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OCTOBER, 1975
71
Yashoda :
That may not be possible. I have observed so many austerities and fasts for the consummation of this marriage. For nights and days, I sat by the image of Parshvanath, constantly praying that he gave me a husband in his own image, and in you I have found a husband in all respects alike to Lord Parshvanath.
Vardhaman :
And I too prayed to the same Lord Parshvanath that he grant me the liberation which he Himself achieved. I must practise the religion of universal love, so that I may not be reborn in this world.
Yashoda :
Your prayer will be granted, when the time will come for it.
Vardhaman :
But I want my redemption right now. I want to be free from all mundane things that keep man in bondage.
Yashoda :
I shall not keep you in bondage, my Lord.
Vardhaman :
I know for myself what is bondage and how to get liberation from it. The two biggest bondages in this world are wealth and beauty.
Yashoda :
It is bondage alone that leads to liberation. Just as a sinewyman takes out a nail by beating another into it, so also a wise man subdues his passions through his senses.
Vardhaman :
You are expounding only an elementary truth ; while I am already on the road to liberation.
Yashoda :
How ?
Vardhaman :
Frist promise, you will not misunderstand me.
Yashoda :
Whatever you do, will always be welcome to me. It can never displease me.
Vardhaman :
Then listen carefully. I have abandoned that attractive and priceless necklace which your father presented to me on the occasion of our marriage.
Yashoda:
Abandoned ! Why, where, how ?
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