Question: Shall we, who dare not entertain what to us is the presumptuous hope of attaining Realization at this point in our journey, finish this life with none of the small but beautiful things that we as human beings have been used to turning to for solace?
Baba: It all depends on whether what you term “solace” is elevating or degrading. Recourse to alcohol for drowning one’s sorrows is a perverted form of solace. Solace afforded by things outside of you is synonymous with doping that gives a certain amount of relief or relaxation. Real and unalloyed solace is within you.
It is never presumptuous for anyone to hope for Realization. It is the goal of creation and the birthright of humanity. Blessed are they who are prepared to assert that right in this very life.
–Teachings of Meher Baba, compiled by Naosherwan Anzar, p127