MANILA, Philippines ? Eighteen years ago, a baby girl was born with hydrocephalus. She was operated on and survived, but never lived a normal life. She could not speak, walk properly, or play. Nevertheless, her mother made sure that her baby had a good life by providing for her material and spiritual needs.

The mother had her daughter learn the basics of spirituality: She first established the daily routine of worshipping the Supreme Being. Together, they offered flowers and fruits to the Lord. The mother lovingly sang and chanted His names as often as she could and played tapes of purifying transcendental sounds.

Prayers

Even if it took longer than normal, the young girl eventually learned to play the tambourine. She would clap her hands to show her heartfelt participation in the offerings. She couldn?t say her prayers or sing, but humming was her way of glorifying the Supreme Person. Limited as her faculties were, her offerings were perfectly understood and accepted by the Supreme.

Names

A week ago, she left her disabled mortal frame. Her heart and lungs were pushed by her deformed spine, leading to pneumonia and sepsis. When she expired, she was surrounded by her mother and siblings, who were praying and singing to her ears the wonderful names of the Supreme.

She had a good life, and it was made fuller by her relationship to and awareness of the merciful Supreme. She may have been physically retarded, but her progress in the spiritual realm was nothing to scoff at?and that was the true measure of her success.