When I arrived at the Temple at 4am, I found a single almond placed before each altar. I wondered at the context of the offering, the thoughts of who offered it and how they came to place a single almond there. Everything has a story.
It also reminded me of how my mother would have me peel the almonds that she had soaking all night. I loved that job of removing the skin to reveal the white beauty beneath. The practice of bhakti is a similar thing – it’s to reveal the nature and beauty of the soul that is there. We understand the soul exists because life indicates the presence of the soul. The goal of our life is to uncover our real soul, and in bhakti-yoga we find it in relationship with Krishna.
Almond Essence
Will my skin covered almond soul be beautiful when
I am separated from this role-play material life?
When some kind soul lifts me gently
From the soaking waters of my sadhana
And says – Now you are ready, let us begin
And slowly peels away the ‘I and mine’ mood
The outside me in the pushing and pulling world
And softly reveals the pure and personal spirit soul
Dazzling in its origin, glorious in its essence
In relationship with Krishna.
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