David Godman 3

 Q: I am not able to concentrate by myself. I am in search of a force to help me. 

 A: Yes, that is called grace. Individually we are incapable because the mind is weak. Grace is necessary. Sadhu seva [serving a sadhu] will bring it about. 

There is however nothing new to get. 

Just as a weak man comes under the control of a stronger one, the weak mind of a man comes under control easily in the presence of strong-minded sadhus. That which is is only grace; there is nothing else.

Q: Is it necessary to serve the Guru physically? 

A: The sastras say that one must serve a Guru for twelve years in order to attain Self-realization. 

What does the Guru do? 

Does he hand it over to the disciple? 

Is not the Self always realized? 

What does the common belief mean then? 

Man is always the Self and yet he does not know it. Instead he confounds it with the nonSelf, the body, etc. Such confusion is due to ignorance. If ignorance is wiped out the confusion will cease to exist and the true knowledge will be unfolded.

By remaining in contact with realized sages the man gradually loses the ignorance until its removal is complete. The eternal Self is thus revealed. 

Q: You say that association with the wise [sat-sanga] and service of them is required of the disciple. 

A: Yes, the first really means association with the unmanifest sat or absolute existence, but as very few can do that, they have to take second best which is association with the manifest sat, that is, the Guru. 

Association with sages should be made because thoughts are so persistent. 

The sage has already overcome the mind and remains in peace. Being in his proximity helps to bring about this condition in others, otherwise there is no meaning in seeking his company.

The Guru provides the needed strength for this, unseen by others. 

Service is primarily to abide in the Self, but it also includes making the Guru's body comfortable and looking after his place of abode. 

Contact with the Guru is also necessary, but this means spiritual contact. If the disciple finds the Guru internally, then it does not matter where he goes. 

Staying here or elsewhere must be understood to be the same and to have the same effect.

- Be as you are.  

The teachings of Sri Ramana Maharshi edited by David Godman.