energy. Material loss and gain are destined in accordance with
the formation of each particular body. There are 8,400,000 spe-
cies of life, and each type of body is destined to enjoy and suffer
in accordance with its particular formation. The bodily enjoyments
and sufferings of a wealthy man’s son are different from those of a
poor man’s son. Although no one undergoes severe austerities to
obtain distress, it comes upon us uncalled. Similarly, the happi-
ness we are destined to enjoy will come upon us even without our
desires.

Even though we may be able to avoid distress and artificially
enjoy some material happiness by temporary achievements, this
represents no factual gain in life. Our duty is to achieve perma-
nent happiness and eternal life, and it is for that purpose only —
for the ultimate gain — that we should undertake all sorts of
penances and austerities.

This ultimate gain is possible to achieve in the human form of
life. Permanent happiness is possible when one is free from
material sources of happiness, for continuation of material bond-
age means continuation of the threefold miseries. Human life is
meant for ending these miseries.

We should not try to be beautiful like seasonal flowers or
greenery that flourish in the rainy season but are weary in the
winter. To be enlivened by the clouds of ignorance overhead and
to enjoy the sight of temporary greenery is not at all desirable.
One should try to live in the unlimited clear sky overflooded with
the rays of the sun and moon. That is what we actually desire. A
life of freedom in eternity, complete knowledge, and a blissful
atmosphere is the heart’s desire of an enlightened soul. We
should undertake all sorts of penances and austerities to attain
that permanent source of happiness.-=

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