“She stands here in front of us, God’s love in a Human Body”  - Dr. Jane Goodall, while presenting Amma with the Ghandi-King award for Non Violence.

Sri Mata AmritanandaMayi, widely known as Amma is a living emanation of the Divine Mother from Kerala, India. She was born a blue colour like the Hindu God Krishna. Deemed “crazy” in her youth by her family, she was always mumbling prayers under her breath, singing ecstatic songs to Krishna, and giving her food to those less fortunate.  After performing many miraculous healingsin her village, around her gathered a small following of devotees which now number millions around the world who honour and revere Amma for her infinite love and compassion for all.

Her gift to us is that of an embrace. For 30 years Amma has hugged over 30 million people, wiping the tears of those who come to her for comfort, guidance and healing. She has instigated countless charitable projects both in her home country of India and in the rest of the world. She teaches us to serve selflessly and encourages us to be diligent and disciplined in our spiritual practice.

I first met Amma in 2005. I saw her picture in a yoga magazine and felt compelled to attend her retreat in Seattle, Washington. I drove across the border with a few girlfriends not knowing what to expect. When I walked into the hall for the first time to behold a sea of devotees in white, I felt a familiarity and a sense of coming home. After spending the weekend with Amma, receiving a mantra and several hugs, I knew that this was no ordinary woman and my life would never be the same.  I have since had the good fortune to see her many more times in the USA and India.

Please visit Amma’s website at www.Amma.org to learn more about this living emanation of Love and Compassion. If you ever get the chance to go to Amma’sdarshan (blessing) I would highly recommend it. It is an experience not to be missed!

Amma, I bow down at your lotus feet.  I pray that with your blessing I may be an example of your message of Love and Service.

Om Amriteshwaryei Namaha.