This upheaval will entail great suffering to humanity, but this very suffering will work a profound change of heart, and will sweep the world clean for the new and vital phase that must follow.
As a result of the progressively changing framework in India, I have to undergo certain periods of seclusion and carry out intense spiritual work by going around India. For this reason, I have decided to postpone my visit to America until 1948 and have called Norina and Elizabeth to India to discuss in detail the plans for my coming in 1948.
I know how patiently many of you who have not seen me for several years have been awaiting a reunion, and I know there are also many devoted souls who are eagerly looking forward to meeting me for the first time.
I want all of you dear ones to endure the extra period of separation with a courageous patience and, in spite of your disappointment, to continue and persevere in your present work and faith until I come. You must rest assured that I shall come, and should always remember that, in spite of this temporary separation from my physical presence, my real and infinite presence is eternally with you.
Adi Sr., Babadas and Jal Rusi saw Baba at Mahabaleshwar at 2:00 P.M. on 1 March 1947. Manek D. Mehta and Burjor N. Mehta, 26, of Navsari, met Baba the next day at 1:30 P.M. Manek Mehta wished to construct a hall in Bombay dedicated to Baba, and Baba pledged to support it.
On 3 March, Eruch brought a telegram that Banubai Confectioner, Kaka Baria's sister, had expired in Bombay. Baba sent Adi Sr., Don and Kaka Baria to Poona, from where Sarosh drove Adi, Kaka and Pappa to Bombay for the funeral. Baba had often stayed at Banubai's apartment on his many visits to Bombay over the years.1
After ending his seclusion, Baba, with Mehera, Mani, Meheru and Kitty, departed on Thursday, 6 March 1947 for relaxation in the seaside town of Vengurla. Don drove them in a car, and they stayed at the dak bungalow there for four days. Vishnu was also with them. Baba permitted the women to bathe in the sea in the mornings, as he watched from the beach. In the evenings, they walked along the beach looking for attractive shells. One day Don beautifully sculpted Baba's face in the sand, and Baba brought the women to see it.
Footnotes
- 1.Later, Banubai's jewelry was given to Meherjee and Nariman to dispose of and the proceeds given for Baba's work.