Effort is that which takes us towards elevation and becomes a basis for upliftment. For degradation one does not need to make any effort. For downfall one does not need to make any effort; the foot slips and the fall takes place! One needs to strive for ascending. The cycle of birth and death is the downfall in human life. For this reason the implication of effort here is to get released from it.

What kind of effort should be undertaken? 'Mamasritya'-by taking My refuge. If effort is made under the subjection of egoism, that effort even if it is for a good cause will in its result become a cause of downfall. It invariably so happens. The goal is high; means are proper; effort is there too; but the spirit of taking refuge in the divine is not firm. Somewhere or the other egoism and desire persist. Both of them are impediments in the way of self-surrender. Effort should be accompanied by introspection. Examine yourself well. The spirit of surrender should be there definitely and that too should be mature-total self-surrender!

Effort towards what end should me made? Jaramaranamokshya' For release from old age and death! Childhood and youth are dear to all. But no one desires old age or death. The question arises that is it possible that they should never visit us? Not from the point of view of physical existence. Otherwise, it is possible too! On one hand refuge in the divine will free one from the cycle of birth and death. If birth is not there, then where is the question of old age and death? The second viewpoint is that from the spiritual angle there is no old age at all. If the mind is spirited and is enjoying the bliss of devotion where is old age? In straight words of Manu-

'Na tane vridho bhavati ye nasya palito sheerah'

Whitening of hair is not a sign of old age. The inner joy and the spirit of emotions should be kept young. This is only possible if effort is made under the refuge in the divine! If one becomes of the Lord then the fear of death goes away. In death also one perceives Him-seeing You take the form of time the destroyer, I will not feel fearful of you, O Lord! In death the true and steadfast devotee of the divine experiences immortality and supreme delight.

What will be the fruits of such endeavour? 'Te brahmn tadviduh krtsnamadhyatman karma cakhilam' Such persons are the knowers of Brahmn, integrality of spiritual nature and all actions. When one has become of the Lord, has taken refuge in Him, all efforts and endeavours are made for Him; all strivings and means and goal are undertaken with Him only in mind. Then it is certain then He is the one who will come to be experienced. He is the essence of all spiritual knowledge, the basis of all actions; He is consciousness, the motivating factor. That is why, by knowing Him all this becomes known. This spirit is found further also