7. Why Are You Crying?

2/23/17

This story of Lord Nityananda is really cool. He even relieves small distresses - what to speak of the larger issues we face in life. This story gave so much solace in the third day.

Sri Nitai: Why are you crying? Tell me. I'll surely relieve your distress.

One day a crow came and took a bell metal bowl and flew away to the forest. As soon as the crow went out of sight, mother Malini became worried. The crow left the bowl in its nest and then returned. Malini devi saw the crow’s mouth was empty. The behavior of Shrivasa Pandita was very strict. Moreover, the bowl stolen by the crow was used to keep ghee for Krishna. She was afraid Her husband would be very upset when he heard what happened. Unable to know what to do, she began to cry.

Then Nityananda came there and saw Malini devi crying for some reason. Nityananda smilingly said, “Why are you crying? Tell me what’s your distress and I will surely relieve it.” Malini devi replied, “Please listen, Shripada Gosai. A crow has taken away the bowl which we use for keeping Krishna’s ghee.” Nityananda replied, “Mother, do not worry. I will bring back the bowl.” Turning to the crow, He said, “O crow, go at once and bring back the bowl.” Lord Nityananda is within everyone’s heart. Who can disobey His order? Ordered by Nityananda, the crow instantly flew away. Malini devi looked on overwhelmed with lamentation. Soon the crow went out of sight and in a short while returned with the bowl in his mouth. The crow placed the bowl in front of Malini devi and left. Malini devi knew well the glories of Lord Nityananda. Seeing this wonderful incident, she swooned in ecstatic love. After recovering, she stood up with folded hands and began to offer prayers.