The Combined Diary
Baba throws a ball softly against a wall and catches it on the rebound; then he throws it forcefully a second time and fails to catch it, folios #2v097-2v101, January 29 - February 1, 1927.
The daily routine on Sunday, a day of many visitors, was interrupted by the arrival of the well boring machine. Discussions of the war in China and the proposed school building continued. Baba announced that he would live only on liquids such as milk-tea and water until he broke his silence.
The school was moved to Meherabad from a house near the village. Baba showed noticeable consideration for the Mahars; nevertheless they troubled him with "unnecessary botheration, disobedience and carelessness." Baba responded that none of the Mahars from the village should maintain contact with him and he dismissed the Mahar children from school.
On account of a budget of 20000 rupees and the immediate need for a building it was decided to construct the school from corrugated iron sheets despite reservations about its inelegant appearance. It was assumed that Rustomji, who was then absent, would oppose the plan "tooth and nail."
In response Baba gave a "fine lecture" illustrated by bouncing a ball against a wall. He threw it softly the first time and caught it on the rebound; he threw it forcefully the second time and failed to catch it. He pointed out that the ball rebounded with as much force as it was thrown whereas the wall, like a Sadguru, remained unaffected and stationary. "It is for you to see before throwing the ball with what force you should do it, keeping in view your ability to manage the rebound."
If you put more energy than necessary into concern for elegance and show, the cost of the building will rebound on you with unnecessary force. Use only as much force as you can handle without stress. "Look before you leap," added Baba.
Rustomji returned and objected to the plan, saying "tin sheds would look like stables." After much discussion Baba increased the budget to 30000 and reduced the accomodation from 400 boys to 200.
Baba consoled a young visitor who was talking about renunciation after recently losing his wife by urging him to remarry and promising him a "nice and fortunate son." Real renunciation, he indicated, is a matter of keeping the mind free of bindings, unconnected and quiet under all conditions.
Part 108: The Combined Diary
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