The tree within the seed
Human beings are a treasure of virtues. In every person, there exists at least one virtue that reveals his or her uniqueness. The only difference is that some get the opportunity to bring their virtues and brilliance into the limelight, whereas for others these remain hidden within.
A remarkable example of such hidden brilliance is Sadhvi Shri Sadhanaji. When I was in the third standard, she came at a very young age to Pujya Bai Maharaj with the intention of taking diksha. She showed no interest in studying; her attention was directed only towards play, mischief, and carefree activities. When she studied, it seemed as though she were deceiving her soul. After diksha also, when panditji was teaching her, her attention would be elsewhere. She could neither concentrate on her studies nor complete her homework. She would also not ask any questions if she did not understand. I used to get really upset with her. I tried to make her understand, ‘Sadhanaji, if you do not study, what will you do?’ Yet my words had no effect on her. I was always worried about what she would do in the future. What would her future hold? She would run far away from paper, pencil and books.
Now, forty years later, I am amazed at her progress. Although once averse to pens and books, today Sadhanaji has become a magician with words. I wonder where this remarkable brilliance was hidden. I used to be sad with worry for her but today, seeing her, my heart fills with glee and pride. Now, whenever there is light in her room at night, I will go and see what she is doing. I see with surprise that in her hand is a pen. With much concentration, she is editing ‘Amar Bharti’ (a monthly Veerayatan Hindi publication), or proof-reading Pujya Gurudev’s writing, or editing my writing and arranging it properly.
I am astonished that one who once paid no attention even to arranging her own clothes in an orderly manner now performs all her work so beautifully and methodically.
Even after thirty-five years of existence, the Shri Brahmi Kala Mandiram continues to take on new dimensions, and its divine beauty is the result of Sadhanaji’s untiring efforts.
Whenever I see Sadhanaji, and whenever I see her pen, I feel compelled to take away the many other tasks that consume her time and simply place pen and paper before her, so that she can capture the magic of words.
I once worried about the future of the magazine Amar Bharti. Today, however, the appealing way in which it is published is entirely due to Sadhanaji’s diligence and effort.
True to her name, Sadhanaji embodies ‘sadhana’ (spiritual practice). The graceful way in which she has developed herself serves as an example and inspiration to all. She is truly my angel.
