To be a Disciple is No Ordinary Task

Bhagavān is not obtained without prema. Even if there is a cause for prema to be destroyed, yet prema increases, then this is śraddhā. After being slightly chastised by Gurujī, the disciple may become disturbed. He will then think, “Now I will not go to Gurujī.” Then what is this? This means that the disciple has not attained even śraddhā. A disciple is he who tolerates being chastised by his guru. To engage in guru-sevā, one has to engage in strict austerities. Despite being displeased, Lakṣmaṇa had to execute the order of Rāma. Rāma told him, “You must take Sītā to the forest and leave her in the āśrama there.” To be a disciple is no ordinary task. Therefore, we must clearly remember this.

August 14, 2005 Delhi

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