Maude Smith's Correspondence with The Mother

19 November 1957

Gracious Divine Mother,

There is something I need to ask you about M before he comes on the 1st. Should I confine my work with him strictly to New Horizon work or should I also do other things I have been doing for him—such as personal and business correspondence, running errands, taking care of him if he is ill?

You might help him as he badly needs it—but not to the extent of taxing your own health.

Another question: What should I do with the suggestions that come to me about various things in the Ashram? When I dust my shutters, I think how windows could be made so they could be more easily cleaned. When I watch the doctor cut and fold gauze for small bandages, I figure out how ready-made plasters can be prepared by his helper to save his time. When servants come to the library who don't know how things should be done, or why, I work out a brief course of training which new domestic servants might be expected to pass.

Suggestions of this kind are always useful. You can make them to those in charge, leaving them free to make or not to make use of them.

Mother, I have given up taking exercise because almost always I was so tired I had to drive myself to do it, and you have told me so often not to push myself. Shall I wait till I have enough quietness and equanimity that I am not constantly fatigued by violent emotions, assuming that when the time is right you will give me the urge to take up exercise again?

Yes.

You spoke once in class about consciously aspiring so that each physical movement involved in our work and other activities may help towards our bodily strength and harmony. Should I try to do this instead of exercise just now?

Yes, provided it does not become an obsession.

My throat infection still bothers me. I went to Dr. N because it was not getting better. After several days of his treatment it seemed better, but now it is as bad as ever. I don't know whether it is serious, but I'm not going to him again unless you tell me I should. After all, if disease is caused by inner disharmony, I don't see the sense of going to a doctor about it. I shall go back to depending on your help alone, praying for your healing, purifying Force, and aspiring for confidence in it and openness to it.

If you can do this sincerely, it is surely better.

With my love and blessings

19 November 1957