VII. LIBERATED

At that time huge rainbows illuminated the whole Tibetan land, the peaks of snow giants blazed like torches with dazzling brilliance throughout the days and nights, and everyone considered these celestial phenomena as spiritually auspicious signs. Now, however, everyone knew that the saint was about to move on to another, higher realm. One day, Milarepa gathered around him his most faithful disciples, his old faithful companion Ngang Dzon Tönpa, Upadhönpa, Tagpo Lhaji, Shiva Vöd repu, Sebana repu , Bri gom repu and others, to bid them a final farewell. They all came, with the exception of only one Rachhung, in their white zäns of reskiangs, the robes of ascetics initiated into the art of tummo, and with their heads uncovered.
Then he said to them:
"Now I intend to enter the Realm of Great Bliss, where Bhagavān Akshebha reigns. I lay these last remarks on your heart once more: it is necessary that the happiness of perfect peace should ripen in you as a source for others. But when that happens, there will be no need to communicate it to others. By this fact alone it will be given to them in full measure, for then there will be no more others for you. All will be undivided, as it is in truth. There are those among you who might become proud of their apparent holiness, while in their hearts they still strive to gain a name and glory in the world. Be very careful that this does not happen, for it is the same as eating good food mixed with violent poison. Never drink the poison of notoriety or worldly fame, for it is the poison of the yogis whose souls are called into duplicity and delusion. Do not renounce worldly duties to help others, only renounce selfishness, even the weakest, in doing so. Actions taken for the welfare of others are successful only if they are free from self-will. It must not even be thought of to help others spiritually until the Truth has been experienced at least once in its fullness, otherwise you become blind leaders of the blind. Love people with love without impulses. Do not try to control others until you have fully controlled and known yourself.
And remember, when the knowledge comes, "I am the higher Truth" the knowledge of "all is oneness" will also come. Only when you know that there is no difference between you and your fellow man are you ready to fully serve them. If you are then successful in serving others, you will find yourself, and if you find yourself, you will gain the BEING of the Buddha."
These were the last words of the Noble One. Then he sank into the peaceful state of Samadhi. Slowly he bowed his head sideways, submitting to the will of the Supreme as nature bows and submits to its own law, and silently passed away.
From the book Milarepapa.