Service to the Guru

Sri Swamiji,

“ It is indeed a great fortune to serve (do 'kainkarya') the Guru. But, what does 'serving' the Guru mean? Living with the Guru one cooks food for Him, serves the food, prepares the water for bath, washes, dries and irons His clothes, fans Him, massages His Feet, etc. These are generally said to be 'service' to the Guru. However, is it possible for all to live in His physical presence and serve Him thus? What about those who live away from Him? There are many devotees who live hundreds of, thousands of miles away from Him. Does it mean that they cannot serve Him? Therefore, 'serving the Guru' does not mean physical service alone. Carrying on the Guru's instructions in utter faith, sincerity and love is verily 'service' to the Guru.

Lakshmana, Bharata and Shatrugna - all the three served Lord Rama. Lakshmana lived along side Rama and served him. Lakshmana built hut for him, prepared his bed, collected fuel for cooking food, guarded as Rama and Sita were together, assisted Rama in killing the asuras, etc. How did Bharata serve Rama. Was he not physically away from Rama? Bharata carried out the instructions of Rama. Rama desired Bharata to rule the kingdom in His absence. Did not Bharata possess the ability to live in the forest and serve Rama? Yet, Bharata sacrificed his life for the sake of Rama. He lived far away from Rama whom he loved and revered and ruled the kingdom as advised by Rama. And, Shatrugna by serving Bharata with love and faith served Rama!

If all were to live in the physical presence of the Guru who is to do His work? Sacrificing your very life for the sake of carrying out His work is indeed a great service ('kainkarya'). To read the Bhagavatam, to perform Nãmasankirtan, to collect people living around one's home and help them chant the Lord's Name is verily service to the Guru. Or to follow the special instruction given to him/her by the Guru is verily 'service' to the Guru.

GOPIKA JEEVANASMARANAM!
GOVINDA! GOVINDA!”