Sai Baba: The Spiritual Master

Who is Sri Sathya Sai Baba? The Life and teachings of Sai Baba

Swami’s Miraculous Gift

Once, in the presence of Swami, a devotee from Sweden was blessed with a remarkable miracle. Swami materialized a stunning diamond-studded watch for him. However, to everyone’s surprise, the gentleman refrained from wearing the watch the following day.

Curious, Swami inquired, “Why haven’t you worn the watch? And where is it?”

With a gentle smile, the gentleman remained silent. This pattern continued for a couple of days until Swami once again asked about the whereabouts of the watch.

Finally, the gentleman confessed, “Swami, I apologize. I haven’t worn the watch because I fear complications at the airport. They might ask for a voucher, and I wouldn’t have it.”

Understanding his concern, Swami nodded thoughtfully. “Ah, do you require the voucher?”

“Indeed, Swami,” the gentleman replied.

Without hesitation, Swami waved His hand, materializing the much-needed voucher. “Fear not. You shall encounter no troubles at the airport. Simply present this.”

However, the gentleman, with a scientific inclination, decided to verify the authenticity of the voucher. He contacted the watch company listed on the voucher, seeking confirmation.

“Is this watch legitimately from your company? Can you provide details about its sale?” he inquired over the phone.

The response he received was unexpected. The shopkeeper remembered the transaction vividly. “Yes, indeed. A man in a red robe with thick hair purchased this watch,” the shopkeeper recounted. “It’s unusual for customers to return, but this man did, asking for a duplicate voucher.”

The Vice-Chancellor marveled, “Swami, while physically here, simultaneously ventured there, acquired the watch, and brought forth the voucher—a testament to His omnipresence.”

The assembly was filled with awe at the divine play that unfolded, reaffirming Swami’s omnipotence and boundless grace. There are numerous such miraculous stories experienced by devotees throughout the world, and they have been depicted in many of the books.

Birth and Early Life of Baba (1926-1940)

Our journey begins in the quiet village of Puttaparthi, nestled in the heart of Andhra Pradesh, India. On November 23, 1926, a child named Ratnakaram Sathyanarayana Raju was born to Peddavenkama Raju and Easwaramma, a devout couple from the Bhatraju community—a lineage known for its cultural and spiritual heritage.

From a young age, those around him began to notice something remarkable. Disciples and devotees recall that even as a child, Sathyanarayana displayed a deep sense of compassion, wisdom beyond his years, and mysterious spiritual abilities—signs that hinted at the divine path he was destined to walk.

Compassionate and Generous: The Early Signs of Sathya Sai Baba’s Divine Nature

From an early age, Sathya Sai Baba was widely recognized for his profound compassion and generosity—qualities that would later become hallmarks of his spiritual mission. Even as a young boy in Puttaparthi, he demonstrated an extraordinary empathy for the suffering of others.

Numerous stories from those who knew him as a child reveal how he would often give away his own food, clothes, and belongings to those in need—without hesitation or expectation. These were not mere acts of charity; they reflected his deep-rooted sense of oneness with all beings and an innate desire to alleviate pain and hardship wherever he encountered it.

His selfless actions inspired awe in his community, hinting at the larger spiritual role he was destined to fulfill. For Sathya Sai Baba, compassion was not just a virtue—it was a way of life, and an expression of divine love in action.

Spiritually Inclined: The Early Artistic Devotion of Sathya Sai Baba

Even as a child, Sathya Sai Baba exhibited a deep spiritual inclination, which found expression through the arts—particularly those steeped in devotion and sacred meaning. His love for devotional music was profound; he would often immerse himself in bhajans (spiritual songs), finding both joy and inner peace in their divine melodies. Music, for him, was not merely entertainment—it was a path to God, a way to awaken the soul and inspire devotion in others.

He also possessed a natural talent for dance, using graceful movement as a form of spiritual expression. Through his performances, young Sathya conveyed divine themes and sacred stories, using his body as an instrument of devotion.

Additionally, drama and theater captivated him. He saw in drama a powerful medium for sharing spiritual truths, ethical values, and timeless teachings in a way that was accessible, engaging, and transformative. Often taking the lead in school plays or organizing performances with moral messages, he would use these opportunities to subtly guide others on a righteous path.

These early artistic passions were more than childhood hobbies—they were manifestations of his inner calling. As he matured into a global spiritual leader, these same gifts became vital tools in his mission to uplift humanity, allowing him to reach hearts across languages, cultures, and continents.

Unusual Abilities: The Early Miracles of Sathya Sai Baba

From a remarkably young age, Sathya Sai Baba astounded those around him with extraordinary, seemingly supernatural abilities—the most well-known being the materialization of small objects, such as vibhuti (sacred ash), sweets, and even jewelry. These manifestations appeared to come from thin air, often occurring spontaneously and in response to a devotee’s unspoken need or prayer.

Witnesses, including family, friends, and early followers, regarded these acts not as mere magic tricks, but as divine expressions of his spiritual power. For many, these miracles were early signs of his divine nature—evidence that the young Sathya was no ordinary child, but someone deeply connected to the cosmic and spiritual realms.

Over time, these unusual abilities became a hallmark of his public life, drawing seekers from all corners of the world. While skeptics debated the nature of his miracles, devotees viewed them as acts of grace, designed not to impress but to inspire faith, instill spiritual discipline, and remind humanity of the sacred reality beyond the material world.

These early demonstrations of his spiritual potency played a significant role in shaping Sathya Sai Baba’s divine identity and global mission, placing him among the most revered spiritual figures of modern India

Miracles and Manifestations of Baba

One of the most widely discussed and spiritually significant aspects of Sathya Sai Baba’s life was his purported ability to materialize objects—a phenomenon that captivated millions and fueled deep devotion among his followers around the world.

According to countless firsthand accounts, Baba was often seen manifesting vibhuti (sacred ash), jewelry, food, and other items seemingly out of thin air, without any physical contact or tools. These materializations were not simply demonstrations of power; they were seen as expressions of divine love, grace, and spiritual connection.

Vibhuti: The Sacred Ash of Divine Energy

Among all the objects Sathya Sai Baba materialized, vibhuti (holy ash) held the most profound spiritual significance. This fine, grey ash was believed to embody purity, transformation, and healing energy. Devotees often used it during prayer, applied it to their foreheads as a spiritual mark, or kept it in their homes as a source of protection and blessing.

Many testified to its miraculous healing properties, claiming relief from physical ailments, mental distress, and even spiritual crises after coming into contact with the sacred ash. For countless followers, receiving vibhuti from Baba’s hand was a deeply personal and transformative experience.

In addition to vibhuti, Baba reportedly materialized rings, necklaces, statues, sweets, and even scriptures, often tailored to the specific needs or spiritual inclinations of the recipient. These items were believed to carry his spiritual energy and often marked key turning points in the lives of his devotees.

What made these acts so remarkable was not just the supernatural aspect, but the intention behind them—they were acts of compassion, intended to uplift, heal, reassure, and awaken faith in those who received them.

Sai Baba’s Explanation: Manifesting from the Subtle to the Physical

Sathya Sai Baba himself addressed the phenomenon of materialization, explaining that these objects were not conjured by magic, but were manifestations of divine will and cosmic energy. He claimed to tap into the subtle layers of the universe, where thought and energy could condense into physical form through spiritual mastery.

He emphasized that these miracles were not meant to draw attention to himself but to inspire faith, awaken spiritual curiosity, and reveal the unity between the material and spiritual realms.

“My miracles are merely small items of my love and compassion… They are not for exhibition but for your transformation.” — Sri Sathya Sai Baba

Sathya Sai Baba’s Healing Powers

Among the many mystical facets of Sathya Sai Baba’s life, his alleged ability to heal has drawn immense attention, reverence, and devotion. Countless followers have shared personal stories and eyewitness accounts of miraculous recoveries from chronic illnesses, terminal diseases, physical disabilities, and deep emotional trauma, all attributed to Baba’s divine intervention.

These healings were not limited to the body—they extended to the mind and spirit, offering hope, peace, and transformation to those in distress. For many, the healing came through his touch, his words, a look, or even the silent grace of his presence. In numerous cases, people reported being healed from afar, simply by praying to him or having faith in his divine energy.

Devotees often described Sathya Sai Baba’s healing as a transmission of spiritual energy. They believed that he acted as a divine conduit, channeling universal healing forces into those who sought his help with sincerity and faith. Whether it was a child recovering from a rare illness or someone gaining emotional balance after years of suffering, many saw these recoveries as evidence of his cosmic compassion and limitless love.

Baba himself emphasized that true healing involved more than physical wellness—it was about inner transformation, purification of karma, and spiritual awakening.

“Health is not just the absence of disease; it is the presence of peace and balance within.” — Sri Sathya Sai Baba

The Miraculous Powers of Sathya Sai Baba: A Glimpse Into the Supernatural

Sathya Sai Baba, a revered spiritual leader known across the world, was widely believed by his devotees to possess extraordinary spiritual abilities that defied explanation. Beyond the well-known acts of materialization and healing, Baba was said to perform other incredible miracles that deepened the faith of millions and added to the divine mystique that surrounded him. From clairvoyance and bilocation to even resurrection, the accounts of these miraculous phenomena have been passed down through generations—cherished by followers and pondered upon by skeptics.

1. Clairvoyance: Knowing Without Being Told

One of the most frequently cited supernatural abilities of Sathya Sai Baba was his clairvoyance—the capacity to know a devotee’s thoughts, feelings, or personal situations without them being spoken aloud.

A commonly shared story describes a devotee who visited Baba, silently grappling with a painful personal dilemma. Without being told anything, Baba allegedly described the situation in vivid detail, naming people involved and offering spiritual advice tailored to the devotee’s unique inner turmoil. These instances of thought-reading left many stunned, reinforcing the belief that Baba had access to a higher plane of consciousness.

For followers, this ability symbolized divine omniscience, showing that the guru not only heard their prayers but also understood their hearts.

2. Bilocation: Being in Two Places at Once

Sathya Sai Baba was also believed to have the rare and mystical ability of bilocation—the phenomenon of appearing in multiple locations simultaneously.

One widely told account involves a devotee who fell ill while traveling on a train. In a moment of desperation, they prayed to Baba for help. Suddenly, the devotee claimed to feel a comforting hand on their shoulder and, upon turning, saw Sathya Sai Baba standing next to them, offering reassurance and healing energy. The astonishing part? Baba was confirmed to be physically present at his ashram in Puttaparthi at the very same time.

Such stories became a profound source of comfort and faith for devotees, reinforcing the belief that Sathya Sai Baba could transcend time and space to answer heartfelt prayers instantly.

3. Resurrection: Transcending the Boundaries of Life and Death

Perhaps the most controversial and awe-inspiring claim surrounding Sathya Sai Baba was that of resurrection—bringing the dead back to life.

One of the most emotionally charged stories among his followers tells of a young boy who drowned in a river near Puttaparthi. In their grief, the family brought the lifeless body to Baba. Moved by their devotion, Baba is said to have placed his hand on the child, uttered a prayer, and miraculously revived him. According to devotees, the child opened his eyes and began breathing again, leaving everyone present in stunned reverence.

Although such accounts lack medical documentation and are often viewed with skepticism, they continue to be powerful testimonies of Baba’s divine nature in the eyes of his followers. Critics question the authenticity of these stories, suggesting the possibility of misreporting, exaggeration, or symbolic interpretation. Yet, for devotees, these miracles serve as sacred affirmations of faith.

These miraculous phenomena—clairvoyance, bilocation, and resurrection—form an integral part of Sathya Sai Baba’s spiritual legacy. While skeptics continue to question their validity, millions of followers across the globe remain unwavering in their belief that these divine acts were expressions of his boundless compassion, spiritual mastery, and cosmic consciousness.

Whether seen as literal truths or symbolic tales, these stories continue to inspire devotion, spark curiosity, and remind spiritual seekers of the mysteries that lie beyond the physical world.

Skepticism and Faith: The Unexplained Dimension

While skeptics have attempted to attribute some of these experiences to the placebo effect, psychosomatic responses, or emotional suggestion, many cases have remained unexplained by medical science. Physicians and researchers who encountered these stories have often acknowledged that the sheer number and depth of testimonials point to something beyond the ordinary.

These experiences, often backed by documented medical histories, have been shared across generations and cultures, forming a significant part of Sathya Sai Baba’s spiritual legacy.

The Heart of the Message: Universal Teachings of Sri Sathya Sai Baba

One of the most powerful aspects of Sri Sathya Sai Baba’s teachings was their profound simplicity and universal appeal. Though his roots were deeply embedded in Sanatana Dharma (Hinduism), his message transcended religious boundaries, touching hearts across faiths, cultures, and continents.

1. Unity of All Religions: One Truth, Many Paths

At the core of Sathya Sai Baba’s spiritual philosophy was the unshakable belief in the unity of all religions. He often proclaimed, “There is only one religion, the Religion of Love,” urging followers to look beyond doctrinal differences and embrace the divine essence that unites all spiritual traditions.

He emphasized that every major religion—whether it be Hinduism, Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, Sikhism, or Judaism—ultimately guides seekers toward the same eternal truth: love, compassion, and self-realization. His teachings encouraged people to respect all faiths, recognizing that truth is one, though expressed in many ways.

This inclusive vision attracted a global following, creating spiritual harmony among individuals from vastly different backgrounds. His multi-faith approach, symbolized by the presence of various religious emblems in his ashrams and institutions, served as a living example of interfaith unity and peaceful coexistence.

Through his words and example, Sathya Sai Baba inspired millions to rise above religious divisions and cultivate universal love, service, and understanding—values that form the foundation of a truly spiritual life.

2. Sathya Sai Baba’s Teachings on the Five Human Values

Sri Sathya Sai Baba, revered as one of India’s most influential spiritual teachers, emphasized the cultivation of five fundamental human values as the cornerstone of spiritual growth and harmonious living. These values—Truth (Sathya), Right Conduct (Dharma), Peace (Shanti), Love (Prema), and Non-Violence (Ahimsa)—were not seen as external rules, but as divine qualities innate in every human being.

His teachings stress that true spirituality lies in manifesting these values in daily life, regardless of one’s faith, culture, or background.

a. Truth (Sathya): Living in Alignment with the Highest Self

In Sai Baba’s teachings, truth is more than just factual correctness—it is the eternal principle that governs the universe. He encouraged seekers to speak, think, and act truthfully, cultivating integrity and aligning their lives with their inner conscience.

Truth, he taught, reveals itself through honesty, authenticity, and unwavering commitment to moral clarity, even when it’s difficult.

b. Right Conduct (Dharma): Walking the Path of Righteousness

Dharma, often interpreted as righteousness or duty, forms the ethical backbone of human life. Sathya Sai Baba taught that living dharmically means acting with compassion, fairness, and respect in all relationships—be it at home, in society, or at work.

Fulfilling one’s duties with selflessness, and upholding justice without ego, is how one embodies Dharma in the modern world.

c. Peace (Shanti): Cultivating Inner Stillness

For Sai Baba, peace is not just the absence of conflict—it is a deep inner silence, a state of spiritual balance untouched by external chaos. True peace arises when the mind is still, the heart is pure, and desires are tamed.

By meditating, reflecting, and practicing detachment, individuals can radiate peace into their families, communities, and beyond.

d. Love (Prema): The Divine Bond That Unites All Beings

Love, in Sathya Sai Baba’s words, is the highest expression of the divine. But this is not ordinary love—it is selfless, unconditional, and all-encompassing. It recognizes the divine spark in every being, regardless of religion, race, or status.

Practicing love, he taught, means serving others without expectation, forgiving without judgment, and living with empathy and grace.

e. Non-Violence (Ahimsa): Compassion in Thought, Word, and Deed

Ahimsa, or non-violence, is more than avoiding physical harm—it is about embodying gentleness, kindness, and understanding in all interactions. Sathya Sai Baba urged his followers to adopt non-violence in thought, speech, and behavior, resolving conflicts with love rather than aggression.

It is a value that fosters harmony—not just among humans, but with all living beings and nature itself.

Sri Sathya Sai Baba’s visionary approach to education, known as “Educare,” is deeply grounded in these five values. Unlike traditional systems focused solely on academic achievement, Educare aims to draw out the inherent divinity within each individual.

He believed that true education must nurture character, compassion, and conscience, shaping individuals who are not only intellectually capable but spiritually awakened and socially responsible.

3. Living with Love: Devotion (Bhakti), Selfless Service (Seva), and the Power of Divine Compassion

At the heart of Sri Sathya Sai Baba’s spiritual philosophy lies one transformative force: Love (Prema). He described it as the purest expression of divinity, the binding force of the universe, and the essential quality that connects all beings. In his view, love is not just an emotion—it is a way of life, a divine energy to be expressed through devotion and service.

Love (Prema): The Essence of Divinity

For Sai Baba, Prema was more than affectionate feeling—it was selfless, unconditional, and universal. True love, he said, does not discriminate. It sees the divine in every being, transcending religion, status, or background. He taught that all spiritual practices should be rooted in love, for it is the most direct route to God.

“Love All, Serve All” and “Help Ever, Hurt Never” were among his most famous messages, encapsulating the profound simplicity and power of living with love.

Devotion (Bhakti): The Heart’s Connection with the Divine

Sai Baba strongly emphasized Bhakti, or devotion, as a sacred means of nurturing one’s relationship with the divine. Devotion was not limited to rituals—it was a sincere and emotional surrender of the heart.

He encouraged spiritual practices such as:

• Prayer: Heartfelt communication with the divine for guidance and gratitude.
• Bhajans (Devotional Singing): Group chanting of divine names and hymns, creating a vibration of collective love and unity.
• Meditation: Quiet introspection that allows individuals to connect with their inner divinity.

These devotional practices were seen as tools to purify the heart, bring peace to the mind, and deepen spiritual awareness.

Selfless Service (Seva): The Highest Form of Worship

For Sai Baba, Seva—selfless service—was the practical expression of divine love. It wasn’t just about helping others; it was about recognizing God in every being and serving without any expectation of reward.

Sai Baba’s devotees engaged in a wide array of service projects:

• Free medical camps and hospitals
• Food distribution to the underprivileged
• Educational initiatives and schools
• Clean water and infrastructure development

He taught that serving others is serving God directly, and every act of kindness was a step closer to spiritual realization.

Sathya Sai Baba beautifully united the paths of devotion and action, reminding us that true love must move beyond words and emotions into action. By practicing both Bhakti (love for God) and Seva (love in action), one walks the path of the divine in daily life.

4. Practical Spirituality: Integrating Inner Wisdom with Everyday Living

Sri Sathya Sai Baba’s spiritual vision wasn’t about retreating from the world—it was about transforming it. He championed the idea of practical spirituality, urging his followers to lead lives that balance inner devotion with outer responsibility. Instead of advocating renunciation, he inspired people to engage with the world consciously, ethically, and with deep spiritual awareness.

His teachings rested on three foundational pillars that provide timeless guidance for anyone seeking to live a meaningful, values-driven life:

a. Educare: Cultivating Human Values Through Education

At the heart of Sai Baba’s mission was Educare—a concept that goes beyond traditional academic learning. Unlike conventional education, which focuses on external knowledge, Educare is about drawing out the latent human values within: Truth, Right Conduct, Peace, Love, and Non-Violence.

He believed that true education must shape character, instill moral clarity, and awaken spiritual awareness. This approach nurtures not just the mind, but the heart and soul, creating individuals who are both intellectually capable and morally grounded.

“The end of education is character.” — Sri Sathya Sai Baba

b. Ceiling on Desires: Embracing Simplicity for Inner Peace

In a world driven by consumerism and material excess, Sai Baba offered a powerful principle: Ceiling on Desires. He taught that unchecked desires lead to restlessness, anxiety, and suffering. By placing conscious limits on material wants, individuals can discover a deeper contentment that arises not from accumulation—but from detachment and clarity.

This isn’t about deprivation; it’s about mindful living—choosing simplicity, sustainability, and self-control over indulgence. Practicing this discipline frees up energy and resources that can be directed toward spiritual growth and service to others.

c. Ethical Conduct: Living with Integrity and Compassion

For Sai Baba, spirituality was inseparable from ethics. He consistently emphasized that a truly spiritual life must be rooted in truthfulness, non-violence, compassion, and moral courage. Whether in family, business, or society, one’s actions must reflect inner values.

He taught that ethical living brings harmony, both within and around us. When individuals align their actions with their conscience, they contribute not only to their own well-being but also to a more just and compassionate world.

What makes Sathya Sai Baba’s teachings so impactful is their practical relevance. They are not abstract ideals meant for monks or saints—they are guidelines for everyday life, meant for students, professionals, parents, and leaders alike.

By integrating Educare, Ceiling on Desires, and Ethical Conduct, we create a life that is not only successful by worldly standards but also deeply fulfilling and spiritually anchored.

Sri Sathya Sai Baba is renowned for not only his teachings but also his powerful sayings and quotes. Some of his most famous sayings include:

“Love all, serve all.”

“Help ever, hurt never.”

“Be good, do good.”

“The one who serves is the one who rules.”

“The heart is the temple of God.”

“Love is God; God is love.” “Life is a song; sing it. Life is a game; play it. Life is a challenge; meet it.”

These timeless words still motivate people from all over the world. It offers advice on leading an inspired and spiritual life.

His Legacy on Education & Humanitarian Efforts

Sri Sathya Sai Baba was an iconic spiritual leader and teacher. His teachings and wisdom have earned him great reverence worldwide. People revere him for creating a legacy of education and humanitarianism. In modern times, these continue to benefit impoverished and deprived individuals in India and around the world.

Sri Sathya Sai Baba built up an instructive framework in India that is truly remarkable. He accepted that education was a basic right and that it was necessary for the improvement of the poor and the helpless. He set up various schools and universities, including the Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning, which provides education in engineering, education, and the humanities. These institutions provide a comprehensive, high-quality education to students from many backgrounds, regardless of their financial situation.

Humanitarian Effort

Sri Sathya Sai Baba has established several hospitals and healthcare centers throughout India, providing free medical care to the underprivileged. Advanced facilities, experienced medical staff, and exceptional quality of care make these institutions renowned. Over the years, they have treated millions of patients in need.

Furthermore, Sri Sathya Sai Baba has instituted many rural development initiatives. This has improved the living conditions of those living in rural villages. One of the major initiatives is the Sri Sathya Sai Drinking Water Project. This has provided clean drinking water to rural communities. The Sri Sathya Sai Village Integrated Development Project. This project has unquestionably furnished the infrastructure and amenities such as housing, sanitation, and education to rural towns.

The humanitarian works of Sai Baba are far-reaching and have had a great impact on the lives of millions. Through the Sri Sathya Sai International Organization and its regional and national wings, such as the Sri Sathya Sai Organization of America, people can access services such as education, healthcare, and rural development throughout the world. His institutions and projects strive to give the underprivileged the tools they need to build a better future.

The Sathya Sai Organizations

The Sri Sathya Sai Central Trust: This organization manages the various institutions and projects established by Sri Sathya Sai Baba. It includes schools, hospitals, and drinking water projects

Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisations: This organization coordinates and carries out various service activities, such as education, healthcare, and rural development.

Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning: Manages the Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning. It includes colleges for engineering, education, and humanities.

Sri Sathya Sai International Organization: It promotes the life and the teachings of Sri Sathya Sai Baba’s. This organization coordinates the activities of the Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisations worldwide.

Sri Sathya Sai Organization of America: The USA-based organization coordinates the activities of the Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisations in America. Furthermore, it also promotes the Life and the Teachings of Sri Sathya Sai Baba.

Sri Sathya Sai Baba established these major organizations in India and abroad additionally, His guidance has established many more institutions and service projects that have evidently changed the lives of many.

In conclusion, Sri Sathya Sai Baba was a spiritual master who left a lasting legacy. Consequently, his teachings and message of love and truthfulness are evident in his preaching. The compassion, self-realization, and unity of all religions continue to inspire millions of people worldwide. His words of wisdom, his life, and his guidance evoked the life and teachings of Sri Sathya Sai Baba. It still resonates with millions of people across the globe today.

His emphasis on service to others, ethical behavior, and moral values are timeless teachings. These help us navigate the complexities of modern life and find true inner peace and happiness. Moreover, his institutions and projects continue to serve the needy, providing education, healthcare, and other services, making him still relevant today. What are your thoughts on this great spiritual master?

A Spiritual Tip from Sri Sathya Sai Baba

Cultivate Shraddha and Saburi: Sai Baba emphasized the importance of Shraddha (faith) and Saburi (patience). In your daily life, practice unwavering faith in the divine and exercise patience in all situations. Trust that everything unfolds in its own time and that divine grace is always present. This combination of faith and patience can bring inner peace and resilience, helping you navigate life’s challenges with a calm and centered mind.