11 February, Atladra (Vadodara)
An aged devotee came to meet Swamishri. He was being harassed by a bhuvo or tantrist, who told him to give up his faith for Bhagwan Swaminarayan and Swamishri, and accept his refuge. The devotee had refused and challenged him to try whatever tantric practices he wished upon him. For the past 35 years the tantric had been chanting incantations and trying all means to make him unhappy. The unrelenting devotee was facing some of the tantrist’s antics. He described that sometimes, while walking on the streets, he would experience the pressure of an unknown hand on his shoulder and hear a voice say, “Still you do not accept!”

Today the 75-year-old devotee broke down crying before Swamishri and prayed, “My brothers have accepted the bhuva’s refuge, and they are happy. I am alive because of you. Please bless me.”

Swamishri was pleased with the devotee’s unremitting faith. He blessed him and his son and chanted dhun for his happiness.
 

11 February, Atladra (Vadodara)

Shri Rakeshbhai Asthana, Police Commissioner of Vadodara, paid his respects to Swamishri. He has sought Swamishri’s blessings on several occasions before. Swamishri praised, “You render your duties with integrity. You have no intention of doing anything bad to anyone so things turn out well for you. You offer selfless services and do your duties for the country with honesty. That is why God and his blessings are with you.”

Rakeshbhai was overwhelmed with peace and joy. He opined, “I feel very peaceful and satisfied after talking to you. My work entails a lot of tension.”

Swamishri reiterated, “God is with you because you do your duty for the country selflessly. If there is any selfish motive one cannot dispense one’s duties properly. Only one who is selfless can serve with integrity.”

Rakeshbhai enquired, “I cannot understand why I feel peaceful in meeting you.”

Swamishri revealed, “Because you do your duties with honesty and character.”