I want to give an explanation of Sri Guru – what are the symptoms of a bona fide guru – and to show you examples that have been given in the epics [Vedic scriptures]. You can apply this to your own guru. Our Sri Guru is akhanda-guru-tattva, Sri Baladeva Prabhu or Sri Nityananda Prabhu, so all teachings should be applied to him and to others who are following this...
by Śrīla Bhaktisiddhānta Sarasvatī Ṭhākura Prabhupāda
❝In reality, it is impossible to serve effectively unless one is directly cognizant of the emotions deep within the heart of the person being served. Sometimes, the topmost servants may wait for the orders of their master, but other times, aware of the inner feelings of their worshipful lord, they may serve him without being ordered....❞
by Śrīla Bhaktisiddhānta Sarasvatī Ṭhākura Prabhupāda
❝We are now interested in the acquisition of all kinds of worldly facilities. We find it useful to study those sciences that deal with the objects we wish to acquire. But we need not remain confined to such investigation. We are fit to be attracted, also, by the science of supra-mundane reality. We are attracted by One who is existence, knowledge and bliss. He attracts us in different degrees, for He has given us the fitness to be attracted in different measures....❞
by Śrīla Bhaktisiddhānta Sarasvatī Ṭhākura Prabhupāda
❝No matter how many difficulties we must face, we pray that we may always be able to follow in the footsteps of the devotees of Bhagavān. When we realize our own ineptitude, humility (dainya) arises. That humility is the root of accepting guidance from Bhagavān’s devotees. Only when I truly admit my own incompetence shall I become capable of perceiving the beauty and the glories of the lotus feet of Bhagavān’s devotees...❞
If someone unknowingly mixes with a worldly person who has many desires for worldly sense gratification, he will be influenced by that person's qualities. Similarly, though not knowing the glorification of sadhu-sanga, if one associates with sadhus, his life will soon change...
Page 43 of 43
