Once, Swamishri was giving a spiritual discourse in a remote tribal village. Everyone was engrossed in Swamishri's speech until he stopped abruptly.
Everybody looked around and saw a small figure of a man, perhaps in his early fifties.
He had worn his clothes to shreds and it appeared he had not washed himself for months. The man, who belonged to a tribal community of the village, felt sure to be ridiculed in public.
But Swamishri called him over and said, "Come here brother, come close."
Swamishri's kind eyes drew him near. Just as he was about to bow down, Swamishri produced a flower, which was by his side, and presented it to the man.
The man nervously stretched his arm out to accept the flower. In his heart he felt he was going to be shunned by the people at any moment. Swamishri then placed his affectionate hand on his head and blessed him.
He felt peace at heart. From previous experience if anybody touched him, it was only to push or slap him.
He felt blessed for the first time in his life. He straightened his crooked frame and walked off with the feeling, "I'm a human being too."
Swamishri looks at everyone with an equal eye.
This is the hallmark of a true sadhu. He cares for the welfare and advancement of everyone regardless of caste, creed, color, culture or country.
|