Thursday 20 February 2020

Sunday, February 16th, 2020


Mayapura, India

Meeting Arjuna

Last night was one of those sleepless nights.  I took an early shower, donned my clothes, and left Room 505 of the Gada Building, to enter an atmosphere of shanti (peace) and amble along the misty pathways.  Would I be alone for some time?  Would a stray dog come along and trek right by my side (as they sometimes do) as I'm chanting my meditative mantra?

Once, at about this time (2:00 a.m.), three dogs did more than just stroll along.  Two of them clung onto my thigh and backside, while a third was ready to display similar aggression.  I managed to inch my way to a gate, free myself, and close the gate on them. 

But this morning was different.  I met a tall, rather passive young Russian who had been locked out of his residential building, so he decided to hang out at the Mayapura campus. 

"Let's walk together," I suggested to sixteen-year-old Arjuna.  So, we walked and chatted.  He told of how his friend, Gauranga, along with another, climbed up the ladder of a massive crane during the early construction of the TOVP temple. They ascended to the top, then upon descending, discovered a portion of the crane was collapsing.  Security came running.  The two lad were safe but they fled and hid behind some walls of the foundation.

"Did they get caught?"

"No, I don't think so.  I'm not sure."

Anyway, it was a story about youthful adventure.  Both Arjuna and I passed some time walking.  We weren't lonely.  He staying on with me until Mangal arati services commenced.  I guess that was a first for Arjuna, to ‘shoot the breeze’ with a monk.

May the Source be with you!
5 km




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