Man has within him the capacity to change his evil propensities and habits.

Perfect character lasts till the end of one's life, nay end of all ages; it is immortal and is associated with the Atma. Such immortal qualities are - compassion, kindness, love, forbearance, integrity and patience. Habits form only because of the deeds we indulge in. These habits shape the intelligence. All that we weave in our imagination, our aspirations and deeds, leave an indelible imprint on the mind. Due to these, man makes his own perception of the world. Man’s present condition is the result of his past birth. These habits mould man’s character. Whatever be the nature, just by the process of imagination and practice, it can be modified. A bad person will not remain so always. Did not Angulimala, the dacoit, turn into a good person just by the darshan of Buddha? Did not the thief Ratnakara become Valmiki, the sage? Man has within him the capacity to change his evil propensities and habits. Selfless service, renunciation, devotion, prayer, enquiry - these will enable the inculcation of new svabhava - conduct.

Bagavan Sri Sri Sri Sathya Sai Baba

God is all mercy; adore Him as long as you have breath, so long as you are conscious.

Develop faith in the Atma principle and love it earnestly —this is true worship. The Atma is the one and only Loved One for humanity. Feel that it is more lovable than any object here or hereafter —that is the true adoration one can offer to God. You must live in the world where they are born like the lotus leaf, which, though born in water, floats upon it without being affected or wetted by it. Of course, it is good to love and adore God with a view to gain some valuable fruit either here or hereafter, but since there is no fruit or object more valuable than God or more worthwhile than God, the Vedas advise us to love God with no touch of desire in our minds. Love, since you must love for love’s sake; love God, since whatever He can give is less than He Himself; love Him alone, with no other wish or demand.

Bagavan Sri Sri Sri Sathya Sai Baba

Good Character is Power!

Human life is undoubtedly the highest in evolution, and to give it meaning, spiritual endeavour and effort that is pure and holy, is essential. For this way of life, character is most important. Character makes life immortal; it survives even death. Some say that knowledge is power, but it is not true. Character is power. Even the acquisition of knowledge demands a good character. So everyone must yearn to attain flawless character, without any trace of evil. Buddha, Jesus Christ, Shankaracharya, and Vivekananda, as well as great sages, saints and devotees of the Lord are treasured in the memory of people even to this day! What quality made them all memorable for all times? It is their character! Without character, wealth, education, and social status are of no avail. Character is the fragrance of the flower; it gives value and worth. Poets, painters, artists, and scientists may be great, each in their own field, but without character, they can have no standing in society.

Bagavan Sri Sri Sri Sathya Sai Baba