In a matter of a thought, Rudra was back in his cottage with Baba sitting in front of him, eyes shut, and Rudra sat looking at his Master till the latter opened His eyes.

‘Now you understand how important it is for us to realize the truth within. I could have explained this scenario to you or I could have made you live this scenario. Wanting to change and working towards change are two different worlds, beta. The most beautiful place in creation with the most fearful people in the world and what happens to that place. It repulses you. Why? Because the external and internal are in conflict. When you want change you shall experience life like this. On the outside it all will be beautiful or seemingly normal but within you there will be conflict, as now you are going beyond the normal, you are going beyond the appearance, you are going within, and within there shall be stench, dirt and sewage of the worst possible kind, but all within, nothing external and for a long period of time you shall have to live in this contrast or in the so called normalcy of the situation knowing very well what you are truly made of. Don’t hate yourself or judge yourself. Work on yourself. To go beyond inherent tendencies or character flaws one needs compassion and patience, not anger and various complexes. Understand that everybody has flaws and strengths just as you; then slowly work towards strengthening yourself and slowly detaching yourself from your lower self. Slowly but surely you will reach where you have to be. Now punish me with your tea.’

Rudra continued to massage Baba’s feet for a while and then stood up and entered the kitchen. He put the water to heat and put a piece of coal for the chillum. He was glad to be home with Baba. Nothing else mattered to him but having his Master with him. Life was good. Life was cool.

Wanting to change and working towards change are two different worlds.

THE DAY PASSED fast. A few people had come for help and after channelling Rudra sat to massage Baba’s feet. Baba was in prayer and Rudra prayed along with Baba while he massaged His feet. After a few hours Rudra did housework and returned to Baba who continued to be in a state of prayer. Often Rudra was aware that Baba’s body was present, He wasn’t there in it. During those times Rudra sat in front of Him and prayed or simply sat and observed His Master.

In the night after their soup and chillum they went out for a stroll. Today the sky was filled with clouds and the moon played hide-and-seek, throwing brilliant white light on the beach and water, and then long intervals of darkness when clouds covered her radiance.

They sat on the beach away from the water and Baba motioned Rudra to ask whatever he wanted to inquire.