Re: My Appreciation for Lord Ganesha
Namaste,
Everyone is unique in how they see and perceive God; just as the feelings of devotion that arise within, its quantity and depth, whether a lot, a little or none at all... these too are unique. Why the feathers ruffled because someone does not feel as close to Ganesha as they do Shiva? It does not mean to say Ganapati's role as the foremost of Devas is lessened any because someone admits they have never felt particularly drawn to Him. Although it does perhaps ask to us to delve a little deeper regarding Sri Ganesha's worship. Why is it so prolific? Is it merely coincidence, or is there a deeper reason? Despite the variety we see within tradition of Sanatana Dharma, paying homage to Ganesha first seems to be something most if not all Hindu sects share.
I find it in a way, oddly comforting to know that most Hindus respect Ganesha enough to pray or direct their thoughts to Him first, and acknowledge He is the force that controls the auspiciousness of beginnings and new ventures. The Gatekeeper if you will into the tradition of Sanatana Dharma that otherwise would be left closed to a lot of souls out there. I remember in Sivaya Subramuniyaswami's "Loving Ganesha" volume, an apt little description likening Ganesha to the Hindu pope - the common ground and Deva for so many devotees. Not only that, but it's clear millions of Hindus are very fond of Him, even appeasing His sweet tooth with jaggery and other desserts.
Om namah Shivaya
"Watch your thoughts, they become words.
Watch your words, they become actions.
Watch your actions, they become habits.
Watch your habits, they become your character.
Watch your character, it becomes your destiny."
ॐ गं गणपतये नमः
Om Gam Ganapataye namah
लोकाः समस्ताः सुखिनो भवन्तु ।
Lokaah SamastaaH Sukhino Bhavantu
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