Mohan-Mala - Mahatma Gandhi

Mohan-MalaNovember 27The distinguishing characteristic of modern civilization is an indefinitemultiplicity of human wants. The characteristic of ancient civilization is animperative restriction upon and a strict regulating these wants.Ibid.November 28The modern or Western insatiableness arises really from want of a living faith ina future state and therefore also in Divinity. The restraint of ancient or Easterncivilization arises from a belief, often in spite of ourselves in future state andthe existence of a Divine Power.YI, 2 June 1927November 29Some of the immediate and brilliant results of modern inventions are toomaddening to resist. But I have no manner of doubt that the victory of man liesin that resistance. We are in danger of bartering away the permanent good fora momentary pleasure.Ibid.November 30I do not want my house to be walled in on all sides an y my windows to bestuffed. I want the cultures of all the lands to be blown about my house asfreely as possible. But I refuse to be blown off my feet by any. I refuse to livein other people’s houses as an interloper, a beggar or a slave.YI, 1 June 1921www.mkgandhi.org Page 90