R19. The Last Message

SRI RAMANUJA By the time Ramanuja came From Mysore to Srirangam, His old age was more than One hundred years by then. The approaching last days, He could very well guess. So he called his disciples And gave them his advice. "Worship spiritual persons. Have faith in their teachings. Never be slaves to your senses. Don't be after material things." "Chant the names and glories Of God as well as His devotees As God loves those who loves His devotees and His creations." "Read sacred books of Alvars And the writings of Acharyas. Seek the company of devotees. And follow not the atheists." "Surrender at the feet of God As your life is determined Based on your past Karmas, And so have no grievances." "Perform well your duties, Without waiting for its results, As the fruits of your actions Lie in the Almighty's hands." "If you find them like thorns, Then shed all your egos down And just follow men of wisdom Who'll guide you all the time." "Find out who your friends are And who your enemies are? All holy men are your friends And God's foes, your enemies." Thus his parting advice at last, Touched deeply their hearts, And tears flowed in their eyes, As a sign of their sad feelings.