R19. The Last Message Poem by Rajaram Ramachandran

SRI RAMANUJA

By the time Ramanuja came
From Mysore to Srirangam,
His old age was more than
One hundred years by then.

The approaching last days,
He could very well guess.
So he called his disciples
And gave them his advice.

"Worship spiritual persons.
Have faith in their teachings.
Never be slaves to your senses.
Don't be after material things."

"Chant the names and glories
Of God as well as His devotees
As God loves those who loves
His devotees and His creations."

"Read sacred books of Alvars
And the writings of Acharyas.
Seek the company of devotees.
And follow not the atheists."

"Surrender at the feet of God
As your life is determined
Based on your past Karmas,
And so have no grievances."

"Perform well your duties,
Without waiting for its results,
As the fruits of your actions
Lie in the Almighty's hands."

"If you find them like thorns,
Then shed all your egos down
And just follow men of wisdom
Who'll guide you all the time."

"Find out who your friends are
And who your enemies are?
All holy men are your friends
And God's foes, your enemies."

Thus his parting advice at last,
Touched deeply their hearts,
And tears flowed in their eyes,
As a sign of their sad feelings.