26 Agrahayana (November-December) 1912:
Disciple: For practising spiritual disciplines in Varanasi, should one live in the monastery or in some lonely place?
Mother If you practise spiritual disciplines for some time in a solitary place like Hrishikesh, you will find that your mind has gained in strength, and then you can live in any place or in the company of anyone without being in the least affected by it. A sapling must be protected by a fence all around, but when it grows big not even cows and goats can injure it. Spiritual practice in a solitary place is essential. When worldly thoughts crop up in your mind, and they possess it, then you should go away from the company of others and pray to Him with tears in your eyes. He will remove all the dross of your mind, and will also give you understanding.
Disciple: I don't have enough strength for doing spiritual disciplines. I have surrendered myself to your holy feet; please do as you will.
With folded palms the Mother began praying to the Master, "May the Master protect you in your vows of Sannyasa. He is looking after you; what should you be afraid of? If the mind is kept engaged in some work, it doesn't indulge in silly thoughts. But if you sit idle, the mind is likely to indulge in various kinds of thoughts. "
VARANASI
17 Pous (January-February) 1912:
Disciple: How and where should I perform spiritual disciplines?
Mother: Varanasi is the place for you. Spiritual discipline means holding the mind steadfast at His holy feet all the time and immersing the mind in thoughts of Him. Repeat His Name.
Disciple: What can repetition of His Name achieve, if it is not attended with earnestness?
Mother: Regardless of whether you get into water willingly or are pushed, your clothes will be soaked. Practise meditation regularly, for your mind is still unripe. After prolonged practice of meditation your mind will become steady. And you should constantly discriminate between the real and the unreal. Know the worldly objects to which the mind is drawn to be unreal and