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Bhagavan joined in a circle round the vacant air in front of him, while his eyes shone with devotional fervour and his voice shook with stifled sobs which did not escape our notice. It was fascinating to see him acting the parts he related, and being in such exhilarated moods as these.” On another occasion while Bhagavan was reading and explaining a story about Tara Vilasam his eyes became full of tears and his voice became tremulous. It looked as if the whole drama was being enacted in his presence. Noticing this Suri Nagamma remarked, “Bhagavan appears to have been transformed into Tara herself.” Pulling himself together the master said with a smile, “What to do? I identify myself with whosoever is before me, I have no separate identity. I am universal.”
At the suggestion of Mrs. Lucia Osborne, we have included the incidents which inspired Sri Bhagavan to relate the story. A few new stories have been added, along with a glossary of Sanskrit and Tamil words. Special thanks must be made to Sri S.Tyagarajan who with great care went over the entire manuscript with Sri Kunju Swamigal. Sri Kunju Swamigal's unfailing enthusiasm and keen interest helped us greatly.
With deepest salutations this little work is offered to Sri Bhagavan, whose guidance, grace and love has prompted this collection of stories. We pray for the grace and blessings of Bhagavan Sri Ramana. May his words inspire us to turn within.
Joan Greenblatt
Sri Ramanasramam August 5, 1984
