Amma's European tour 2006, began in Munich - a city with a long history, both painful and pleasant. I was talking to a German native, Paul Muller, who was visiting Amma's program.

During the course of the conversation he mentioned, "I feel the heaviness in me lift easily and I become very relaxed when Amma embraces me" he said. " This is also the experience of many of my friends" he added.

During the evening bhajan session, Amma was singing the German version of the song

" Everyone in the world should sleep without fear
at least for one night, sleep without fear.

Everyone in the world should eat to their fill,
atleast for one day, eat to their fill/

There should be one day when there is no violence,
no one is injured, no one is harmed.

All people young and old should serve the poor
and needy, at least for one day serve selflessly.

This is my dream....this is my prayer.
Love is the answer, love is the way.
Love is the answer, love is the way."

Ralph Schmidt, who came for the evening program was evidently moved by the song. He asked me if I would help him find the song in a CD. As I was chatting with him he said, "I am a staunch catholic . I feel very touched to see how Amma gives of herself sitting continuously for more than 12-15 hours everyday. Somehow, the effect of Amma's hug never leaves my memory. To me, She is the embodiment of Lord Jesus himself."

The full packed three day program in Munich ended, around 9:00 in the morning. Amma walked out of the program hall after hugging everyone present, sitting for more than 12 hours. The residents of Munich had no words to express their gratitude.

They simply applauded for a long time. As she stopped outside the door of the hall, bunches of red heart helium balloons were released into the atmosphere. Amma watched the red hearts soar into the blue sky, with delight.

The people of Munich seemed to agree with Amma's message, " Love is the answer, love is the way." Like the helium balloons, sitting on the wings of Amma's Universal love, let us soar to the supreme heights of enlightenment.

- Report by Amritadasi