How does the story of the old woman fasting for a mantra illustrate Baba's approach to a devotee's suffering and intense desire?

The incident with the old woman fasting for a mantra provides a profound insight into Baba's methodology. Instead of immediately fulfilling her demand, Chapter 19 shows how he first addressed her suffering. He tenderly called her "Mother" and asked, "why do you torture your soul?" This disarmed her. He then redirected her intense desire by sharing a story about his own unfulfilled longing for a mantra from his Guru, despite years of dedicated service. This shows that Baba prioritized alleviating a devotee's inner turmoil and changing their state of mind over simply granting a request, teaching that true grace comes from shifting perspective, not just acquiring powers or secrets.