What does the story of Kashiram teach us about the spiritual dangers of pride, especially in acts of charity and giving?

The story of Kashiram, found in Chapter 0, serves as a crucial lesson on the spiritual dangers of pride associated with giving. Kashiram was a devoted follower who served Maharaj excellently with his wealth. However, his attachment to the act of giving, to the point of feeling bad when his Dakshina wasn't taken, allowed pride to creep in—the feeling that 'I have the power to give.' The source explicitly states that 'even such feeling bad is an obstacle to spiritual progress.' To remove this obstacle, Maharaj put Kashiram through financial difficulties until he was humbled. This demonstrates that the attitude behind an act of charity is paramount; if it fosters ego, it becomes a hindrance rather than a virtue.