By Shyama Rasika Devi Dasi
Three years ago, the dedicated organizers at Senior Connection of Montgomery County— a non‑profit offering volunteer‑based, escorted transportation to seniors over 55 in Montgomery County —welcomed an innovative suggestion by Shyama Rasika Devi Dasi and Nikunkja Ras Das (disciples of Radhanath Swami and members of ISKCON of DC): what if a chartered coach trip could take our Montgomery County seniors to New Vrindaban in West Virginia?
The organizer welcomed the idea enthusiastically, noting it aligned with their mission to “preserve independence, mobility and quality of life.” Our inaugural tour in the Summer of 2022 began with 78 seniors, all members of Senior Connect’s 55+ cohort. That day, seniors were greeted by the soft echo of temple bells, swirling flower petals, and vast gardens. During the guided temple tour, many remarked that the interiors felt like they belonged on another continent. “It looked like a palace from a dream,” one new participant said. Adorned ceilings, golden altars, goshala with beautiful cows, and intricate mosaics prompted spontaneous applause. Over dinner at Govinda’s, the seniors praised the wholesome vegetarian offerings and beautiful setting.
By the end of the trip, over half suggested returning, five said “let’s bring our friends next time,” and one asked, “Can we do this every month?” That initial enthusiasm quickly caught on. Over the next few summers, we have organized six trips— comfortable overnight stays at the Palace Lodge—with nearly 200 seniors participating. What started as a single idea grew into a repeat tradition every summer.
Over time, through my volunteer work with Senior Connect, I came to recognize that many of the seniors in the later stages of life could greatly benefit from opportunities for spiritual and philosophical reflection. I believe that offering them an accessible pilgrimage experience—one that fosters meditation and conveys the deeper meaning of human life—could provide a sense of peace and purpose, especially at this stage in their journey. I also saw this as a meaningful way to serve and care for seniors, especially since I am unable to be near my own parents. In many ways, this is my way of extending the same compassion and respect to them as I would to my own family.
Read more: https://iskconnews.org/a-golden-journey-senior-connect-tours-to-new-vrindaban/
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