They all try to work harmoniously and cooperatively. So it is a wonder to me that being so near to me, you all quarrel among yourselves! You all work tirelessly, sincerely, and are honest. Then why these squabbles among you?
Look at Ramakrishnan and how finely he conducts the Poona Center now. He works hard and goes to sleep well after midnight every day. In the beginning there were many quarrels among them also, and every year I had to explain matters to them. But now things are going well.
If you cannot work harmoniously together in the interest of the center, then it is better you close it. As long as you are not able to work cooperatively in an amicable and brotherly spirit, then your work is not work but a mere show!
Baba called upon each to open his heart and honestly lay his grievances before him. Dhake complained, "Rangole's conduct is quite unwise and it creates a bad impression on newcomers."
At that criticism, Rangole asked Dhake, "In what way am I unwise?"
"The other day you did not allow that speaker to speak!"
Explaining, Rangole said, "Baba, the program that day had already been fixed. One person was to give a speech and, in the middle of it, Dhake brought in another speaker. Had I allowed him to give his lecture, the first man would have been offended, as he too was a newcomer."
Baba assured Dhake, "What Rangole says is correct. You should act according to the rules and regulations of the center, and do as Rangole says."
Then Chhagan complained about Rangole, and, in turn, Mandhare complained about Chhagan.
Baba intervened, "If the majority does not approve of Rangole as secretary, remove him and select someone else."
Chhagan said, "Rangole works hard, but he should change his attitude."
Baba stated to Rangole, "Since you have become secretary, your responsibility has increased. You should be very humble and carry the shoes of all on your head!"
Waman Padale spoke up, "There is really no quarrel in the center's work, Baba. There is only one misunderstanding. People do not contribute toward running the center, and Rangole often has to approach them for help and, at times, he gets upset."
Therefore, Baba fixed a certain sum to be paid by each member every month as a contribution. He remarked that as long as Adi had a hand in the affairs of the center, there was little likelihood of any difference persisting, as whatever they had brought up was superficial.