THE MASTER & THE ENGLISH GENERAL

[Guest guest]

THE MASTER & THE ENGLISH GENERAL

 

An English General arrived at Muni-ki-Reti to fish in the Ganga,

known far and wide for its abundance of fish. Leaving his car on the

roadside, the General went to the river bank with his aide. There he

happened to see the Master, Gurudev Sivananda. He greeted the Master

by touching his cap in a careless manner, while the Master bowed to

him after the Indian fashion. They did not talk to each other. Then

the General threw the angling-line bow into the river.

 

A disciple of the Master said to the General, "Sir, the Swami

implores you not to fish in this spot which is holy to us. Fish are

living beings. They do not hurt us. Could it be justified to destroy

their lives?"

 

"It is none of the Swami's business!" snapped the General, and threw

the line again. Hours passed, but not one fish bit the hook. He grew

weary and was greatly disappointed and astonished at the same time.

As it grew dark, he gave up fishing and ordered his adjutant to

return.

 

 

Suddenly, on impulse, he directed his steps toward the Master's

cottage and, seeing him, said sadly, "Dear Swami, I have lived in

India for a long time. I can understand the power of your will and

thoughts. It is stronger than my commands and wishes. Therefore, I do

not take amiss your interference in my fishing. I return home with

empty hands." http://www.sivananda.dls.org.za/Ganga.htm