Inquiries Into the Absolute: Digest 165, Pleasing vs. seeking

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Digest 165, April 25th, 2006. Answers by His Holiness Romapada Swami Maharaja

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Pleasing vs. seeking recognition from the spiritual master

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Q. Is it acceptable to desire recognition from the spiritual master or is it

inappropriate and a version of materially seeking distinction?

 

Answer: The desire to see the spiritual master become pleased with our efforts

& services or to want to earn his approval is not inappropriate for the

disciple. In the beginning stages it may even be healthy in some cases, like a

child wanting the assurance of seeing the parents pleased -- provided it is

with genuine service attitude rather than to increase one's feeling of

self-importance.

 

However, as one matures in devotional service, one understands that what

actually draws the attention and recognition of the spiritual master is a

genuine and humble mood of service and execution of instructions. When we try

to impress Guru and Krishna, they are actually not very impressed! One who is

truly satisfied and confident in one's relationship with the spiritual master

and Krishna is not bothered by wanting to be recognized; they find complete

satisfaction in simply being in the background and enhancing the pleasure and

service of the spiritual master, and seek to give the credit and recognition to

others.

 

Sublime examples of this mood are gloriously exhibited by each of the six

Goswamis of Vrndavan, and so many of Lord Caitanya's intimate associates.

 

This disposition is very pleasing to Guru and Krishna and actually attracts

their merciful glance. Lord Caitanya Himself often demonstrated this

characteristic of the Master's exceptional appreciation for a superlatively

humble and affectionate devotee's qualities within His pastimes, by recognizing

and giving special mercy to the most simple, humble and unnoticed devotees who

were simply happy to be engaged in menial service to the Vaishnavas.

 

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