Madrid, Spain
Fast In and Fast Out
It’s a first for me in Madrid, we had a few hours to kill, so to speak. No better place could be found, but any place where there’s devotion, right? Arrival time to Madrid was early and a nice person, temple commander of this ISKCON Centre came for the pickup of a monk and his travelling assistant, Mohit, to that place of devotion.
It’s Europe, you know, so everything is tight in the developed part of the city. Whether it be kitchen, bedroom, toilet, eating space, it’s tight, but smartly tight. European architecture? Beautiful!
I gave a talk, had no time for a walk. Temple is quaint, devotees sweet, time to depart. Our car smashed into the door of a truck. Quickly, Mohit and I had to switch to a cab.
In fast forward, over the Atlantic, came the arrival into Canada. We were greeted by a smiling Maha Bhagavat, a member of our Toronto community. At his home, we munched on wraps. Instead of a nap at his home, I vied for a stroll via Finch Avenue down on Leslie Street and then Eglinton Avenue.
When I walk, I take it all in, I observe, I smell, I experience, I nod (to people), I notice the concrete, the grass, the apple and plum trees, the Rivers. I see cracks in the sidewalk, and I see solid spots. I see below me and above me and the front of me, especially when crossing the road. I have no radio, no box in which to be crammed as in automobile. I am free and I watch prisoners of cars go by me. I’m free up to a point until I get picked up to get brought back home. Then, it’s a different kind of freedom, because I’m with spiritual people.
May the Source be with you!
6 KM
Wednesday, August 6th, 2014
Tuesday, August 5th, 2014
→ The Walking Monk
Tenerife, Spain
Last Day
The last day’s visit to this extraordinary place in the Canary Islands was crowned with a ceremony. Cuban born, Janardan, accepted his 2nd initiation this morning. He’s a smart young guy and has won a scholarship for mathematics at the University at Madrid, he’s studying and teaching. His accepting the brahminical initiation allows him some privileges in our community. In Cuba and in Spain, people love when he gives a class in bhakti yoga.
Both Yadunanda Swami and I spoke on the importance of brahminical input into human society. Some of the points made are as follows:
1) A brahmin aspires to understand both energies of matter and spirit.
2) A brahmin is a visionary and shares his/her vision, working towards an improved world.
3) A brahmin is a guru for the community and acts as teacher, trainer, guide, coach, mentor (cheerleader, even) in the spiritual sciences.
4) A brahmin always endeavours to be clean, honest and see through the eyes of wisdom (shastra).
5) A brahmin may be cold with himself, as in being austere, but is warm with everyone else.
While I took personal time with Janardan before and after the fire ceremony to honour his achievement, there were other people who wanted personal dialogue, this I obliged. It did consume the day. Also a final stop at a gorgeous plot of land that is the future site of a temple and cultural centre. Before the ride to the airport, a small assembly of devotees had last goodbyes while we were reading quotations and memories about our guru, Srila Prabhupada. In a sense the day was not complete because I found no minutes to put on some walking shoes and blaze a trail. My feet felt antsy going on the plane.
May the Source be with you!
0 KM (I’m embarrassed)
Last Day
The last day’s visit to this extraordinary place in the Canary Islands was crowned with a ceremony. Cuban born, Janardan, accepted his 2nd initiation this morning. He’s a smart young guy and has won a scholarship for mathematics at the University at Madrid, he’s studying and teaching. His accepting the brahminical initiation allows him some privileges in our community. In Cuba and in Spain, people love when he gives a class in bhakti yoga.
Both Yadunanda Swami and I spoke on the importance of brahminical input into human society. Some of the points made are as follows:
1) A brahmin aspires to understand both energies of matter and spirit.
2) A brahmin is a visionary and shares his/her vision, working towards an improved world.
3) A brahmin is a guru for the community and acts as teacher, trainer, guide, coach, mentor (cheerleader, even) in the spiritual sciences.
4) A brahmin always endeavours to be clean, honest and see through the eyes of wisdom (shastra).
5) A brahmin may be cold with himself, as in being austere, but is warm with everyone else.
While I took personal time with Janardan before and after the fire ceremony to honour his achievement, there were other people who wanted personal dialogue, this I obliged. It did consume the day. Also a final stop at a gorgeous plot of land that is the future site of a temple and cultural centre. Before the ride to the airport, a small assembly of devotees had last goodbyes while we were reading quotations and memories about our guru, Srila Prabhupada. In a sense the day was not complete because I found no minutes to put on some walking shoes and blaze a trail. My feet felt antsy going on the plane.
May the Source be with you!
0 KM (I’m embarrassed)
Monday, August 4th, 2014
→ The Walking Monk
Tenerife, Spain
Near the Top
We were near the top on the surface of the crater at the National Park of Del Teide Mountain. The actual peak is at 3,178 metres, and as I understand it, it is the tallest elevation point in Spain. Patita Pavana, our jolly and fearless leader, who runs the Tenerife Krishna centre, said this is where the latest Planet of the Apes was filmed.
A few of us from the local centre took to walking and to some steep hiking on the pourous rock of this most interesting volcanic area. When the last active volcano leaked its lava, the residents of one town took refuge in a cathedral. The red hot substance flowed down on either side of the building, which remained intact. And hence, the sheltered believers were saved.
The terrain is wild looking like the badlands of the US and Canada. We were at this location at the most intense feature of the sunset. The play of the sun’s colour, plus the array of volcanic sediments, was a feast for our eyes. Fortunately the government conserves this upper portion of the mountain. Either in your ascent or descent of the mountain, you can also see productive agriculture going on with grape vineyards and potato fields. Wild fig bushes grace the side of the road.
After this long day, and the late night festival of the previous day held at the downtown of Playa De Las Americas, our small group treated ourselves to seeing and exploring this gorgeous piece of Mother Nature and Father God.
The Earth has beauty everywhere, but we were going ape over this special summit in the world. I really aspire to walk up the mountain peak one day, as others have done. I would chant all the way.
May the Source be with you!
5 KM
Near the Top
We were near the top on the surface of the crater at the National Park of Del Teide Mountain. The actual peak is at 3,178 metres, and as I understand it, it is the tallest elevation point in Spain. Patita Pavana, our jolly and fearless leader, who runs the Tenerife Krishna centre, said this is where the latest Planet of the Apes was filmed.
A few of us from the local centre took to walking and to some steep hiking on the pourous rock of this most interesting volcanic area. When the last active volcano leaked its lava, the residents of one town took refuge in a cathedral. The red hot substance flowed down on either side of the building, which remained intact. And hence, the sheltered believers were saved.
The terrain is wild looking like the badlands of the US and Canada. We were at this location at the most intense feature of the sunset. The play of the sun’s colour, plus the array of volcanic sediments, was a feast for our eyes. Fortunately the government conserves this upper portion of the mountain. Either in your ascent or descent of the mountain, you can also see productive agriculture going on with grape vineyards and potato fields. Wild fig bushes grace the side of the road.
After this long day, and the late night festival of the previous day held at the downtown of Playa De Las Americas, our small group treated ourselves to seeing and exploring this gorgeous piece of Mother Nature and Father God.
The Earth has beauty everywhere, but we were going ape over this special summit in the world. I really aspire to walk up the mountain peak one day, as others have done. I would chant all the way.
May the Source be with you!
5 KM
Sunday, August 3rd, 2014
→ The Walking Monk
Tenerife, Spain
So How Was It?
If it wasn’t for the procession in the downtown of Tenerife, in honouring, once again, the Chariot Festival, I would have not got any walking in today.
So, how was that, anyways? The festival?
Just great!!!
The thump of the djembe saved the kirtan. The traditional clay bodied mrdangas (drums) of Bengal don’t always have the power to deliver when the air in the atmosphere’s just not right. Humidity works against the desired sound you want. The ends on either side of the mrdanga gets too slack. For the quieter bhajans done indoor, mrdangas are terrific, but I haven’t seen them work well for most cases for outdoor events. Yadunandana Swami lead the chant. Then I was given the mic to complete singing on the route in a rather densely pedestrianed area. If I’m not mistaken, the rich come here, mostly from the mainland. Though, we’ve heard that the recession has hit Spain really hard, and that the country has this high unemployment rate, this doesn’t really show in Tenerife.
But, back to the beat. Any Latino blood seems to flow towards a rhythmic thump, and this was so obvious in the public’s response. The public always looks for something new and different. What else could you do besides sitting in a bar or café outside, or checking out a super Flamenco dance? How about watching a bunch of Hare Krishnas jump to a thump? I guess it’s entertaining for the casual tourist. Not only watching us, but clapping and trying to sing is what we found people doing. These are the symptoms that determine a good program.
Our stage show completed by 1 AM. Everyone was tired, happily.
May the Source be with you!
4 KM
So How Was It?
If it wasn’t for the procession in the downtown of Tenerife, in honouring, once again, the Chariot Festival, I would have not got any walking in today.
So, how was that, anyways? The festival?
Just great!!!
The thump of the djembe saved the kirtan. The traditional clay bodied mrdangas (drums) of Bengal don’t always have the power to deliver when the air in the atmosphere’s just not right. Humidity works against the desired sound you want. The ends on either side of the mrdanga gets too slack. For the quieter bhajans done indoor, mrdangas are terrific, but I haven’t seen them work well for most cases for outdoor events. Yadunandana Swami lead the chant. Then I was given the mic to complete singing on the route in a rather densely pedestrianed area. If I’m not mistaken, the rich come here, mostly from the mainland. Though, we’ve heard that the recession has hit Spain really hard, and that the country has this high unemployment rate, this doesn’t really show in Tenerife.
But, back to the beat. Any Latino blood seems to flow towards a rhythmic thump, and this was so obvious in the public’s response. The public always looks for something new and different. What else could you do besides sitting in a bar or café outside, or checking out a super Flamenco dance? How about watching a bunch of Hare Krishnas jump to a thump? I guess it’s entertaining for the casual tourist. Not only watching us, but clapping and trying to sing is what we found people doing. These are the symptoms that determine a good program.
Our stage show completed by 1 AM. Everyone was tired, happily.
May the Source be with you!
4 KM
Saturday, August 2nd, 2014
→ The Walking Monk
Tenerife, Spain
Those Who Were Sleeping
Those who were sleeping outside in their camping wear woke up to the sound of our chanting. A group of us were firmly planted by a cliff’s edge by the ocean, as were the Friday night party folks who were nestled in those sleeping bags. The volcanic rock formations of unique configurations were the backdrop to our morning chanting and discussions. A couple of fisherman came to us and really complemented us for our drumming and singing.
Yadunandana Swami, a Spanish born, Barcelona raised boy, was my companion in leading the chant. He’s ten years my junior, he’s clean and honest. We made the trek from our flat at Club Paraiso, and along with Mohit of Calgary, hit our desitanation point where we met other local devotees of Krishna. We chanted and talked. The group wanted to hear of walking adventures I had, and so I obliged them before we dipped into those pristine waters at the base of the cliff where sea turtles do frequent. At least at Tenerife’s water, you have multiple creatures. It’s land that has less variety, so it seems. I asked about wild game and locals say, “Rabbits are about the largest animals you’re going to get around here. Next to them are lizards.” I do see lots of doves and hear them quite amply.
Life is laid back here and relaxed. Personally, I was restless about my lost luggage, so with a ride, I went to the lost and found at the South Airport. My lost luggage was found. The queue for that lost and found stall consisted of grumpy travellers, as you can imagine. Personally, I was relieved.
I’ve learned that it always does good to stick your fingers in the bead bag and do some mantra chanting to cope with the agitation of all sorts and kinds.
May the Source be with you!
4 KM
Those Who Were Sleeping
Those who were sleeping outside in their camping wear woke up to the sound of our chanting. A group of us were firmly planted by a cliff’s edge by the ocean, as were the Friday night party folks who were nestled in those sleeping bags. The volcanic rock formations of unique configurations were the backdrop to our morning chanting and discussions. A couple of fisherman came to us and really complemented us for our drumming and singing.
Yadunandana Swami, a Spanish born, Barcelona raised boy, was my companion in leading the chant. He’s ten years my junior, he’s clean and honest. We made the trek from our flat at Club Paraiso, and along with Mohit of Calgary, hit our desitanation point where we met other local devotees of Krishna. We chanted and talked. The group wanted to hear of walking adventures I had, and so I obliged them before we dipped into those pristine waters at the base of the cliff where sea turtles do frequent. At least at Tenerife’s water, you have multiple creatures. It’s land that has less variety, so it seems. I asked about wild game and locals say, “Rabbits are about the largest animals you’re going to get around here. Next to them are lizards.” I do see lots of doves and hear them quite amply.
Life is laid back here and relaxed. Personally, I was restless about my lost luggage, so with a ride, I went to the lost and found at the South Airport. My lost luggage was found. The queue for that lost and found stall consisted of grumpy travellers, as you can imagine. Personally, I was relieved.
I’ve learned that it always does good to stick your fingers in the bead bag and do some mantra chanting to cope with the agitation of all sorts and kinds.
May the Source be with you!
4 KM
Friday, August 1st, 2014
→ The Walking Monk
Tenerife, Spain
No Trails But Devotion
Vacationers come here for the moderate temperatures. The sun, the ocean, the clean air, the fancy shops, the night life. It’s also not a bad place to reside in. I find the trails to be fun, although, the southern part of the island is rather barren. The volcanic matter that is dispersed everywhere is thrilling to a person who hails from the lowlands of central Canada.
No, I didn’t hit any trails today, demands of time brought me to the downtown core where under a tennis court on a basement level is the local learning and devotional centre for ISKCON. I lead some chanting and delivered a class on the importance of planning and how it is indeed integral to advancing in devotional life. For breakfast, we had an old favourite for Krishna pioneers in the west, a prep called ‘utma’, veggies in a semolina base.
The rest of the day was occupied in drama practice. At downtime, the author of that delicious prep, Patita Pavana, told me of the miraculous work of one of my Cuban students. She had a man who had been crippled for 20 years, walk again. She actually healed him. When I asked how it happened, he expressed she was a healer, used Reiki technique, and chanted mantras. When I asked her personally about her healing abilities, she said, “I did nothing. Power’s in the mantra. I was a medium and all I did was enter into a mantra. She began to recite the mantra that she was using, something that a number of us are familiar with.
“Jaya Sri Krishna Chaitanya, Prabhu Nityananda, Sri Adwaita, Gadadhara, Srivas, Adi Gaura Bhakta Vrinda“ . No doubt love and concern was applied to the client. She chanted these mantras. The crippled man first experienced some convulsions and then walked out of his wheelchair, never to come back.
May the Source be with you!
0 KM
No Trails But Devotion
Vacationers come here for the moderate temperatures. The sun, the ocean, the clean air, the fancy shops, the night life. It’s also not a bad place to reside in. I find the trails to be fun, although, the southern part of the island is rather barren. The volcanic matter that is dispersed everywhere is thrilling to a person who hails from the lowlands of central Canada.
No, I didn’t hit any trails today, demands of time brought me to the downtown core where under a tennis court on a basement level is the local learning and devotional centre for ISKCON. I lead some chanting and delivered a class on the importance of planning and how it is indeed integral to advancing in devotional life. For breakfast, we had an old favourite for Krishna pioneers in the west, a prep called ‘utma’, veggies in a semolina base.
The rest of the day was occupied in drama practice. At downtime, the author of that delicious prep, Patita Pavana, told me of the miraculous work of one of my Cuban students. She had a man who had been crippled for 20 years, walk again. She actually healed him. When I asked how it happened, he expressed she was a healer, used Reiki technique, and chanted mantras. When I asked her personally about her healing abilities, she said, “I did nothing. Power’s in the mantra. I was a medium and all I did was enter into a mantra. She began to recite the mantra that she was using, something that a number of us are familiar with.
“Jaya Sri Krishna Chaitanya, Prabhu Nityananda, Sri Adwaita, Gadadhara, Srivas, Adi Gaura Bhakta Vrinda“ . No doubt love and concern was applied to the client. She chanted these mantras. The crippled man first experienced some convulsions and then walked out of his wheelchair, never to come back.
May the Source be with you!
0 KM
Thursday, July 31st, 2014
→ The Walking Monk
Tenerife, Spain
Trek By Ocean
At the still dark hour, our small walking party had gone the way of a small port and beyond. There we passed hippie homes made of leaf structures. We trekked through a rocky coastal trail. Young Balaram, who in the arms of his mom or dad (they shifted), also made it through the rough terrain. Cacti will catch your cloth, as it did mine, so you trek the worn path with caution.
Tenerife is known for its excellent bananas, but along this trail, according to our guide, Patita Pavana, the orchards failed here, and so we’re left with what looks like ancient ruins which were actually territorial dividers.
The sun broke through. Before our swim (and it was Mohit’s first dip in an ocean ever) we had a serious sit down on sand. There, our party of a dozen sang our standard gaudiya songs in honour of guru and Krishna. I also spoke by way of a Kindle device on a verse from the book, ‘Bhagavatam’, on the allegorical tale of King Puranjana. A brahmin comes to visit a grieving queen. This brahmin represents the best friend, amigo. Analogously, the friend also refers to the witness in the heart, the Paramatma. Traditionally, yogis aspire to reach this stage of Paramatma perception. We also discussed the role of guru in one’s life, in addition to the need to gain incredible focus to be successful in spiritual life.
Our talk and swim terminated when at least two members of our party were to meet their job obligations. We returned on the rustic and barren trail on this moderate morning of low 20’s Celsius. And then careful of the clingy cacti.
Hours of the evening were taken up in our drama practice - preparation for the Chariot Festival to take place on Sunday. We are having a blast. A bhakti blast.
May the Source be with you!
6 KM
Trek By Ocean
At the still dark hour, our small walking party had gone the way of a small port and beyond. There we passed hippie homes made of leaf structures. We trekked through a rocky coastal trail. Young Balaram, who in the arms of his mom or dad (they shifted), also made it through the rough terrain. Cacti will catch your cloth, as it did mine, so you trek the worn path with caution.
Tenerife is known for its excellent bananas, but along this trail, according to our guide, Patita Pavana, the orchards failed here, and so we’re left with what looks like ancient ruins which were actually territorial dividers.
The sun broke through. Before our swim (and it was Mohit’s first dip in an ocean ever) we had a serious sit down on sand. There, our party of a dozen sang our standard gaudiya songs in honour of guru and Krishna. I also spoke by way of a Kindle device on a verse from the book, ‘Bhagavatam’, on the allegorical tale of King Puranjana. A brahmin comes to visit a grieving queen. This brahmin represents the best friend, amigo. Analogously, the friend also refers to the witness in the heart, the Paramatma. Traditionally, yogis aspire to reach this stage of Paramatma perception. We also discussed the role of guru in one’s life, in addition to the need to gain incredible focus to be successful in spiritual life.
Our talk and swim terminated when at least two members of our party were to meet their job obligations. We returned on the rustic and barren trail on this moderate morning of low 20’s Celsius. And then careful of the clingy cacti.
Hours of the evening were taken up in our drama practice - preparation for the Chariot Festival to take place on Sunday. We are having a blast. A bhakti blast.
May the Source be with you!
6 KM
Wednesday, July 30th, 2014
→ The Walking Monk
Tenerife, Spain
I’m In Spain
I’m in Spain, or to be more specific, in Tenerife, to meet students of mine from Cuba. I will deliver some classes in the science of bhakti and also pull together some drama for the weekend Ratha Yatra Chariot Festival.
In a resort area of Tenerife’s south coast, I’m accommodated in a quiet apartment across from the “Rhythm and Booze Pub”. The twisty, windy streets are interesting from a walking perspective. People are nice, “Hola” is how you address everyone, even tourists from Germany, Britain, and of course, Spain. Residents in this area of Paraiso are posh and you’ll also find squatters at the beach nearby. One devotee from Madrid suggested that these are gypsies who have set up camp.
There are also Indian shop owners here. I entered a boutique shop called “Shanta’s”. The clerk is a man from Rajasthan, or that part of India where gypsies originally hailed from. He was nice, a little surprised to see a Caucasian swami in his shop. We talked. It was his pleasure and mine.
Prasadam (sanctified veggie food) is provided by Cuban born Julan Yatra, as well as the special maha prasadam, or remnants of the Krishna deity from the local ISKCON temple.
In the walking that I pursued today, I also came upon a Tibetan temple. I poked my head inside but did not enter. I was content to just look. A Spanish fellow said in a local language, something like, “You can enter at your own leisure.” I indicated that, “Everything’s okay.” He came back with a warm, and in American lingo, “Whatever!”
All is fresh and great for me in this one of seven islands known as the Canary Islands. I stick by the maha mantra wherever I am. As I walk I chant “Hare Krishna Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare, Hare Rama Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare”.
May the Source be with you!
8 KM
I’m In Spain
I’m in Spain, or to be more specific, in Tenerife, to meet students of mine from Cuba. I will deliver some classes in the science of bhakti and also pull together some drama for the weekend Ratha Yatra Chariot Festival.
In a resort area of Tenerife’s south coast, I’m accommodated in a quiet apartment across from the “Rhythm and Booze Pub”. The twisty, windy streets are interesting from a walking perspective. People are nice, “Hola” is how you address everyone, even tourists from Germany, Britain, and of course, Spain. Residents in this area of Paraiso are posh and you’ll also find squatters at the beach nearby. One devotee from Madrid suggested that these are gypsies who have set up camp.
There are also Indian shop owners here. I entered a boutique shop called “Shanta’s”. The clerk is a man from Rajasthan, or that part of India where gypsies originally hailed from. He was nice, a little surprised to see a Caucasian swami in his shop. We talked. It was his pleasure and mine.
Prasadam (sanctified veggie food) is provided by Cuban born Julan Yatra, as well as the special maha prasadam, or remnants of the Krishna deity from the local ISKCON temple.
In the walking that I pursued today, I also came upon a Tibetan temple. I poked my head inside but did not enter. I was content to just look. A Spanish fellow said in a local language, something like, “You can enter at your own leisure.” I indicated that, “Everything’s okay.” He came back with a warm, and in American lingo, “Whatever!”
All is fresh and great for me in this one of seven islands known as the Canary Islands. I stick by the maha mantra wherever I am. As I walk I chant “Hare Krishna Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare, Hare Rama Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare”.
May the Source be with you!
8 KM
Tuesday, July 29th, 2014
→ The Walking Monk
Dublin/Tenerife
Loosing Things
In the course of travel, as you may have experienced, you could lose something. The last time I came to Ireland, indeed with the intent to walk it from Belfast to Cork, I misplaced an umbrella. An umbrella is much needed in this greenish land. It rains a lot. I did accomplish the feat (on foot by the way). This umbrella had sentimental value for me. It was a gift that was handed to me by a First Nation’s person (a Native) in Cape Breton, Canada, during a rainfall while I was trekking. It was particularly big, one of those golf course types. In my forgetfulness, I left this token of kindness in the overhead compartment of the aircraft. Regrets! Oh well!
I also lost my japa meditations beads in Havana. They were actually stolen right from my person. A young guy mistaking the pouch with beads in it to be a money bag, just ripped the pouch and beads right from around my neck and dashed off in a hurry. I’ve had those beads in my possession since I became a monk in 1973.
That became a lesson in detachment of mind. After a search for either the culprit, and/or beads, I just had to ‘let go’. The beads were gone forever. I hope the thief has made good use of them and has taken up mantra meditation. That would be of some resolve.
Now, in the shuffle of luggage from Toronto to Dublin, and then to Tenerife, my luggage of robes and personals can’t be found. It’s not hopeless, the luggage is retraceable. Now, is there anything worse than losing such things? Well, there is the consideration that if you lose your reputation or people take stabs at it, it can become very hurtful. I take personal pride in being somewhat principled, and in being a monastic person with some decent character, though far from perfect. When accused of promiscuities over the internet, of doing something that has no foundation whatsoever, it can be painful. I won’t get too specific here. I will bear the pain and invoke whatever compassion I can toward the accuser.
In all circumstances, I would say a person should never lose a grip on dharma (duty), integrity and compassion. Hold on to these for dear life.
May the Source be with you!
0 KM (Except for the walking within 3 airports.)
Loosing Things
In the course of travel, as you may have experienced, you could lose something. The last time I came to Ireland, indeed with the intent to walk it from Belfast to Cork, I misplaced an umbrella. An umbrella is much needed in this greenish land. It rains a lot. I did accomplish the feat (on foot by the way). This umbrella had sentimental value for me. It was a gift that was handed to me by a First Nation’s person (a Native) in Cape Breton, Canada, during a rainfall while I was trekking. It was particularly big, one of those golf course types. In my forgetfulness, I left this token of kindness in the overhead compartment of the aircraft. Regrets! Oh well!
I also lost my japa meditations beads in Havana. They were actually stolen right from my person. A young guy mistaking the pouch with beads in it to be a money bag, just ripped the pouch and beads right from around my neck and dashed off in a hurry. I’ve had those beads in my possession since I became a monk in 1973.
That became a lesson in detachment of mind. After a search for either the culprit, and/or beads, I just had to ‘let go’. The beads were gone forever. I hope the thief has made good use of them and has taken up mantra meditation. That would be of some resolve.
Now, in the shuffle of luggage from Toronto to Dublin, and then to Tenerife, my luggage of robes and personals can’t be found. It’s not hopeless, the luggage is retraceable. Now, is there anything worse than losing such things? Well, there is the consideration that if you lose your reputation or people take stabs at it, it can become very hurtful. I take personal pride in being somewhat principled, and in being a monastic person with some decent character, though far from perfect. When accused of promiscuities over the internet, of doing something that has no foundation whatsoever, it can be painful. I won’t get too specific here. I will bear the pain and invoke whatever compassion I can toward the accuser.
In all circumstances, I would say a person should never lose a grip on dharma (duty), integrity and compassion. Hold on to these for dear life.
May the Source be with you!
0 KM (Except for the walking within 3 airports.)
When Krishna had said he wouldn’t lift weapons in the Kurukshetra war, why does he say in Gita 11.33 that the Kauravas are already killed by him?
→ The Spiritual Scientist
From Sushant Kulkarni
Does taking anti-depressant drugs as medicine violate the no intoxication principle?
→ The Spiritual Scientist
From Jack Hansen P
When opulences are disqualifications for devotion, why does ISKCON preach to the opulent?
→ The Spiritual Scientist
From Mahesh P
"SB 1.8.26 — My Lord, Your Lordship can easily be approached, but only by those who are materially exhausted. One who is on the path of [material] progress, trying to improve himself with respectable parentage, great opulence, high education and bodily beauty, cannot approach You with sincere feeling."
We mainly focus preaching on reputed colleges where most of students possess most or all of these material opulence. So if we go by SB 1.8.26, reputed colleges are not conducive to preaching. Could you please clarify, prabhuji?
Gita 15.12 – Let the holy name illumine the heart with wisdom and devotion
→ The Spiritual Scientist
Gita 10.17 – The nectar of Krishna consciousness awaits those who persevere with faith and intelligence
→ The Spiritual Scientist
Prabhupada Letters :: Anthology 2014-08-10 00:12:00 →
1968 August 10: "It is very good that you would like to go to Boston to the Brahmacarini asrama. It is not very far from Montreal, so you can come here to visit. And when you come here, we shall talk together, and I shall initiate you as my disciple if you so desire."
Prabhupada Letters :: 1968
Prabhupada Letters :: 1968
Radha Madhava Bali
→ Ramai Swami
Sri Sri Radha Madhava temple in Gianyar, Bali has a large devotee community of nearly 200. Many of the grhasthas have built houses near the temple so they can attend and serve the temple regularly.
As you would expect, there are many children in the community and some of them are being trained up from an early age in Krsna Consciousness. They always participate in temple activities with enthusiasm, especially kirtan.
Prabhupada Letters :: Anthology 2014-08-10 00:07:00 →
1974 August 10: "You must keep your sannyasa, because you have taken it from me. Wherever you go, just try to follow the regulations, and Krishna will bless you. I do not want any personal service from you, I want only to keep you engaged in Krishna's service."
Prabhupada Letters :: 1974
Prabhupada Letters :: 1974
Prabhupada Letters :: Anthology 2014-08-09 23:44:00 →
1975 August 10: "I am organizing in Europe and America many farm lands so that my disciples can live peacefully, grow their own food, produce cloth, and save time for chanting Hare Krishna. This scheme has been successful in West Virginia, New Orleans, and Pennsylvania."
Prabhupada Letters :: 1975
Prabhupada Letters :: 1975
Prabhupada Letters :: Anthology 2014-08-09 23:42:00 →
1975 August 10: "I am very much anxious to start this Gurukula scheme immediately. I am starting for India immediately by cancelling other programs and if you kindly give us the land I shall begin the constructing of the Gurukula building immediately."
Prabhupada Letters :: 1975
Prabhupada Letters :: 1975
Our Contaminations Are Removed
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From The True Nature of the Holy Name
A Letter from Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura
The servant of Krsna
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(Kadamba Kanana Swami, 03 April 2010, Durban, South Africa, Lecture: Holy places in India)
We sat down with some devotees at the base of Govardhan hill and there were Govardhan Silas all around us! While I was playing the harmonium, I decided to sing, “Jaya Radhe Jaya Krsna, Jaya Vrndavan.” Then, the devotees started to decorate the Silas. They got flowers and tilak, and started to draw faces on all the Silas. They made offerings and we realized that we were surrounded by unlimited Govardhan Silas.
Govardhan is amazing because it is said that the hill is known as Haridasvarya because the hill is the greatest servant of Krsna. Of all the servants of Krsna, he is the greatest.
But, at the same time, Govardhan is also known as Krsna himself. He is both; just like Balarama, he is Krsna in the mood of serving Krsna. So, he can be worshiped as Krsna also. So, we should worship Govardhan as Krsna while we are chanting the holy names.
Cardiff Rathayatra
→ simple thoughts
Today was a fabulous day in the Welsh capital Cardiff was Sri Jagannath came and blessed the street’s ending up in Bute Park; here is a small video of the days pastimes for you all to enjoy
Hare Krishna
More Principle, Less Detail – Krishna Lounge Talk & Kirtan for July 31st 2014
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Kirtan lead by Mahat Tattva das:
Kirtan lead by Giriraj Gopal dasa:
Talk by Mahat Tattva dasa:
Srila Rupa Gosvami Disappearance Day! At Ter kadamba, Vrindavana, India (Album 75 photos)
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Sri Rupa Gosvami was the leader of all the Gosvamis, and to guide our activities he gave us this Upadesamrta (The Nectar of Instruction) to follow. As Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu left behind Him the eight verses known as Siksastaka, Rupa Gosvami gave us The Nectar of Instruction so that we may become pure Vaisnavas. Read more › Harinama in Croatia, Zadar (Album 31 photos)
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"One who chants the holy name even once is considered a Vaisnava devotee, and the householders should be very attentive to respect such a person. But the devotee who constantly chants Krsna's name is even a better Vaisnava, for he is endowed with all good qualities. The most advanced Vaisnava of all is he who inspires others who see him to immediately chant the Lord's name. When he chants the name even once, attraction to rendering eternal devotional service to the Supreme Lord is irrevocably established. Kindly tell Me how the nondevotees can be made to accept the chanting of the holy name of Krsna." Read more › Sri Krishna janmashtami Shobha Yatra in Delhi: 9th Aug, 2014 (Album 32 photos)
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Lord Krsna's name is cintamani, formed of eternal and transcendental touchstone. Just as a touchstone yields all desirable objects, so the touchstone of Krsna's holy name gives religiosity, wealth, sense pleasure and liberation to a materialistic person. To a surrendered devotee, it offers pure love of Krsna. Read more › Harinama in Croatia, Senj (Album 12 photos)
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Srila Haridasa continued to weep in ecstatic love. Lord Gauracandra encircled him with His arms in a loving embrace and said, "You are learned in all the truths of the holy name of the Lord; your spiritual conduct is exemplary; and you are an expert preacher. Therefore, O Haridasa, kindly reveal to Me something of the unlimited glories of the holy name. Please allow Me to savour your words. Read more › “Separation” – Poem by Madhu-dvisa Prabhu
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A little karma, a little charisma,
It will all be finished in the end.
Punah Mushika bhava: again become a mouse,
to ignominy condemned.
Do not think there's aught in you
That Prabhupada does not lend.
Know this truth, depend on him,
And you will see him once again.
Srila Prabhupada Ki Jaya! Read more › Why sadhu and guru are essential for understanding sastra, the basis of all spiritual practices (Part 1)
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Prabhupada Letters :: Anthology 2014-08-09 09:52:00 →
1967 August 9 : "I am very glad to inform you that we have safely reached India. I stayed for a few days in Delhi and then came to Vrindaban. I am undergoing the treatment of an ayurvedic physician celebrated to be the best in the area, and I think I am feeling a little better. Anyway, as soon as I am a little fit, I shall return to you by the Grace of Krishna. "
Prabhupada Letters :: 1967
Prabhupada Letters :: 1967
Prabhupada Letters :: Anthology 2014-08-09 09:51:00 →
1969 August 9 : "I do not think taking on an outside job will be nice. If you can organize sales of BTG and our literature very nicely, there will be no financial strain. Also try to cooperate with the local booksellers."
Prabhupada Letters :: 1969
Prabhupada Letters :: 1969
Prabhupada Letters :: Anthology 2014-08-09 09:50:00 →
1971 August 9: "I am so much grateful to you both, husband and wife, that you are so much helping me to fulfill the order of my Guru Maharaja. Just as soon as you have secured a nice temple, I will be glad to come and visit there. That will be very nice."
Prabhupada Letters :: 1971
Prabhupada Letters :: 1971
Prabhupada Letters :: Anthology 2014-08-09 09:48:00 →
1972 August 9 : "I am told such building could be built for less in America, what to speak of India. I shall expect it to be the most first-class building of India, you are spending like it is the Taj Mahal."
Prabhupada Letters :: 1972
Prabhupada Letters :: 1972
Prabhupada Letters :: Anthology 2014-08-09 09:45:00 →
1974 August 9: "You mention that you want to write a book, but instead of writing books, you should read and explain my books to others. Reading and writing are the same, sravanam kirtanam vishnoh."
Prabhupada Letters :: 1974
Prabhupada Letters :: 1974
Prabhupada Letters :: Anthology 2014-08-09 09:45:00 →
1972 August 9: "So you don't have to minimize the preaching program in order to study independently, no. preaching Krishna is the same as remembering Krishna. Your program for preaching is very much approved by me. I can understand if one of my students is making spiritual advancement if he is also making many devotees."
Prabhupada Letters :: 1972
Prabhupada Letters :: 1972
Prabhupada Letters :: Anthology 2014-08-09 09:39:00 →
1974 August 9: "You have sent a list of six men for initiation, so why you are disappointed? Do not think of changing the place. Stick to that place and chant Hare Krishna. Krishna will send more men, rest assured. Devotees may come or not come, but you do your duty."
Prabhupada Letters :: 1974
Prabhupada Letters :: 1974
Prabhupada Letters :: Anthology 2014-08-09 09:38:00 →
1974 August 9: "Regarding the picture of Krishna and Balarama fighting as bulls, this is completely rejected by me. It is not good. You have made it demoniac. Make Them as they are themselves, as boys fighting. Never show like this. Everything is there in the Krsna Book. Don't imagine."
Prabhupada Letters :: 1974
Prabhupada Letters :: 1974
ISKCON-London Mentorship System Maha Sanga 2014 (2 min video)
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This short trailer is about the ISKCON-London Mentorship System Maha Sanga in July 2014. It was organised by the ladies in Bhava Bhakti dd's mentee group and the theme was Devotee Care. Read more › Harinama in Tel Aviv, Israel (Album 51 photos)
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The only method or means (sadhana) in this age is the holy name of the Lord. The only goal (sadhya) to be attained in this age is Krsnaprema. Even in the stage of perfection, the name is not given up but is chanted all the more, for it is intrinsic to the activities of prema. Indeed, the name is not different from the Lord: it is the very embodiment of prema. If the means is the end, then the end and the means never contradict one another. If process is identical to the objective, then it is easy for the jivas to attain the desired goal of life, Krsnaprema. By the mercy of His holy name, Krsna easily delivers the jivas in the age of Kali. Read more › Harinam in Union Square Park, NY (Album 18 photos)
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The Lord, considering the jivas' welfare, descended in Kali-yuga along with His holy name to propagate the yugadharma (the religion of the age). By taking up the yugadharma the jiva attains love of Krsna: he has only to remember the Supreme Lord's name (namasmarana or japa) and chant the Lord's name congregationally (namasankirtan). Read more ›