GOSPEL OF RAMAKRISHNA
a wise man may work unattached and then work will not do any harm to him. Disciple: But that depends upon the posses- sion of an extraordinary power of will derived from the realization of God. First realization of God, then work without attachment. Is it not so, Bhagavan?
Sri Ramakrishna: I must say you are right. But the probability is, you must have desired Power of desire. these things in your previous incar-nations. This reminds me of the story narrated in one of the Sacred Books. It is said that Sri Krishna had made his abode in the heart of Radha; so long there was no Lila (the life of sport that he lived in Vrindavan). But he felt the desire to take the form of a human being; the consequence of this desire- was that he came to Vrindavan. Such is the power of desire. Your duty now is to pray without ceasing for love of God, so that the bondage of work shall gradually fall off. Disciple: Is it, Bhagavan, the duty of the householder to save against a rainy day? Bhagavan: Try to follow the precept of Cast all care on God. Jadrichchalabha, that is, availing oneself of things that come naturally in one's way without one's having to put
314