Without the control of your senses, your sadhana
will be ineffective; it is like keeping water in a leaky pot! When the
tongue craves for some delicacy, assert that you will not cater to its
whims. If you persist in giving yourself simple food that is not savoury
or hot, but amply sustaining, the tongue may squirm for a few days, but
it will soon welcome it. That is the way to subdue it and overcome the
evil consequences of its being your master. Since the tongue is equally
insistent on scandal and lascivious talk, you have to curb that
tendency also. Talk little, talk sweetly, talk only when there is
pressing need. Also, talk only to those to whom you must, and do not
shout or raise the voice in anger or excitement. Such control will
improve health and mental peace. It will lead to better public relations
and less involvement in contacts and conflicts with others.
- Divine Discourse, 23 Nov 1968