Farewell Message to Students by Sri Sathya Sai

March 31, 1997

Students chant Brahmarpanam before eating food. When they do so, food gets transformed into Prasad. But when they go home, they won’t even chant it in their mind. As a result, food remains as food only. Sometimes it may turn into poison too. Some of the parents themselves discourage students by telling, “Any way you are made to practice many spiritual activities in the hostel. At least now, relax.” In such cases students should strongly tell them, “This is home. The place may change. But I am not changing. I am the same.” If it is not possible to chant loudly, at least chant in your mind.  Since many students do not continue such good habits, they face so many problems and difficulties.

Some of the important guidelines given by Swami 

Sathya Sai with Students:
Swami is your True Companion

Continue to practice the good habits you have cultivated here. Remember that Swami is your true companion. When you keep this in your mind, you will always be good and courageous. Good discipline and good habits are not like a uniform, which can be put on for sometime and then removed. They should always be with us. God’s name is equal to His form. Always chant God’s name. It not only gives you spiritual elevation, but also enables you to face well the troubles and tribulations of life. Faith in God should be unwavering. Doesn’t matter even if ‘Shwas’ (breath) is stopped but ‘Vishwas’ (Faith) should be stable and steady. With steady faith in god, anything in life can be achieved.

At the end, Swami gave Namaskar and Prasadam to all the students. While giving Padanamaskar, Swami said, “Be good. Very happy… very happy. Good students. Be disciplined. Develop good manners. Don’t involve in bad practices. Don’t develop bad behavior.”

Source: Students with Sai: Conversations (1991-2000)