mistakes are not the end—they are a beginning. Every stumble can open the door to a new path.
  2. Self-forgiveness is a form of strength. It is only when I forgive myself that I can move forward with freedom.
  3. Growth takes patience. Learning often comes slowly, but each step forward—no matter how small—matters.
  4. Vulnerability connects us. When I share my struggles, I discover that I am not alone.
  5. Resilience is built through trying again. Courage is not the absence of failure—it is the decision to keep going.

These lessons remind me daily that my humanity is not a flaw but a gift, and that every mistake I make has the power to shape me into someone wiser, kinder, and stronger.

Posted in Celebrate Today, Celebrating Existence, Celebrating Life, Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji

Celebrating a Living Light: His Holiness Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji

Posted on by rachaelathomasj

Jaya Guru Datta!

In a world filled with noise, confusion, and change, there are rare souls who radiate unwavering peace and divine purpose. His Holiness Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji is one such living light—a beacon of love, wisdom, and healing whose presence has touched countless lives across the globe. This year, Pujya Sri Appaji celebrates 83 years. He is the epitome of Truth, Knowledge, and Bliss.

Son of Sri Narahari Teertha Swami and Jayalakshmi Maata, Pujya Appaji was born in 1942 in Andhra Pradesh, India, at the sacred confluence of three rivers – the Arkavati River, the Kaveri River and the Guptagaamini River. Pujya Appaji has dedicated His life to uplifting humanity through the ancient yet timeless path of Dharma, Bhakti, and Seva. A spiritual master, yogi, musician, and compassionate healer, His Holiness is the revered founder of Avadhoota Datta Peetham in Mysore, a vibrant spiritual and cultural center that offers spiritual guidance, Vedic knowledge, and charitable services to all, regardless of religion or background.

In creating a greeting I was looking for a particular photo of Pujya Appaji (one I had not used before) and I kid you not when I say that a lot of photos with Pujya Appaji show His Holiness either with a microphone in front of Him, or Him doing pooja or something of the sort and it made me smile. Why? It was this thought in my mind, ‘Rachael, your Appaji is always doing something. He is selfless and it is always for the good of mankind.’ 83 years is a milestone and 83 also has other significance for me, and will there are so many things I can share that would show why I don’t question His Holiness, I will say this. My understanding of who Pujya Appaji is began long before I physically met Him. It began with a fascination with His name and saying it over and over because in addition to being was very young at the time, I liked the way His name sounds.

I have experienced His Grace and His compassion in so many ways. I always feel His presence, His energy and His Love. This is why I always say, “Thank you Appaji for all that You do and continue to do. Please accept my humble Prostations at Your Lotus Feet.”

The Power of Divine Music

One of Pujya Appaji’s most extraordinary gifts is His healing music. Through His soul-stirring Raga Sagara concerts, He brings together music and meditation, soothing the mind and awakening the soul. His Holiness has even been recognized by Guinness World Records for His musical achievements, yet His humble mission remains the same—to heal, inspire, and reconnect humanity with the Divine through sound.

Pujya Appaji is both timeless and relevant. While rooted in the deep wisdom of the ancient rishis, He speaks to the modern seeker with clarity and compassion. Whether through discourses, bhajans, or silent blessings, He opens the door for each soul to walk its own unique path toward peace and self-realization.

He teaches not only through words, but through His actions—feeding the hungry, healing the sick, protecting nature, and uplifting the downtrodden. His global humanitarian work reflects a deep understanding that true spirituality is lived through service, love, and unity.

To be in Pujya Appaji presence—even through a video, bhajan, or written word—is to feel a rare silence, a rare joy. Devotees describe a sense of calm, direction, and a reminder that no matter how dark life seems, there is always divine light waiting within.

He reminds us that God is not distant, but near. That our breath, our heartbeats, our very existence is sacred. And that by living with truth, humility, and devotion, we can transform our lives and uplift others.

As we celebrate the life and mission of Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji, let us take a moment to reflect on the grace He brings into this world. May we honor His teachings not just in word, but in practice—by being kind, by being present, and by walking the path of love.

Sri Guru Datta!