Getting along with those whom we like is easy. What strategies have we developed in our lives to get along with difficult people? What are the things we need to remember regarding the art of living in harmony with our surroundings?

We all have insufficient information about others (sadly, often even about ourselves) to be able to judge accurately what kind of people they are—even more importantly, what kind of people they will be in the months and years ahead.

Did the world come about gradually or did it manifest all at once? When a disciple asked this question to Holy Mother Sarada Devi, her answer was direct: “Everything came into being at once, not gradually.” What are the implications of that answer, keeping in mind the theory of evolution and the religious stories about creation?

What are the benefits of studying the lives of saints? How will this make me a better person?

Hospitality is not just about food. Even a kind word or a smile or a friendly nod goes a long way. If God is in everyone and in everything, what excuse do I have to be nasty to others? If I want to change my life for the better, all I need to remember is that, no matter in which direction I look, I am seeing God and no one else.

When does service become sacred? How does serving others become a spiritual practice? Who is the one who serves and to whom is service offered? If ultimately everything is really one, what purpose is served by service?

What does “love” really mean? There is a lot to learn about it from the life and teachings of Sarada Devi.

Holy Mother’s life and teachings fill our hearts with hope. That is Mother’s greatest gift to us as we enter the New Year 2021.

“I have a mother” is a mantra not just for the children in distress. It is for all of Mother’s children and for all occasions. Holy Mother makes everything possible. … Every time we remember “I have a mother,” we hear Mother saying, “You are my child." …