Dear Divine Ma,

What Do You Want Me to Learn Today? 

“Today it’s about open heartedness. It’s about whether or not you let other people touch your heart. Can you open yourself to others in need?”

I suspect you’re thinking about the beggars I’ve encountered recently. And whether my heart was open to their plight. Well, whenever I encounter one who is pushy, or manipulative, or “in your face,” with their panhandling, I ignore them or just say no. But if someone comes to me humbly, respectfully, without being disingenuous, then I open both my wallet and sometimes even my heart. It’s true that I tend to gird my aura when a beggar approaches. I read their energy, and if it feels harmonious and non-manipulative, I give. Do I trust all beggars? No. Some seem more like business people or vaishyas more than being people in need. To those, I walk by. But for true need, I do feel the desire to share. And I truly wish them good luck. They really do need it. And my heart sends them good vibes that their luck improves. Those, I do care about. And my heart is open for them.