God descends and takes on the human form only to change the lives of humans by His own example. Only humans descend to the depths of degradation by their utter disregard of their dharma (code of conduct) and Divinity. Birds and beasts firmly adhere to their own respective dharmas. There is no need for the Avatar to arise amongst birds and beasts since dharma has not declined in them. Lord Krishna declared, “I come down for the protection of the good” (Paritranaya sadhunam). God always protects the virtuous. There is no use merely lisping Rama’s name. Emulate Rama and transform yourselves by following the path of Love. However deep and great your scholastic eminence may be, one cannot achieve anything without undergoing the transformation of the mind.

- Summer Showers in Brindavan 1996, Ch 2.