Mayapur, India
Talking to the Monks
It was the first time
in days to feel a breeze coming. Most
likely it has something to do with Mother Ganga, who moves with speed, and
carries air currents which piggy-back on her.
In any event, the cool gusts are welcoming.
Ascending the stairs of the Lotus Building was the opportune time for
the experience.
Now, I was honoured to
be asked to present myself as a full-fledged monk of thirty-three years (and
ten celibate brahmachari years before
that) in front of a class of soon-to-be-ordained sanyasis (monks). There were
thirty of them, representing the U.S., Europe, Russia, Bengal, and Bangladesh. My impression of the group was that they are
mature, sober (a word our guru, Srila Prabhupada, used to denote cool-headed),
good listeners, appreciative….
Krsna Ksetra Swami,
the co-ordinator, had asked that I present a biographical opening. Of course that included how I began my
walking excursions. I then walked
everyone through the Society’s 7 Purposes (of ISKCON). He suggested I bring up personal, relevant
points to do with the renounced order.
At least three bullet
points were:
1) Encourage wholesome family life, as most people
on the spiritual path will not become fully renounced anyway.
2) Do not become wholly dependent on others. Learn
some self-reliance—as a sanyasi many people will be inclined to do many menial
tasks for you
3) Watch out for the adoration; always take a
humble position
A a fourth would be:
4) Example is better than precept, or as St.
Francis of Assisi is attributed to have said, “Preach…and, if you have to, use some words.”
May the Source be with
you!
6 km
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