Today’s World

What is a spiritual response to the suffering in today’s world?

Here’s some guidance from the revered India saint Sri Neem Karoli Baba, known as Maharajji. When asked:

“Maharajji, how can I know God?
‘Serve people.’

Maharajji, how can I get enlightened?
‘Feed people.’

Maharajji, how can I raise kundalini?
‘Serve and feed people.’”

~ From the Chapter Meditation and Service, Miracle of Love, by Ram Dass

And further, Maharajji used to say,

“…you should serve everything, every creature. ‘It is all God’s creation. Serve everyone, whether he be a dacoit [thief] or anything else. If he comes to you hungry, give him food.’

So often he said, ‘Everyone has a right to be fed.’”

~ From the Chapter Take Chai, Miracle of Love, by Ram Dass

Maharajji was known to speak about the world getting increasingly treacherous (He left His body in 1973). KK Sah, a great disciple of Maharajji, shared with me a teaching on this topic hidden in the story of Ram and Sita. I will summarize my personal take here ~

In times of virtue and unity, it is easy to do spiritual practice, to have mystical abilities, to be kind, to have integrity. In times of destruction (the Kali Yuga as its known in India), doing any spiritual practice is nearly impossible due to forces of delusion. Being kind or just is difficult. Corruption, violence, greed, and self-deception are rampant. The gift of this age is that virtuous action and spiritual practice are infinitely more powerful, both personally and for the sake of the world. The names of the divine (as in mantra) are considered the ultimate practice for this time.

~ Inspired by the teachings of Kakabhushundi, the sage crow, to Garuda, Vishnu’s eagle, in the Ramcharitmanas by Tulsi Das, Chapter Uttarkand, 7-96 - 7-103.

As I look around the world today, I see signs of the Kali Yuga. I’m called to bring our attention and prayers to:

• The genocides in Palestine and Sudan and the wars in Iran and Ukraine

• The oppression of LGBTQ communities, immigrants and refugees, indigenous people, and womxn, especially womxn of color

• The threats to the planet’s diverse species and the sacred Earth herself from climate change and exploitation

• Governments like the United States who have become fixated on power, greed and racism

My commitment to spiritual practice and coaching is amplified by my love and grief for our world. In this spirit, and to honor the cultural heritage of my spiritual path, a portion of proceeds from spiritual coaching is donated to the following:

• Baba’s Feed Project - India- A nonprofit formed by disciples of Sri Neem Karoli Baba that directly feeds vulnerable people in India.

• UN World Food Program- The World Food Program provides food all over the world, to children and families in the greatest need.

Through practice we develop the ability to be present and deeply tuned to spiritual awareness, cultivating a lens of wisdom and compassion. Practice amplifies our ability to take action and serve.

“God comes to the hungry in the form of food.” ~ Sri Neem Karoli Baba

*This site includes images gathered from various sources, many of which circulate widely without clear attribution. If you are the creator or rights holder of an image and wish for it to be credited or removed, please reach out — I’m happy to honor your request.