The following incidents that the devotees who left Shirdi without
Baba's permission had to pay for their deed.
Once, a religious story-teller, Nanasaheb Chandorkar and two other
gentlemen went for Darshan of Sai. After Darshan, the story-teller
was eager to leave early; as he had a story-telling program in
Ahmednagar the next day. When Nanasaheb asked Baba's permission,
Baba said, "Have your lunch and go!" Nanasaheb requested the story-
teller to stay; but he would not agree and left with his friends to
reach the station.
Sai then commented to Nanasaheb, "See how selfish people can be!
When the time comes they leave their friends and stick to their own
vested interests. That is why one should choose a friend, who will
never ever leave one's side."
Who else, but a Sadguru can be such a life-long friend! So, one
should be devoted to a Sadguru only. You may love all living things;
and only the company of a Sadguru will bring real happiness.
As per Sai's wish, Nanasaheb and his friends took leave only after
having lunch. Sai said, "There is still some time for the train."
When they reached the station, they found that the train was late
and the story-teller and his friends were waiting with sour faces
for the train. Nanasaheb asked, "Did you miss the train?" The story-
teller replied, "No, the train is three hours late. You did well to
listen to Sai Maharaj. We did not and had to go hungry." Later, the
train arrived and everyone left for Ahmednagar.
Sai baba let your holy lotus feet be our sole refuge.OMSAIRAM