My Predicament at the Governor's Residence

In 1972, I went to see the Governor of Puerto Rico, Luis Ferré. He was very, very kind to me. Governor Ferré was extremely fond of playing the piano, and he played for me on this occasion. I knew nothing about the piano. Even now, I know nothing about the piano. But, in spite of knowing nothing, I highly appreciated his performance.

Then he asked his attendant to bring us breakfast. We sat at the table. There was pineapple juice, fruits — a complete breakfast. I had never used silver before. I did not know which hand to use for the spoon and which hand to use for the fork, right or left. The Governor asked me to please start.

I said to him, "Please start." Neither one of us would start before the other. I was totally helpless. Two of my students, Kanti and Bansidhar, were also present. So pathetically I was looking at them and praying to them to start. Inwardly I was begging them. But how could they start before their spiritual Teacher?

Finally, I was looking at them so pitifully and helplessly that Governor Ferré's soul felt my predicament and he started first. I looked at his hands and I did exactly as he did. In that way, I was saved.

How he conquered my heart with his love and kindness, Governor Ferré!

From:Sri Chinmoy,The Canvas of Time, Madal Bal, Czech Republic, 2019
Sourced from https://srichinmoylibrary.com/cat