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Sri Krishna Suddenly Appears and Consoles the Gopis
They welcomed Sri Krishna with enchanting smiles and playful glances which had excited love in their heart and placed His hands and feet on their lap. They praised Him and spoke as if somewhat offended.
The Gopis said: “Some people are attached to those who are devoted to them. Others are attached to persons who are not devoted to them; again there are people who are attached neither to those who are devoted to them, nor to those who are not devoted to them. O Krishna! Please explain to us the reason for this clearly.”
The Lord said: “O friends! Those who love only when they are loved are actuated by a selfish motive. They are prompted by their own selfish interests. There is neither friendship nor virtue in this. It is all for a selfish end. In truth they are not really attached to one another, but are attached to their own selves and to their own interests. Their only motive is gratification of self and nothing else.
“Those who are attached to persons who are not devoted to them are like parents, full of kindness and affection. Their conduct is governed both by righteousness and goodwill. They are of two kinds, viz., those who are kind, and those who are affectionate. Of these the former by their attachment reap great religious merit, while the latter secure unshaken friendship.
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