The author claims that Sainath used him 'as a pretext' to get this work done. What does this imply about the author's own role and the nature of Sai's grace as described in the text?

When the author states that Sainath used him "as a pretext," he is expressing a deep sense of humility and attributing the creation of the stories entirely to divine will. As detailed in Chapter 3, this reflects the idea that Sai's grace flows naturally and seeks an outlet, much like a motherly cow that feels a surge of milk for her calf. The author sees himself merely as the instrument, or the 'Chataka bird,' for whom the 'cloud of joy' (Sai) rains down grace. This implies that the stories are not a product of the author's intellect but a manifestation of Sai's love, intended to calm the 'heat of worldly existence' and help devotees find peace. The author is simply the fortunate vehicle through whom this divine work was accomplished for the benefit of all.