In many of his sermons as well as in his talks, the Master touches upon the subject of sorrows, shedding light upon their deep inner meaning. In those days it was especially important to enlighten the people on this subject. When suffering is understood, it is easier for people to bear it and receive the benefits it brings.

The Master said:

"Suffering is not punishment. It is given as a lesson. We give a completely different connotation to the word 'punishment.' Punishment means, 'There is a lesson to be learned in this.' If suffering comes to you, do not become disturbed. A certain benefit is hidden within it which will come at the end after you have endured. Do not force the given conditions. Remember that the blessing for which your heart and mind are longing will come on time. Be watchful not to let this blessing pass by.

"Do not avoid suffering, but profit by it. The apostle Paul said, 'The present trials cannot be compared with those great blessings which they bring.' The psalmist said, 'I feel good that I am saddened.' Through suffering, Love prepares the conditions for new joy to come. The suffering of today is a condition for future joy.

"Suffering and sorrows are Divine plows which prepare the ground so that the seeds of future virtues will be able to sprout. When someone suffers, he becomes a better and more sensitive person.

"The awakening of the consciousness does not occur mechanically, but comes through the impulses which come from suffering. The more difficulties a person encounters, the greater the possibilities are for his personal growth. The great souls had to endure great ordeals. This does not mean that these great souls knew only suffering. They also had joys so great that they are not known to the ordinary man."