For Thy Sake

Seeking a shelter at Thy feet, 

I have forever set aside 

My pride of caste and race, O Lord,  

And turned my back on fear and shame.   

A lonely  pilgrim on life's way, 

Where shall I go for succour now? 

For Thy sake, Lord, I bear men's blame;  

They rail at me with bitter words 

And hate me for my love of Thee. 

Both friends and strangers use me ill.   

Thou art the Guardian of my name;  

Thou mayest  save or slay me, Lord!  

Upon the honour of Thy servant 

Rests, O Lord, Thy name as well;  

Thou art the Ruler of my soul, 

The glow of love within my heart; 

Do with me as it pleases Thee! 

- Gospel of Sri Ramakrishna, P 394 (2 March 1884)