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The water makes the feet numb in the beginning, and then with a mind-over-matter spirit, we overcame.  The most beautiful thing about early morning is that opportunity to rise above.

Along with a dozen members of the Bhakti Academy, we drove to those cliffs (or bluffs as they call them) in Scarborough, hoping to catch a glimpse of the sunrise, but frankly, today was not going to reveal one of our favourite planets.  It was overcast.  The time in the water was precious, clean, and refreshing.  Then thrill #2 came – a sit down at the edge of the serene lake where seagulls and geese came to join in the fun as well.  Our intent was to do something spiritual.  The process is called sravanam, hearing and optimistic message.

Amala handed me his copy of Memories, a collection of recollections of our guru, Prabhupada.  There, we sat in complete contentedness hearing out his qualities and interactions with people.  I had the pleasure of giving some comments on those recollections.  I’m not sure how our feathered friends were able to absorb.  It appeared they were more in the food mode.

Our reading and commenting completing that phase #2, at which point it came time for our own craving for the tongue and belly.  For that, it meant a drive back to the ashram and temple.  Awaiting us was the most delicious prep, kichari, made of oats and veggies, offered to Krishna.  The meal made the day.   Bruce, our young monk from Philly talked about the extravagant kichari.  After a host of responsibilities, including a hospital visit and a Gita Zoom class, I lay my body to rest, as did companions.