Aranya Kaanda
123 - A description of the spring; Narada's meeting with Sri Rama
Chaupais
Description
Seeing the Lord of Raghus so highly pleased, Narada spoke again in gentle tones- " Listen, O Rama: when You impelled Your Maya (deluding potency) and infatuated me, O Lord of Raghus, I wanted to marry. Why, then, did You not let me accomplish my desire ?" " Listen, O sage: I tell you with all the emphasis at My command that I always take care of those who worship Me with undivided faith, even as a mother tends her child. If an infant child runs to catch hold of fire or a snake, the mother rescues it by drawing it aside. When, however, her son has grown up she loves him no doubt, but not as before. The wise are like My grown up sons, while humble devotees are like My infant children. A devotee depends on Me, while the former ( a wise man) depends on his own strength; and both have to face enemies like lust and anger. Pondering thus the prudent adore Me and never take leave of devotion even after attaining wisdom