Champaklal Speaks

Dishonest

Someone complained to Mother about some people taking their food home in carriers and sharing it with unauthorised persons in their rooms. Mother said: “People are dishonest.” She said this thrice, and her displeasure was visible in her expression.

Later that day I asked: “Suppose I take the bread that comes to me as my quota and give it to somebody who has permission to stay here but is so poor that he cannot afford to pay for food from Dining Room. The person is very anxious to stay here. If I give my share to him, under these circumstances, is it still dishonest, is it stealing?”

Mother: “Yes.”

C: “Mother, I do not ask for anything extra. I only give from my share.”

Mother: “Yes, that is still dishonesty. What you are given is not meant for that.”

C: “Then, Mother, you will not find a single honest person in the Ashram.” Mother remained quiet, calm, serious.

It was indeed difficult for me to understand then. But today, by her Grace, I do.