The Sai-Led Life of Irene Garden: Albuquerque, New Mexico
In the tapestry of lives touched by Sathya Sai Baba’s teachings, few shimmer with as much quiet radiance as the life of Irene Garden. Guided by Baba’s call to “Love All, Serve All,”. Irene transformed her everyday existence into a living expression of compassion, courage, and sacred service. Her attendance and participation in service with the Sathya Sai Baba Group of Albuquerque, New Mexico, stands the test of time for Irene being a living example of love!
As a devoted midwife, Irene spent decades supporting families through the miracle of birth and through its occasional challenges. Her work embodied Baba’s teaching – that every life, from its very first breath, is divine. This reverence for life expanded into her deep love for nature, especially for the hummingbirds she affectionately called her “Little Baba’s.” To Irene, their presence was a reminder of His subtle, joyful companionship.
Music became one of her offerings as well. At the annual Sai Labor Day Retreat in the mountains of Jemez Springs, New Mexico, Irene rose before dawn, flute in hand, and walked softly among the cabins to awaken participants with Native American melodies. This simple act, which was her way of preparing hearts for morning Satsang (fellowship) became a cherished tradition. Her famous Shanti Yum-Yum treats, which were eagerly awaited for during retreat breaks, carried the same spirit of sweetness and service.
Even during her journey with cancer, Irene perceived Baba’s presence in every moment, including in her beloved oncologist, whom she endearingly named ‘Dr. Orange’. In her relationship with him, she recognized Baba’s reassurance – that no struggle need be faced alone.
Those who knew Irene continue to feel her transformative influence. A hummingbird at the window, a bell ringing mysteriously at home, a moment of unexpected comfort – each becomes a reminder, that love once offered selflessly, never disappears. It multiplies, inspires, and awakens. As an inspired photographer, lover of animals, and of all life, her example is a legacy of the love personified by Sathya Sai Baba.
Irene Garden’s life is a testament to what becomes possible when one opens fully to the divine guidance of Sathya Sai Baba. Her journey from inspiration to transformation continues to uplift our hearts, by calling each of one us to serve humanity, to honor nature, and to move through the world with the same gentle, joyful devotion that she embodied. Her daily prayer was: “Lord, think through me, speak through me, listen through me, love through me, and act through me.”
As Sai Baba says, “I want to know that you have thoroughly transformed yourselves. It is such transformation that is the mark of true devotion. If the ground is not wet, what is the use in saying there has been a downpour?”
Sri Sathya Sai Baba, Discourse, October 2, 1987