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This instance in Sitaji’s life teaches us to be compassionate
even towards your enemies. It teaches us to be soft hearted
and to keep our heart free from evil thoughts and vices.

As we saw in the beginning, Sitaji does not blame or insult
Rama for the happening. Instead she is grateful to him because
she feels that it is only because of Rama that the fire turned
into water. On being asked about the reason she clarified
further that,

“Rama, this fire turned into water only because you resided
in my heart. If anyone else would have been in my heart,
then this fire would have reduced me to ashes. Hence, you
have done a great favour on me for which I am immensely
grateful to you.”

This incident displays Sita’s amazing feeling of gratitude. She
did not give credit to her purity for this transformation of
fire into water. Instead she considered this to her husband’s
favour.

Those whose intention is only self-appraisal can never
remember other’s favours.

It is quite evident in this world that parents sacrifice time,
money and energy and raise children. But when the child
grows up, becomes successful and starts earning well, he
does not give credit to his parents. Instead he thinks that he
is successful because of his own intelligence and efficiency.
This is only self-appraisal and pride about one’s capability.
Gratitude has no place here. The heart has become tough
and stone hearted. This inturn results into a negative and
indifferent attitude which troubles us in every successive birth.

Instead keep your eyes, heart and mind open to visualize and
remember the innumerable favours of your parents, Guru and
Arihanta Lords on you.
142 Purity Purified