If both Krishna and we are eternal, then how is he our source and why don’t we have the six opulences fully?
→ The Spiritual Scientist

From Jayant Kulkarni

We had very nice discussion over Whats App and one devotee asked an interesting question. As per BG2.12, lord says that he and we are eternal. Which means no one is first and other is second If so then it means we both existed at the same time. If so then how can he become our source? Secondly, we both existed at same time (Let us consider some time as there is not effect of time in spiritual sky.) then how come Krishna has all opulence in full and we don’t.

Answer Podcast

353. Power lines
→ 9 Days, 8 Nights

Saw these birds sitting on high voltage power lines. They are fearless and comfortable on it. Had their feet been on two of the lines, they would be dead. Similarly, if we keep our focus solely on the lotus feet of Krishna, we can live comfortably in the material world. Having our thoughts on multiple lines of desires and solely for our own sense gratification, will completely kill our spiritual growth.

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He’s the one!
→ KKSBlog

(Kadamba Kanana Swami, February 2011, Stockholm, Sweden, Lecture) 

lord-krishnaIt is certainly good to look for inspiration in the association of devotees but we must also learn to find it when we are completely alone. If we always try to fill the vacuum by being with others and hoping that something inspirational is going to happen, then each time when we are alone, we fall back in a vacuum.

No, we must also learn to appreciate Krsna’s presence when we are alone. He’s here! He’s always here! He’s really here! We are never alone! Krsna is here in all his magnificent glories. So where is the question of having to go to anyone when we have Krsna?

In any relationship, there is always a third person – Krsna, and he is by far more inspiring than any other person. It is Krsna that is the most inspiring person in any relationship. So, we have to remember the third person is always there, and ultimately, that he is the one! The one whom we are actually taking inspiration from!

Waitangi Festival
→ Ramai Swami

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The devotees around Auckland organised a 6 day family festival that saw nearly 80 devotees travel to Waitangi in the north of New Zealand. Waitangi is the famous place where in 1840 The British signed a treaty with the Maori that was first signed by 43 Northlands chiefs and then by over 500 Maori chiefs as it was taken around the country over an 8 month period.

The devotees stayed at a Marae ( a communal sacred place for Maoris) that had wonderful facilities for accommodation, cooking, kirtan and other programs. Everyone was careful to preserve the sanctity of the Marae so as to not upset the Maori Elders. I was able to participate for a few days and it was wonderful to have everyone’s association in such a relaxed setting.
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Be Completely Present with Krishna at Every Moment, January 26, Bhaktivedanta Manor, London, England
Giriraj Swami

01.26.14_BVMGiriraj Swami read and spoke from Srimad-Bhagavatam 2.3.17 at Bhaktivedanta Manor on Sunday evening.

“How is it that by rising and by setting the sun decreased the duration of life of everyone except one who utilizes the time in Krishna consciousness? This is the basic instruction of the verse. It is because everyone is approaching death, but the devotee is approaching eternal life. So he is not getting closer to death, but he is getting closer to his eternal life with Krishna.”

Srimad-Bhagavatam 2.3.17

This life creates one’s next life
→ The Spiritual Scientist

Of course, one's thoughts during the course of one's life accumulate to influence one's thoughts at the moment of death, so this life creates one's next life. If in one's present life one lives in the mode of goodness and always thinks of Krishna, it is possible for one to remember Krishna at the end of one's life.

- Srila Prabhupada, Bhagavad-gita As It Is 8.6 purport

Monday, January 27th, 2014
→ The Walking Monk

Toronto, Ontario

Nick and Choices

 Nick was my ravine companion today.

“What an awesome serenity it is!”  I said to him trying to stir a response.

“Absolutely, you forget what it’s like because we’re always in the city.”

Before we embarked on this evening trek, Nick was a little apprehensive, “It’s going to be quite dark, isn’t it, Maharaja?”

“Not really, the snow lights up the way.”

During the entire trek, we saw not a soul in the ravine, until what appeared to be an apparition, a dark and hazy image of a human who then separated into three.  There it was, heavily clothed, and out of the form manifest two dogs on either side of this woman, leashed by her hands.  Funny thing was, when we got about two arms lengths close to her as we stuck to the tight trail, she, the dog owner, appeared more spooked of us than we were of her.

I swear to God, they were our only encounterees on the trail.  It contributed to the shanty (peaceful) nature of the place.  It was such a far cry from the quick encounter Durjoy and I had on Yonge Street the night before, right outside a strip joint.  Two young men were just initiating a brawl.  There were foul words, shouting began, then the breaking of a beer bottle as a lethal weapon.  It was Kali Yuga in full swing.  This is not what you are likely to see in a natural ambience which is so passive.  We kept walking on hoping to report to the police.  No luck. 

If we have a choice towards a passive or passionate life, and we do, why not act smart?  Make the right decision.  Don’t let anger block the intelligence.

May the Source be with you!

7 KM

In the registry office the bride came in a sari, and the guests sang mantras!
→ Dandavats.com

(Automatically translated from Russian) Nadia was in a beautiful white and gold sari and flowers in her hair, and on the forehead the groom was wearing the tilak - a sacred sign of devotion to Krishna. Instead of "Kiss!" Guests shouted "Haribol!" Which means "Call the names Hari" or chanting of the Holy Name. And when you exit the registry office a young family showered rose petals under the chanting of mantras and music of drums, flutes and other instruments. -- Read more ›

Dancing God
→ Tattva - See inside out

Nowadays you have to use the word “God” with great caution - it can conjure up all kinds of images. Some think of God as a strict and unforgiving judge; the old man who sits on a grand throne and hurls down thunderbolts every time someone deviates. Others consider Him a crutch for the weak; an imaginary being who brings peace, hope and comfort, but has little to do with objective reality. Some think of God as a mythological tool of the power hungry elite, used to keep the masses in line and maintain the status quo. For many, God is simply the cosmic order-supplier; a convenient port of call in times of need and want.

The Vedic canon paints a slightly different picture. Their extraordinary revelation is not only that God exists, but that He is bursting with colour, character and bliss. God is “Raso vai sah”  – the very embodiment of affectionate relationships, loving relish, and transcendental sweetness.

"I would only believe in a God that knows how to dance" - Fredrick Nietszche

Sri Krishna, the Supreme personality, eternally resides in the spiritual world. That realm is known as Vaikuntha, the place of no anxiety, the place where every step is a dance, every word a song, and where all relationships are infused with selfless love. In that abode the spontaneous and natural relationships with Krishna transcend ritual, formality and reverence; fully satisfying the heart’s yearning. Song and dance, two of the most intense forms of emotional expression, are very much a part of the daily schedule.

Maybe Nietszche was searching for Krishna, the enchanting flute-player who dances with the cowherd maidens in the moonlight. Maybe we all are.

16th Annual Day celebrations of the Bhaktivedanta hospital
→ Dandavats.com

On the 10th of January’ 2014, Radhanath Swami addressed guests, doctors and the Directors of the Bhaktivedanta Hospital. He was attending the 16th Annual Day celebrations of the hospital, which was founded, and is presently managed, under his direct vision. Radhanath Swami was accompanied by his dear friend Giriraj Swami, Dr. Ajay Sankhe, the Director of the hospital, and the Trustees Rishikesh Mafatlal, ND Desai, and Sanjeev Maheshwari. Addressing over a fifteen hundred people, Radhanath Swami spoke of the need to constantly meditate on the purpose of the hospital; that is to offer compassion for the body, mind and souls of all human beings. -- Read more ›

Iskcon members attended the gala to celebrate the Day of the Republic of India (Album 35 photos)
→ Dandavats.com

(Automatically translated from Russian) Number of people apparently turned if not record, it is very impressive - at a rough estimate of about a thousand people. Among them were the ambassadors of Nepal, Sri Lanka and other countries, as well as famous scientists, politicians and public figures, members of the government commissions on economic, trade and cultural cooperation, representatives of public organizations. Fully stocked huge reception hall guests luxury hotel was another sign of the strong interest of Russia to India, including its people, traditions, rich spiritual heritage. -- Read more ›

ISKCON Pandharpur Lord Jagannath Rath Yatra’ held on 14 January (Album 33 photos)
→ Dandavats.com

Pandharpur - the city of Lord Sri Vitthal. Village preaching, Nagar Sankirtan, Prabhupada's Book Distribution and distribution of large amount of Krishna Prasad to lacs of pilgrims in month of Ashadha are the major activities of ISKCON Pandharpur. Also festivals like Janmashtami, Gaur-Pornima, Ram Navami and Jagannatha Rathayatra are celebrated with great pomp and gaiety. Devotees also celebrate Dindi – the walking festival, many times in the year. We invite you to give a visit to Holy Dham Pandharpur and be blessed by Lord Vitthal and Sri Sri Radha Pandharinath. ISKCON Pandharpur has now a beautiful guest-house with all facilities to stay with your family and participate in daily spiritual programs in the temple....Hare Krishna! -- Read more ›

Pete Seegar 1919-2014 Sings Raghupati Raghva Rajaram
→ View From a New Vrindaban Ridge

Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram is a popular bhajan (Hindu devotional song) that was a favorite of Mahatma Gandhi. It is also a favorite amongst devotees in New Vrindaban.

Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram
Patita Pavan Sitaram

Sitaram, Sitaram,
Bhaj Pyare Mana Sitaram
Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram
Patita Pavan Sitaram

Ishwar Allah Tero Nam,
Sabako Sanmati De Bhagawan
Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram
Patita Pavan Sitaram

Mukhmen Tulsi Ghatamen Ram,
Jab Bolo Tab Sitaram
Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram
Patita Pavan Sitaram

Hathose Karo Gharka Kam,
Mukhase Bolo Sitaram
Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram
Patita Pavan Sitaram

Kaushalyaka Vhala Ram,
Dashrathjika Pyara Ram
Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram
Patita Pavan Sitaram

Bansivala Hay Ghanshyam,
Dhanushya Dhari Sitaram
Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram
Patita Pavan Sitaram

The song starts with the praise of Raja Ram (Lord Ram). Lord Ram is an incarnation of Vishnu (the preserving aspect of Brahman). Lord Ram is an embodiment of Dharma (Right duty, righteousness) and Virtue.

Raghupati Raghav mean one who has attained all spiritual knowledge, who is strong and firm in righteousness, who is radiant like the thousand suns and who has viveka (spiritual discrimination) and vairagya (dispassion for worldly thing). Such is Raja Ram.

Patit Pavan means the uplifter of those who have fallen from the path of righteousness and virtue. So, we call upon Mother Sita and Raja Ram who are the uplifters of the fallen. Mother Sita is the daughter of Earth. She signifies selfless Love and purity. Mother Earth gives us everything she has without asking anything in return. Mother earth is always pure and everything we get comes from that purity.

Bhaj Pyare Tu Sita Ram means — O beloved Lord Ram and Mother Sita we praise you for what you are and what you signify.

Ishvar Allah Tero naam means — People call you by many names, some call you God “Ishvar” while some call you Allah, but you are the one and only Holy Spirit that is within us all and we are all within you.

Sabko Sanmati De Bhagvan means — Bless everyone with this very wisdom that we are all the product of the same Holy Spirit and that all of us strive towards the path of righteousness and virtue.

Hope that you will find peace and joy in singing this bhajan. We will get utmost spiritual benefit of this devotional song if we can remember its meaning and significance while singing.
Shri Ram Jai Ram Jai Jai Ram

Courtesy: http://truehinduism.wordpress.com/201


Filed under: Poetry

If a person feels spaced out after chanting 16 rounds daily and more focused after chanting less rounds, what should be done?
→ The Spiritual Scientist

From Ram Charan das

A devotee whom I know said to me that when he chants 16 rounds a day he finds himself out of focus

and spaced out.  So he cannot concentrate on anything throughout the day and his mind is always wandering

from one thing to another and he seems to have no control over it.  When he does not chant his 16 rounds but

as many as is possible i.e. 4 or 5 or 9 or 13  then his focus is better and his work is better.

Please advise how he can chant 16 rounds a day and still maintain focus on the work that he is doing?

Answer Podcast

Please see this answer too:

My obsessive thoughts dont allow me to chant and if I force myself to chant i feel haterful towards the Lord. Please advice.

 

Fatal Attraction Part 2: Illuminating the Shadow of our Past
→ Karnamrita.das's blog

I am continuing the reposting of this 5 part series as a way to commemorate this month which marks my 45th year of coming to Krishna. The basic premise of this series is to posit that our greatest challenges, problems, reverses, difficulties, hurts, or pain, have the power to crush us (if we let them), or offer the greatest opportunity for personal and spiritual growth. Specifically here, I am speaking of our childhood, and how huge a shadow it casts on our life—which could be good or bad, or likely, a mixture. Our parents are instruments of our karma and are meant teach us valuable lessons for living our lives. Many people don’t really worry about this and simply live without a lot of deep introspection about how their past has shaped them, which isn’t a bad fact if one is happy and fulfilled.

Author: 
Karnamrita Das

(this blog is recorded on the full page: quick time player is needed; works best with Firefox or Explorer; if you are using Google Chrome it will automatically play, so to not listen, mute your speakers.)
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(Fast forward sixteen years from the marriage spoken about in part 1.) This seemed like any typical San Francisco summer morning, foggy and cool, but it was anything but normal to Chris, who was going to do something he didn’t want to do, while his Dad, Johnny, was happy. They were driving to the courthouse for a divorce settlement. Parking, they walked up the stairs and into the building. John found the appropriate courtroom and they took their seats to wait their turn. Chris felt sick to his stomach and wished he could just run away, but knew he couldn’t, so instead, he retreated deeper into himself. It was like he wasn’t even there. Disassociation was how he survived childhood and it had served him well. While a good temporary protection strategy, it was a poor way to live at all times. Later in life, Chris would find his biggest challenge was learning to be present, and to feel, whether sadness or love, but depression became a way to be numb, though it gradually became his clue that something was wrong, very wrong.

For all practical purposes, the memory of this courtroom experience was gone, buried under the debris of pain and disappointment. He only knew it happened on the rare occasions his dad recounted how proud he was hearing that Chris, when asked by the judge, wanted to live with his father—which was totally untrue. Even though Chris couldn’t remember the last time his dad beat him, he still was afraid of him and on guard in case his father would become angry and hit him, so he didn’t speak his mind at court, or for that matter, much at all.

read more

Do Yamadutas commit mistakes by taking some person other than the intended?
→ The Spiritual Scientist

Sometimes some people report incidents when they were taken while in sleep or unconsciousness to Yamaraja, who says, "This was not the Amit you were supposed to bring - that was another Amit. Take this person back."

How then is God's system of justice perfect? Do the Yamadutas identify souls' by their this lifetime's names?

Answer Podcast

New Vrindaban Daily darsan @ January 28, 2014.
→ New Vrindaban Brijabasi Spirit

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Is this the wonder of the Supreme Personality of Godhead’s opulence? Is this the wonderful sweetness of the shoreless nectar ocean of transcendental bliss? Is this the seed of many splendid kalpa-vrksa forests? Is this Vrndavana, the glorious and wonderful transformation of pure love for Krsna?

[Source : Nectarean Glories of Sri Vrindavana-dhama by Srila Prabodhananda Sarasvati Thakura, 1-46 Translation.]

Please click here for more photos