Page 229 - WLMIG_6132004.indd

12
Transcend Suffering Element 8
True devotion lies in being in a state of equanimity, both in pleasure and pain. Prahlada (a great devotee of God) stands testimony to this. Prahlada constantly chanted the name of Narayana with all love, even in the face of innumerable hardships. He was pushed from the mountaintop and thrown into the sea. Aempts were made to get him trampled upon by huge elephants and bien by poisonous snakes. Not even once did he give up chanting the name of Narayana. Love of Prahlada melted the heart of the Lord, and He came to Prahlada’s rescue in times of need. One should remain equal minded in happiness and sorrow, gain and loss, victory and defeat. Such equanimity can be obtained only through love.
Sathya Sai Baba
Commiing ourselves to working for the upliing of the community opens our love and also leads to purification: becoming aware of, overcoming, and releasing inner imperfections and weaknesses. We can expect troubles, trials, and tests. In fact, Swami says trouble is our teacher, making us find an inner strength that transcends suffering.
229