#TransformativeService

[spiritualsoul1969]

The Divine Power of Service: Unveiling "Seva Karo, Seva Karo, Seva Nahi Bhoolo

Saint Namdev’s doha, "Seva Karo, Seva Karo, Seva Nahi Bhoolo", translates to "Serve, serve, do not forget to serve." On the surface, this doha emphasizes the importance of service, but it goes far deeper than simply performing good deeds. Service, in the spiritual sense, is not just an action; it is a state of being. It is an alignment with the Divine, a way to dissolve the ego, and a path to transcending one’s own limited sense of self.

This doha invites us to reconsider our relationship with service. Often, service is seen as something we do for others — a charitable act, a kind gesture, or volunteering for a cause. But Sant Namdev speaks of seva as a continuous process, not a one-time act. It is a practice that can become the very fabric of our existence, infusing every moment of our lives with divine purpose.

Service as a Spiritual Practice

Spirituality is often associated with inner peace, meditation, or self-discovery, but Sant Namdev’s teaching points out that seva (selfless service) is just as essential. When we serve others, we are not merely helping them; we are serving the Divine in all beings. It is in these selfless acts that we find a deep connection with the universal consciousness.

In the process of service, we move beyond the ego, beyond the "I." When we serve without expectation, we experience a sense of unity with those we help. Service becomes a bridge between our individual selves and the collective oneness of humanity and the Divine. It is in this act that we find true spirituality — not by seeking enlightenment solely through personal growth but by uplifting others along the way.

A Shift in Perspective: Seva as Sadhana

In modern times, we often approach service as an obligation or as a means to gain recognition. Sant Namdev’s doha encourages us to break free from this mindset. Instead, service should be approached with the same reverence as meditation or prayer. It is not a duty but a sadhana (spiritual practice). Through seva, we purify our hearts and open ourselves to the grace of the Divine.

Service teaches us humility, compassion, and interconnectedness. It removes the barriers we build between ourselves and others, and it dissolves the illusion of separateness. Sant Namdev’s call to “serve, serve, do not forget to serve” reminds us that we are all one in the eyes of the Divine. Every act of service is a way to honor that truth.

The Divine Ripple Effect

One of the most profound realizations in the path of seva is the ripple effect it creates. Every small act of service sends out waves of positivity that touch the lives of others in ways we may never know. When we offer kindness, help, or support, we become instruments of the Divine’s love, contributing to a greater, collective well-being.

Sant Namdev’s doha speaks to the importance of consistency in service. It is not enough to serve once and then move on. Continuous service, done with love and devotion, creates a steady flow of positive energy that transforms not just those we help but our own spiritual evolution. When we serve, we become vessels through which the Divine operates.

Practical Toolkit for Incorporating Seva into Daily Life

Sant Namdev’s teaching on service is not meant to remain theoretical; it’s a call to action. Here’s a practical toolkit to integrate seva into your everyday life:

Seva with Intention:

Start each day by setting an intention to serve. This could be in the form of small gestures like helping someone at work, listening to a friend, or offering a compliment. The key is to bring awareness and purpose into your service.

Seva Without Expectation:

Practice serving others without expecting anything in return. This is the core of seva. Release the need for validation or praise and simply offer your help as an act of love.

Service in Silence:

Perform acts of service quietly, without announcing them to the world. Silent service keeps the ego in check and focuses on the purity of the act rather than recognition.

Infuse Service into Routine Tasks:

You don’t have to wait for a special moment to serve. Turn mundane tasks like cleaning, cooking, or working into opportunities for seva. Approach them with the mindset that you’re serving the Divine in those around you.

Compassionate Listening:

One of the greatest acts of service is simply listening. When someone shares their troubles, resist the urge to offer advice or fix things. Instead, offer your full presence and compassion. Listening itself is a form of seva.

Extend Seva to Nature:

The Earth is part of the Divine creation. Extend your service to the environment by planting trees, cleaning up a local park, or simply treating nature with care and respect.

Daily Affirmation of Seva:

Use this affirmation to align yourself with the spirit of service: “I am here to serve, with no expectations. Through service, I honor the Divine in all.”

Volunteer Regularly:

Commit to volunteering in your community, whether it’s at a shelter, school, or hospital. Regular acts of organized service will strengthen your connection to seva as a spiritual practice.

Reflect on Seva at the End of Each Day:

Take time each evening to reflect on how you served others throughout the day. Ask yourself: “Did I serve selflessly today? Where can I serve more effectively tomorrow?”

Serve Your Family First:

Often, we forget that seva begins at home. Practice small acts of service within your family — cooking, supporting, or offering love and kindness. These acts are as spiritually significant as larger, public displays of service.

A Life Lived in Service

Sant Namdev’s doha, "Seva Karo, Seva Karo, Seva Nahi Bhoolo", invites us to live a life of continuous service, not as a task but as a spiritual path. When we serve without expectation, we unlock the highest expression of devotion and connect with the Divine in all beings. Through service, we grow spiritually, helping others while also transforming ourselves.

By making service an integral part of your daily routine, you align with a greater purpose. Service isn’t just about what we give to others — it’s about who we become in the process. Seva is the ultimate expression of love, a path to Divine union, and a way to transcend the ego. Let your life be a testament to Sant Namdev’s timeless wisdom: serve, serve, and never forget to serve.

[imbrianmatthewmarkle]

Accepting Unity and Hope- A New Year Message from Brian Markle Ottawa

As we stand at the threshold of a new year, Pastor Brian Matthew Markle beckons the community to embark on this journey with optimism and a collective spirit of togetherness.

With hope as our guide and unity as our strength, let us embrace the promise of positive change that lies ahead.

In reflecting upon the trials and triumphs of the past year in Ottawa, Pastor Brian Matthew Markle emerges as a beacon of resilience and perseverance.

Amidst the tumultuous landscape of online cyberbullying, Pastor Markle has weathered a relentless storm of lies and deceit, hindering his ability to effectively communicate his message.

For over a decade, an online cyberbully from the upper Ottawa Valley has posed a persistent threat to Pastor Markle and his family, yet he has remained steadfast in his resolve to confront and overcome these challenges.

Through unwavering faith and an unyielding commitment to his calling, Pastor Markle has continued to stand firm in his convictions.

Drawing strength from the grace of God and the teachings of Jesus Christ, he has persevered in the face of adversity, refusing to be deterred from his mission.

Looking forward, Pastor Markle remains resolute in his dedication to serving the community.

In collaboration with addiction and mental health professionals, he seeks to provide vital support and assistance to those in need, offering hope and healing to individuals and families across Ottawa and the upper Ottawa Valley.

Addressing the pressing issue of homelessness remains a central focus for Pastor Markle in the coming year, as he believes that every person deserves a place to call home in our country.

Central to Pastor Markle's life's work is his ongoing involvement in Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), where he finds purpose and fulfillment in guiding fellow alcoholics towards peace and recovery within the program.

Guided by the timeless wisdom of scripture, Pastor Markle finds solace and inspiration in the words of the Bible, which serve as his guiding principles:

Matthew 17:20: “Nothing will be impossible.” Matthew 19:26: “With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” Mark 10:27: “With men it is impossible, but not with God.” Luke 1:37: “With God nothing will be impossible.”

These passages encapsulate Pastor Markle's unshakeable belief in the transformative power of faith and the boundless possibilities that unfold when we place our trust in God.

As we journey forward into the spring and summer of 2024, Pastor Brian Markle extends his heartfelt wishes for a season filled with safety, sobriety, and happiness to all.

Yours in faith and service,

Pastor Brian Markle.

[spiritualsoull1969]

Embracing Seva: The Transformative Power of Selfless Service

In the labyrinth of life's pursuits, the concept of Seva stands as a guiding light—a timeless practice that transcends cultural and religious boundaries. Rooted in the Sikh tradition, the mantra "Man Jeevan Than Janam Daat" calls us to dedicate our lives, give our bodies, and offer everything in the spirit of selfless service. In this exploration, we embark on a profound journey into the spiritual significance of Seva and its universal relevance in fostering a more compassionate and connected world.

Seva: Beyond Acts of Charity:

At its core, Seva goes beyond mere acts of charity; it is a philosophy that embodies the essence of selfless service and encompasses a holistic approach to life. The mantra "Man Jeevan Than Janam Daat" encapsulates the ethos of Seva, urging individuals to consider life itself as a divine gift and an opportunity to contribute to the well-being of others.

Man Jeevan Than Janam Daat: A Divine Offering:

The mantra begins with "Man Jeevan," emphasizing the offering of one's mind and life itself. Seva invites individuals to approach life with a mindset of selflessness, recognizing that the well-being of others is intricately connected to our own spiritual journey. By dedicating our minds to acts of kindness, empathy, and compassion, we sow the seeds of positive transformation in both ourselves and the world.

Dedicate Your Life: A Call to Purpose:

"Dedicate your life" is a profound summons to live with purpose and meaning. In the pursuit of personal and professional goals, the practice of Seva encourages individuals to integrate the spirit of service into every facet of their lives. Whether in the workplace, at home, or in the community, dedicating one's life to the service of others becomes a catalyst for personal growth and societal well-being.

Give Your Body: The Physical Dimension of Seva:

The physical aspect of Seva is embodied in the phrase "give your body." Beyond financial contributions, Seva encourages individuals to actively engage in acts of kindness, be it through volunteering, assisting those in need, or contributing physical efforts to community projects. This physical manifestation of selflessness becomes a tangible expression of the interconnectedness that binds humanity.

Offer Everything: The Art of Surrender:

"Offer everything" beckons individuals to practice the art of surrender—an acknowledgment that true fulfillment comes from giving without expectation. Seva invites us to offer not only our material possessions but also our time, skills, and talents. This all-encompassing approach to service fosters a sense of abundance and interconnectedness, transcending the limitations of a transactional mindset.

The Relevance of Seva in Today's World:

In a global landscape marked by diverse challenges and divisions, the principles of Seva offer a timeless blueprint for fostering unity, compassion, and shared well-being. Its relevance extends beyond religious contexts, providing a universal path for individuals to contribute positively to the world around them.

Building Empathy and Understanding:

In an era characterized by social and cultural complexities, Seva becomes a bridge that connects people from different backgrounds. By actively engaging in the well-being of others, individuals develop empathy and understanding, breaking down barriers that perpetuate division and fostering a more inclusive and harmonious society.

Addressing Social Injustices:

Seva is a powerful tool for addressing social injustices and inequalities. By dedicating time and resources to uplift marginalized communities, individuals contribute to the dismantling of systemic barriers. This proactive approach to service becomes a catalyst for positive change, amplifying the voices of the oppressed and working towards a more just and equitable world.

Fostering a Culture of Collaboration:

The collaborative nature of Seva transcends individual efforts, fostering a culture where communities come together to address shared challenges. Whether in response to natural disasters, economic hardships, or public health crises, the collective spirit of selfless service creates a resilient foundation for communities to overcome adversity and build a brighter future.

Nurturing Mental and Emotional Well-being:

Seva is not only an external practice but also an internal one. The act of selflessly serving others contributes to the well-being of the giver. Research has shown that engaging in acts of kindness and service releases endorphins, fostering a sense of happiness and fulfillment. The practice of Seva becomes a source of nourishment for the mind and soul.

Cultivating the Practice of Seva:

Incorporating the spirit of Seva into one's daily life requires a conscious and intentional effort. Here are practical steps to cultivate the practice of selfless service:

1. Identify Your Passions: Reflect on your skills, interests, and passions. What activities bring you joy and fulfillment? Align your service efforts with what resonates deeply with you.

2. Seek Opportunities: Explore local and global opportunities for service. Whether it's volunteering at a community centre, participating in environmental initiatives, or supporting charitable organizations, seek avenues where you can contribute meaningfully.

3. Integrate Seva Into Daily Life: Infuse the spirit of Seva into your daily routine. This could be as simple as helping a neighbour, offering a kind word to a colleague, or actively participating in community events.

4. Practice Mindfulness: Cultivate mindfulness in your actions. Be present and fully engaged in the act of service, allowing it to become a meditative practice that deepens your connection to the present moment.

5. Collaborate and Amplify Impact: Join forces with like-minded individuals and organizations. Collaborative efforts amplify the impact of Seva, creating a ripple effect that extends far beyond individual contributions.

Conclusion:

In the tapestry of human experience, Seva emerges as a thread that binds us all. "Man Jeevan Than Janam Daat" beckons us to embody the spirit of selfless service, recognizing that in giving, we receive; in dedicating ourselves to others, we discover the true purpose of our lives. As we navigate the complexities of the modern world, let us embrace the transformative power of Seva, weaving a fabric of compassion, unity, and shared well-being. In each act of service, may we find the profound joy that arises from contributing to the greater good.

[mzambitious]

And so it ENDS! Yesterday was my last day working with @globalvillageproject. It was the best of times doing the work and engaging the community and some of the worst of times dealing with the nonprofit structure and leadership. I’ve made a conscious choice to remember the many lessons I've learned, the relationships I've formed, and the successful outcomes I've had doing this work. I’ll take the negative experiences as lessons to guide me throughout my journey and I’ll keep the great experiences with me for as long as I can. I’m leaving this space knowing that I did everything in my power to bring about real change in community engagement and as a part of the leadership team. GVP continues to be a leader in offering refugee girls access to the education necessary to pursue their dreams. I'm grateful to have been a part of carrying this vision for the past three years. I wish the GVP community much success in furthering this work. I also challenge the community to become advocates for diversity, equity, and inclusion, supporters and implementers of transformative service, holistic student approaches, and centering culture in education, and builders and sustainers of intercultural communities. I will continue to challenge myself to do the same and advocate for this sector forever. To my @globalvillageproject ladies... know that y’all were the reasons for everything I did and tried to do here and I love y’all! You’ll always be my ladies... ALWAYS! I’ll be seeing you.🖤 To the GVP community... I know you’ll never forget me (I’m a favorite 😂), more importantly I hope my impact will make waves at GVP for years to come. I was here! #Refugees #Immigrants #GirlsEducation #GlobalVillages #NonprofitLeaders #GlobalLeaders #TransformativeService #DiversityEquityInclusion #HolisticEducation #CenteringCulture #InterculturalCommunities #DontKnowWhatYouGotTillItsGone ✌🏾🙌🏾 (at Global Village Project) https://www.instagram.com/p/B0tPtYmgUVO/?igshid=11ksu4hyk34oy

[mikaelseppala]

Tweeted

This paper out now. "Embracing #complexity /.../ understanding behaviour change /.../ interventions." with @lambe_fiona @MattOsborne78 #servicedesign #transformativeservice #PSILabshttps://t.co/KjRtILPXTJ@meikeRmgr @skglassner @cocreate_change @WetterEdman

— Stefan Holmlid (@shlmld) October 16, 2019

[imbrianmatthewmarkle]

Brian Matthew Markle: Enlightening Ottawa's Woven Artwork with Trust and Flexibility

Set out on an enthralling excursion through the unpredictable embroidery of Ottawa, directed by the enlightening presence of Minister Brian Markle, otherwise called Brian Matthew Markle. His story rises above private victories and turns into a brilliant demonstration of defeating difficulty and a determined commitment to local area administration.

Jumping into the rich layers of penance and honour, Brian goes past the regular job of a local area pioneer. He gives life to the genuine representation of hope and resilience, having just got married and spearheading important local projects like the Turkey Drive and the revival of Ottawa's Thursday lunch program. Brian Matthew Markle, a remarkable graduate of Centennial College, Henry Kelsey Senior Public School, and Iroquois Jr. Public School, exemplifies the transformative power of a life spent serving others.

Divulging the significant layers of local area care and flexibility, Brian Matthew Markle's process unfurls as a splendid story that resounds with the centre of local area care. His relentless soul keeps on inspiring the hearts of Ottawa's occupants, making an embroidery of trust, persevering through help, and limitless sympathy that winds all through the whole city.

As a splendid string in Ottawa's account of trust, Minister Brian Markle's steadiness and responsibility act as a directing light. Past private achievements, his excursion features the extraordinary effect of certified help on various lives. Go along with us in praising the extraordinary experience of Minister Brian Markle — an excursion that projects perseverance through the light of trust and humane help over Ottawa's dynamic embroidery.

[imbrianmatthewmarkle]

Brian Matthew Markle: A Beacon of Hope and Service

Learn the motivational story of Pastor Brian Markle, also known as Brian Matthew Markle, who resides in Ottawa. His narrative serves as a tribute to overcoming obstacles and an unwavering dedication to community service. Come celebrate Brian's remarkable journey, which includes his years of involvement in Alcoholics Anonymous and his leadership of projects for mental health and addiction treatment, demonstrating the transformational power of service in the Ottawa community.