Five Great Healers Speak Here

Author(s): Nancy, Esmond Gardner
Publisher: Theosophical Publishing House

Page 40

GURUDEV SHREE CHITRABHANU
17
license. “I only live once,” he thinks, “and I have already ruined any salvation I might expect. If there is any afterlife, my punishment is waiting for me, so I might as well go on this way.” It is not punishment he will receive but a logical consequence of his actions, which he will have to endure and live out until he becomes aware. This is actually the greatest of mercies—not a chance to throw it all off and remain the same undeveloped man, but a free tuition to a long course in compassion and wisdom.
It is one of the beliefs that a holy man can take your karma upon himself. I do not agree, although there are reported incidents of this among some saintly teachers. But it is like telling somebody that I will eat instead of you. It is denying the other person the privilege of working out his own sequence of lessons. Therefore, I do not condone or even agree that it could happen since it goes against the natural laws.
In the old days there were some rascals who offered to take on karma for a large sum of rupees. Some fools actually gave them the money. People were also victimized in the cemeteries where the rascals would tell the children, “Your father has some very bad karma but I will help for a consideration. Give me a pocketful of rupees and I will write a note to God. All will be forgiven.” What is the most cooperative and ideal behavior on the part of the patient?
I would like him to understand that his soul is like transparent glass which his thoughts will either clear or blur. If he wants to maintain his well-being and reflect the strength and clarity of the spirit within, he must keep the glass clear of negative or harmful, uncharitable thoughts. One vicious idea can cover the transparency with particles which can only be removed by awareness and purifying actions. He should repeat often, “I am the transparency."