Way of Life Part 3

Author(s): Bhadraguptasuri
Publisher: Vishvakalyan Prakashan Trust Mehsana

Page 80

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THE WAY OF LIFE
your ideal so that you too may attain virtues. "I do not possess any virtues; but I must become a man of virtues; and will become a noble man". Make this lofty determination. A poet says this while offering a prayer to the Paramatma :
"The neem tree which is bitter, lacking in fragrance;
Acquires a sweet fragrance by its proximity to the sandal tree!
I who am lacking in virtues will acquire the fragrance of virtues
By my proximity to thee! Oh Lord Jineshwar !"
The neem tree does nothing. It merely stands near the sandal tree. By this means, it acquires the sweet fragrance of the sandal tree. In the same manner, you need not do anything. If you merely sit by the side of noble men you too will acquire the sweet fragrance of their virtues.
NEVER DISCARD THE COMPANY OF NOBLE MEN
The author of the great grantha has employed one word : Parigrah (Acceptance). Accept and receive men of virtues. Accept and receive great Sadhus and noble men. Do you know the meaning of Parigrah (acceptance) ? Parigrah means attachment; or (Murcha) a deep attachment. The author has used a very meaningful and significant word. He says that we should develop a deep attachment for men of great virtues. Just as those who try to acquire wealth develop a deep attachment for wealth, you must develop a deep attachment for men of virtues. You should never discard their company or dissociate yourself from them. Whatever may be your circumstances, you should not discard the company of noble men. By the truth, and depth and harmony of your mind you must hold communion with the very souls of those great men.