Better to Be Safe Than Have It On Your Saree
West on the 401, Ontario
I had contemplated the safety measures taken for our ashram dwellers. Bearing in mind that one of our senior monks from India, Aindra, had lost his life, a victim of a gas leak from a propane tank that fuelled flames, I questioned just how safe are our ashrams and temples.
In the 90's we lost a pujari priest to serious flames arisen from Diwali candles placed on the altar floor. A flame crawled up his dhoti and then it was all over. A young woman visiting from the States was cooking when the end of her saree caught on fire from the gas range at the stove. She survived but the burns were serious enough. I have heard of more fire horror stories in addition to this. In general more could be done to protect the people in such sacred domains.
We also hear of lives being lost to the waters of the Ganges. Almost every year a bather, one of our pilgrims, is swept away by the serious currents of this turbulent but holy river. Perhaps safe docks for bathing could be constructed or designated zones be established. What about life guards being engaged at least during heavy trafficked festival times.
It seems fire and water continue to consume our family. There is, however, another culprit or cause for the death of the spiritually bound and that is ourselves. How many death tolls have you heard of that have been the result of nighttime driving or over fatigue behind the wheel?
While we have our mantras to protect our souls, some time needs to be reserved to look at the practical end of things. Securing safety is a use of our God-given intelligence. There is no guarantee for security in this world but those who are thoughtful (sattvic) make an effort.
I would put this subject under "Devotee Care" and reserve some time to see to the increased safety of our monastic people, the deities and people in general.
0 KM
B L O G S P O T
Wednesday, 28 July 2010
Thursday, July 22nd, 2010
Clown and Monk
Toronto, Ontario
We have all heard the saying that the whole world loves a clown. I think that the phrase could be "the whole world loves a monk" and not that there is anything in common between the two professions. I say this in regards to the public affinity for the renounced person. I can give testimony.
I took to an afternoon walk near the old Brickworks Factory. The trails out in that area are really great. So were the encounters with people; joggers, cyclists and walkers. The warm greetings may have something to do with the decent weather, its holiday time or just the fact that the natural environment becomes conducive for amiable exchange.
I do believe it's more than that. If it is your intent to be friendly then the reciprocation will come. In other words if you send out warmth then it will come back to you. It becomes interesting to see who sends it first. It's kind of a warm bombing that goes on. You just have to have the ammunition ready before blasting it off. In any event people seemed real cheerful with the monk – me.
After a two hour trek, I stepped into a drama practice for an upcoming performance of "Krishna, the Eighth Boy" at Meadowvale Theatre. I was conducting the practice when I saw that one of the devotee actors could push out more emotions and feelings of wonder because his part called for it. To help him an idea came to mind. We imagined, "Let's be cavemen who spent our whole life in primitive darkness. We were somehow discovered by civilized man (so-called) and put into the room where we were practicing and were let loose to explore."
The three of us who went through the pretense of wonder and discovery through analyzing textures, colours, soft foam, light switches and what they do, did bring out the excitement I was looking for. Just as we were wrapping up our little exercise on one of our monks from Assam poked his head over to look at us. He was curious about us after hearing the sounds of wonder which came in the form of grunts, mostly. He had a good laugh and so did we. I guess he thought we were clowning around.
Hmmm! Perhaps the gap between clown and monk had closed.
9 KM
Toronto, Ontario
We have all heard the saying that the whole world loves a clown. I think that the phrase could be "the whole world loves a monk" and not that there is anything in common between the two professions. I say this in regards to the public affinity for the renounced person. I can give testimony.
I took to an afternoon walk near the old Brickworks Factory. The trails out in that area are really great. So were the encounters with people; joggers, cyclists and walkers. The warm greetings may have something to do with the decent weather, its holiday time or just the fact that the natural environment becomes conducive for amiable exchange.
I do believe it's more than that. If it is your intent to be friendly then the reciprocation will come. In other words if you send out warmth then it will come back to you. It becomes interesting to see who sends it first. It's kind of a warm bombing that goes on. You just have to have the ammunition ready before blasting it off. In any event people seemed real cheerful with the monk – me.
After a two hour trek, I stepped into a drama practice for an upcoming performance of "Krishna, the Eighth Boy" at Meadowvale Theatre. I was conducting the practice when I saw that one of the devotee actors could push out more emotions and feelings of wonder because his part called for it. To help him an idea came to mind. We imagined, "Let's be cavemen who spent our whole life in primitive darkness. We were somehow discovered by civilized man (so-called) and put into the room where we were practicing and were let loose to explore."
The three of us who went through the pretense of wonder and discovery through analyzing textures, colours, soft foam, light switches and what they do, did bring out the excitement I was looking for. Just as we were wrapping up our little exercise on one of our monks from Assam poked his head over to look at us. He was curious about us after hearing the sounds of wonder which came in the form of grunts, mostly. He had a good laugh and so did we. I guess he thought we were clowning around.
Hmmm! Perhaps the gap between clown and monk had closed.
9 KM
Wednesday, July 21st, 2010
The Woods, The Peace and People
Thunder Bay
It was the first time ever that I walked to an airport, all the way to the departure’s entrance of a terminal. It’s a small terminal , mind you. From my host’s home it’s a mere 8 kilometers from Mountain Rd. to the airport and much of that stretch is boreal forest on both sides of the road.
I was reading about this boreal forest as the top protected woodlands in the world which take in an area from New Foundland all the way to British Columbia. It’s those boreal song birds that make those unique sounds that melt the heart. They vibrate like miniature flutes. In my mind I picture cowherd boys, mischievously hiding behind those trees, tooting their hollow pipes.
When you find yourself in a social network on a daily basis you feel the need for some solitude. That’s why in most cases I walk solo or perhaps with a companion making that time practically a time for silence save and except the chanting on beads. This chill out time is absolutely necessary for keeping sane and saintly. The woods in the north are ideal providing the solitude that is so essential.
Now the latest in Cross Canada marathons is a Mr. Dave Nash. He’s running 60-70km a day to raise awareness about equal shared parenting. He just came through Thunder Bay and informed people there that the current legal system drains families emotionally and financially through court battles. According to Dave the law needs to change to spare kids of the sad war that happens in the home.
It sounds like something worthy. I pray that the spiritual component becomes an option for consideration during such struggles that people go through.
8 KM
Thunder Bay
It was the first time ever that I walked to an airport, all the way to the departure’s entrance of a terminal. It’s a small terminal , mind you. From my host’s home it’s a mere 8 kilometers from Mountain Rd. to the airport and much of that stretch is boreal forest on both sides of the road.
I was reading about this boreal forest as the top protected woodlands in the world which take in an area from New Foundland all the way to British Columbia. It’s those boreal song birds that make those unique sounds that melt the heart. They vibrate like miniature flutes. In my mind I picture cowherd boys, mischievously hiding behind those trees, tooting their hollow pipes.
When you find yourself in a social network on a daily basis you feel the need for some solitude. That’s why in most cases I walk solo or perhaps with a companion making that time practically a time for silence save and except the chanting on beads. This chill out time is absolutely necessary for keeping sane and saintly. The woods in the north are ideal providing the solitude that is so essential.
Now the latest in Cross Canada marathons is a Mr. Dave Nash. He’s running 60-70km a day to raise awareness about equal shared parenting. He just came through Thunder Bay and informed people there that the current legal system drains families emotionally and financially through court battles. According to Dave the law needs to change to spare kids of the sad war that happens in the home.
It sounds like something worthy. I pray that the spiritual component becomes an option for consideration during such struggles that people go through.
8 KM
Thursday, 22 July 2010
Monday, July 19th, 2010
Go Tamal Go! Go Go!
Toronto, Ontario
One special assignment for me today was the preparation for a narration of Chaitanya’s eight verse prayer called “Shishastakam”. With the English translation I read the famous devotional lines queued to music selected by hip hop dancers, Tamal Krsna.
Tamal, from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, was a former teacher of dance. With a little persuasion he became convinced to take it up for this devotional try out in preparation for Detroit’s Ratha Yatra festival. He and I are collaborators on this dance narrative. I’m glad the arm twisting on him worked because here I could see a person of skill who needed to channel his gifts.
One contemporary of Chaitanya, Rupa Goswami, expressed that the highest form of renunciation is to use your talents and assets in the service to the Creator. If you have some extraordinary shakti (power) it can only be wasted away if not used in the service to others. Each and every one of us shines in a certain category of activities. Why block or suppress this sun?
If the sun wants to shine, then let it. Don’t cloud it over with inactivity or with ego. We are expected to be animated with our propensities.
Tamal was apprehensive in the beginning but then began to realize the worth of dovetailing or channeling your abilities in the service of others. I could tell he was burning with desire inside to display his talents. Now it could be directed to the soul rather than for a selfish purpose.
So this Saturday, Detroit will see an exciting new approach to hip hop.
Go! Tamal, Go! Go Go!
7 KM
Toronto, Ontario
One special assignment for me today was the preparation for a narration of Chaitanya’s eight verse prayer called “Shishastakam”. With the English translation I read the famous devotional lines queued to music selected by hip hop dancers, Tamal Krsna.
Tamal, from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, was a former teacher of dance. With a little persuasion he became convinced to take it up for this devotional try out in preparation for Detroit’s Ratha Yatra festival. He and I are collaborators on this dance narrative. I’m glad the arm twisting on him worked because here I could see a person of skill who needed to channel his gifts.
One contemporary of Chaitanya, Rupa Goswami, expressed that the highest form of renunciation is to use your talents and assets in the service to the Creator. If you have some extraordinary shakti (power) it can only be wasted away if not used in the service to others. Each and every one of us shines in a certain category of activities. Why block or suppress this sun?
If the sun wants to shine, then let it. Don’t cloud it over with inactivity or with ego. We are expected to be animated with our propensities.
Tamal was apprehensive in the beginning but then began to realize the worth of dovetailing or channeling your abilities in the service of others. I could tell he was burning with desire inside to display his talents. Now it could be directed to the soul rather than for a selfish purpose.
So this Saturday, Detroit will see an exciting new approach to hip hop.
Go! Tamal, Go! Go Go!
7 KM
Wednesday, 21 July 2010
Sunday, July 18th, 2010
Some Friendship
Toronto, Ontario
“I read ‘Autobiography of a Yogi’. Is what you’re doing something like that?” asked the chap on Augusta Avenue.
“The source is India, of course, the same place where yogis come from. We are bhakti yogis,” I explained while on foot with a doctor friend, Murari Gupta.
“Paramahamsa Yogananda,” he recalled about the author of the classic book.
“Yes, there is a philosophical difference, but you will find there is a life of detachment and simplicity expressed in the book. Our approach emphasizes devotion to Krishna. Hare Krishna!”
The young man was intrigued and so were so many people on that day especially at the Toronto Islands on this second day of the Festival of India. One couple was in tears when he and she saw Murari. The reason? Two years ago at the festival time this couple was making their way to the beach when they stumbled upon the event. They met him by accident (or karma) and were shown around, took the food etc. Since that warm introductory experience they have been coming around to our ashram so steadily, participating in numerous spiritual programs with us. He and she come to volunteer on washing the skyscrapere of pots. They chant. They are addicts of devotional services now; their lives transformed.
And all because they were searching and it was in their astrological stars or just plain good fortune to have met the doctor, Murari, who prescribed a satisfying medicine, some warmth, charm and attention. That’s all it takes. Offer some friendship and deliver the goods- Krishna.
8 KM
Toronto, Ontario
“I read ‘Autobiography of a Yogi’. Is what you’re doing something like that?” asked the chap on Augusta Avenue.
“The source is India, of course, the same place where yogis come from. We are bhakti yogis,” I explained while on foot with a doctor friend, Murari Gupta.
“Paramahamsa Yogananda,” he recalled about the author of the classic book.
“Yes, there is a philosophical difference, but you will find there is a life of detachment and simplicity expressed in the book. Our approach emphasizes devotion to Krishna. Hare Krishna!”
The young man was intrigued and so were so many people on that day especially at the Toronto Islands on this second day of the Festival of India. One couple was in tears when he and she saw Murari. The reason? Two years ago at the festival time this couple was making their way to the beach when they stumbled upon the event. They met him by accident (or karma) and were shown around, took the food etc. Since that warm introductory experience they have been coming around to our ashram so steadily, participating in numerous spiritual programs with us. He and she come to volunteer on washing the skyscrapere of pots. They chant. They are addicts of devotional services now; their lives transformed.
And all because they were searching and it was in their astrological stars or just plain good fortune to have met the doctor, Murari, who prescribed a satisfying medicine, some warmth, charm and attention. That’s all it takes. Offer some friendship and deliver the goods- Krishna.
8 KM
Saturday, July 17th, 2010
Proud Parading.
Toronto, Ontario
The gay pride parade hit the streets here just two weeks ago and today was followed by Jaga Pride. “Jaga” refers to Jaganntha meaning “Lord of the Universe” and although devotees of Krishna cannot monopolize the lord of such colossal real estate, someone is devotionally tending to him.
Jagannatha is a large wooden image of Krishna with a happy face and penetrating eyes. He does with pride sit a top a large chariot resembling a temple on wheels. With this arrangement he does not walk but employs himself in a most transcendental gawk. He has two other eaves-dropping friends who are more like a royal companions parade in line with their brother, Jaganatha.
The siblings also made of wood and very smartly painted, are Baladeva and Subhadra. Each sits upon their own chariot to re-enact a two-thousand year old event, a chariot pulling procession copied from the procession at Puri, India. The British were taken by a storm when they first saw the massive procession conducted by Brahmins, the heads of what was considered something like savage pageantry and a display of big-time idolatry.
Perhaps there was a pinch of pride in the attitudes at the time. Experience tells that even Brahmins can be a little puffed-up at times.
In any event I remember telling one of our former mayors of the city, Barbara Hall, that India claims this two thousand year old program. She responded by saying that it was remarkable. “Toronto is only two hundred years old.”
Barbara was great. She took a coconut along with select dignitaries and smashed them one-by-one on the street to break it. She was simply following tradition here, an inauguration of the ceremony, an act of service or humility.
Also part of customary tradition is the king of Orissa’s sweeping the street just prior to the chariots rolling down. Imagine that! The epitome of pride, a king, takes to the modest role of sweeping the dusty streets of Puri.
That’s anti-pride stuff! That is inspirational.
10 KM
Toronto, Ontario
The gay pride parade hit the streets here just two weeks ago and today was followed by Jaga Pride. “Jaga” refers to Jaganntha meaning “Lord of the Universe” and although devotees of Krishna cannot monopolize the lord of such colossal real estate, someone is devotionally tending to him.
Jagannatha is a large wooden image of Krishna with a happy face and penetrating eyes. He does with pride sit a top a large chariot resembling a temple on wheels. With this arrangement he does not walk but employs himself in a most transcendental gawk. He has two other eaves-dropping friends who are more like a royal companions parade in line with their brother, Jaganatha.
The siblings also made of wood and very smartly painted, are Baladeva and Subhadra. Each sits upon their own chariot to re-enact a two-thousand year old event, a chariot pulling procession copied from the procession at Puri, India. The British were taken by a storm when they first saw the massive procession conducted by Brahmins, the heads of what was considered something like savage pageantry and a display of big-time idolatry.
Perhaps there was a pinch of pride in the attitudes at the time. Experience tells that even Brahmins can be a little puffed-up at times.
In any event I remember telling one of our former mayors of the city, Barbara Hall, that India claims this two thousand year old program. She responded by saying that it was remarkable. “Toronto is only two hundred years old.”
Barbara was great. She took a coconut along with select dignitaries and smashed them one-by-one on the street to break it. She was simply following tradition here, an inauguration of the ceremony, an act of service or humility.
Also part of customary tradition is the king of Orissa’s sweeping the street just prior to the chariots rolling down. Imagine that! The epitome of pride, a king, takes to the modest role of sweeping the dusty streets of Puri.
That’s anti-pride stuff! That is inspirational.
10 KM
Friday, July16th, 2010
A Poem for Aindra
Toronto, Ontario
This evening we were informed of the loss of another saint. Here is a poem for friend, Aindra.
Aindra, a true monk
Suddenly did depart
He was a great wonder
Who stole many a heart.
Committed to the name
He drew so many in
He taught, You don’t stop
And you surely don’t begin
Just keep the sound a float
Through day, moon and night
In clear atmosphere
If we hope to reach some height.
He was a Vrindavan star
A Kirtan king
A sadhu of sound
Who knew how to sing.
Author, H.H. Bhaktimarga Swami
7 KM
Toronto, Ontario
This evening we were informed of the loss of another saint. Here is a poem for friend, Aindra.
Aindra, a true monk
Suddenly did depart
He was a great wonder
Who stole many a heart.
Committed to the name
He drew so many in
He taught, You don’t stop
And you surely don’t begin
Just keep the sound a float
Through day, moon and night
In clear atmosphere
If we hope to reach some height.
He was a Vrindavan star
A Kirtan king
A sadhu of sound
Who knew how to sing.
Author, H.H. Bhaktimarga Swami
7 KM
Thursday, July 15th, 2010
Freeing the Guy
Toronto, Ontario
Have you ever freed a soul? I can proudly say I have, on several occasions. When the night is on and you move your feet through the wooded streets you sometimes hear a voice in distress. I found this courageous little raccoon had climbed in to this tall trash bin and helplessly couldn’t make his way out. I could only hear a struggle, the sound of claws, gnawing at something in a vain effort, then I saw him. He was frightened and wanted liberation.
I carefully proceeded to tip the bin to a level that this little one could see pavement. Well, he dashed out of there as fast as the soul might leave its body for another one. It felt good seeing him go. I wondered how many hours in the night he was held in captivity? The little fellow didn’t have a chance to escape unless someone cared enough to release him. Then it came to my mind as I was trekking on, “I was trapped in a trashy bin of material desires for so long and it took the care of a kind person (our Guru, Srila Prabhupada) to release me. How many life times I have been engaged is unfathomable? The grace of guru is also unfathomable.
The next time I hear a scratch or a squirm from a night time friend I will selfishly help that creature if I can to escape. If only to put me in a moment of gratitude.
8 KM
Toronto, Ontario
Have you ever freed a soul? I can proudly say I have, on several occasions. When the night is on and you move your feet through the wooded streets you sometimes hear a voice in distress. I found this courageous little raccoon had climbed in to this tall trash bin and helplessly couldn’t make his way out. I could only hear a struggle, the sound of claws, gnawing at something in a vain effort, then I saw him. He was frightened and wanted liberation.
I carefully proceeded to tip the bin to a level that this little one could see pavement. Well, he dashed out of there as fast as the soul might leave its body for another one. It felt good seeing him go. I wondered how many hours in the night he was held in captivity? The little fellow didn’t have a chance to escape unless someone cared enough to release him. Then it came to my mind as I was trekking on, “I was trapped in a trashy bin of material desires for so long and it took the care of a kind person (our Guru, Srila Prabhupada) to release me. How many life times I have been engaged is unfathomable? The grace of guru is also unfathomable.
The next time I hear a scratch or a squirm from a night time friend I will selfishly help that creature if I can to escape. If only to put me in a moment of gratitude.
8 KM
Saturday, 17 July 2010
Wednesday, July14th, 2010
I Got My Satisfaction
Toronto, Ontario
I was sitting at the main office with a smile on my face. In fact I was super happy. Why? I was watching the next generation busying themselves in preparatory work for the weekend's Ratha Yatra festival. They were moving at high speed on phones, also texting, decorating, loading, unloading of goods and so on. One co-ordinator entered the building with a bravado saying, "I'll come and see you, Maharaj as soon as I can, but I first have to put out some fires," indicating that some ironing out had to be done.
I was watching this group of focused youth doing everything except ironing clothes. It was a pleasure to see. It was not a gloat from my side while I sat on an easy chair seeing them in perspirational work. I had offered to help but the response was, "We'll take care of it."
I felt almost as if out of a job. I was in their seat for years multi-tasking like crazy. Now they were taking on the burden of love with a gusto. Except for the occasional lending of advice to them, the next-generation-organizers, I had the freedom to go around and encourage them and other volunteers.
In any event the place is abuzz with service and that's the way it should be. Our neighbours are noticing the fervor fir "doing". One local girl said, "Oh yeah. I saw your trucks parked and ready for action."
It happens every year that young and old bhaktas, devotees work in harmony (with a few glitches here and there). It is so satisfying to see.
4 KM
Toronto, Ontario
I was sitting at the main office with a smile on my face. In fact I was super happy. Why? I was watching the next generation busying themselves in preparatory work for the weekend's Ratha Yatra festival. They were moving at high speed on phones, also texting, decorating, loading, unloading of goods and so on. One co-ordinator entered the building with a bravado saying, "I'll come and see you, Maharaj as soon as I can, but I first have to put out some fires," indicating that some ironing out had to be done.
I was watching this group of focused youth doing everything except ironing clothes. It was a pleasure to see. It was not a gloat from my side while I sat on an easy chair seeing them in perspirational work. I had offered to help but the response was, "We'll take care of it."
I felt almost as if out of a job. I was in their seat for years multi-tasking like crazy. Now they were taking on the burden of love with a gusto. Except for the occasional lending of advice to them, the next-generation-organizers, I had the freedom to go around and encourage them and other volunteers.
In any event the place is abuzz with service and that's the way it should be. Our neighbours are noticing the fervor fir "doing". One local girl said, "Oh yeah. I saw your trucks parked and ready for action."
It happens every year that young and old bhaktas, devotees work in harmony (with a few glitches here and there). It is so satisfying to see.
4 KM
Tuesday, July 13th, 2010
Some Impressions
Toronto, Ontario
"They are Hare Krishnas," the young parents pointed out to their two kids of pre-school age. "We are teaching them about religion," addressed the couple. "that orange colour means it's Hare Krishna?" they asked me for confirmation as I walked with two young teenage boys.
It is always a good experience for our youth to see the curious response from the public. I also like to the boys to see that you don't have to be shy about your spirituality. In many ways people envy the boldness. They seem to take well to seeing what in their eyes could be a living Buddha.
As the three of us desceded the steps of the cooling ravine we were greeted by the other walkers who had the same intent as us which was "to chill". With soaring summer temperatures people are compelled to gravitate to cool regions. Cool people and a cool forest makes for a perfect heaven.
In the story of King Bharat, a person we are emersing ourselves in being the main character in our drama, we hear of his affinity for forest life. The one weakness he had was a lack of company or people who were spiritually-minded. I believe it is fair to say that Bharat suffered from isolationism.
The dynamics of the forest changes drastically when you are "with" as opposed to "without" good spiritual company. Everyone can use moments alone but it needs to be kept to a minimum.
8 KM
Toronto, Ontario
"They are Hare Krishnas," the young parents pointed out to their two kids of pre-school age. "We are teaching them about religion," addressed the couple. "that orange colour means it's Hare Krishna?" they asked me for confirmation as I walked with two young teenage boys.
It is always a good experience for our youth to see the curious response from the public. I also like to the boys to see that you don't have to be shy about your spirituality. In many ways people envy the boldness. They seem to take well to seeing what in their eyes could be a living Buddha.
As the three of us desceded the steps of the cooling ravine we were greeted by the other walkers who had the same intent as us which was "to chill". With soaring summer temperatures people are compelled to gravitate to cool regions. Cool people and a cool forest makes for a perfect heaven.
In the story of King Bharat, a person we are emersing ourselves in being the main character in our drama, we hear of his affinity for forest life. The one weakness he had was a lack of company or people who were spiritually-minded. I believe it is fair to say that Bharat suffered from isolationism.
The dynamics of the forest changes drastically when you are "with" as opposed to "without" good spiritual company. Everyone can use moments alone but it needs to be kept to a minimum.
8 KM
Wednesday, 14 July 2010
Monday, July 12th, 2010
A Fatal Step
Toronto, Ontario
A call came in this morning from Pundarik, wife of Murali Krishna, a dear friend, whose brother just passed away. Samuel Griffis, 48, was hiking in the Buffalo, New York State area at the edge of a cliff when he lost his balance and fell a good 150 feet. He didn’t survive.
It was painful to hear about Samuel who was an athletic type, for the outdoors, a vegetarian and friend of numerous monks. What we are to learn form this mishap is that fragility is part of our existence and as we have mentioned before “there is danger at every step”. In Sanskrit padam padam yad vipadam refers to the precariousness of the situation.
Naturally, the family is grieving and so I suggested we give a dedication, a mangal arati, a morning ceremony in his honour. I offered Pundarik my condolences, of course, and asked if there was anything more I could do to ease the grieving. Sam’s family just need a lot of support now.
The topic of birth and death came up once again today through a presentation made to a group of mature people, some of which are retired. Mr. J.W. Windland organizes yearly a visit by fifty students who come from all around and as far as Washington State, to have as he puts it, “an experience”. The experience is not of death as that will take its natural course.
Three folks wanted to know what the chant was all about and more so what we, the followers, were all about. A good number of these attendees have a Christian background but are curious enough to have some experiential Krishna Consciousness.
I would say that whenever I do such presentations, fifty percent of questions revolve around the topic of walking once the audience has heard that pilgrimage went across Canada thrice.
The meal we served in the end left these experienced people satisfied. As they left the building and descended the stairs to reach the sidewalk, I recited mentally, padam padam yad vipadam na tesam. There’s danger at every step.
12 KM
Toronto, Ontario
A call came in this morning from Pundarik, wife of Murali Krishna, a dear friend, whose brother just passed away. Samuel Griffis, 48, was hiking in the Buffalo, New York State area at the edge of a cliff when he lost his balance and fell a good 150 feet. He didn’t survive.
It was painful to hear about Samuel who was an athletic type, for the outdoors, a vegetarian and friend of numerous monks. What we are to learn form this mishap is that fragility is part of our existence and as we have mentioned before “there is danger at every step”. In Sanskrit padam padam yad vipadam refers to the precariousness of the situation.
Naturally, the family is grieving and so I suggested we give a dedication, a mangal arati, a morning ceremony in his honour. I offered Pundarik my condolences, of course, and asked if there was anything more I could do to ease the grieving. Sam’s family just need a lot of support now.
The topic of birth and death came up once again today through a presentation made to a group of mature people, some of which are retired. Mr. J.W. Windland organizes yearly a visit by fifty students who come from all around and as far as Washington State, to have as he puts it, “an experience”. The experience is not of death as that will take its natural course.
Three folks wanted to know what the chant was all about and more so what we, the followers, were all about. A good number of these attendees have a Christian background but are curious enough to have some experiential Krishna Consciousness.
I would say that whenever I do such presentations, fifty percent of questions revolve around the topic of walking once the audience has heard that pilgrimage went across Canada thrice.
The meal we served in the end left these experienced people satisfied. As they left the building and descended the stairs to reach the sidewalk, I recited mentally, padam padam yad vipadam na tesam. There’s danger at every step.
12 KM
Tuesday, 13 July 2010
Sunday, July 11th, 2010
Two Men at the Sidewalk
Montreal, Quebec
I was headed westbound on Notre Dame Blvd. Then on Ste. Catherine towards the temple. A man who was squatted in front of a storefront, his head hung low, saw the robes as I strode past him. He raised his head at a tilt and said, “Krishna!”
Another chap on foot coming towards me began begging alms. “I just need a slice of pizza.”
“Yeah, right!” I thought, but I said I couldn’t help, shook his hand as a friend. It didn’t come spontaneous for me to utter a name in Sanskrit for his purification. I reasoned that for now a gesture of friendship was enough.
I met two down and out persons who might have a chance some day and then I thought of those two fellows during a reading of the book, Chaitanya Charitamrita. In the section Madhya-lila, certain passages describe the great master of mantras, Chaitanya, as arranging food lines and personally distributing prasadam (divine food). He was serving his followers but then he noticed some people outside the lines who were poor and were not his followers. He then from the goodness of his heart, arranged for them to be fed.
Chaitanya was so inclusive and not exclusive. At the end of the reading I asked the listeners at the temple to recall what lessons or directives came from the texts and corresponding purports. The responses were good, but of all the remarks made the quick helpful response by Chaitanya towards the poverty-stricken struck me the most. And I’m sure it did others as well.
4 KM
Montreal, Quebec
I was headed westbound on Notre Dame Blvd. Then on Ste. Catherine towards the temple. A man who was squatted in front of a storefront, his head hung low, saw the robes as I strode past him. He raised his head at a tilt and said, “Krishna!”
Another chap on foot coming towards me began begging alms. “I just need a slice of pizza.”
“Yeah, right!” I thought, but I said I couldn’t help, shook his hand as a friend. It didn’t come spontaneous for me to utter a name in Sanskrit for his purification. I reasoned that for now a gesture of friendship was enough.
I met two down and out persons who might have a chance some day and then I thought of those two fellows during a reading of the book, Chaitanya Charitamrita. In the section Madhya-lila, certain passages describe the great master of mantras, Chaitanya, as arranging food lines and personally distributing prasadam (divine food). He was serving his followers but then he noticed some people outside the lines who were poor and were not his followers. He then from the goodness of his heart, arranged for them to be fed.
Chaitanya was so inclusive and not exclusive. At the end of the reading I asked the listeners at the temple to recall what lessons or directives came from the texts and corresponding purports. The responses were good, but of all the remarks made the quick helpful response by Chaitanya towards the poverty-stricken struck me the most. And I’m sure it did others as well.
4 KM
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