When the natural reversal of pleasure and pain arises in life, one should act in harmony with one’s own nature; for those who are diligent and steadfast do not falter from their path. The succession of bodies belongs always to the same embodied being, and with each new birth, the strengths and weaknesses of the former body are consumed and burned away by the emergence of the new. Through the union of parents, a drop of unconscious seed is placed in the womb. There, within that sacred space, food and drink are digested, and what is consumed is transformed. In the womb, the natural processes unfold: urine and feces follow their destined course. Embryos arise in the belly, and from this process, new beings come forth into the world. From this connection to the womb, every living being is eventually released into life. For those who are born alongside the womb, a particular condition arises in the seventh month. There is no doubt that, for humans, the various yogic energies and connections originate from the navel. Yet, when disease afflicts a person, even those who have amassed great wealth must abandon it, for suffering does not depart, no matter how earnestly physicians strive to heal. Creatures are tormented by disease, just as deer are struck down by hunters. One can see the ravages of old age in people, who, like noble elephants defeated by stronger rivals, become frail and broken. Yet wild beasts and the poor are often not afflicted in the same way. Disease seizes living beings as a butcher seizes animals, and life itself can be swept away swiftly, as if carried off by a powerful current. Those who are freed from the cycle of bodies transcend their own nature. Yet, in life, one may strive according to their ability, but outcomes do not always align with intentions. For this reason, one should not accept what is unpleasant, even for the sake of some promised reward. The vigilant, the cunning, the cruel, and the bold often find themselves in service to others. Each person pursues their own interests, and sometimes those of others, but no one can exceed the fate allotted to them. In this world, some carry the palanquin while others ride upon it. Men who have lost their fortunes and countless women of many kinds are seen everywhere. Behold, then, this other supreme truth: here, you will not fall into delusion. Abandon all else, be established in your own true nature, and thus be happy and free from affliction. It was by this wisdom that even the gods, forsaking the mortal world, ascended to heaven. At this point, Sanatkumara, having been honored with reverence, took his leave. Eager to seek the abode of Brahma, he journeyed to his father. Meanwhile, Shuka, after circumambulating in respect, set out for Mount Kailasa. With a troubled heart, his mother cried out, “Stay for just a moment, my son!” But Shuka, intent solely on liberation, departed for the supreme state. Again, the sage was questioned by a Brahmin about the descent of Śuka. Hearing this tale, my own mind has found the highest peace. The ocean of Krishna’s virtues is so vast that thirst for them is never satisfied. But where do these great ones reside now? This question weighs heavily on my mind. The great sage, composed and serene in accordance with the scriptures, turned to face the east, and shone with the brilliance of the sun. In that moment, there were no flocks of birds, no sounds, nor any sights—only a profound stillness.