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LETTERS FROM ABROAD

109

is truly permanent has to pass through an endless series of impermanencies, The spring flowers are permanent, because they know how to die. The temple made of stone cannot make truce with death by accepting it. Proud of its bricks and mortar, it constantly opposes death, till it is defeated in the end.

‘Our’ Santiniketan depends for its permanence upon life. But an International University tries to build its permanence with the help of rules and regulations. But--

Never mind! Let me forget it for a moment. Possibly I am exaggerating. The reason is, the day is full of gloom, It has been snowing and raining; the road is muddy; and I am home-sick.

I am requested by some association to read a paper at one of their meetings. They asked me for a summary, which they will circulate among the members. I enclose a copy of it which I have given to them for circulation.

Notes OF LECTURE

From the beginning of their history, Western races have had to deal with nature as their antagonist. This fact has emphasised in their mind the dualistic aspect of truth, the eternal conflict between good and evil, Thus it has kept up the spirit of fight in the heart of their civilisation. They seek victory and cultivate power.

The environment in which the Aryan immigrants found themselves in India was that of the forest.