Thus spake Sai - 10.

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Thus spake Sai - 10

Without unwavering faith in an all-knowing God, life becomes dry and drab, darkened by the ever-present shadow of despair and doom. Love for God and fear of sin are the two primary needs for a happy life. Without these two, man becomes a monster. Man must be ever ready to sacrifice his selfish needs for the sake of the larger community. There is nothing as glorious as renunciation. Be honest, be detached, and with God installed in your heart march forward to offer your talents and skills in discharging your duties. Do not strive for your happiness alone, but strive for the happiness of all.

Giving up narrow ideas and feelings, people should show compassion towards their fellow-beings. Compassion is the hallmark of Bhakti (devotion). No one can hope to please God without showing Daya (compassion) towards his fellow-men. A loving heart is the temple of God. God cannot dwell in a heart without compassion. There is nothing greater in the world than Prema-drishti (vision imbued with universal love). They alone are good who see the unity in the apparent diversity. Men have to realize that they are sparks of the Divine. They have to develop sacred thoughts and lead ideal lives. They must seek to promote the welfare of society.

As a preliminary to Seva (selfless service) you have to attain purity of heart. You must examine your motives and skills, your intentions and qualifications, and discover for yourself what you hope to achieve through Seva. You should ferret out any trace of egoism, and also the desire for fame. You have to get rid of all sense of mine and thine and burn to ashes the pride that comes from the feeling that you are offering service to someone poorer and less fortunate. Give up pride of status, wealth, scholarship and position, and practise humility, obedience, discipline and compassion.