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THE WAY OF LIFE
also his parents. If the parents cannot accompany him, he can leave his wife with his mother and if even that is not possible, he must keep in his house, as a companion and caretaker of his wife, some trustworthy woman from among his friends and relatives. Under any circumstances, he should not leave his young wife alone in the house.
This idea will appeal to you only if you appreciate the importance of safeguarding the chastity and character of your young wives. Chastity and right conduct are more important than wealth, comforts and luxuries. Have you thought about this point deeply? Do you like it? You may know this point also. Only if you desire to attain physical and mental happiness from your wife, you will have to keep these points in your mind. If you cannot attain from your wife mental peace and physical pleasure; if the affairs of the house are not in an excellent order, then why should you marry at all? If your wife becomes infatuated with some other man and if she develops intimacy with him, can you get any satisfaction or happiness from her ? Can you get pleasures and comforts from her ?
Do not look at the world. In this world everything goes on. The samsar is sinful. If you want to escape from the evils of the world, you can. If you keep floating on the flood of the world, your ruin is certain. Take guidance from enlightened people and try to organise your life in accordance with their guidance.
From the Audience : We feel that it is difficult to live according to that guidance, in this age. No doubt, the path is ideal but the time and place are not congenial.
Maharajashri: Of course, it is difficult but it is not impossible to pursue that path. Are there not people who lead a noble life though the time and place are not congenial. Strength is necessary; firmness is necessary; and faith is necessary. If you live according to the principles of the Grihastadharma expounded by the enlightened people you will surely attain peace and felicity; and you will be able to carry on your spiritual endeavours,
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