________________
influence and inspiration she was to have on my life. What endeared me to her so thoroughly was that on my second fortuitous meeting in 1982, as I entered into her presence, she looked at me in the eyes clearly, squarely and lovingly and said, "I am not perfect!" That's all. I realised she admitted her humanness and her humbleness and her honesty touched me very deeply. For me then she was a fellow traveller, guru and friend. Yes, I bow to you, Beloved Blessed Soul. I am so deeply grateful, sincerely appreciative, thanking you ever in my heart for the trust you reposed on me, for helping me so greatly to see. I bow down. Natheyna Vandami ! In anything I do or think, I see her as my guide,
:
my mentor and my inspiration. I try to believe that she is at my side still and that she is with you as well and with all those who held her in such great esteem. Her radiant loving smile comes to my memory even now as I write and my heart is so warmed and filled to bursting. Perhaps even now she is nudgeing each one of us to do our best and accept all that comes our way. Her love was so pure and unconditional. She loved each as if they were the only one. She once said to me "Love all equally, do for each equally, give to each equally". She saw beyond the persona -the mask. She helped me to see me, to love myself as I am, to see myself, thereby enabling me to love all. Her belief in me and her love gave me back myself self-respect and assurance, thereby to stand tall and accept anything and all that comes my way. She helped me and, I am sure, many by her unparalleled exemplary behaviour. She helped me remove my own doubts and
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
