Compassion for prison inmates

I first attended the Art of Living basic course (now called the Happiness Program) way back in January 1999 in Abu Dhabi, UAE. Though I joined reluctantly, I gave my 100% to all the processes and continued the practice diligently. Doing the course turned out to be a great blessing. I used to suffer from migraine and sinusitis since my school days. It meant living in misery for at least a week as the seasons changed. To my great relief, I realized after about a year of doing the basic course that I was completely free from migraine and sinusitis.

Upon retirement and my return to Bangalore, I started doing seva in the city’s central jail, conducting courses for male inmates. I started earning their trust and love, and eventually crafted a rehabilitation program. It was one of the most fulfilling and satisfying acts of service. I could feel compassion for the inmates, and Gurudev’s words resonated in my heart: “Behind every culprit is a victim crying for help.” I am grateful to Gurudev for giving me this unique opportunity to interact with the inmates and do my bit to rehabilitate some of them. Without His grace, it would not have been possible. Another opportunity I received was when He blessed my wife Leela Ramesh and me to travel throughout the Indian state of Karnataka to set up District Development Committee. His words of guidance were: “Walk with a map. Touch every district.” We were totally unfamiliar with the place or anyone we would be approaching. Yet with a clean slate, we set out on a two-year road trip and set up the development committees in many districts. By entrusting us with this opportunity, He also fulfilled our personal wish to travel and explore Karnataka. The love and care extended by the devotees we met will always be cherished. If not for these seva assignments, I would have remained unaware of my own potential! I am again grateful to Pujya Gurudev for this precious gift. On various and innumerable occasions, He has made me melt in gratitude.

Ramesh Kumar
Bangalore