Book Title: Way of Life Part 1
Author(s): Bhadraguptasuri
Publisher: Vishvakalyan Prakashan Trust Mehsana

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Page 150
________________ 140 THE WAY OF LIFE magnificeat idea this Sutra contains ! "Whatever had to be taught has been taught to you; whatever had to be said to you, has been said but if you don't believe these words you may do whatever you consider good.” Even if our words are not respected by some people we wish them only happiness. What a lofty attitude ! She did not say, "If you do not care for my words, you will experience sorrow. Get away from here. You will go to hell for your disobedience." The preceptress did not prattle thus. There was no tension or irritation in her words. She gave her suggestion; showed her the right path; persuaded her affectionately not to do so; and prevailed upon her by means of logical arguments. Even then if she was not convinced of the significance of her advice, what remedy was there ? "Now, you find out for yourself the path of your happiness.” If others do not care for your well-meant advice, you should not wish any ill to them. The preceptress said to her disciple, "Jaha sukkham" "Whatever is happy according to you". "You may do whatever you consider good to you.” That Sadhvi went alone on a night to the cemetery, outside the city. THE SADHVI FALLS INTO A MORASS OF MORAL AND MENTAL DECLINE The cemetery was only a little distance away from the city. The darkness had fallen. The horror of the silent and mysterious atmosphere of the cemetery did not daunt her. She began the Kayotsarg meditation. She stood there with her face turned towards the city. There was a house at a short distance. The brightness of lights could be seen in the house. The sound of sweet music was emanating from that house. The Sadhvi tried to concentrate her mind on her meditation; she tried to control her five senses and to concentrate them on one aim; but she could not attain concentration. Her ears were drawn towards that sweet music. The mind became subservient to the ears. "How sweet the music is! From where are these melodies emerging ?" The mind of the Sadhvi became distracted. This distraction, impelled the eyes to open and to see the source of those sweet melodies. She began to open her eyes. She looked in the direction of the sound. She saw the house which was filled with the brightness of burning lights. The eyes and ears Jain Education International For Private & Personal Use Only www.jainelibrary.org

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