I am thinking I should share some sad news. Swami Tadatmananda, whose painting of Mother graces our courtyard, is gravely ill. He has been suffering from a blood disorder for several years, caused by his many years as an artist. It seems that as a young monk the swami sleep in the same room that he painted in constant contact with paint and fumes while painting holy image after holy image.
Despite Mother's rather rough treatment of this beloved son, Tadatmanandaji remains peaceful. It is said that during a recent hospital visit that staff approached him for advice. The swami is now bedridden and all possible treatment has been exhausted, including experimental and is being cared for by his brothers at the Ramakrishna monastery in Trabuco, California.
I did some oil painting as a child, and remember the wonderful smell of the paint.
It is indicative of his high spiritual state, that hospital staff still approach Swamiji for advice, although Yamaraj is obviously standing impatiently at the door.
He is fortunate indeed, to be in the loving care of his brothers at the Ramakrishna monastery in Trabuco, California.
The Master said:
'Disease is the tax which the soul pays for the body, as the tenant pays house-rent for the use of the house.'
Perhaps Mother did say something like that, although I don't remember reading it anywhere.
Although, I do think that Holy Mother believed that illness (at least in the case of herself & the Master) was brought on mainly by initiating devotees.
On 19th September, 1918, Mother said to Sarayubala Devi: "People have hives and get well again; but if I get anything it seems unwilling to leave me. The Master used to say all the diseases and sorrows of the people who came to see and touch him, found refuge in his body. I suppose it is the same with me."
(excerpted from "In The Company Of The Holy Mother")
Swami Tadamananda passed away this morning. It appears that he knew the time had come. He called his brothers to his bedside and requested they chant and read from the Gospel of Sri Ramakrishna. He remained conscious throughout, up until his passing.