Human life is beset with ups and downs, joys and sorrows. These experiences are intended to serve as guideposts for man. Life would be stale if there were no trials and difficulties. It’s these difficulties which bring out human values in man. Because of how Harischandra faced all the trials in his life, his story became a glorious chapter in human annals. Prahlada stands out equally as a great devotee who stood up to all persecutions of his father. Today, people want instant salvation, without the slightest effort or sacrifice on their part. If such instant salvation is achieved, it will vanish also in a trice! Only that which is got by hard effort will yield lasting benefits. People pray to Swami to rid them of difficulties and losses. This is a wrong kind of prayer. Difficulties must be welcomed and overcome. By overcoming troubles, the Divine must be experienced. You cannot get the juice of the sugarcane without crushing it. You cannot enhance the brilliance of a diamond without cutting it and making many facets! – Divine Discourse, Sep 02, 1991.