by
Nandhini
A couple of years back I was facing a tough time with lots
of tension, anxiety and panic every moment. I could not even sleep properly. At
that time I spotted a book (in the library) on the life of Sri Krishna. It was
the book that later inspired me to learn Vishnusahasranamam.
The reading was going on great but I started developing neck pain since it was a
long time since I read a book continuously for hours. But the pull towards the
book was great and so I did not let the pain deter me. The more my mind was
engaged in reading this book, the less time it spent with anxiety and fear. A
few days later the pain, however, became severe and it began to spread all over
my shoulders and spine. I could not turn or sleep or sit or walk without my
husband's help. At that instant, these lines from our Sai Satcharitra flashed
across in my mind:
"First it was not noticed, but as the Lord protects those, who are intent on
hearing His stories, he casually cast a glance over his right shoulder and
noticed the scorpion."
I smiled teasingly at Sai (mentally) asking Him, 'Well Sai, I am now reading
Your story. This pain troubles me. Will you come to protect me and help me get
rid of it?' Then I continued with my reading but not before slightly mocking at
Him saying, 'How will You come?'
That night I had a strange dream. I still don't know whether to call it a dream
because it was so real. I was sleeping when all of a sudden I woke up to see a
lady in pink saree walking towards my room. I panicked and wanted to shout to my
husband but my voice failed me and I was literally paralyzed with fear. The lady
came almost near me but now it was not the lady but Sai in His white robe.
Though it was Him, I was scared to death and did not want to face Him. I could
not move an inch nor call my husband.
I began to sense His touch, pressing my neck hard and I could not bear the
excruciating pain. In my mind I was moving about here and there and pleading
with Him to let me go. But He would not listen.
He seemed enraged and pressed hard and asked, 'Do you now believe I can and will
personally come to help those who read My stories?'
I cried, 'Yes Sai. I believe so. I believe so.'
But they were mere words and who could deceive Him? He got so wild with rage
that I thought my neck would break once and for all.
I cried from the bottom of my heart, 'I am sorry for doubting You, Sai. I will
ne'er doubt Your words. Punish me but I promise I am truly sorry.'
A few seconds later the hold began to loosen and I could feel some movement in
my body. I tried whispering to my husband saying, 'See to my left. Sai is here.
I am afraid.' I closed my eyes tightly and went to sleep.
The next day morning everything was fresh in my memory when I opened my eyes. I
asked my husband if anything happened that night. He said he could hear me
saying, 'See, Sai is here' and things like that, but he could not open his eyes
though he could hear my voice. Both of us were surprised when I got up from the
bed all by myself and went about doing things as usual - no trace of pain
whatsoever. The pain that tortured me for one week vanished in just one night
with no medicine or pain balm!
............................................
Aum Sri Satchidananda Sadguru SaiNath Maharaj Ki Jai!
Aum Sri Sai Ram.
Nandini
Bow to Shirdi Sai
Baba -- Peace be to all.