Ask the Swami

by Swami Beyondananda

Dear Swami:

Here’s something I’ve never been able to grasp. Why do we give our thanks before a meal? Who knows what could happen between the last word of grace and the first forkfull of food? There could be a hurricane or tornado that swoops the entire meal away, and then it’s thanks for nothing, pal. How about a prayer of gratitude for after we eat?

B. Esther Teckter,
Boynton Beach, Florida

Dear Esther:

It is so remarkably synchronous that you ask that question, that if I didn’t know better I would think I made up that question just so I could give this answer. Anyway, here is the after dinner prayer of gratitude that I have been using for years: “I feel great fullness, and I am greatly grateful that I am greatly full.”

* * * *

Dear Swami:

Can two negatives ever make a positive?

Atwood B. Goode,
Kennett Square, Pennsylvania

Dear Atwood:

Sure, and I just heard a heartwarming story that proves it. I recently met a man who suffers from both dyslexia and paranoia. But it has worked out splendidly. He is convinced the Universe is conspiring to make him happy.

* * * *

Dear Swami:

You often mention breatharians who exist on breath alone, and I feel sad for these individuals. If they are unable to eat together, what kind of communion can they share?

Dwight Stuff,
Colorado Springs, Colorado

Dear Dwight:

Not to worry. Although they cannot break bread together, breatharians can still break wind.

Dear Swami:

As a psychologist, I often run across people who are willing to sacrifice being happy for being right. Is there a word for this state of mind?

Kay Studdie
Round Rock, Texas

Dear Kay:

Absolutely. It is called smartyrdom.

About the Author

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