His public speeches emphasized the value of
KRIYA YOGA, and a life of self-respect, calmness, determination,
simple diet, and regular exercise.
A group of very young disciples then chanted a few sacred hymns; the
meeting concluded with SANKIRTAN. From ten o'clock until midnight,
the ashram residents washed pots and pans, and cleared the courtyard.
My guru called me to his side.
"I am pleased over your cheerful labors today and during the past
week of preparations. I want you with me; you may sleep in my bed
tonight."
This was a privilege I had never thought would fall to my lot. We
sat awhile in a state of intense divine tranquillity. Hardly ten
minutes after we had gotten into bed, Master rose and began to
dress.
"What is the matter, sir?" I felt a tinge of unreality in the
unexpected joy of sleeping beside my guru.
"I think that a few students who missed their proper train connections
will be here soon. Let us have some food ready."
"Guruji, no one would come at one o'clock in the morning!"
"Stay in bed; you have been working very hard. But I am going to
cook."
At Sri Yukteswar's resolute tone, I jumped up and followed him to
the small daily-used kitchen adjacent to the second-floor inner
balcony. Rice and DHAL were soon boiling.
My guru smiled affectionately. "Tonight you have conquered fatigue
and fear of hard work; you shall never be bothered by them in the
future.
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