In plain words
We must keep our anger and agitation under control. Why does anger come? When what we had in mind comes about, joy arises. When things go against our wishes, anger comes. So, first of all, we must keep our desires in check. When milk is brought to the boil, it rises up fully. But if we sprinkle water on it, it subsides. Mixed with water, the milk loses its worth. In the same way, if a man keeps company with the small-minded, he falls into ruin. So, before we make friends with anyone, we must ask ourselves what kind of people they are and what kind of joy they will give us. We must be good ourselves, and keep good ties. When we join good people, we always experience nothing but joy.
Ānanda is right here: at home, with us, beside us
Students! It is vital that you recognise the inner meaning of the holy days and act on it. But, unable to go deep and learn the meaning, you are drifting away from Ānanda. Every man should long for the Ānanda that is eternal and true. He should find happiness even in hardship. We need not search for Ānanda somewhere far off. It is right here: at home, with us, beside us. Why are you giving it up? Without recognising the nature of Ānanda, without longing for its taste, you are deluded into thinking that the physical joy that comes merely from money, gold, goods and vehicles is real Ānanda. Ānanda must well up from our heart.
Whether you know it or not, I am always full of Ānanda. I have no worry of any kind, whether of grief, or hardship, or loss. “Swami! Do you ever have any Worry?” some people ask. What Worry is, I do not know. I am always full of Ānanda. Wherever we go, we should look for Ānanda and see only Ānanda. If we keep thinking of Ānanda, we see nothing but Ānanda. The taste there is in Ānanda is in nothing else. “Sweeter than sugar, more delicious than butter, far more delicious than the richest honey.”