It will be either our oath, ourselves or God!
Though stone in the liver, there will be wine between the lips,
And Abdul Ghani will turn into Sakharam [a friend of Ram]!
Baba then commented, "This bit of poetry reveals in a nutshell the New Life and its end, if there be any. The fourth line clearly says that if the oath undertaken is adhered to 100 percent, then it keeps us together — intact; otherwise, we disintegrate, and only God remains. The fifth line relates to what I mean by enjoyment of suffering, and the sixth line you may interpret as you like."
Another questioned, "In case all remain behind, you say you would nevertheless go alone. We would like to know where and what you would be going for alone, when there is nothing for you to achieve? Your going with the companions alone gives some meaning to this New Life."
"I cannot say anything more," Baba replied. "This much I know: that I have got to go on and on — with you or alone. By trying to dig out something from me with regard to this New Life, you will not gain anything further. On the contrary, you will get more and more puzzled, if not dismayed."
Baba explained, "We are sailing in the same boat. We sink or swim together. Why bother [seeking explanations]? Banumasi [Gaimai's sister] was once trying to learn how to swim at Nagpur with Pappa's help. She found herself foundering, and Pappa went to her rescue. She clung round his neck so desperately that she was dragging Pappa himself down until both had to be rescued. So, dear friends, don't be panicky; otherwise, you will drag me down deeper and deeper!
"Do what I say and do not question. The 100 percent following of the orders unquestioningly will save you, whatever the difficulties and circumstances. I have been waiting these long years for this New Life; and if we live through it, it will mean a life that has no end! This life that the world talks about is no life; it is death."
"Why have you taken to this New Life? Was there any need for it?"
"There is no explanation for it," Baba replied.
"What was the last oath you took? What was it about?"
"It is about many things; but I cannot tell you," Baba concluded.
In reference to describing the New Life, Baba would frequently use the word satyanashi , and during that same evening the conversation veered to it.