Notes -
When every possession of this world is worthless, as it has to be taken away from us, then why should one make any effort at all? Why should one engage himself in any action what soever? One must renounce each and everything and sit idle, do ing nothing, but thinking of the God Supreme only. That will be a calamity. So a middle path is suggested. Kurvan eva ih karmāņi, only engaged in one's work in this world. As long as a person is in this world, he or she should remain engaged in work. Śatam samāḥ jijivişet, one should desire to live for a hun dred years (only engaged in one's normal work). This is a stark reality that one must die. If death is certain and inevitable, then all our activity, all our enthusiasm for acquir ing wealth, and accomplish great things is a farce. In fact it is, but this depressing thought should not overwhelm us. If we desire to live for a hundred years, it should be only on the condition that we are fit to work and willing to work. No doubt this world is a drama, a farce, but as long as you are here, play your part in it or get out. Ifyou renounce work, renounce life also. Life without work will be an unbearable burden. Evain tvyi na anyathā itaḥ asti, there is no other option for you than this. Karma nare na lipyate, the deeds do not cling to man. It is only attachment and selfishness that clings to man, not the act itself.