Beautiful!
Utah Krishnas
Beautiful!
Beautiful!
Beautiful!
Utah Krishnas
Beautiful!
Preparing to Plant – part 2
→ Plant and Be Happy
I know many of you are anxious to get started, so let’s recap what needs to be done.
To put it simply, the raised beds need to be created.
1) This means tilling up the area around each bed and tilling in some peat. We have a good tiller, courtesy of Rupanuga.
2) Place the 4×20 frame (which is two [...]
We had so much fun! I brought a bunch of my friend…
Utah Krishnas
We had so much fun! I brought a bunch of my friends who had never been to the temple before and they all agreed, they want to come with me again this summer. I got them to buy the Higher Taste too and a couple of them said they want to go veggie now!
Hairbol!
Hairbol!
We had so much fun! I brought a bunch of my friend…
Utah Krishnas
We had so much fun! I brought a bunch of my friends who had never been to the temple before and they all agreed, they want to come with me again this summer. I got them to buy the Higher Taste too and a couple of them said they want to go veggie now!
Hairbol!
Hairbol!
Preparing to Plant
→ Plant and Be Happy
The developing community garden has practically been a mud pit with the rains this past week. Yesterday I was there, getting my shoes muddy, and grew about two inches in the process. I also gained weight, which if you know me personally is a good thing. Of course I lost that weight as [...]
Membership?
→ NY Times & Bhagavad Gita Sanga/ Sankirtana Das
I enjoyed reading Kaunteya’s clear and thoughtful comments on the topic of ISKCON membership.
http://kaunteyadas.posterous.com/iskcon-membership-what-i-wrote-to-gbc-discuss
Just want to interject a few additional thoughts.
Once upon a time, you had to move into the temple, give whatever you had to the temple, get initiated and serve the temple 24 hours a day to be considered a member. Obviously those standards have fallen away and the movement is continuing without that mindset and is actually florishing in many places. But I’d like to understand why now is there a need to define membership? What is the purpose?
In regards to the analogy of citizenship, Prabhupada always said that the trees, cows and other animals were also citizens and should be afforded the same rights of protection as any citizen. A citizen in good standing certainly abides by the rules of the land. As a citizen, one also has certain rights and privileges. What privileges will a members of ISKCON have? To vote? To receive an ISKCON pension? Healthcare? The children of citizens also have the same rights as their parents when they grow up. Citizenship is probably not a good analogy for membership because in most cases citizenship does not require a active decision by the citizen.
Here in New Vrindaban, as I’m sure at other temples, we have long time supporters who strongly identify with the efforts of the community. They might consider themselves members. Will the move to define membership alienate our supporters and well wishers? What category do they fit in? What privileges will ‘members’ that they don’t have?
Our supporters already naturally honor initiated devotees and temple residents. By doing so, they make advancement. Why artificially accentuate this distinction with member and non member status? Will we end up like to Mormons where only members in good standing can enter the Church?
http://kaunteyadas.posterous.com/iskcon-membership-what-i-wrote-to-gbc-discuss
Just want to interject a few additional thoughts.
Once upon a time, you had to move into the temple, give whatever you had to the temple, get initiated and serve the temple 24 hours a day to be considered a member. Obviously those standards have fallen away and the movement is continuing without that mindset and is actually florishing in many places. But I’d like to understand why now is there a need to define membership? What is the purpose?
In regards to the analogy of citizenship, Prabhupada always said that the trees, cows and other animals were also citizens and should be afforded the same rights of protection as any citizen. A citizen in good standing certainly abides by the rules of the land. As a citizen, one also has certain rights and privileges. What privileges will a members of ISKCON have? To vote? To receive an ISKCON pension? Healthcare? The children of citizens also have the same rights as their parents when they grow up. Citizenship is probably not a good analogy for membership because in most cases citizenship does not require a active decision by the citizen.
Here in New Vrindaban, as I’m sure at other temples, we have long time supporters who strongly identify with the efforts of the community. They might consider themselves members. Will the move to define membership alienate our supporters and well wishers? What category do they fit in? What privileges will ‘members’ that they don’t have?
Our supporters already naturally honor initiated devotees and temple residents. By doing so, they make advancement. Why artificially accentuate this distinction with member and non member status? Will we end up like to Mormons where only members in good standing can enter the Church?
Membership?
→ NY Times & Bhagavad Gita Sanga/ Sankirtana Das
I enjoyed reading Kaunteya’s clear and thoughtful comments on the topic of ISKCON membership.
http://kaunteyadas.posterous.com/iskcon-membership-what-i-wrote-to-gbc-discuss
Just want to interject a few additional thoughts.
Once upon a time, you had to move into the temple, give whatever you had to the temple, get initiated and serve the temple 24 hours a day to be considered a member. Obviously those standards have fallen away and the movement is continuing without that mindset and is actually florishing in many places. But I’d like to understand why now is there a need to define membership? What is the purpose?
In regards to the analogy of citizenship, Prabhupada always said that the trees, cows and other animals were also citizens and should be afforded the same rights of protection as any citizen. A citizen in good standing certainly abides by the rules of the land. As a citizen, one also has certain rights and privileges. What privileges will a members of ISKCON have? To vote? To receive an ISKCON pension? Healthcare? The children of citizens also have the same rights as their parents when they grow up. Citizenship is probably not a good analogy for membership because in most cases citizenship does not require a active decision by the citizen.
Here in New Vrindaban, as I’m sure at other temples, we have long time supporters who strongly identify with the efforts of the community. They might consider themselves members. Will the move to define membership alienate our supporters and well wishers? What category do they fit in? What privileges will ‘members’ that they don’t have?
Our supporters already naturally honor initiated devotees and temple residents. By doing so, they make advancement. Why artificially accentuate this distinction with member and non member status? Will we end up like to Mormons where only members in good standing can enter the Church?
http://kaunteyadas.posterous.com/iskcon-membership-what-i-wrote-to-gbc-discuss
Just want to interject a few additional thoughts.
Once upon a time, you had to move into the temple, give whatever you had to the temple, get initiated and serve the temple 24 hours a day to be considered a member. Obviously those standards have fallen away and the movement is continuing without that mindset and is actually florishing in many places. But I’d like to understand why now is there a need to define membership? What is the purpose?
In regards to the analogy of citizenship, Prabhupada always said that the trees, cows and other animals were also citizens and should be afforded the same rights of protection as any citizen. A citizen in good standing certainly abides by the rules of the land. As a citizen, one also has certain rights and privileges. What privileges will a members of ISKCON have? To vote? To receive an ISKCON pension? Healthcare? The children of citizens also have the same rights as their parents when they grow up. Citizenship is probably not a good analogy for membership because in most cases citizenship does not require a active decision by the citizen.
Here in New Vrindaban, as I’m sure at other temples, we have long time supporters who strongly identify with the efforts of the community. They might consider themselves members. Will the move to define membership alienate our supporters and well wishers? What category do they fit in? What privileges will ‘members’ that they don’t have?
Our supporters already naturally honor initiated devotees and temple residents. By doing so, they make advancement. Why artificially accentuate this distinction with member and non member status? Will we end up like to Mormons where only members in good standing can enter the Church?
Community Garden Rules
→ Plant and Be Happy
We would like to share the rules of the Garden. Most of this was taken from the American Community Garden Association and we also added a little of our own flavor. It is one page long.
The idea is that each plot user should read and sign so that there are no misunderstandings down the road. We can pass [...]
Soil needs more organic matter
→ Plant and Be Happy
In January we tilled the soil, tilled in 6 inches of leaves, and added soft rock phosphate and other nutrients to balance the soil. We have not tilled or dug in the garden since then.
Until the last few days, that is.
The clay soil simply has not broken up enough. We’re going to have to add a LOT more [...]
Gardening Seminar
→ Plant and Be Happy
Thank you to everyone who came to the meeting/seminar!
I know some were not able to attend. Everyone watched a video on Square Foot Gardening, practiced the spacing methods in several small boxes of sand, and learned how to use a refractometer by testing the Brix levels of some apples and carrots. In fact, someone bought [...]
Making the Raised Beds
→ Plant and Be Happy
Dear gardeners,
I just realized I have not been emailing all the articles for a while, I’ve been putting them on the blog. And I’ve not been putting all the updates on the blog! There is WAY too much to do….
We bought used 2x8x12 lumber from Dynomite Demolition on Highway 175. They have a lot of [...]
Students Visit New Vrindaban
→ NY Times & Bhagavad Gita Sanga/ Sankirtana Das
I want to thank Tapapunja prabhu for organizing a stellar event for the visiting students (both college and high school) and some of their teachers. The day here included four break out sessions (lead by Jamuna dd, Jayasri dd, Rupanuga and Tapapunga), tours of the Palace by Bhakta Tom, a performance by Devananda and myself, and topped off with a fantastic feast.
The visitors came from all over the country as part of The Ignatian Solidarity Network’s spring Teach-In. The three day Teach-In was hosted by Wheeling Jesuit University with the focus on environmental justice and sustainability. (Hummm, maybe we could start hosting stuff like this.) Tapapunja was one of the speakers there and he inspired 55 students and teachers to make the drive up to New Vrindaban this last Sunday.
After the feast, I met with visitors in the lobby and gave them this inquiry: “Please offer a brief reflection of your visit. How were the presentations, the food, and the overall schedule of the day? Your comments will help us improve our presentations. Thanks.” Some told me they really appreciated their time here, while others gave the written responses below. Some suggested room for improvement. Overall, the devotees’ concerted effort made a lasting impression on the group. Kudos to all involved.
The preaching events and festivals are certainly the life of New Vrindaban. There will be at least two other student groups coming in April and one in May.
***
The music session was wonderful and I learned so much. The talk on food was interesting as well. I loved the tour of the Palace. It was beautiful. The food was delicious and all the people were so kind and informative. The only ‘complaint’ I have is that the group sessions weren’t organized well. Groups should have been informed when to switch.
***
The schedule of the day worked out really well. My friends and I loved the tour of the Palace (very informative). The food was excellent.
***
I thought it was very interesting to learn about the Indian culture and different religions. I had a lot of fun. Thank you.
***
I thought the tour of the Palace was very neat. For the short amount of time we had, it was cool to still be able to learn about the spiritual cooking, the music and the Palace. The food was excellent. I enjoyed it very much. Thank you for your hospitality.
***
Wow! I had no idea what to expect when we signed up to come out. It was far and away an amazing experience. Everyone was so welcoming. The tours, presentations and food were all great.
***
It was educational. I learned a lot, and the atmosphere and all the music had a very tangible energy.
***
We were lost in one room for three sessions, but I loved the place and the people. Namaste.
***
Peaceful. Prayerful. Inspirational!
***
This was a wonderful experience. As a fellow resident of WV I feel empowered by knowing we share the beauty and spirituality of this wonderful land.
***
I came here unaware of the scale in which the Hare Krishna foundation was established in the area. It was truly a highly enjoyable day.
***
It is something wonderful to witness when a stranger opens his home to us - this is God welcoming us. To hear unfamiliar sounds crafted into music – this is God speaking to us. To taste unimaginable spices from the work of many hands – this is God sharing with us. Hare Krishna – many thanks.
The visitors came from all over the country as part of The Ignatian Solidarity Network’s spring Teach-In. The three day Teach-In was hosted by Wheeling Jesuit University with the focus on environmental justice and sustainability. (Hummm, maybe we could start hosting stuff like this.) Tapapunja was one of the speakers there and he inspired 55 students and teachers to make the drive up to New Vrindaban this last Sunday.
After the feast, I met with visitors in the lobby and gave them this inquiry: “Please offer a brief reflection of your visit. How were the presentations, the food, and the overall schedule of the day? Your comments will help us improve our presentations. Thanks.” Some told me they really appreciated their time here, while others gave the written responses below. Some suggested room for improvement. Overall, the devotees’ concerted effort made a lasting impression on the group. Kudos to all involved.
The preaching events and festivals are certainly the life of New Vrindaban. There will be at least two other student groups coming in April and one in May.
***
The music session was wonderful and I learned so much. The talk on food was interesting as well. I loved the tour of the Palace. It was beautiful. The food was delicious and all the people were so kind and informative. The only ‘complaint’ I have is that the group sessions weren’t organized well. Groups should have been informed when to switch.
***
The schedule of the day worked out really well. My friends and I loved the tour of the Palace (very informative). The food was excellent.
***
I thought it was very interesting to learn about the Indian culture and different religions. I had a lot of fun. Thank you.
***
I thought the tour of the Palace was very neat. For the short amount of time we had, it was cool to still be able to learn about the spiritual cooking, the music and the Palace. The food was excellent. I enjoyed it very much. Thank you for your hospitality.
***
Wow! I had no idea what to expect when we signed up to come out. It was far and away an amazing experience. Everyone was so welcoming. The tours, presentations and food were all great.
***
It was educational. I learned a lot, and the atmosphere and all the music had a very tangible energy.
***
We were lost in one room for three sessions, but I loved the place and the people. Namaste.
***
Peaceful. Prayerful. Inspirational!
***
This was a wonderful experience. As a fellow resident of WV I feel empowered by knowing we share the beauty and spirituality of this wonderful land.
***
I came here unaware of the scale in which the Hare Krishna foundation was established in the area. It was truly a highly enjoyable day.
***
It is something wonderful to witness when a stranger opens his home to us - this is God welcoming us. To hear unfamiliar sounds crafted into music – this is God speaking to us. To taste unimaginable spices from the work of many hands – this is God sharing with us. Hare Krishna – many thanks.
Students Visit New Vrindaban
→ NY Times & Bhagavad Gita Sanga/ Sankirtana Das
I want to thank Tapapunja prabhu for organizing a stellar event for the visiting students (both college and high school) and some of their teachers. The day here included four break out sessions (lead by Jamuna dd, Jayasri dd, Rupanuga and Tapapunga), tours of the Palace by Bhakta Tom, a performance by Devananda and myself, and topped off with a fantastic feast.
The visitors came from all over the country as part of The Ignatian Solidarity Network’s spring Teach-In. The three day Teach-In was hosted by Wheeling Jesuit University with the focus on environmental justice and sustainability. (Hummm, maybe we could start hosting stuff like this.) Tapapunja was one of the speakers there and he inspired 55 students and teachers to make the drive up to New Vrindaban this last Sunday.
After the feast, I met with visitors in the lobby and gave them this inquiry: “Please offer a brief reflection of your visit. How were the presentations, the food, and the overall schedule of the day? Your comments will help us improve our presentations. Thanks.” Some told me they really appreciated their time here, while others gave the written responses below. Some suggested room for improvement. Overall, the devotees’ concerted effort made a lasting impression on the group. Kudos to all involved.
The preaching events and festivals are certainly the life of New Vrindaban. There will be at least two other student groups coming in April and one in May.
***
The music session was wonderful and I learned so much. The talk on food was interesting as well. I loved the tour of the Palace. It was beautiful. The food was delicious and all the people were so kind and informative. The only ‘complaint’ I have is that the group sessions weren’t organized well. Groups should have been informed when to switch.
***
The schedule of the day worked out really well. My friends and I loved the tour of the Palace (very informative). The food was excellent.
***
I thought it was very interesting to learn about the Indian culture and different religions. I had a lot of fun. Thank you.
***
I thought the tour of the Palace was very neat. For the short amount of time we had, it was cool to still be able to learn about the spiritual cooking, the music and the Palace. The food was excellent. I enjoyed it very much. Thank you for your hospitality.
***
Wow! I had no idea what to expect when we signed up to come out. It was far and away an amazing experience. Everyone was so welcoming. The tours, presentations and food were all great.
***
It was educational. I learned a lot, and the atmosphere and all the music had a very tangible energy.
***
We were lost in one room for three sessions, but I loved the place and the people. Namaste.
***
Peaceful. Prayerful. Inspirational!
***
This was a wonderful experience. As a fellow resident of WV I feel empowered by knowing we share the beauty and spirituality of this wonderful land.
***
I came here unaware of the scale in which the Hare Krishna foundation was established in the area. It was truly a highly enjoyable day.
***
It is something wonderful to witness when a stranger opens his home to us - this is God welcoming us. To hear unfamiliar sounds crafted into music – this is God speaking to us. To taste unimaginable spices from the work of many hands – this is God sharing with us. Hare Krishna – many thanks.
The visitors came from all over the country as part of The Ignatian Solidarity Network’s spring Teach-In. The three day Teach-In was hosted by Wheeling Jesuit University with the focus on environmental justice and sustainability. (Hummm, maybe we could start hosting stuff like this.) Tapapunja was one of the speakers there and he inspired 55 students and teachers to make the drive up to New Vrindaban this last Sunday.
After the feast, I met with visitors in the lobby and gave them this inquiry: “Please offer a brief reflection of your visit. How were the presentations, the food, and the overall schedule of the day? Your comments will help us improve our presentations. Thanks.” Some told me they really appreciated their time here, while others gave the written responses below. Some suggested room for improvement. Overall, the devotees’ concerted effort made a lasting impression on the group. Kudos to all involved.
The preaching events and festivals are certainly the life of New Vrindaban. There will be at least two other student groups coming in April and one in May.
***
The music session was wonderful and I learned so much. The talk on food was interesting as well. I loved the tour of the Palace. It was beautiful. The food was delicious and all the people were so kind and informative. The only ‘complaint’ I have is that the group sessions weren’t organized well. Groups should have been informed when to switch.
***
The schedule of the day worked out really well. My friends and I loved the tour of the Palace (very informative). The food was excellent.
***
I thought it was very interesting to learn about the Indian culture and different religions. I had a lot of fun. Thank you.
***
I thought the tour of the Palace was very neat. For the short amount of time we had, it was cool to still be able to learn about the spiritual cooking, the music and the Palace. The food was excellent. I enjoyed it very much. Thank you for your hospitality.
***
Wow! I had no idea what to expect when we signed up to come out. It was far and away an amazing experience. Everyone was so welcoming. The tours, presentations and food were all great.
***
It was educational. I learned a lot, and the atmosphere and all the music had a very tangible energy.
***
We were lost in one room for three sessions, but I loved the place and the people. Namaste.
***
Peaceful. Prayerful. Inspirational!
***
This was a wonderful experience. As a fellow resident of WV I feel empowered by knowing we share the beauty and spirituality of this wonderful land.
***
I came here unaware of the scale in which the Hare Krishna foundation was established in the area. It was truly a highly enjoyable day.
***
It is something wonderful to witness when a stranger opens his home to us - this is God welcoming us. To hear unfamiliar sounds crafted into music – this is God speaking to us. To taste unimaginable spices from the work of many hands – this is God sharing with us. Hare Krishna – many thanks.
Gaura Purnima / Golden Avatar Festival 2010 Photos
→ blog
<p>The Golden Avatar Festival (Gaura Purnima) 2010 was held in Wellington last week.</p><p>I have uploaded the photos from the event to the gallery on this website. (Note that the photos at the start of this album are from a previous Krishna Fest; actual Gaura Purnima photos being after the "Golden Avatar: Rhythm & Dance!" display board photos).</p><p>View the photos <a href="http://deltaflow.com/pictures/v/gaurapurnima2010/">here</a>:</p><p><a href="http://deltaflow.com/pictures/v/gaurapurnima2010"><img src="http://www.deltaflow.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/gaurapurnima2010.jpg" alt="gaurapurnima2010" title="gaurapurnima2010" width="300" height="199" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-510"/></a></p>
Gaura Purnima / Golden Avatar Festival 2010 Photos
→ Home
The Golden Avatar Festival (Gaura Purnima) 2010 was held in Wellington last week.
I have uploaded the photos from the event to the gallery on this website. (Note that the photos at the start of this album are from a previous Krishna Fest; actual Gaura Purnima photos being after the "Golden Avatar: Rhythm & Dance!" display board photos).
View the photos here:
Gaura Purnima / Golden Avatar Festival 2010 Photos
→ Home
The Golden Avatar Festival (Gaura Purnima) 2010 was held in Wellington last week.
I have uploaded the photos from the event to the gallery on this website. (Note that the photos at the start of this album are from a previous Krishna Fest; actual Gaura Purnima photos being after the "Golden Avatar: Rhythm & Dance!" display board photos).
View the photos here:
The art of successful preaching, or not
→ Unplugged Ice
Try asking someone the following two questions:
1. Answering yes or no: will you answer this question in the same way that you will answer the next question?
2. Will you chant Hare Krsna?
Either way, if they answer, they will have to agree; or they will call you names unmentionable on this forum.
1. Answering yes or no: will you answer this question in the same way that you will answer the next question?
2. Will you chant Hare Krsna?
Either way, if they answer, they will have to agree; or they will call you names unmentionable on this forum.
The art of successful preaching, or not
→ Unplugged Ice
Try asking someone the following two questions:
1. Answering yes or no: will you answer this question in the same way that you will answer the next question?
2. Will you chant Hare Krsna?
Either way, if they answer, they will have to agree; or they will call you names unmentionable on this forum.
1. Answering yes or no: will you answer this question in the same way that you will answer the next question?
2. Will you chant Hare Krsna?
Either way, if they answer, they will have to agree; or they will call you names unmentionable on this forum.
Organic and High Brix
→ Plant and Be Happy
Organic gardening is focused on the inputs – what you put into the soil and on the plants – with the expectation of better nutrition as a result. High brix gardening is focused directly on the end result – the nutrition levels – and providing specific inputs necessary to obtain this. The methodologies are therefore [...]
the ism of monotheism
→ Unplugged Ice
My tendency has been to emphasize "monotheism" whenever i explain KC to anyone new to or ignorant of Vaisnava culture and philosophy. I'm not saying that this is wrong but i do wonder whether my use of the word is due to my being overly influenced by my Christian roots and Christianity's absolute abhorrence of anything other than that particular ism. So i checked the Vedabase and noticed that "monotheism", "monotheistic", "monotheist" and "monotheists" only have 7 hits in SP's writings, lectures, conversations, and letters....
SB 2.1.3 - as an explanation of what the verse talks about
Renunciation Through Wisdom - in regard to one religion and one creed
Lecture: Bg 9.15-18 NY Dec 2, 1966 - as an ism
Lecture NY Sept 8, 1966 - in regard to different types of philosophers seeing pantheism and monotheism
3 times in a letter to Prof Staal 30 Jan - in reference to Western monotheism
Srila Prabhupada didn't seem to bother too much with the ism of monotheism. He was more interested in connecting with Krsna in loving and personal service. There are so many isms and they do more to confuse than they do to enlighten. Once you label something you can easily put it aside and forget it. It's almost as if it has been conquered. So my emphasis on monotheism is ok, but it's not the essence of what Prabhupada taught. It's more the essence of what Christians and atheists have taught me.
SB 2.1.3 - as an explanation of what the verse talks about
Renunciation Through Wisdom - in regard to one religion and one creed
Lecture: Bg 9.15-18 NY Dec 2, 1966 - as an ism
Lecture NY Sept 8, 1966 - in regard to different types of philosophers seeing pantheism and monotheism
3 times in a letter to Prof Staal 30 Jan - in reference to Western monotheism
Srila Prabhupada didn't seem to bother too much with the ism of monotheism. He was more interested in connecting with Krsna in loving and personal service. There are so many isms and they do more to confuse than they do to enlighten. Once you label something you can easily put it aside and forget it. It's almost as if it has been conquered. So my emphasis on monotheism is ok, but it's not the essence of what Prabhupada taught. It's more the essence of what Christians and atheists have taught me.
the ism of monotheism
→ Unplugged Ice
My tendency has been to emphasize "monotheism" whenever i explain KC to anyone new to or ignorant of Vaisnava culture and philosophy. I'm not saying that this is wrong but i do wonder whether my use of the word is due to my being overly influenced by my Christian roots and Christianity's absolute abhorrence of anything other than that particular ism. So i checked the Vedabase and noticed that "monotheism", "monotheistic", "monotheist" and "monotheists" only have 7 hits in SP's writings, lectures, conversations, and letters....
SB 2.1.3 - as an explanation of what the verse talks about
Renunciation Through Wisdom - in regard to one religion and one creed
Lecture: Bg 9.15-18 NY Dec 2, 1966 - as an ism
Lecture NY Sept 8, 1966 - in regard to different types of philosophers seeing pantheism and monotheism
3 times in a letter to Prof Staal 30 Jan - in reference to Western monotheism
Srila Prabhupada didn't seem to bother too much with the ism of monotheism. He was more interested in connecting with Krsna in loving and personal service. There are so many isms and they do more to confuse than they do to enlighten. Once you label something you can easily put it aside and forget it. It's almost as if it has been conquered. So my emphasis on monotheism is ok, but it's not the essence of what Prabhupada taught. It's more the essence of what Christians and atheists have taught me.
SB 2.1.3 - as an explanation of what the verse talks about
Renunciation Through Wisdom - in regard to one religion and one creed
Lecture: Bg 9.15-18 NY Dec 2, 1966 - as an ism
Lecture NY Sept 8, 1966 - in regard to different types of philosophers seeing pantheism and monotheism
3 times in a letter to Prof Staal 30 Jan - in reference to Western monotheism
Srila Prabhupada didn't seem to bother too much with the ism of monotheism. He was more interested in connecting with Krsna in loving and personal service. There are so many isms and they do more to confuse than they do to enlighten. Once you label something you can easily put it aside and forget it. It's almost as if it has been conquered. So my emphasis on monotheism is ok, but it's not the essence of what Prabhupada taught. It's more the essence of what Christians and atheists have taught me.
Community Garden – soil test results
→ Plant and Be Happy
In the community garden, we are providing nutrients in specific amounts to replenish those nutrients lacking in unamended Dallas soil. We are following a high brix program. Based on the soil test, the foremost need is phosphorus. We are putting in 280 pounds of soft rock phosphate, which meets organic requirements.
There are a few other amendments being added but [...]
KENYA EAGER EYES
→ the world i know
Our six hour flight from Mumbai was quite an easy one and Jet lag was practically nonexistent. After 16 years I was back in Africa, this time with a mission and a vision. Although I had never been to Kenya certain scenes are similar- the marketplace, the colorful dress etc etc. Nairobi is a full blown city and our temple is smack in the middle of it with various programs for teaching Krsna consciousness. Many locals came to our Saturday programs and the gathering stayed alive with amazing questions from the students. Getting my visa to South Africa occupied a lot of my time and so I didn't get to explore as I wanted to. I especially hoped to visit Masai communities. They are known as the most intelligent tribe of people in Africa. Next time maybe. Four days later we flew to Kisumu to visit our other temple there- So beautiful and cozy with garden, fountains and much more. We took a drive to our property on Lake Victoria, green fertile land, beautiful Lake Victoria to the west, Papyrus reeds everywhere and as we learned, Hippos graze there every night! If you see a hip hip hippo pot a mus!
As we drove by I lifted my head just in time to see a cherished site- a Masai! He was dressed in Saffron cloth wrapped around his waist, a blue and purple shawl, and he carried a stick wrapped in yellow cloth. So regal! I've wanted to see these people since I was a weee weeeeee one, and there, going to Lake Victoria was a Masai. Next morning we drove to Kampala Uganda, passing some baboons on the way, The Nile river and other natural sights.
I'll be writing more soon :) No fun just giving all away here, plus I'm jet lagged having just landed in Johannesburg!
KENYA EAGER EYES
→ the world i know
Our six hour flight from Mumbai was quite an easy one and Jet lag was practically nonexistent. After 16 years I was back in Africa, this time with a mission and a vision. Although I had never been to Kenya certain scenes are similar- the marketplace, the colorful dress etc etc. Nairobi is a full blown city and our temple is smack in the middle of it with various programs for teaching Krsna consciousness. Many locals came to our Saturday programs and the gathering stayed alive with amazing questions from the students. Getting my visa to South Africa occupied a lot of my time and so I didn't get to explore as I wanted to. I especially hoped to visit Masai communities. They are known as the most intelligent tribe of people in Africa. Next time maybe. Four days later we flew to Kisumu to visit our other temple there- So beautiful and cozy with garden, fountains and much more. We took a drive to our property on Lake Victoria, green fertile land, beautiful Lake Victoria to the west, Papyrus reeds everywhere and as we learned, Hippos graze there every night! If you see a hip hip hippo pot a mus!As we drove by I lifted my head just in time to see a cherished site- a Masai! He was dressed in Saffron cloth wrapped around his waist, a blue and purple shawl, and he carried a stick wrapped in yellow cloth. So regal! I've wanted to see these people since I was a weee weeeeee one, and there, going to Lake Victoria was a Masai. Next morning we drove to Kampala Uganda, passing some baboons on the way, The Nile river and other natural sights.
I'll be writing more soon :) No fun just giving all away here, plus I'm jet lagged having just landed in Johannesburg!
Using Wood for Raised Beds
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“Don’t use treated wood in your veggie garden!”
How many times have you heard this?
CCA (Chromated Copper Arsenate) wood has been off the market for seven years now, so there is no need to discuss that. The newer wood (ACQ) has copper and an ammonium compound, so the primary concern is the copper. The type available in the south [...]
Spiritual Recharge Festival 2009/2010
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<p>Every year Hare Krishna devotees from around Australia and New Zealand get together for an 11-day Spiritual Recharge Festival. Lots of feasting, chanting, seminars and association (and my wedding - see previous post). This year there were 130 guests at the retreat. The biggest ever! So much opportunity to meet many wonderful souls. </p><p>At this festival I also got Brahminical-initiation (the day before the wedding). So, I am now a Brahmana (teacher/intellectual) by Varna (occupation) and a Grihastra (householder) by Ashram (stage of life/shelter).</p><p>I took so many photos. It took quite a while to narrow them down to the 280 best pictures. But that process is now complete ... and here they are. Please browse them to your hearts' content:</p><p> <a href="http://deltaflow.com/pictures/v/retreat2009/"><img src="http://www.deltaflow.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/2009-12-31-imgp0167.jpg" alt="Spiritual Recharge Retreat Festival 2009 2010" title="Spiritual Recharge Retreat Festival 2009 2010" width="199" height="300" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-503"/></a></p>
Gaura Haven photos
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<p>Have you heard of Gaura Haven? It is in the Otaki gorge region (1 hour's drive North of Wellington, NZ). Lots of work has gone into the place over the past year. It is very beautiful and many new crops have been planted in the garden. I took a bunch of pictures of Gaura Haven and its surroundings.</p><p>Take a look at the wonderful natural beauty:</p><p><a href="http://deltaflow.com/pictures/v/gaurahavenjanuary2010/"><img src="http://www.deltaflow.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/2009-12-30-imgp9968.jpg" alt="Gaura Haven January 2010" title="Gaura Haven January 2010" width="300" height="199" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-499"/></a></p>
Community Garden Update
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Our community garden is now open to anyone who wants a plot.
The last soil amendment – soft rock phosphate – is being shipped from Arkansas. The trucking company was delayed due to weather and it will not be here until Wednesday February 17.
If it doesn’t rain in the next few days we’ll spread it on Wednesday [...]
Rotorua (and Huka Falls) vacation
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<p>After my wedding my parents, wife and I headed up to Rotorua for a vacation. We toured the powerful Huka Waterfalls and visited the strange and wonderful volcanic landscapes of Rotorua (and had some fun riding down the "Luge".</p><p>Lots of photos of all that. Check them out here:<br/><a href="http://deltaflow.com/pictures/v/rotorua/"><img src="http://www.deltaflow.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/2010-01-05-imgp0716.jpg" alt="Huka falls and rotorua" title="Huka falls and rotorua" width="300" height="199" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-496"/></a></p>
Spiritual Recharge Festival 2009/2010
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Every year Hare Krishna devotees from around Australia and New Zealand get together for an 11-day Spiritual Recharge Festival. Lots of feasting, chanting, seminars and association (and my wedding - see previous post). This year there were 130 guests at the retreat. The biggest ever! So much opportunity to meet many wonderful souls.
At this festival I also got Brahminical-initiation (the day before the wedding). So, I am now a Brahmana (teacher/intellectual) by Varna (occupation) and a Grihastra (householder) by Ashram (stage of life/shelter).
I took so many photos. It took quite a while to narrow them down to the 280 best pictures. But that process is now complete ... and here they are. Please browse them to your hearts' content:
Spiritual Recharge Festival 2009/2010
→ Home
Every year Hare Krishna devotees from around Australia and New Zealand get together for an 11-day Spiritual Recharge Festival. Lots of feasting, chanting, seminars and association (and my wedding - see previous post). This year there were 130 guests at the retreat. The biggest ever! So much opportunity to meet many wonderful souls.
At this festival I also got Brahminical-initiation (the day before the wedding). So, I am now a Brahmana (teacher/intellectual) by Varna (occupation) and a Grihastra (householder) by Ashram (stage of life/shelter).
I took so many photos. It took quite a while to narrow them down to the 280 best pictures. But that process is now complete ... and here they are. Please browse them to your hearts' content:
My wedding (with photos)
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<p>It seems about time I posted something on this blog. I has been quite a while. News of the moment: I have gotten married. On the 1st of January 2010 I, Candidasa dasa, married the lovely Visnumaya devi dasi. Or, if you prefer, our western names: Julian Malik Seidenberg and Susan Elizabeth Burrows (now Seidenberg).</p><p>Lots of great pictures from the event (thanks to Thakur Saranga and Sukanthi Radha for taking the pictures):</p><p><a href="http://deltaflow.com/pictures/v/wedding/"><img class="size-full wp-image-491" src="http://www.deltaflow.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/candidasa-visnumaya-wedding33.jpg" alt="Candidasa Visnumaya Wedding" title="candidasa-visnumaya-wedding33" width="300" height="169"/></a></p><p>The wedding was traditional Vedic/Hare Krishna style. Here are some of the fun traditions depicted in the photos:</p><ul><li>showering the deities with flowers (pushpa abhishek) and then showering those flowers over the audience and married couple to counteract any bad astrological influences</li><li>the groom leaving the wedding with his Bhagavad-Gita and umbrella to meditate in the forest as a celebrate monk (brahmacari) for the rest of his life (but being convinced otherwise by the spiritual master - representing the father of the bride)</li><li>exchanging garlands</li><li>tying the hands together with a flower garland and sealing it with water<br/> tying the couple's clothing together with a knot</li><li>a fire sacrifice (agni-hotra) where various grains, seeds and fruits are thrown into a fire to purify any bad karma reactions</li></ul>
Gaura Haven photos
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Have you heard of Gaura Haven? It is in the Otaki gorge region (1 hour's drive North of Wellington, NZ). Lots of work has gone into the place over the past year. It is very beautiful and many new crops have been planted in the garden. I took a bunch of pictures of Gaura Haven and its surroundings.
Take a look at the wonderful natural beauty:
Gaura Haven photos
→ Home
Have you heard of Gaura Haven? It is in the Otaki gorge region (1 hour's drive North of Wellington, NZ). Lots of work has gone into the place over the past year. It is very beautiful and many new crops have been planted in the garden. I took a bunch of pictures of Gaura Haven and its surroundings.
Take a look at the wonderful natural beauty:
Rotorua (and Huka Falls) vacation
→ Home
After my wedding my parents, wife and I headed up to Rotorua for a vacation. We toured the powerful Huka Waterfalls and visited the strange and wonderful volcanic landscapes of Rotorua (and had some fun riding down the "Luge".
Lots of photos of all that. Check them out here:
Rotorua (and Huka Falls) vacation
→ Home
After my wedding my parents, wife and I headed up to Rotorua for a vacation. We toured the powerful Huka Waterfalls and visited the strange and wonderful volcanic landscapes of Rotorua (and had some fun riding down the "Luge".
Lots of photos of all that. Check them out here:
My wedding (with photos)
→ Home
It seems about time I posted something on this blog. I has been quite a while. News of the moment: I have gotten married. On the 1st of January 2010 I, Candidasa dasa, married the lovely Visnumaya devi dasi. Or, if you prefer, our western names: Julian Malik Seidenberg and Susan Elizabeth Burrows (now Seidenberg).
Lots of great pictures from the event (thanks to Thakur Saranga and Sukanthi Radha for taking the pictures):
The wedding was traditional Vedic/Hare Krishna style. Here are some of the fun traditions depicted in the photos:
- showering the deities with flowers (pushpa abhishek) and then showering those flowers over the audience and married couple to counteract any bad astrological influences
- the groom leaving the wedding with his Bhagavad-Gita and umbrella to meditate in the forest as a celebrate monk (brahmacari) for the rest of his life (but being convinced otherwise by the spiritual master - representing the father of the bride)
- exchanging garlands
- tying the hands together with a flower garland and sealing it with water
tying the couple's clothing together with a knot - a fire sacrifice (agni-hotra) where various grains, seeds and fruits are thrown into a fire to purify any bad karma reactions
My wedding (with photos)
→ Home
It seems about time I posted something on this blog. I has been quite a while. News of the moment: I have gotten married. On the 1st of January 2010 I, Candidasa dasa, married the lovely Visnumaya devi dasi. Or, if you prefer, our western names: Julian Malik Seidenberg and Susan Elizabeth Burrows (now Seidenberg).
Lots of great pictures from the event (thanks to Thakur Saranga and Sukanthi Radha for taking the pictures):
The wedding was traditional Vedic/Hare Krishna style. Here are some of the fun traditions depicted in the photos:
- showering the deities with flowers (pushpa abhishek) and then showering those flowers over the audience and married couple to counteract any bad astrological influences
- the groom leaving the wedding with his Bhagavad-Gita and umbrella to meditate in the forest as a celebrate monk (brahmacari) for the rest of his life (but being convinced otherwise by the spiritual master - representing the father of the bride)
- exchanging garlands
- tying the hands together with a flower garland and sealing it with water
tying the couple's clothing together with a knot - a fire sacrifice (agni-hotra) where various grains, seeds and fruits are thrown into a fire to purify any bad karma reactions
Visit to New Talavan!
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Two weeks ago Kunti and I visited New Talavan for the very first time. It is a rural community about one hour northeast from New Orleans, in Mississippi.
We had a great time! Devotees were nice, Deities were nice, and I finally met a good online acquaintance, Adi Karta prabhu. He is moving to New Talavan from Alachua, and his mobile [...]