Page:Speeches And Writings MKGandhi.djvu/461

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The foregoing suggestions have involved an examination of the other two objects of the Gujarat Education League. The establishment of a trust such as I have described is a continuous agitation for the spread of education and a practical step towards it.

But to do that is like doing the only best. It could not, therefore, be easy. Both Government and million- aires can be wakened into life only by coaxing. Tapasya is the only means to do it. It is the first and the best step in religion. And I assume that the Gujarat Educa- tion League isan incarnation of Tapasya. Money will be showered upon the League when its secretaries and mem- bers are found to be embodiments of selflessness and learning. Wealth is always shy. There are reasons for such shyness. If, therefore, we want to coax wealthy men, we shall have to prove our fitness. But although we require money, it is not necessary to attach undue impor- tance to that need. He who wishes to impart national education can, if he is not equipped for it, do so by labouring and getting the necessary training and having thus qualified himself will, sitting under the shadow of a tree, distribute knowledge freely to those who want it. He is a Brahmin, indeed, and this dharma can be prac- tised by every one who wishes it. Both wealth and power will bow to such a one. I hope and pray to God that the Gujarat Education League will have immove- able faith in itself.

The way to Swaraj lies t hrough education. Political leaders may wait on Mr. Montagu. The political field may not be open to this Conference. But all endeavour will be useless without true education. The field of education is a speciality of this Conference. And if we achieve success in that direction, it means success all -over.

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