What a treat it is to the false-ego when someone appreciates us for our "supposedly" positive influence to their spiritual life! The mind becomes so elated that even after the person has stopped appreciating us, it goes gaga about our so called virtues. Such is the intensity of self-importance that is impregnated in our false-ego.
A fundamental thing that we have to realize (and if we fail to do so, Krsna puts us in situations to make us realize) is the difference between us and the realized souls who preach out of compassion.
- We preach, not because we are qualified to preach, but to please Guru Maharaj and Srila Prabhupad.
- We preach because by preaching we would attract the mercy of the previous acaryas and that is the quickest way to progress.
- We preach because by teaching others we learn the subject the best.
- We preach because preaching is high sadhana. As H.G.Vaisesika prabhu puts it "Book-distribution is high sadhana". In order to get results in preaching, it is imperative to maintain high sadhana standards and a prayerful mood by taking shelter of the Lord and Vaishnavas.
So, my dear mind, please always remember that what you do benefits "You" the most more than anybody else. Since devotional service is so dynamic and potent, many others may also get benefitted in the process, but "You" are the primary benefactor!
