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Early the next morning, ten stalwart Bhils presented themselves to the group of monks. It was a victory for faith in man's innate goodness. Together they walked and chatted happily. Before leaving, they exclaimed, “Do you think we would ever molest you sadhus? God forbid! You have a claim on our gratitude. Lo, Gurudev, Maharaj-ji! See there! We have reached the village. Now we will depart. Ram! Ram! Do please come over to our side some day and remember us!"
Though Gurudev remained troubled by their illogical brand of justice, he felt sure they were moving slowly toward the light.
At least the wild tribes of the jungle have respect for goodness. Some day that glimmer of respect will glow fully and lead them out from their ignorance into knowledge. May it be so.
The Miracle of Life
For more than twenty years, Gurudev served his teacher. He revered him as his inspiration, his inner guide, his friend, as one and the same as the Higher Self enshrined in his heart. Because Gurudev had freed his heart of demand and burden, he was able to dedicate himself to the teaching his master's life represented to him, reverence for life. They continued to walk and share the itinerant life together. They usually spent the four months of chăturmās separately. From time to time, Gurudev went off to meditate by himself, or with his father.
Once when his Master went to someone's bedside to chant some mantra and give his blessings, Gurudev noticed that he did not use the special healing mantra he normally used when someone was ill. He asked him, “Guruji, why did you not use the healing mantra today?”.
“Today I myself have a high fever. In this state, how can ] heal? I am not in a position to create the highest vibrations, so I 174
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