Tukaram, Poem 2418

Espouse the cause of God, lest misfortune overtake thee. The world has laid you low; disentangle the net with speed. The world is a saddening whirlpool of birth and rebirth, and you must take the advice of the saints. They who have attained God tell you to cross this river; it is He who gives liberation and joy. Great and small, there is room for all in Vitthala. His seat is on the three worlds; in generosity He is the Crown jewel among generous men. He who goes tottering is lost; he who has no patience is ruined. If a man does not swerve, gain comes to the spot where he dwells. There is nothing that continues, the body is perishable; fortunate is that young man who piques himself on attendance at Hari’s worship. Leave this shore of the stream, depart yonder, wave your arms and be a warrior. When selfishness vanishes, we call the mood sympathy. Greed of wealth and grain and devotion to his family stand in a man’s path. According to your desire for fruits and comforts, such will you find God; He adapts Himself to each. Never put off the worship of God to a future day. When you have found the track, do not quit it; if you are idle you will have to eat the dust. If you have success and fame on your side, then it is time to acquire Narayana. That man who forgets that he is other than God will eclipse the lustre of the sun. “L” we set down, whether there is anything for it or not! You do not know an efficient means of liberation; how is it you have closed your eyes? If you feel no remorse, you will be reborn as a dog or an ass. As the result of toil, crops have been gathered on mountain summits; your welfare is in your own hands, but you do not try to secure it. Tuka says, Lo! What reputation is earned by the servants of Vishnu!