DISCOURSES & TALKS BY MEHER BABA

TOSSING A RUBBER BALL AGAINST THE WALL

14 September, 1927

Baba smiled and began tossing a rubber ball against the wall — at first softly and then more forcefully. He explained:

"The ball will rebound to you with as much force as that with which it is thrown. The wall is firm, stationary, and inactive — doing nothing — and in that respect it is like a Sadguru. It is for you to determine what force you use to throw the ball against the wall so that when it rebounds it may be caught.

In the same way, before doing anything or taking any action, you should first determine the subsequent consequences. You have to ascertain what is really requisite and then act accordingly. Here, in the case of erecting a building, if you devote more attention to minor details, like the appearance and beauty of it, the expense will naturally increase. First look at the means at your disposal and then decide. If you put more energy into making the building tip-top and fancy, spending more than you have, it will come around your neck.

I am just like the wall — doing nothing. You have to throw the ball and catch it. So throw it in such a way that you can easily catch it without getting tired. Remember to "look before you leap"!

Lord Meher On-line page 769

Lord Meher V3 p.903-4