Author Archives: H.H. Bhaktimarg Swami

Friday, April 28th, 2017
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Toronto / Cleveland
Vrndavana Meditations
Vrndavana Meditations, with photography by Bhurijana Das is a flip book of pics and sayings that I’m having a look at in the home of Mike and Paurnamasi in Cleveland.
The photos are just excellent images of the sacred land of Vrndavana where Krishna played and roamed as a youngster.  One image I’m seeing is of a turbaned man sitting at the edge of a marvellously carved façade of a roof top.  And before him is a large rustic pot with smoke emanating from it.  The caption reads, “O Sri Radhika!  O Giridhari!  May the breeze of Your mercy clear my smoke-filled mind.  May it transform me, a fool, into a true sadhu, chanting Your names with taste, attachment, and longing at ancient Keshi Ghat.”

Radhika refers to Krishna’s consort.  Giridhari refers to Krishna’s affiliation with the hill.  Keshi ghat refers to the water hole where the notorious and vile Keshi was slain.

Our minds are usually not clear, but cluttered.  Smoke obscures our vision.  The more we chant attentively, the more our mind behaves.

My comment on chanting is, if we do so, in sweetness, then we start sounding like those spring birds who are so prevalent in the atmosphere now.

Take on the Vrndavana spirit!  Clear the mind!  Taste the flavour!

May the Source be with you!

4 km

Thursday, April 27th, 2017
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Toronto, Ontario
Before and After the Walk
After a walk, you come back home and are greeted with sometimes good news and sometimes not.  But it’s necessary to go away and let time play out its role.
I left the ashram in the late afternoon with monk, Karuna, to make our way to the ravine.  As I opened the door to exit, Subuddhi, a godsister in her late seventies, let me know that Balbir had passed away.  He and his family have been members for a long time.  Krishna, bless him.

Okay, I thought, I’ll dedicate the seven kilometre walk in his honour.  He was suffering, so it’s good he’s gone to a higher plateau.

Upon our return from the walk, Subuddhi came to me with another piece of news.  “Maharaja, please meet a lost soul that I found.”  She was concealing the mystery guest.  Someone stepped out from behind her.  It was Ratri, a godsister.  I hadn’t seen her in years.  She was all smiles.

It’s funny, because recently she was on my mind.  Can a monk think about a woman?  Certainly, if it’s out of concern for her well-being and if you think of her as a sister.

Ratri came to be reacquainted with Krishna.  She was inactive from Krishna’s service in recent years and so, she explained, she’s making a comeback.  She came to pick up some japa meditation beads.  She’s moved back to the city to look after her ailing mom.  Good for her. Good for her mom.

After our brief conversation, she left, but she’ll be back.

That was good news after the walk.

May the Source be with you!

7 km

Wednesday, April 26th, 2017
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Dubai / Toronto 
Give me Walking Songs
Emirates play flying songs or tunes that carry that theme.  Frank Sinatra sings, “Come Fly With Me,” over the speakers as you enter the aircraft in Dubai.  I don’t care to hear that message after a four hour stay in the airport in Mauritius, then a six hour flight, followed by a five hour stopover in Dubai before embarking on a thirteen hour flight to Toronto.

Give me some “walking” songs, please!

To kill time I watch Richard Attenborough’s “Chaplin” film.  Our guru, Srila Prabhupada, liked Charlie and enjoyed watching him on the screen on the plane.  Charlie does make you laugh.  He produced films for five decades.

Personally, I like the people who break what could be routine.  They give sparkle to your day although they themselves don’t often share a happy life.  Look at Robin Williams.

The persons who make me laugh amongst my colleagues are Achyutananda from New York (now Florida), Badrinarayana Swami (when giving a class, but not at meetings), Brahma Tirtha and Pushkar, both from North Florida, and also Ekendra from Philly.  Ekendra does this comedic routine on a right-wing fanatical Krishna monk from the Black Sea.  He’s a favourite.

I also like to call Murari Gupta, a doctor in the States who exudes this optimism.  His laugh gets me going.

I have come to appreciate that every town has a clown.  God, also has a sense of humour.

It’s important to laugh even when you live in the spirit.

May the Source be with you!

0 km

Tuesday, April 25th, 2017
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Blue Bay, Mauritius 
Mauritian Wrap Up 
Highlights of Mauritian stay:

1)    A mongoose crosses in front of us as we walk.

2)    A swim to the coral reef at Belle Mare.

3)    A trail of sand and snails became our walking zone.

4)    A swim at 11 p.m. amidst flying fish.

5)    Making friends with a 150 year old tortoise.

6)    Drama practices under a grass-roof veranda.

7)    Knowing the enemy is not the huge cockroach, but the mind.

8)    Presenting the drama “Mr. Puri” to a full house (750).

9)    A magician pulling a rabbit out of the box at my request.

10)The walk through the botanical gardens with friends.

11)A chat with godbrothers, Sri Nekatan and Arjuna.

12)The meals of a low purine nature at Amar’s.

13)The meeting with the youth, discussing their issues.

14)Giving classes from the book Bhagavatam.

15)Playing charades using chapters from the book, Krishna.

16)Having the company of Kala, Balarama and Bishma.

17)Honouring first and second initiations to followers.

18)Hearing a good, professionally played-out, tabla recital.

19)Ball tossing in the water with community members.

20)Writing these blogs on a daily basis, thanks to Dhruva and Abhidheya Prabhus—bless you honey childs!

21)Receiving successful reports from our travelling monks.

22)Bonding with the local Krishna devotees.

23)Meeting and making new friends.

24)Viewing the Bon Accueil and Phoenix deities of Krishna.

25)Enjoying the laid-back atmosphere of Mauritius.

26)Keeping busy writing, and reading, but with some recreation.

27)Sweating, which is good for the health, cause it’s humid.

28)The visit to Le Morne and the cliffs of suicide.

29)Feeling the love of the people—lots of Hindus!

May the Source be with you!

4 km


Monday, April 24th, 2017
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Le Morne, Mauritius
What Brahmanas Can Do!
I had recommended, the afternoon before, to some new second initiates that what our mission needs is some brahmanas who will take up the role of counsellors and mentors.  Congratulations to Mahesvaree, who took the name of Maha Laksmi.  In addition to her, three formerly initiated devotees became brahminical priests.
“Consider certain scenarios that happen in our communities, such as a man who is abusive to his wife, a daughter is young, unmarried and pregnant, or a young teenage son is getting into drugs.  These are the realities of today.  Both pre-marital and post-marital issues need some help and brahmanas can assist in these areas of social need.”

In brief, my message came like that to the Sunday crowd and it appears some of those sitting at the havan fire, including recent 2nd initiates of Bhakti Brngha Govinda Swami, felt some new opportunities of service were up for their consideration, over and above the rituals they are now proviledged to get involved in.

Today, however, was a significant day with an outing to the ocean and viewing the monument of human tragedy at Le Morne.  My evening was well spent at the Phoenix temple, when I spoke from Chapter 2 of the Gita. “The soul cannot be cut to pieces by any weapon, nor burned by fire, nor drowned in water, nor dried by the wind.  It is indestructible.”

This is powerfully expressed by Sri Krishna.

May the Source be with you!

3 km

Sunday, April 23rd, 2017
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Bon Accueil, Mauritius 
Bliss Business

 

 

Feedback on the performances of the “Shakti Show,” was all positive.  Last night the audience of vaishnavas and newcomers was delighted by a magic show, tabla drum performers, a kirtan group and our drama of “Mr. Puri.”  It seems that events like this—events of a more social and cultural nature—haven’t been very much encouraged on this remote island of Mauritius.  There are many devotional activities in motion and with 40% of the population being Hindu you can expect a lot of poojas and such.  Now, kirtan is more emphasized, but entertainment…?

At least one person expressed this concern and offered his opinion on it.

Besides going through a day of contentment with appreciation being expressed all around, our group of four—Balaram, Kala, Bishma and myself—the members of cast and crew for “Mr Puri,” were busy.  It was a marathon of sweetness for me delivering four lessons on bhakti.  One of these lessons was a more casual talk with members of Pandava Sen and Young Warriors of Krishna Balarama.  The topic was to do with the interaction of the generation before them, and how to forge ahead with projects of a devotional nature and not get discouraged.

It was also natural for me to pose the scenario that this group of young talent would indeed succeed in administrative responsibilities for the ISKCON movement for the future.

Indeed our team of four were busy, but we decided to dip in the ocean’s calm waters at 11:00 p.m. after a much needed walk along a sandy trail.

May the Source be with you!

6 km

Saturday, April 22nd, 2017
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Bon Accueil, Mauritius
The Layer Cake of Creation

Every morning, I deliver a class from the teaching of Maitreya Muni, who disseminated the Bhagavat philosophy to his student, Vidura.  The lessons, as of late, (speaking from Canto 3 of the Bhagavatam) primarily deal with the topic of creation and how the Divine Intelligence / Personality of Godhead, as Vishnu, presents Himself as both massive and tiny in size through various expansions.  Basically, the evolving of the world begins with Karana Vishnu lying in tranquil slumber on a causal ocean.  From there, two more layers of Vishnu unfold, and then a unique manifestation of Vishva-rupa, the cosmic form of nature’s elements, comes into being.

The description of God’s appearance as a mystical evolutionist is like that of a layer cake.  Some kids in the class liked that analogy.  One of them recently had a birthday and my host, expert at cake-making, baked a layered masterpiece with the theme of Spiderman for the icing.

The Vedic view of creation is a bit more sophisticated than what I’ve heard from other traditions, nevertheless, it’s a fascinating explanation and it fills the student with wonder and humility.  At least that’s the effect I feel when reading the material.

Reading time is, however, a tough thing to obtain.  Our guru, Srila Prabhupada, assigned us to have a class discussion every morning for our spiritual and intellectual cleansing, and thus, some reading is done.

My report about the evening’s drama “Mr. Puri,” played out by local Mauritian youth, is that it came across most successfully.  A full house capacity of 800 plus enjoyed it.

May the Source be with you!

3 km

Friday, April 21st, 2017
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Flacq, Mauritius
Water Everywhere
Minerals and water—that’s what I’m getting a good share of every day.  The ocean’s swim is a daily affair and rain comes down in buckets, being the rainy season, but then there is the intense humidity resulting in the body’s sweat.

I like the trail Kala sketched out for me near Belle Mare.  We made our way over there before sun-up.  You would expect the combination of ocean breezes and the early coolness of the morning to do the trick and keep perspiration at bay, but no!  No way!  I was drenched with sweat during this three kilometre hike and back.

At least I’m contending with the right chemicals.

For lunch, Kala and I went to the residence of Sanatana Dharma, a tight-quartered place which epitomizes simplicity.  Sanatana was the cook and he did great with his chemicals (spices) in the preps.  Healthy?  Yes!  Tasty?  Yes!  He runs a cooking class and it is televised across the country.  He’s even come out with a cookbook, MangeonsVeg.  It’s in French.

His lovely wife, Ananga Manjari, and daughter, Ganga, are like Sanatana—all about smiles.  So sweet was this visit that it pumped me up for our seven hour rehearsal.  In seven hours you can cover about thirty-two kilometres on foot, but in terms of mileage for a play practice, a lot does get done.  Only here, rain doesn’t reach our deck, our place of practice, whereas mosquitoes and flying cockroaches do.

I’m glad to have service.

May the Source be with you!

7 km

Thursday, April 20th, 2017
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Flacq, Mauritius
Sad Story
Mauritius has a sad history with slavery, like most places on earth.  At one peninsula’s end of the island is a towering mountain of 560 metres with lush vegetation.  It was fairly inaccessible.  Slaves from Africa, brought in by the Dutch and French had contemptible treatment inflicted upon them causing many to flee to the forest as well as the mountain.  Caves also provided refuge.
In February of 1835, the British rulers abolished slavery and a delegation was sent which made its way to where the slaves were hiding at Le Morne, the towering mountain, to announce the end of slavery.  Unfortunately, from high up on the mountain’s peak, the soldiers sent were perceived as slave catchers and many former slaves decided to take their own lives by jumping from the cliffs.  They preferred death over the chains of captivity.

Sad, isn’t it?  It’s tragic.

The landscape of Le Morne and surrounding area on the south-west side of Mauritius has its own beauty, but some of the history of the place lacks beauty as you can see.  The number of suicides at that time, less than two centuries ago, is not determined, to my knowledge.  Even the loss of one soul intimidated by brutality under slavery is bad enough in itself.

There are many forms of slavery still existing in the world, but do consider that when you cave-in to your senses all the time, you, too, are a slave.

May the Source be with you!

4 km

Tuesday, April 18th, 2017
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Durban / Johannesburg / Mauritius

Moving / Improving
I got in a few rounds of chanting japa (on the beads) and in the round, circumambulating the temple in Durban, before embarking on a flight to Johannesburg and then on to Mauritius.  A sannyasi (monk) is always on the move.  He’s always stirring up dust, in certain ways, influencing people’s lives while actually kicking dust in the air with his walking.

The walking for the day stopped there.  Your jet-age monk has different modes of travel.  However, nothing can replace moving one foot forward and then the opposite one doing the same thing; one at a time.  It was pleasant being at the Johannesburg airport considering the size that it is.  To go from one place to another, you are forced to walk.

For today’s sojourn, I had as my companions Kala, Dinanath, Bishma and Balarama.  Two persons cancelled out on this trip; one received notice of a new job which began this morning, and the notice added “show up, or else—there’s a long queue of people behind you that seek your position.”

The second person who was due to travel with us lost his passport.  I always say, “There are two things you don’t wanna miss out on in this life—the passport and the purport.”

“Purport” refers to the elaborations made by our guru, Srila Prabhupada, in his books.  Assimilation of these enlightened explanations will change your life.  Heaven knows we all need to improve ourselves.

Prove you can improve through the effort.

May the Source be with you!

4 km

Wednesday, April 19th, 2017
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Belle Mare, Mauritius

Swimming, No Walking
The next best thing to walking is swimming, and one of the best beaches on the island of Mauritius is Belle Mare, which I frequent when I come here.  We justify such recreation after hours in flight and  automobiles.

Blocking out a two hour period was the time slotted for wet fun.  Eight of us guys went—all Krishna devotees.  We took the challenge to swim the distance to the coral reef, taking care to step where you see white sand; everything else that’s dark below could be a prickly urchin, or who knows what.  Varieties of fish surrounded us.  We were in scaly company.

Reaching the reef was a first for our group.  Of course, I’m just a visitor, but I guess it takes a North American’s bravado, or foolishness, to dare what some locals will not.

This was a kind of a milestone for us because of the distance.

Nick, from Russia, watched over our beachwear and belongings while we got wet.  On our return he said, “I counted eight of you who went in but only seven came out.”

“Who was missing?” we asked.

It was Bishma from South Africa.  He got out of the water fast for what they call in this part of the world, “a toilet break.”

“Who’s breaking a toilet?” the question was asked, and all in good fun.

The fun continued.  Seven hours were then given to the spiritual theatre practice I’m involved in so often.  It’s so rewarding.  People tell me all the time, “Thanks for engaging our youth.”

May the Source be with you!

0 km

Monday, April 17th, 2017
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Durban, South Africa
Appreciation for the Dramas
I’ve been here for a week, being very busy especially in shaping two dramas for stage presentation at the Chariot Fest.  The special treat for this morning was a walk near the ocean at Umhlanga, just north of Durban.  Tamohara arranged for a group of us to take this trail where you have ocean, jungle, swamp and city.  It’s been the most relaxed time since I came here.  Overall, great hospitality, food, weather—it’s fall here—and company.  I’ve managed to squeeze in a few minutes with sannyasimonks.
Here’s some feedback on the two dramas presented:

Regarding “The Gita”:

“The first time I saw your, ‘The Gita,’ I could understand what the message was.  Not before,”

Rukmini

“‘The Gita’ was so engaging for the audience and performers.”

Devotee

“My mother, a Christian, was crying at the words and movement in ‘The Gita.’”

Devotee

Regarding “Many Mothers Many Fathers”:

            “It is very deep.  I got goose-bumps with the queen scene.”

Tamohara

“The best thing you’ve done so far.”

Radha Sundari

“The script is brilliant.  You’ve inspired the youth with the dramas.  They started their own theatre group.  Now they’re taking interest in kirtan (chanting).”

Rasa

“Jayananda, the little boy who became the dead son, is absolutely adorable.”

Senior woman

“There are so many strong emotions in the story.  I appreciated the wisdom that came through.  People need to hear this.  They attend so many funerals, but they don’t know what is really going on at death.”

Sukumari

“That guy playing the king really knows how to dance.”

Bishma

May the Source be with you!

5 km

Sunday, April 16th, 2017
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Durban, South Africa
The Show Did Go On
  
Thanks to Kadamba Kanana Swami, Dutch-born monk extraordinaire of chanting and teaching.  He kindly handed me a book, hot off the press.  Golokera Prema Dhana (Sabda Press) is a collection of Vaishnava quotes.  If I could just share two of them.

The Cow of My Senses

The cow of my senses, who yearns to hear the narration of the Lord’s pastimes in Gokula, has become very unhappy by wandering in the desert of my voice.  I pray the merciful saintly devotees may lead that cow to the oasis of my ears and there feed her the nectar of Krishna’s pastimes.

Krsnadas Kaviraj

The Horse of the Mind

Beaten by hundreds of whips of material sufferings, the horse of my mind is running wildly on the dangerous road of the senses.  O Lord Madhava, please rein in that wild horse and tie it to the hitching post of Your lotus feet with the ropes of strong devotional service.

Padyavali

There’s more juice in this book.  Thank you K. K. Swami.

Both Kadamba and I gave initiation to two brothers.  Senathur is a film maker from Pretoria, and I gave him the name “Sri Ram.”  His younger photographer brother received diksha (initiation) from Kadamba who gave the name “Dhanudhara.”

The initiation ceremony—which actually involved a few more dynamics than I mentioned here—crowned my morning.  The evening crown was the premiere performance of “Many Mothers Many Fathers” highlighting the life of Emperor Chitraketu.  The story makes a strong endorsement for reincarnation.

May the Source be with you!

3 km

Saturday, April 15th, 2017
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Durban, South Africa
South Africa and Me

I started coming to South Africa approximately ten years after apartheidwas dissolved.  Apartheid refers to the separation of the races when a white minority ruled.  I had not witnessed the changes the country went through when Nelson Mandela influenced them.  What I do know is there is much dissatisfaction by the public with the current rulers in South Africa.

This spirit of being disheartened regarding political policies is a global issue.  What can be said?  There is a wish that morality (dharma) could reign supreme if spirituality can’t.  I recall something our guru said, “If you can’t be a sadhu(holy man) at least be a gentleman.”

Changes?  In South Africa?  Well I can only say I’ve seen changes in Krishna devotee’s lives.  I started coming to South Africa to assist in the entertainment for the Chariot Festivals held during the Easter weekend.  With the help of the organizers, we have succeeded in making the drama the biggest drawing card.  The actors I’ve been working with, starting in 2000, are a bit older and I’m working with their offspring now.

Paramananda is an example of this.  He was one of my first actors who knew martial arts on an exceptional level.  He and wife Radha Sundari (whom I harnessed also for her ballet skills) now have five boys.  The oldest, Shukadev, is eighteen, and he often plays leading male roles.  Next in line is his younger brother, Sanatana, and then still younger Gambhira. They are both involved.  The kids of the original cast have “come of age” and I’m happy as this unfolds. 

That’s the change I see.

May the Source be with you!

5 km

Friday, April 14th, 2017
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Durban, South Africa
Jesus / Jagannath
Every year, the Christian community holds a procession in the Chatsworth area where I’m accommodated.  Perhaps it also goes on elsewhere in the Durban district.  Being Good Friday, Jesus is  remembered during this Easter weekend in many places around the globe.
The procession I viewed was comprised of followers on foot and in groups, each one having one person dressed as Christ, and two others as representatives of the Roman Empire who would feign flogging him as he carried a crucifix.  There were cries of “Jesus” in a joyous tone.  Most people in the procession were clothed in casual wear—T-shirt and pants, both men, women and children.

I’m glad to see that a spiritual theme of sorts is at the heart of Easter.

For Vaishnavas, those dear to Vishnu, or Krishna, (and hopefully perceived as dear to people) are also celebrating someone.  His name also starts with a J.  The name is Jagannath, which means “Lord of the World.”  It is one of many names which refer to Krishna.  A large procession takes place near the beachfront in Durban every year.  Here, Krishna, His brother, and His sister are honoured in wooden image forms as they are situated on three large chariots pulled by ropes, as chanting happily pierces the air.  Basically, we are looking at a re-enactment of an ancient festival from Puri, India.  To my knowledge the procession has been an attraction for 2,000 years in that part of India—Orissa, although the original chariot ride by the threesome was much older.

Apparently Jesus visited Jagannath in Puri during his time.

May the Source be with you!

6 km

Thursday, April 13th, 2017
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Durban, South Africa
Intense Fun
One of our girls, during our drama practice, went through an epileptic attack.  It lasted briefly.  Fortunately one of the boys had a first aid background and knew what to do.  The group of us came to her side and chanted softly.  She was revived in a matter of minutes.  She was such a good sport, I mean to say, a good team-player.  She smiled when she saw us.
“Does this happen often to you?” I asked.

“No, it hasn’t for a while.  Funny thing is, I work at a hospital.”

There was a hyped-up scene from “The Gita” that we were enacting and that seemed to stir her up.  The scene portrays the personification of the mind chasing the soul, the victim.  This scene usually excites the audience so I can understand how it arouses the actors.

Actors do try to get into their parts.  It is much like becoming one with the role in which you play.

Since I arrived in Durban it has been non-stop with rehearsals, sadhana(which includes walking) and giving classes.  I manage some sleep but not much.

The intensity of it all is somewhat easy to bear because the results are rewarding.  I’m seeing my crew (mostly young folks) thrive on the practices.  They are learning the philosophy.  And very important is the sense of numbers or counting.  It’s four beats or four counts, even to some of the martial arts moves.  Fun discipline!

May the Source be with you!

5 km

Wednesday, April 12th, 2017
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Durban, South Africa
By the Pond

 

 

Some of the attendees at the upcoming festival this weekend come from other places.  Apart from my own Canadian origins, there are two chaps from Mauritius and a larger number from Pretoria.  The floodgates of fans for Jagannath(the wooden image of Krishna) are opening for swamis,  families, and folks from other parts of Africa and abroad.

We early birds, with destination Durban’s Ratha Yatra fest, took advantage by forming a japa party and circling the famous temple here.  A clear demarcated sidewalk is there for the using.  It carries features of a normal sidewalk with some cracks and puddles and a population of frogs that cross it.

A fish pond, or moat (as some people call it), is home to colourful koi.  After seeing them swim next to our sidewalk we decided to go for a ‘relaxer’ and dip our white, brown and black feet into the water with the koi.  They were not the least bit interested in nibbling our toes.  The guppies were more bold and curious than their larger counterparts.

I did have the pleasure to speak from the Srimad Bhagavatam book, Canto 2, Chapter 8, Text 3.  There is a dialogue between a king and a sage and stress is put on hearing what is sacred.  Only then can freedom from materially induced habits take place.  Start with listening.  We all should try to make the effort toward divinity.

May the Source be with you!

2 km

Tuesday, April 11th, 2017
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Durban, South Africa
A Stairway to Heaven

In June of 1972, at the Fisher Mansion in Detroit I heard our guru, Srila Prabhupada, mentioned about the villain, Ravana, who tried to build a stairway to heaven.  He also admitted to Ravana’s failure at attempting materialistic enjoyment.

In our new drama we decided to incorporate the Led Zeppelin rock classic.  I hope you readers have a chance to see the drama, “Many Mothers, Many Fathers.”

Here are the Lyrics that seem to shed some spiritual message:

There’s a lady who’s sure

all that glitters is gold

And she’s buying a stairway to heaven.

When she gets there she knows,

if the stores are all closed

With a word she can get what she came for.

Ooh, ooh, and she’s buying a stairway to heaven.

There’s a sign on the wall

but she wants to be sure

‘Cause you know sometimes words have two meanings.

In a tree by the brook,

there’s a songbird who sings,

Sometimes all of our thoughts are misgiven.

Ooh, it makes me wonder,

Ooh, it makes me wonder.

There’s a feeling I get

when I look to the west,

And my spirit is crying for leaving.

In my thoughts I have seen

rings of smoke through the trees,

And the voices of those who stand looking.

Ooh, it makes me wonder,

Ooh, it really makes me wonder.

And it’s whispered that soon,

if we all call the tune,

Then the piper will lead us to reason.

And a new day will dawn

for those who stand long,

And the forests will echo with laughter.

If there’s a bustle in your hedgerow, don’t be alarmed now,

It’s just a spring clean for the May queen.

Yes, there are two paths you can go by, but in the long run

There’s still time to change the road you’re on.

And it makes me wonder.

Your head is humming and it won’t go, in case you don’t know,

The piper’s calling you to join him,

Dear lady, can you hear the wind blow, and did you know

Your stairway lies on the whispering wind?

And as we wind on down the road

Our shadows taller than our soul.

There walks a lady we all know

Who shines white light and wants to show

How everything still turns to gold.

And if you listen very hard

The tune will come to you at last.

When all are one and one is all

To be a rock and not to roll.

And she’s buying a stairway to heaven.

Written by Jimmy Page, Robert Plant • Copyright © Warner/Chappell Music, Inc

May the Source be with you!

7 km 

Monday, April 10th, 2017
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Durban, South Africa
To Be A Butterfly
There was a stop-over in Dubai with no time to relax.  I do appreciate the fact that I could walk between concourses, which was a long haul.
Back again in flight, this time in seat 10D, and my body is weary, but not tired enough for a deep sleep.  Let’s say it’s because I cannot recline, therefore, no slumber.  I dozed at times, but so momentarily.  I had been sipping water, enough to have a half-mouthful, in order to swish it around and bring it to room temperature before swallowing.  At one time, I felt such sleepiness that after swishing I actually closed my eyes and lowered my head.  Fatigue caused my mouth to open and a waterfall ensued, wetting my front.

It was a good thing that those around me were asleep.  The person to my right was immersed in playing his digital game.  I was spared the embarrassment.

At the same time, most people do all kinds of interesting things with their bodies.  There are burps, snores, and other sounds that emerge from any of the nine gates.  Those folks who take advantage of consuming duty-free items usually end up being very giddy, exerting unique kinds of laughing sounds.

I was glad to finally land in Durban, to then arrive at the Chatsworth temple, to eat prasadam, shower, watch live theatre by the Bhakti Theatre group and then lead a group of drama aspirants into a workshop.

We stretched to our outer limits, physically, through warm-up exercises.  This was much needed to pull me out of the cocoon experience I had just gone through.  I felt, suddenly, as if a butterfly.

May the Source be with you!

0 km

Sunday, April 9th, 2017
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Toronto / Boston / Dubai
Sit / Walk

 

 

“A day spent in El Peten—notorious bandit territory was counterbalanced by the discovery of some hidden Mayan pyramids in a jungle in Mexico,” tells Levison Wood.  I couldn’t pass up reading an article, “The Wake of Life,” in the Emirates “Open Skies” flight magazine.  This adventurist, Levison, covered 2,897 kilometres on foot from Mexico to Colombia and through Central America.  He’s done several other treks including crossing the Himalayas.

Like all crazy walkers, Levison has taken his chances with the elements, jungles, wildlife and people.  Yes, people.  Gangs are something to contend with, through the Americas, he admits.  In that regard he’s a survival expert, partially because he takes help from those who can take him through treacherous trails.  One time it was a pastor who knew his way around.

It’s stories like these, about people with bravado, that are inspirational.  I’m not sure that Wood has taken up spirituality on any of the treks, but I bet you anything, at least he is likely to see divinity in the natural world around.

To hear about some of his adventures in a synopsis of his walk through Mexico and South America was enough to cause my jealous side to surge.  I was stuck in a confined chair, strapped down.  The only difference between my seat at 18D and an electric chair was the zap.

It is tapasya, austerity, an inconvenience that leads to a greater gain.  I had to switch my paradigm and come to terms with a willing acceptance of the inconvenience.  I’m sure that Levison is in situations where he finds himself in a chair for several hours. 

Physically, in order to walk, you must sit for some time.  In order to sit, you must walk for some time.

May the Source be with you!

0 km

Saturday, April 8th, 2017
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Brampton, Ontario
New Sacred Space
What sent me to Brampton today was the opening of a new home in the northwest end, in a truly urban-sprawl part of the city.  Manish and Deepa are the happy owners of this new place, on a new street, with new mud all about.  Yes, there’s been rain, but today’s sun seems to shine on the house and the proprietors.
I arrived at noon, after the havan ceremony, a fire ritual, which was conducted by a brahmana priest.  In attendance were a lot of new faces.

My role was the usual—give a holy pep talk and lead in some kirtan.  I had youngsters sit in front and parents behind.  It was a bit tough trying to capture the attention of one boy, about seven, as he was immersed in his device.  Overall, the technique works rather well—keeping children in the front and actually focusing my message on them.  Parents love the interaction I encourage.

Buying a new or second-hand home is fairly common within our community.  This one is medium in size.  Some of them are monster homes; imposing large ones.

One local person said, “This location is at the very edge of Brampton’s limits,” indicating ‘development’ is a true phenomenon.  I mentioned wildlife from the area are being pushed further and further away.  Bears were once here.  Cougars also.  They’ve been long gone.  So much for coyotes, fox and other native and glorious creatures.  “Expect the skunks to hang around.”  With that, Manish had a good laugh.

“Manish, please make your home a sacred space for chanting, spiritual reading and welcoming people.”

May the Source be with you!

0 km

Friday, April 7th, 2017
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Scarborough, Ontario
Don’t Take It Personally
One of the worst feelings anyone can encounter is the feeling of rejection.
It was approaching 11:00 p.m. and I wasn’t familiar with the area.  I was told I would be reaching the subway station, the city’s transit entrance, after two kilometres of walking, but there was no sign of it. I saw a pedestrian coming, a woman, and I thought I’d ask directions.  She had huge head-phones on.  When I spoke and tried to gesture for attention, she just walked right past me, absorbed in her listening.

That didn’t feel too good, although it was not anything major.

On the previous night, I spent some time with a young father who’s going through a tough time. Without pointing fingers as to who’s right or who’s wrong, his life partner let it be known that the relationship is not for life, and to leave the house (the one he built).  He was expressing pain, especially because children are involved.

Rejection is hard on a person.

Actually, I walked this night, returning home after viewing the documentary, Walking: The Wisdom  of the Road, which features a group of individuals, myself included, who each went through a period of some rejection in life, but who came to some resolution. https://www.facebook.com/wisdom4theroad/

Michael Oesch is the producer/director of this excellently crafted film not yet released.  Watching the almost finished product, along with the others in the film, is what made me late.

I finally happened on the subway and then it was announced that all passengers exit the train since it needed servicing.  Everyone got out.  No one took it personally.  Another train came. 

After the ride, with just another two kilometres to walk, I reached my destination.  People that I passed smiled at me.  It was alright in the end.

May the Source be with you!

5 km

Thursday, April 6th, 2017
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North York, Ontario
Nothing Today
We are looking at above freezing weather.  Rain is very persistent, not coming down in buckets, but it is very clearly contributing to the regeneration of natural things.  It’s a system of cycles.  We were here before, experiencing spring rain, and we will encounter it again through seasonal wonders.
Today was one of those unfortunate days for me, having not moseyed for even a kilometre.  Weather was being somewhat of a deterrent.  I did pace a piece indoors, the only claim to keeping up a reputation of sorts as a walker.

I took a ride to Rupanuga’s place, and there, with his daughter Radha Bhakti and her hubby, Hari Prasad, we were set to talk about controversial topics.  These topics revolved around same-sex relationships and marriages—to include a discussion on the position of women, as well as the status of people of different skin colours.  Juicy stuff!

Just what is the Krishna Conscious standpoint on these subject matters?

It’s too bad that we actually never got to the topics as we set out to.  Time was restrictive and an ekadashi (grainless) meal occupied minutes.  “Keep topics light over eating” is the habit of those in Vaishnava traditions.

So there will be some quality time set aside for important katha (dialogue) in the future, since no official statements have been made by our leaders on these matters.

It’s important.

May the Source be with you!

0 km

Wednesday, April 5th, 2017
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Toronto, Ontario
The Way of the World
Tom and I hit the trail.  Down the ravines we went as the sun was also making a descent.  That good hour permitted an immersion in conversation.  We talked about the world.
Tom is a retired teacher and in the late ’80s taught students in Spence Bay or what is now known as Taloyoak in the northern Canadian territory of Nunavut.

“It was interesting up there.  Lots of substance abuse up there.  It’s definitely Kali Yuga (Age of Darkness).  Things are also bad here—all around, everywhere.  Maybe I’m getting old,” he said.

Tom is only sixty-two, but, like anyone at that ripeness of age, there’s a tendency to view the world negatively.  I do the same.  I tend to see flaws, but would subjectively say I also like to draw out what is not pejorative.  Tom is lively, though, and chuckles enough at any discussion.  For someone who has collected 5000 comics over the years, you’ve got to be an optimist.  There’s always a happy ending.

To put in my two nickels worth (pennies make no sense [cents] these days), I must add that we cannot be naïve about the world’s current state of affairs.  I reflect on the misdirection of today—the deception.  The big lie. “I am this body,” is the huge fib.  In truth, “I am spirit.”

In ’96, on my first marathon walk, many newspapers covered my story.  It made the front page of  Sudbury’s main paper.  The article made reference to my statement about this “Big Lie.”

I came upon a statement by Mark Twain on the subject of lying.  “A lie can travel halfway around the world while the truth is putting on its shoes.”

May the Source be with you!

5 km

Tuesday, April 4th, 2017
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Toronto, Ontario
On Rama’s Birthday
Today is the birthday of Rama, known as Ram Naumi or Ram Navami.  People come from the area to partake in the celebrations held in the evening.  Where I live in the ashram, community members will come for events like this because attached to the ashram is a temple where Rama (who is an avatar of Krishna) is honoured.
Conveniently, my place of residence is also the place of meditation.  Also located on the premises is our vegetarian restaurant, as well as rooms for workshops or seminars.  It’s rather ideal if you can manage that kind of lifestyle.  Your workplace, living quarters and recreational facility (we sing and dance here) are all under one roof.

Joyously people sang, danced and listened in the temple portion of the building.

The listening session was actually a class delivered by American-born Vasu Gosh, who now resides in India.  His message on Rama was well received.  I consider him a dear friend, although in some areas of discussion our opinions on the subject matter of the guru principle clashes.  While I support the concept of female spiritual masters, he does not.

The argument I would take on the topic is that if one is qualified as a teacher and lives a saintly life, what does it matter the gender that one belongs to?  In my heart I’m a supporter of the old school.  I like the traditional approach and as a part of our tradition with roots from the Gaudiya Vaishnava background, women, in some cases, took on the portfolio of taking students/disciples.

What is the difficulty?

May the Source be with you!

5 km

Monday, April 3rd, 2017
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Toronto, Ontario
A Centipede
A centipede was crawling across the floor.  Rarely do I see one but when one does make an appearance, it’s special for me.
One reason for that being so is if ever anyone questions the extra arms some Vedic deities display, like Vishnu, Durga or the multi-armed, half-man half-lion avatar, then I can point out we have examples in nature which demonstrate multiple arms or legs.  Extra limbs are not limited to God.  Another reason why I consider the centipede to be auspicious is I feel that here, in fact, is a display of nature, which is alive and well.  We humans haven’t succeeded at killing everything—yet.  I know centipedes are in the category of creepy-crawlies which do cause some people to cringe or flee.  They are harmless as far as I can understand.

I’ve heard they can bite, but it’s not fatal.  I definitely wouldn’t want one crawling up my leg while in bed.  That would be irritating or disturbing.

I was watching the fellow trying to make his way around.  Like practically every creature on the planet, there is a search for food.  They go after bugs, worms and spiders, even cockroaches.  I think that’s what he was up to.

One line from the book Bhagavatam states, “Jivo jivasya jivanam,” which means “One living being is food for another.”  The food chain is at work here.

My newly-made friend wasn’t exactly bee-lining his way along.  He looked a little confused.

“Shall I go here, or there?”

I did chant before him, hoping the sound would be of some purification for him.

May the Source be with you!

0 km

Sunday, April 2nd, 2017
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Toronto, Ontario
Everyone Was Out
Everyone was out, meaning in the out-of-doors, wrapped in mild weather.  Wherever there was a trail, families explored with their toddlers and dogs.  The young, the elderly and every age bracket in between came out as nature beckoned.
“Spring is now in the air,” is what Mother Nature seemed to say.

The only thing is you cannot trust this Mama.  She is brown today and will be green next week, then greener, and still greener, in fact so intensely green she will change colours.  She’ll pick a new tone of yellow, orange, and red to deep brown.  Then she’ll become white and silver.  Her texture changes beautifully over the seasons.  She appears to go through emotions and is the ultimate Drama Queen.

But we like the changes.  Variety is the masala—the spice of life.

I had two companions with me as we took to one of those Discovery Walks in the city.  And while we put our hour in for chanting, we also put our legs to work in the ravine for that cherishable escape from indoors.

Praharana, my dear godsister, came in the evening for the Sunday Open House at the ISKCON Centre.  She told me she did the same as we did—strolled and chanted.

Now that would be a perfect world: people going out to touch nature to say to that Queen, “Hello!” and then to “Hello!” everyone else.  If you say the Sanskrit word “Haribol!” then you address the Father (Krishna) and people think you said the more familiar “Hello!”

May the Source be with you!

5 km

Saturday, April 1st, 2017
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Castleton, Ontario
Farm Conference II
On this very special day, the birth anniversary of Ramanuja (one thousand years ago today), we conducted our second Farmer’s Conference for central Canada.  Primarily we had attendees from the provinces of Quebec and Ontario.
In as much as walking is a component of a green culture, so also is the protection of animals, plants and the land.  So many folks the world over, are converting to urban life. The gravitation to concrete, cars and condos is the trend from the more natural way of life, with closeness to the above mentioned categories. Where once there were multiple, family farms to grace the land with intermittent forests here and there, we now experience mega factory farms, industrial big-box buildings, parking lots, shopping malls and cookie-cutter designed homes moving along like a silent invasion.  Urban sprawl is hogging its way in.

Our guru, Srila Prabhupada, was a strong advocate of a more peaceful, environmentally-conducive lifestyle.  We spoke about his revolution and how to learn its implementation from each other.  The conference, held in December in the same area of Castleton/Coburg, commanded a follow-up.  The session today was held to fulfill this need.

A group of thirty participants engaged in a tour of Jai and Rasa’s farm—our rendezvous location—ate a wholesome meal and then proceeded to the community centre for discussions on good gardening techniques, bull castration—or not—and the practical aspect of how to plan for more farm-flavoured festivals such as Ratha Yatra.

May the Source be with you!

6 km

Friday, March 31st, 2017
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Hastings, Ontario
It was Not…
It was not the ideal weather for a stroll.  Cold pellets of rain descended upon our vehicle as we made our way to the farm near Hastings.  It’s at times like these when I don’t mind the shelter of a vehicle—this one being the van owned by Savyasacin.  I felt comfortable with his driving as well.  What a skill it is to operate a machine with ease and to do so safely in bad weather.
Our destination was the farm outside of Hastings.  The proprietors, Fil and Sukayanti, and their sixteen-month-old daughters, were our hosts.  Tasty veggie balls soaked in a seasoned, home-grown tomato sauce, dripping over whole wheat pasta was what we were greeted with, alongsside a supremely flavourful peppered salad.  Thanks, you two!

Fil and Suk are orthodox in their way of life, including how they deal with food.  It is, through the process of tender operations, offered to Krishna.  The food is powered by mantra.  It’s then called prasadam.

The couple also has a sweet way with their twin daughters.  Their cow herd of thirteen also receives loving treatment.  Savyasacin and I put alfalfa nuggets on the animal’s tongues.  It is slightly awkward for the bovine to just grab them with a lick.  You must make contact with their teeth.  Then they can swallow.

On such a miserable day, in terms of weather, all becomes pleasant with good food, good people and good pets.  Such lovely events lift a tough day to better heights.

It was a day to be grateful for in spite of the gloominess of the sky.  And, I did some walking anyway.

May the Source be with you!

5 km

Thursday, March 30th, 2017
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Toronto, Ontario

Listening
Some concerns came my way.  People want to tell of their woes.  Somehow it eases the pain.
One woman, a doctor from the Middle East, came for darshan of the deity.  She came to Canada to receive a second surgery for cancer.

“I’ve come to pray,” she said.

Another man, of Jewish descent, expressed, “I lost my wife of forty-one years.  She died of cancer.  I’m trying to adjust.  It’s not easy.”

Another person I had known reached out to me on the phone.  “I built a house for my family.  My wife asked me to leave.  My young children are asking, “Are you still our Daddy?”

The happiest story of all was expressed by my hosts of the day.  Three of us, ashram residents, went to the home of the Patel’s for a scrumptious lunch.  Mr. Patel, at retirement age, is saying, “We have run a good business for so long.  I want to sell it.  Mrs. Patel wants to hold onto it.  I want to go back to Gujarat, to my village, or Vrndavan, the village of Krishna, and live life simply.  Bobby (their son) has a good job, has a wife and they have a baby.  It’s time for me to go.”

It’s people expressing their lives’ ups and downs.  I don’t mind being a sounding board for them.  I offer to put in my two cents worth.  “Keep Krishna in the centre.”

We said our good-byes to the Patels. The other two ashram residents drove back. 

I walked.

May the Source be with you!

5 km

Wednesday, March 29th 2017
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Toronto, Ontario
Like Kids
I always get a thrill when I take what I consider city kids into a country atmosphere.  They’re not exactly kids but junior to me in decades.  Perhaps the nomenclature could be justified.  Our guru, Srila Prabhupada, used the term “you boys and girls,” when he was in his 70’s and we were in our late twenties.
With me, down the ravine within the city limits, was Luv, Adi Shakti and Muza—one boy and two girls.  The sign read “Discovery Walk.”

“So, shall we?” I asked for confirmation.

“Yes!”  It was unanimous.

What did we explore?

A woodpecker close to our feet.  Sparrows in the bush.  A red cardinal as curious as we were, but too fast to get close to.  Also, geese and ducks, quite ordinary fowl, enjoying the water ways at the Brickworks, which was something else to discover.

“This was once the place where all the bricks in the city were made.  It was a quarry of sizeable dimension that we are now in.  Ponds were developed by redirecting some creek water nearby.  Indigenous trees were also planted here.  I’ve seen the place shape up to become desirable.  It has been transformed from an empty, cavernous big hole.

“They do weddings here now, and hold festivals, flea markets and craft shows.  It’s a happening place with concerts in the summer.  Perhaps it will be ideal for future kirtan.  What do you think?”  I asked my companions, especially the girls who are planning to organize kirtan chanting sessions as are done in Europe.

“Oh yes!” they all said enthusiastically.

They were truly in wonder at the sights and sounds.  They were like kids exploring and learning.

May the Source be with you!

10 km

The Walking Monk 2017-04-02 17:35:00
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Tuesday, March 28th, 2017

Brampton, Ontario

Food and the Thereafter

A small group of us from the ashram were invited for a noon-time meal at a household in Brampton.  The hosts were a Punjabi family, Rajarsi and Ragni, and son Sanjay, who’s in his 40’s now.  I knew him as a youngster when I taught Sunday School.

Some days before the lunch appointment I mentioned to the head cook, Ragni, that I’m on a low purine diet due to gout.  That means low on dairy, lentils and even veggies which I like such as asparagus.  Much of these items I can take in small portions when I’m up on more fibre food—carrots, broccoli and so on.

Now, one of our girls from Europe, Adi Shakti, is on a raw diet so I guaranteed her, beforehand, that her wishes would be satisfied.

We held a spontaneous kirtanin the home.  I had no drum so the make-shift one from a cardboard box did fine.  Then we went to the dinner table and to our surprise all needs were met.  Adi Shakti had her macrobiotic meal, I had ‘steamies’ and other preps in moderation, and Hara Kumar, who’s a Xerox-copy of Woody Allen, and is small-framed, ate like a horse.

The healthy options were there.  East Indian fare was plentiful on the table and even a kind of Sheppard’s pie came our way.

These dishes were all offered as prasadam—consecrated.  Ragni really pulled off a winner.  The drive to and fro, from Toronto to the outreaches of Brampton is an hour each way.  To walk off the calories upon the return home I went for a zestful six kilometres.

May the Source be with you!

6 km

The Walking Monk 2017-03-30 21:51:00
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Monday, March 27th, 2017

Miami, Florida

Stick to Walking

I’ll stick to walking, I thought, when I saw this one devotee climb his way up the coconut tree.

Prabhupada Krpa is a Cuban-born bachelor who is quite the committed follower of Krishna.  He’s lanky, thin and agile.  It’s a cinch for him to get up a tree, grab a coconut, toss it down and then, with grace, shimmy his way down the tree trunk; all that, while in a dhoti—and with a smile.  He’s got the body for it.

He can climb any tree.  I’ve seen it.  He will tackle the tall, erect ones, or even a very bent over one.  Coconut water is one of the best ways of quenching a thirst.  It’s a super hydration food.  It’s nutritious but low in purine content.  They are the best of the nuts.

Whenever I come to Miami, Prabhupada Krpa, who knows my liking for these organic pieces of circular wonder, offers to fetch one for me.  I prefer the younger green ones.

The coconut tree is not plentiful on the ISKCON plot of land off Virginia Street in Coconut Grove, but they do cast a certain amount of shade.  There’s at least one large mango tree on the property, but I’m not usually here during mango season in the summer to enjoy it.  I usually stay clear of visits to Florida at that time.  It’s too hot and humid.

I know that a monk should be ready to take to any form of austerity, but I find I’m less productive under such circumstances.  It’s great to be in Canada at that time of year.  You’re not sluggish.  One thing about being a monastic is that you are also obliged to use your good sense.

May the Source be with you!

5 km

The Walking Monk 2017-03-30 21:50:00
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Sunday, March 26th, 2017

Miami, Florida

Cool in Miami

Both last night and tonight’s sangas were held, one at the Sraddha Centre and one at the home of Kavi, a godbrother.  The kirtansand dance were so uplifting.  I thank Puneet, who’s visiting from Pennsylvania, for the funky drum beats, and I must not fail to mention the usual pervading Latino rhythm and drive that made for the ultimate good fun feeling.

Wallace Teng—a student from China, residing in Denver—found out about the Hare Krishnas and made his destiny Miami, where he could find out more.  He asked about our core beliefs.  My answer:  Each and every one of us is a tiny spark of life, struggling, and in this struggle we are obliged to find our peace which rests in bhakti, devotion to God.  It’s the real love we are after.

Diana and her friend whose name I forget—let’s call her ‘Princess’—came for their first Krishna gathering ever.  Our dance circle engaged them, along with everything else.  It was a great workout and an equally great bonding.

Smack in the middle of our two evening programs was the Sunday feast program at the temple in Coconut Grove.  I’m seeing for the first time Russians in good number and young Indian folks, also in good attendance.  The verse to which I elaborated upon was Chapter 16 Verse 22 from TheGita.

“The person who has escaped these three gates of hell (lust, anger and greed), O son of Kunti, performs acts conducive to self-realization and thus gradually attains the supreme destination.”

May the Source be with you!

4 km

The Walking Monk 2017-03-30 21:50:00
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Saturday, March 25th, 2017

Miami, Florida

Troubled

I covered 3 km, pacing in Toronto’s temple room, before embarking on the flight to Miami on American Airlines.  That was a greater distance to go.  I was in the plane for three and a half hours.  I was quite alert—but troubled.  Most other passengers had their naps, or partial naps.

I had received the sad news that a family of four were found dead in their home in a remote village that I visit.  Saranagati is a quaint little settlement of a Krishna community, nestled in a mountain valley situated a day’s walk (30km) from Ashcroft, British Columbia.  It is tragic.

Father, Mother, and two small sons, who were not active members of the social events of the community, were nevertheless members of the community.  The dad, Harvey, I had known since the early ’80s when he lived in Ontario.  He was quite the artist.  At this time, it is not known the cause of death.

A member of the community went with his son to check on the family. They found them dead and called my dear godbrother, Krpanidhi, who went over to the home and, as a trained first aid responder, realized there was no hope of reviving them, as it was too late.  He called the police. Whatever is the cause, it is a very impactful loss to the local residents, and to humanity.  Authorities are investigating.

The great Queen Kunti, whom we read about in the scriptures, said that calamities are all around us.  When they come, they hasten us to search for answers and to come to submission to the Source of all.  When the overwhelming powers of this world come to haunt us, we ask for help.

Our condolences go out to the family and friends who survive this tragedy.  Our blessings go to the souls who departed.  Have a safe journey.

May the Source be with you!

3 km

Editor’s Note: It has been determined that the cause of death was due to Carbon Monoxide poisoning from a plugged water heater vent which had filled with snow. 

The Walking Monk 2017-03-28 23:14:00
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Friday, March 24th, 2017

Toronto, Ontario

From the Phone

I did a bit of telephone reception today.  People call in for darshan times.  “What time is the temple open?” is a rather standard question.  They wish to know when they can see God.

The callers are mostly members of the East Indian community.  Engrained in the culture of India is the desire to have a viewing of the icons of Krishna, Shiva, Ganesh and so on.  These images serve as focal points for people.  Let’s call them deities.  Those deities are tangible images in which to channel thoughts desires and wishes.  They have a power invested within that emanates from their very presence when approached in the proper mood and spirit.

The mood we are talking about is the mood of humility.  Humility is often the most difficult emotion to invoke in ourselves.  To feel humble is to feel moments of truth.  In reality, we are small in comparison to the universe and the entire creation itself.

I explained to some students the other day that I like walking because whether its trees, mountains, the vast prairie or even buildings, I am, in their midst, relatively tiny.  I sometimes view these creations, whether compiled by man or nature, as deities.  I feel comfortable in either environments and that, of course, includes being before the deities of Krishna.

It is an important and compelling part of the day when I stand or dance and sing before the deity.  I am moved to be humble and free.

May the Source be with you!

The Walking Monk 2017-03-28 23:14:00
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Thursday, March 23rd, 2017

Toronto, Ontario

Mitch’s Class

Mitch is a high school teacher from Etobicoke, and he brings his Grade 12 class every year to our ashram.  They came with their curiosity while visiting various spiritual institutions on a field trip for the day.

I sensed they liked their hour or so in the temple portion of our facility.  Mitch told me that one of the girls in the group could walk on her hands.  She, born of Delaware-Cree parents, succeeded in doing just that, at my request, during our exercise in kirtan.  Tony, and two other male students—I didn’t catch everyone’s names—got into their own freelance dance inside our formed circle.  Mitch also took a turn, dancing in that circle.

The class had lots of questions on a philosophical note.  I try to keep everything rather interactive during these sessions.  The students were handed flower petals, and, after chanting mantras together, strew them at the feet of Srila Prabhupada’s murti(statue), a daily traditional practice found in Vaishnava temples around the world.

I noticed the group was diverse in ethnic background, and intelligent and attractive, physically.  They looked like models, a good percentage of them.  Ultimately what’s in the heart is important and to that end, we need to reorganize its beauty.

One chap asked about dealing with the sex urge and briefly I expressed that we have to learn to resist, and that every time there’s some excitement, we must consider time, place and circumstance.  A word of advice was, “Before you are intimate with someone be good and ready—psychologically, economically, etc.  Be ready to take care of the person for a lifetime.”

May the Source be with you!

7 km


The Walking Monk 2017-03-26 02:26:00
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Wednesday, March 22nd, 2017

Ottawa/Mississauga

Encourage / Recommend

Winter was on the rebound.  It came back, hard and cold, overnight.  But it’s temporary, like all things in this world.  The people of Ottawa seem transcendent to it all.  On Somerset Street, which is the location of a long running Govinda’s restaurant, managed by ISKCON’s Shankar, a native of Trinidad, the students of Ottawa U are bundled up as they walk on the way to their classes.

The location is very unique, a bungalow, comfortably situated in the mid-point of the Rideau River and the Rideau Canal.  Shankar and I were just reflecting on the idealness of the spot.  Always you find a trickle of persons on this street—24/7.  It can’t be better for location.

Because of the slope you tread on this street, you automatically warm up for the slight climb. I unfortunately did not make room in the day for such brisk walking.  I was occupied in people talk.  My visits are short.  Time is of the essence.  I’m making my visits to those who are on the front line of the mission.  It’s all about encouragement and, during certain moments, mentioning something that may stand as correction, or seeing and doing things in an alternative way.  They take the form of recommendations.

I flew to Mississauga for another gathering to do with fundraising for a glorious temple in India.  Handed to me was a 3D card sent to donors of the project.  It’s an image of the Divine as protector.  The reverse reads, “I bow down to Narasimha who is ferocious and heroic like Vishnu.  He is burning from every side.  He is terrific, auspicious and the death of death personified.”

May the Source be with you!

0 km

The Walking Monk 2017-03-26 02:25:00
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Tuesday, March 21st, 2017

Russell, Ontario

Spring

Signs of spring.  It may have been the last blast of real winter which came in a few days ago, leaving remnants of snow piles in this area, but clearly the thaw is on.  Rivulets of water flow as the result of a major melt.  Snow, ice and water are three stages of one element and that’s what you see.

In Barrhaven, a suburb of Ottawa, where our sangaprogram was to be held, I witnessed nature’s power of the water–flow running under those piles—piles ready to collapse.  Every day, nature seems to take on a new form of it’s own.

In Barrhaven, at the home of Surrender and family, I had a captive audience of adults.  It was in the morning that I had a less captive audience of pre-schoolers.  Basically, they are Krishna kids at school in Russell.  I should say for these young whipper-snappers, I had to work very hard to gain their attention while reading about Krishna and the cowherd boys, His boys.  It required animation and implementing songs.  The teachers gave me informal words of praise.  Had I not become a swami, perhaps my vocation would have been that of a school teacher.

Now, for walking, today I took to somewhat of a frisky pacing in the new community centre, the old Registration Building with its 2500 square feet of expanse.  Nice structure.  In 1915 a major fire ripped through this town and practically flattened everything except this building.  It’s solid, for sure, and it’s now being used for devotion.

May the Source be with you!

4 km

The Walking Monk 2017-03-26 02:25:00
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Monday, March 20th, 2017

Russell, Ontario

Pedestrian Horse

Daivata and I drove along Boundary Road and entered the precincts of Russell, a bedroom community to Ottawa, the nation’s capital.  By the way, Canada is 150 years old this year.  We passed by a fair-sized sign reading, “Russell Trails.”

Okay, this is a town that takes pride in walkways that take you through the ‘backwoods’, so to speak.  Daivata and I were fixed on the objective—let’s explore.

And so we did.  Relieved of our vehicle, we checked it out, the snow laden trail of tranquility that is edged by family homes on one side and farmer’s fields on the other.  At a juncture of a gravel road, we ventured to the right on country dirt.  There came a woman with her twenty-five year old stallion.  He was being walked and I must say, I rarely meet pedestrian horses.

We gave him a good stroke of affection.  I was realizing how very important it is for man to reach out to animal.  History tells that they are inseparable in their service to each other.  I could elaborate, but later.

Service is a common theme for today.  It is Krishna Dulal who champions this.  Within one year he opened a pre-school here, a restaurant (only vegetarian preps and prasadam served) and purchased a community centre—the old Registry Building, now in function.  I was there to inaugurate the event with kirtan chanting and some words of appreciation to their community that’s taking bold steps.

We then feasted.

May the Source be with you!

5 km