bhaktimarga swami - Blog - ISKCON Desire Tree | IDT2024-03-19T08:12:16Zhttps://iskcondesiretree.com/profiles/blogs/feed/tag/bhaktimarga+swamiShare the journey by Bhaktimarga Swamihttps://iskcondesiretree.com/profiles/blogs/share-the-journey-by-bhaktimarga-swami2024-02-28T13:04:38.000Z2024-02-28T13:04:38.000ZISKCON Desire Treehttps://iskcondesiretree.com/members/iskcon_desire_tree<div><p><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12390373090,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="400" alt="12390373090?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></p>
<p>I accepted the offer by kind Rsabh for the interview on "The Avilash Podcast".This meant a trip to his apartment in Brampton where he has a set up studio for such a program, He asked questions that naturally would be of interest to his audience, queries about what would hasten the public to ask, "What's a westerner doing living the life of a monk?" "Why the long walks".</p>
<p>So, for a full hour my interviewer and I went on to describe a journey, my own personal one, in meeting renunciates traveling the country in a van going from city to city to incite an epiphany if possible. I let Rsabh know that spiritual awakening is for everyone, that it is innate, in all of us and that our identity is one of the spirit as opposed to one of matter.</p>
<div>
<p id="viewer-p2ts7210348">Yes, spirit matters!</p>
</div>
<div>
<p id="viewer-njh3h216042">Going back to the monks in the van, well they successfully threw out a wide net and I was one who got caught in that net, up for a change in life. It was early spring of '73 when I decided to walk away from previous ambitions and ambivalences and dive deep into bhakti, for which I have no regrets.</p>
</div>
<div>
<p id="viewer-jeap8297234">Rsabh was generous in giving me time. From his end the questions were few, genuine and the fuel for a Q and A that was lively, I hope. Somewhere it will get broadcast, sometime. I don't know when at this point.</p>
</div>
<div>
<p id="viewer-b3jhd358502">Here's one thing that is a mystery. I was on the phone with a man from Alaska who said he never met a Krishna devotee ever. Through some channel, the books of Prabhupada and the internet he became encouraged to chant on the beads and follow four major principles or disciplines. Amazing!<br /> <br /> <strong>Source:</strong> <a href="https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/share-the-journey">https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/share-the-journey</a></p>
</div></div>Get To A Tree by Bhaktimarga Swamihttps://iskcondesiretree.com/profiles/blogs/get-to-a-tree-by-bhaktimarga-swami2024-02-27T11:08:02.000Z2024-02-27T11:08:02.000ZISKCON Desire Treehttps://iskcondesiretree.com/members/iskcon_desire_tree<div><div>
<p><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12390021068,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="300" alt="12390021068?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></p>
<p id="viewer-cmwy2159345">In these days of devices and screens one is expected to use or maybe over overuse them. I'm enjoying myself in the spring weather of Bengal when especially this year we are encountering the most pleasant breezes yet still it is hard to stay away altogether from a cell phone which does almost everything one needs for the community. One of my actors from Africa needed me to record his lines for the proper pacing in order to hear it over headphones again and again to get his part down as best as possible.</p>
</div>
<div>
<p id="viewer-3uh2c356000">No problem for me.</p>
</div>
<div>
<p id="viewer-c8a40362888">One of my student disciples from Guyana, Saci Suta, was getting married today and requested some message from me. So for Saci and the bride, Sandhya, I left a three minute word of congratulations and advice.</p>
</div>
<div>
<p id="viewer-qwst3443885">Happy to do that too.</p>
</div>
<div>
<p id="viewer-mxwgp452675">Service or duties these days are rendered through machines and that's where we are at the present time. I even caught Krishna das, my dear friend from Canada, saying over lunch, that Artificial Intelligence will take care of shaping the perfect movie stars where there might not be a need for Academy Awards in the future since film stars will be "not real people". Engineering is already doing some of that.</p>
</div>
<div>
<p id="viewer-hvobb612271">While I see the value of technological advancement I'm going to continue to enjoy the raw organic world for as long as I can.</p>
</div>
<div>
<p id="viewer-qx8mw663035">Let me hug a tree.<br /> <br /> <strong>Source: </strong><a href="https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/get-to-a-tree">https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/get-to-a-tree</a></p>
</div></div>Finishing up in trinidad by Bhaktimarga Swamihttps://iskcondesiretree.com/profiles/blogs/finishing-up-in-trinidad-by-bhaktimarga-swami2024-02-05T13:19:34.000Z2024-02-05T13:19:34.000ZISKCON Desire Treehttps://iskcondesiretree.com/members/iskcon_desire_tree<div><div>
<p><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12373844689,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="300" alt="12373844689?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></p>
<p id="viewer-5ke1t24212">On May 30th, 1845, a ship landed at the Trinidad shoreline with a massive group of indentured labourers from India. They were promised by the British a life of labour and love. Love was somewhat questionable, because life, at the time, was one of great sacrifice. A century later, one of those pious Hindu fellows, from that strain, asked for permission to build a temple. Authorities said, “No!” The man’s name was Sadhu Seva.</p>
</div>
<div>
<p id="viewer-mmh0241424">He decided to build a small peninsula by bringing stone after stone, and at its edge point, built his temple there.</p>
</div>
<div>
<p id="viewer-xj44x41428">A few of us decided to visit this quaint temple which has the benefit of favourable breezes from the ocean on its two sides. What a little piece of heaven this is! And what an incredibly determined man Sadhu was. The place draws pilgrims from all around. </p>
</div>
<div>
<p id="viewer-ymhqx41430"> I also had the good fortune to visit another sacred place in honour of Hanuman, a fifty-foot outdoor murti of the popular monkey warrior. He stands proudly for all to receive his compassion, loyalty and protection. The timing was just so right, as there currently is given so much attention to Ram and the glorious achievement of Ayodya’s temple inauguration. There is that very strong connection between Ram and Hanuman inspiring all who seek devotion. </p>
<div>
<p id="viewer-dalxs41438">I bid farewell to the devotees who treated me so kindly with their Trini hospitality, and flew to Georgetown, Guyana. At customs in the queue, there was a Caucasian Canadian from Nova Scotia just behind me. It’s a rarity, also when you consider 90% of passengers on our Caribbean flight were Cubans. It was a breath of fresh air. We Canadians share a familiar type of camaraderie.</p>
<p><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12373845068,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="300" alt="12373845068?profile=RESIZE_400x" /><br /> <strong>Source: </strong><a href="https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/finishing-up-in-trinidad">https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/finishing-up-in-trinidad</a></p>
</div>
</div></div>No Walking, Just Flying by Bhaktimarga Swamihttps://iskcondesiretree.com/profiles/blogs/no-walking-just-flying-by-bhaktimarga-swami2024-01-31T14:12:34.000Z2024-01-31T14:12:34.000ZISKCON Desire Treehttps://iskcondesiretree.com/members/iskcon_desire_tree<div><p><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12369299294,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="500" alt="12369299294?profile=RESIZE_584x" /></p>
<p>Patience was tested with airlines. “Delay” was the common word. Passengers even made their way to board the plane. We sat for two hours inside with a promising “ready to go” when (out of the blue) we were assigned to “deplane” and “come back later.” I was quite impressed with people’s tolerance level. There is always something to be learned from others and it doesn’t always come out of a book or one’s personal guru. Messages are heard (or should be heard) from all angles. God, as guru, is everywhere.</p>
<p>From Calgary, I flew to Toronto, and from Toronto, it’s Port of Spain for a re-routing of aircraft having missed my connecting flight. Some of the celestial air travel was by massive bird conveyance, like Garuda. And one never tires of hearing about vimanas and flower aviation travel called puspa rata. Such mobility of the Vedic period was smooth operating and without hiccups, I would imagine.</p>
<div>
<p id="viewer-ce9du1686">As we are to understand, technology was very advanced for the longest period in that pre-Kali Yuga. Modern man boasts of technological achievements, but I think we can appreciate what advancement preceded us by intelligent civilizations. It might be an idea to read up on the epic poems of the Vedas. </p>
</div>
<div>
<p id="viewer-52ycz1690">The final leg, or wing, of my journey—crowded, austere—but when I remind myself of my purpose, I feel relieved. And it helped when repeatedly rolling an ice cube over the face and almost bald head. <br /> <br /> <strong>Source: </strong><a href="https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/no-walking-just-flying">https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/no-walking-just-flying</a></p>
</div></div>Repeated Connections by Bhaktimarga Swamihttps://iskcondesiretree.com/profiles/blogs/repeated-connections-by-bhaktimarga-swami2024-01-03T15:18:25.000Z2024-01-03T15:18:25.000ZISKCON Desire Treehttps://iskcondesiretree.com/members/iskcon_desire_tree<div><div>
<p><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12344910257,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="450" alt="12344910257?profile=RESIZE_584x" /></p>
<p id="viewer-gmail-5b570">Although some people consider me a nomad, always travelling to somewhere, I’m actually rather grounded by having a home base. This permits me to see people repeatedly, and Wayne, a super artist, who lives up the street on Roxborough, is a regular. He wears this distinguished hat with a wide brim, so I can spot him from many metres away. He’s gone through about three different dog-pet reincarnations. What’s different now is he uses a walker to get around in the park. Still, he’s Wayne, a nice neighbour, who did my portrait once, which is beautiful. </p>
</div>
<div>
<p id="viewer-kpiqz2648">As a gift, I arranged for him a copy of The Saffron Path when I met him this morning, under a drizzle at Ramsden Park.</p>
</div>
<div>
<p id="viewer-p10lq2654">I will be seeing Wayne many more times during a morning trek.</p>
</div>
<div>
<p id="viewer-qyuo72658">Nicholas is another person who came by. He knows I’m rather stable in the Rosedale area. This is where I started my training for marathon walking. </p>
</div>
<div>
<p id="viewer-02b7l2662">Nicholas was quite into Krishna Consciousness a few years ago, then went to study theology, working on a Masters at U of T. He came by after a surprise e-mail, letting me know he’s been around. His particular interest goes more toward the Christian Orthodox approach. We talked about the Jesus Prayer that stalwart followers cling to. He mentioned how for some, the prayer, beckoning for mercy, can take over the practitioner’s life, much like what the chanting of Hare Krishna does for serious people on mantra power. </p>
</div>
<div>
<p id="viewer-rap342666">I thought that Nicholas lived in Panama, but for the last little bit, he’s still in Ontario. He knew where to find me. He’s still with Krishna.</p>
</div>
<div>
<p id="viewer-fwoto2670">Lastly, I and my walking companions stumbled upon a raccoon. I’ve probably seen him many times before. Who knows? There’s 30,000 of them in the city I call home. <br /> <br /> <strong>Source:</strong> <a href="https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/repeated-connections">https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/repeated-connections</a></p>
</div></div>Under the Mango Tree by Bhaktimarga Swamihttps://iskcondesiretree.com/profiles/blogs/under-the-mango-tree-by-bhaktimarga-swami2023-12-31T13:30:00.000Z2023-12-31T13:30:00.000ZISKCON Desire Treehttps://iskcondesiretree.com/members/iskcon_desire_tree<div><p><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}10915511078,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="10915511078?profile=RESIZE_400x" width="300" /></p>
<p>The anniversary of the great dialogue between Krishna and Arjuna. The anchor person to this sublime conversation is someone by the name of Sanjaya, who is quite in a blissful state when relating it to the blind king, Dhrtarastra. Here’s how he felt in Sanskrit:</p>
<p>rajan samsmrtya samsmrtya</p>
<p>samvadam imam adbhutam</p>
<p>keshavarjunayoh punyam</p>
<p>hrsyami ca muhur muhuh</p>
<p>“Oh, King, as I repeatedly recall this wondrous and holy dialogue between Krishna and Arjuna, I take pleasure, being thrilled at every moment.”</p>
<p>I was also thrilled (in a lesser capacity, given my fallen nature) in delivery to a group of attentive adults, under a mango tree, a nutshell version of the conversation that many scholars know so well as the Bhagavad-Gita, the message of the universe about holding on to duty and surrendering to the will of a greater world; that which is beyond my own.</p>
<p>This majestic mango tree is located in the backyard of Jose, a generous man of Rodas, who is lending his home to the public as a reading room for the publications of Prabhupada. It was Prabhupada who brought the abovementioned conversation, so revered, to the western world. Grateful we are to him and to Laksminath, a local Vaishnavi, who took our visit as the gesture of an inauguration of the reading room. Laksminath also arrange for the children in the neighborhood to display the drama of Krishna saving his cowherd friends from the monstrous python, Agasura. And that splendid little dramatic piece was also done under the mango tree. Innocent kids! Charming!</p>
<p><strong>Source: </strong><a href="http://thewalkingmonk.blogspot.com/2022/12/saturday-december-3-2022.html">http://thewalkingmonk.blogspot.com/2022/12/saturday-december-3-2022.html</a></p></div>Books in their hands by Bhaktimarga Swamihttps://iskcondesiretree.com/profiles/blogs/books-in-their-hands-by-bhaktimarga-swami2023-12-19T14:29:12.000Z2023-12-19T14:29:12.000ZISKCON Desire Treehttps://iskcondesiretree.com/members/iskcon_desire_tree<div><p><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12328873860,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="300" alt="12328873860?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></p>
<p>From what I can see, Cubans are readers. After Ganganath and I took our dip in the ocean (a 30 min. one when we chanted our morning mantras), we met some workers. The first one was a painter, friendly as you can get. His warm-heatedness earned him our gift of the Bhagavad Gita. The second recipient was another local Cuban, with tools in his hands. This guy had torquoise eyes like the colour of the water we were in and had a build like warrior Arjuna. Was he ever overwelwhelmed by the beautiful book in Spanish when placed in the hand he made free.</p>
<p>Our evening venue for speaking about “collective karma” was in a reiki master’s facility which included a work-out gym. The proprietor, Fernando, pointed out to a picture of his own reiki master from the Orient.</p>
<p>I began my talk quoting 2.27 from the Gita on the theme of “where there’s birth, there’s death and where there’s death there’s brith.” The cycle goes on. The good thing about the spin is that if you keep to dharma, duty, you will escalate, evolve, and work your way out of the circle to reach the freedom called moksha. </p>
<div> </div>
<p id="viewer-he5p439471">Ganganath, whose parents came from Havana and were thrilled to see him after eleven years of being away from home, was an excellent excellent translator to my words. He even went on some tangents, but that was okay he was speaking the language of a thoughtful audience that likes to read with a greed. Bhagavad Gita came to their eager hands. They were serious about expressing their desire to read as they do so already. <br /> <br /> <strong>Source: </strong><a href="https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/books-in-their-hands">https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/books-in-their-hands</a></p></div>Potential by Bhaktimarga Swamihttps://iskcondesiretree.com/profiles/blogs/potential-by-bhaktimarga-swami2023-12-18T14:54:46.000Z2023-12-18T14:54:46.000ZISKCON Desire Treehttps://iskcondesiretree.com/members/iskcon_desire_tree<div><p><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12328098661,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="300" alt="12328098661?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></p>
<p>I would say that one devotee, Krishna Surya, 54, is one of the more committed persons to bhakti in Cuba. He is a steady 16 rounder, as we say. Two hours he dedicates to mantra meditation while committed to his family, wife and teenage daughter. I recommended to him to read several books of Prabhupada, all in Spanish, of course. These books are the Bhagavad Gita, Nectar of Devotion, Teachings of Lord Chaitanya, and Srimad Bhagavatam. This will prepare him for his second initiation. </p>
<p><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12328099468,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="300" alt="12328099468?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></p>
<p>Krishna Surya and I agreed to our usual morning trek. “This time take me along the quiet streets and not the Malecon (the sea wall). There’s just too much diesel exhaust from the cars." Tourists are drawn to the vintage cars from the 40s, 50s, and 60s. The problem is they spew out this bad air and for me it becomes intolerable. Our walking brought us to beautiful boulevards and to the older section of town where you have the old Spanish villas. I am a sucker for the architecture and also the many sculptures. Like most places, Cuba adores its heroes. Little is remembered of the Indigenous Amerindians. They were all wiped out. </p>
<p>While I have been busy reading, writing and closed off from internet, Ganganath has been spending time with family and friends. The books have been flying ouf of his hands. There is remarkable potential in Cuba for higher consciousness. </p>
<p><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12328099893,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="300" alt="12328099893?profile=RESIZE_400x" /><br /> <br /> <strong>Source: </strong><a href="https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/potential">https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/potential</a></p>
<div id="viewer-vxpa049212"> </div></div>Kichari by Bhaktimarga Swamihttps://iskcondesiretree.com/profiles/blogs/kichari-by-bhaktimarga-swami2023-12-16T11:00:46.000Z2023-12-16T11:00:46.000ZISKCON Desire Treehttps://iskcondesiretree.com/members/iskcon_desire_tree<div><p><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12326957082,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="500" alt="12326957082?profile=RESIZE_584x" /></p>
<p style="text-align:center;">Sounds like the name of an Indigenous girl<br /> Perhaps appropriate as a precious pearl<br /> It’s not a mammal, bird, rock, or tree<br /> You’re getting close if you say “herbal tea”<br /> It’s something satisfying to the appetite<br /> Yummy to the tummy to the very last bite<br /> It’s a food preparation – *kichari*<br /> The problem is, between you and me<br /> It suffers from a bad reputation<br /> A poor man’s food is ithttp://www.dandavats.com/?p=112240s qualification</p>
<p style="text-align:center;">When you go to an eastern monastery<br /> Whether April, June, or January<br /> The monks will just devour it up<br /> At breakfast, lunch, or for sup<br /> If absent you can get so suspicious<br /> Because it’s so darn damn delicious<br /> Traditional recipes will reveal it all<br /> Rice, veggies, something called *dahl*<br /> Spice, greens, ginger, turmeric too<br /> *Kichari* is king, a healthy eastern stew<br /> Let’s get that word right – *kichari*<br /> Should go beyond a monk’s monopoly<br /> It has appeal at any time of day<br /> Let the rich get sick on their special entreé<br /> And eventually become a *kichari* fan<br /> The miracle meal that shapes Superman<br /> <br /> <strong>Source:</strong> <a href="http://www.dandavats.com/?p=112240">http://www.dandavats.com/?p=112240</a></p></div>No Blues by Bhaktimarga Swamihttps://iskcondesiretree.com/profiles/blogs/no-blues-by-bhaktimarga-swami2023-12-15T13:19:56.000Z2023-12-15T13:19:56.000ZISKCON Desire Treehttps://iskcondesiretree.com/members/iskcon_desire_tree<div><p><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12326418463,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="350" alt="12326418463?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></p>
<p id="viewer-5b570">Tuesday was the day for me to return the heart monitor which had been affixed to my chest for the last two weeks. The Toronto Medical Clinic for returning was at 826 St. Claire West. I Ubered my way there but happily trekked my way back to the ashram.</p>
<p id="viewer-w6pl511702">It became very evident that winter is around the corner. That was confirmed by the Uber driver. There’s now a chill and a fairly hefty wind bringing down the leaves. The afternoon brought on a cold rain which had a second shot at removing the leaves.</p>
<p id="viewer-3y44011706">Our dear Prabhupada described winter in North America as “snow where it remains a piece of wood only.”</p>
<p id="viewer-0y4mo11710">Those of us accustomed to the cyclic weather patterns can either take or leave the distinct four seasons. Naturaly in the south and particularly in Mexico, it is a different story. Personally, I am climatized and was born into these weather extremes. I rather like the dramatical changes. I find it makes one more robust, building up immunity.</p>
<p id="viewer-0x07e11714">“Don’t be intimidated by nature’s ways! Take it bravely! Transcend! We are not these bodies, right?”</p>
<p id="viewer-8t6qf11716"> I am reminded of the classic song, “Tuesday Afternoon” by the Moody Blues.</p>
<p id="viewer-8gxe111723">Tuesday afternoon / I’m just beginning to see / Now I’m on my way / It doesn’t matter to me / Chasing the clouds away / Something calls to me / The trees are drawing me near / I’ve got to find out why / Those gentle voices I hear / Explain it all with a sigh…<br /> <br /> <strong>Source: </strong><a href="https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/no-blues">https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/no-blues</a></p></div>Getting Connected by Bhaktimarga Swamihttps://iskcondesiretree.com/profiles/blogs/getting-connected-by-bhaktimarga-swami2023-12-13T14:02:47.000Z2023-12-13T14:02:47.000ZISKCON Desire Treehttps://iskcondesiretree.com/members/iskcon_desire_tree<div><p><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12323681695,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="400" alt="12323681695?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></p>
<p>It was great seeing one family again. They had come to Niagara from Hungary to participate in his parent’ 50th anniversary. That, of course, is a great milestone.</p>
<p>The family – Nila Gopal, Sukhayanti and two daughters (twins, actually, at 8 years) – began their spiritual life here in Toronto some years back, then moved to Hungary for a rural life and school for their daughters. Nila trains oxen. Sukhayanti is an organizer.</p>
<p id="viewer-apm5p2501">In such circumstances, when acquaintances meet after some years of separation, there is catch up time. “How is so-and-so doing?”, “How are the cows and bulls?”, “Oh you are getting 30,000 tourists coming to Vraja dham (the farming community) each year?”</p>
<p id="viewer-h4jae2505">We also talked silly and shared jokes such as:</p>
<p id="viewer-7bw712509">1) Why did the cookie go to the doctor? Answer: Because it felt crummy.</p>
<p id="viewer-o9dvk2513">2) I wrote a song about a tortilla. Actually, it’s more like a wrap.</p>
<p id="viewer-3cd0n2517">3) Where do animals go when their tails fall off? Answer: The re-tail store.</p>
<p id="viewer-sko1g2521">4) Why did the stadium get hot? Answer: All the fans left.</p>
<p id="viewer-32ya62527">I also received a visit from another pair of proud parents. Dharma and Manasi Ganga, from Mississauga, came to announce the upcoming marriage of their son, Vyenkat. I’m extremely happy for them. I had no time for jokes. Monday night is time for slokes (verses from the Gita). The theme was reputation and how Krishna puts so much emphasis on keeping up a good name. Chapter 2.</p>
<p><strong>Source: </strong><a href="https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/getting-connected">https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/getting-connected</a></p></div>Let us visit by Bhaktimarga Swamihttps://iskcondesiretree.com/profiles/blogs/let-us-visit-by-bhaktimarga-swami2023-12-11T13:40:16.000Z2023-12-11T13:40:16.000ZISKCON Desire Treehttps://iskcondesiretree.com/members/iskcon_desire_tree<div><p><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12315489058,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="500" alt="12315489058?profile=RESIZE_584x" /></p>
<p id="viewer-s7ai">I had no opportunity to touch nature today, other than the five kilometre brisk walk from Union Station to the ashram. Yes, it was fresh and early. Our train from Ottawa left us still for over two hours near Pickering, which landed us at our destination at 1:30 am. I wheeled my suitcase once again down the stretch. Good for wheels. Good for legs.</p>
<div id="viewer-8ek5m">
<p id="viewer-fdh0o">Planned for the day was two home visits where both parties expressed the desire for lamp offerings to the figurines of Krishna and Yasodha, His mom. Because days are short and the dark appears early, having the presence of tiny lamps gives a pleasant ambiance. For further light moments I read from the Bhagavatam at the home of Bhakti Yoga, whose place is at a cliff’s edge, next to Hwy 401, the expressway that many motorists love to hate. Bhakti Yoga and I go way back, when, as brahmacaris (monks) we traveled around in a van going from town to town to fulfill a prophecy that every hamlet would be in touch with Krishna.</p>
<p id="viewer-6br4s">A second visit was at the home of Nimai Nitai. Once again, lamps were offered to Krishna and we sang the ever-enchanting Damodarastaka, wich is so popular in this month of Kartik. It was coincidental that the meal was Italian cuisine in both homes. More or less, it was the colour red. Some deep questions arose from our conversations. We really could have gone on forever relishing each other’s company, but some of us need to rise early.</p>
<div id="viewer-41d2h">In one regard we did touch nature, because hearts were touched.<br /><br /></div>
<p id="viewer-9fp51"><strong>Source: </strong><a href="https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/let-us-visit">https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/let-us-visit</a></p>
</div>
<p> </p></div>Monk and Mantra by Bhaktimarga Swamihttps://iskcondesiretree.com/profiles/blogs/monk-and-mantra-by-bhaktimarga-swami2023-12-09T12:40:33.000Z2023-12-09T12:40:33.000ZISKCON Desire Treehttps://iskcondesiretree.com/members/iskcon_desire_tree<div><p><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12311638291,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="300" alt="12311638291?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></p>
<p id="viewer-18l84">Before tucking into bed last night my host, Sreyas, a doctor at one of Ottawa’s hospitals, brought me to see his father, 91, recovering from surgery. This is one of those comforting obligations that goes with the priestly portfolio. The next morning, however, I had the pleasure to visit, not the aged and mature, but those classes of youngsters at the Bhakta Prahlad Montessori School.</p>
<p id="viewer-9d8ft">Krishna Dulal, who is sometimes described as entrepreneur extraordinaire, is also the manager of the school, and along with his wife, Vraja, invited me to engage the children in <em>mantra </em>meditation. They were most responsive. And franly that is what I offered to Sreya’s dad the night before—some chanting.</p>
<p id="viewer-2kjuv">In our Gaudiya Vaishnav tradition the monks deliver mantras which are therapeutic for everyone, young and old. The mantra serves to calm the mind, something good for all. Back at the base in Ottawa, our morning program consisted of <em>mantra </em>sharing.</p>
<p>Our group of all guys chanted to honour Krishna as the loveable child in the form of puja, and we also sat together to reflect on the story of young Prince Dhruva, who received from his guru, Narada, the <em>mantra Om namo bhagavata vasudevaya</em>, which translates as, “let us all praise the Absolute Supreme.”</p>
<p id="viewer-dfhjs">That’s generally how the day begins for a Vaishnav. It is a practice that we prefer to never leave us. It’s<em> mantra</em> power.</p>
<p id="viewer-7q3kn">As I complete writing this blog I'm stuck in a stationary train and I’ll resort to chanting the <em>mantra</em>.</p>
<p><strong>Source:</strong> <a href="https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/monk-and-mantra">https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/monk-and-mantra</a></p></div>Bhaktimarga Swami Given Lifetime Achievement Award by Canadian Hindu Chamber of Commercehttps://iskcondesiretree.com/profiles/blogs/bhaktimarga-swami-given-lifetime-achievement-award-by-canadian-hi2023-11-22T12:11:54.000Z2023-11-22T12:11:54.000ZISKCON Desire Treehttps://iskcondesiretree.com/members/iskcon_desire_tree<div><p><strong><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12299265282,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="500" alt="12299265282?profile=RESIZE_584x" /></strong></p>
<p><strong>By Radhapriya</strong></p>
<p>On November 4th, His Holiness Bhaktimarga Swami was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Canadian Hindu Chamber of Commerce (CHCC). The Canadian Hindu Chamber of Commerce is the first registered not-for-profit organization in Canada dedicated to the unification of Canadian Hindus and their economic interests. The CHCC wanted to bestow honour on him and ISKCON with this award and ceremony.</p>
<p>When Srila Prabhupada brought Krishna consciousness to the West, there was practically no awareness of Bhakti-yoga, Vedic knowledge, vegetarianism, and Krishna. Through the continued efforts by ISKCON over the decades, Vaishnavism has become more prominent and has helped the Hindu diaspora at large become more mainstream and respected. In particular, ISKCON is very well regarded among the Hindu population in Canada.</p>
<p>HH Bhaktimarga Swami joined ISKCON in 1973 in Toronto, Canada, and has been continuously serving the movement since then. Fifty years on, he has been an integral part of ISKCON’s outreach, from conducting several walks across Canada to expanding the number of Canadian ISKCON centres to his welcoming and inclusive ecstatic kirtans. HH Bhaktimarga Swami continuously engages Hindu leaders in the community and imparts the benefits of the bhakti tradition as given by Srila Prabhupada through the parampara system. HH Bhaktimarga Swami also serves as GBC in Canada and is an initiating Guru.<br /> <br /> <strong>Read more:</strong> <a href="https://iskconnews.org/bhaktimarga-swami-given-lifetime-achievement-award-by-canadian-hindu-chamber-of-commerce/">https://iskconnews.org/bhaktimarga-swami-given-lifetime-achievement-award-by-canadian-hindu-chamber-of-commerce/</a></p></div>Around The Lake by Bhaktimarga Swamihttps://iskcondesiretree.com/profiles/blogs/around-the-lake-by-bhaktimarga-swami2023-11-06T12:08:58.000Z2023-11-06T12:08:58.000ZISKCON Desire Treehttps://iskcondesiretree.com/members/iskcon_desire_tree<div><p class="xVISr Y9Dpf bCMSCT OZy-3 _40ACk Ecq9kg public-DraftStyleDefault-block-depth0 fixed-tab-size public-DraftStyleDefault-text-ltr" style="line-height:1.5;font-family:'proxima-n-w01-reg', 'proxima-n-w05-reg', sans-serif;border:0px;margin:0px;padding:0px;vertical-align:baseline;color:#414141;"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12286160259,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12286160259?profile=RESIZE_400x" width="300" /></p>
<p class="xVISr Y9Dpf bCMSCT OZy-3 _40ACk Ecq9kg public-DraftStyleDefault-block-depth0 fixed-tab-size public-DraftStyleDefault-text-ltr" style="line-height:1.5;font-family:'proxima-n-w01-reg', 'proxima-n-w05-reg', sans-serif;border:0px;margin:0px;padding:0px;vertical-align:baseline;color:#414141;">Two chaps, both brahmacharis (monks) from Pune, offered to take me to some kind of trail. Actually, we are looking at a lake called Katraj Lake which takes a mere fourteen minutes to circumambulate. It was at the brahma muhurta hour, the time before dawn, that we walked it, and yet again. I was quite surprised to see a good turn out of people doing their own version of a workout on this lake which has an island in the centre with a stature of Sivaji Maharaja, a defender of the Hindu community, dating back.<br /> </p>
<p class="xVISr Y9Dpf bCMSCT OZy-3 _40ACk Ecq9kg public-DraftStyleDefault-block-depth0 fixed-tab-size public-DraftStyleDefault-text-ltr" style="line-height:1.5;font-family:'proxima-n-w01-reg', 'proxima-n-w05-reg', sans-serif;border:0px;margin:0px;padding:0px;vertical-align:baseline;color:#414141;"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12286160662,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="300" alt="12286160662?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></p>
<p class="xVISr Y9Dpf bCMSCT OZy-3 _40ACk Ecq9kg public-DraftStyleDefault-block-depth0 fixed-tab-size public-DraftStyleDefault-text-ltr" style="line-height:1.5;font-family:'proxima-n-w01-reg', 'proxima-n-w05-reg', sans-serif;border:0px;margin:0px;padding:0px;vertical-align:baseline;color:#414141;"> </p>
<p id="viewer-c6e55">I really appreciated the good morning air and the good companionship. Next to the lake and trail is a game field – cricket is my guess. A massive image of Vithala (Krishna) stands there to bless the games on site. Tukaram is the very holy saint of the past who adored Vithala.</p>
<p id="viewer-ffunr">The thing about India is that in every direction you can expect someone or something sacred. That's what I very much like about the nation. Divinity is what gives resilience to India.</p>
<p id="viewer-enlmd">The tree of us walkers left before traffic in the area gets crazy, and I also needed to get back to our ashram to catch up on correspondence and other matters. We have a whole day to meet with members of the Indian Bureau of ISKCON. I'm not complaining. In fact, I have it so good. I never have to worry about where my next meal is going to come from. I'm fed sufficiently every day. I have a roof, a bed, and laundry.</p>
<p id="viewer-1cgeg">My biggest concern is for human wellness – to see a better world.</p>
<p><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12286160895,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="450" alt="12286160895?profile=RESIZE_584x" /><br /> <strong>Source: </strong><a href="https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/around-the-lake">https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/around-the-lake</a></p></div>Leadership by Bhaktimarga Swamihttps://iskcondesiretree.com/profiles/blogs/leadership-by-bhaktimarga-swami2023-11-02T13:25:18.000Z2023-11-02T13:25:18.000ZISKCON Desire Treehttps://iskcondesiretree.com/members/iskcon_desire_tree<div><p id="viewer-4v7l4" style="text-align:center;"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12282124666,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="400" alt="12282124666?profile=RESIZE_400x" /><br /><br />When you are a leader<br /> You are on someone's meter</p>
<p id="viewer-ceo2f" style="text-align:center;">When your voice is heard<br /> There's analysis on every word</p>
<p id="viewer-bpb30" style="text-align:center;">When you simply make a move<br /> Once set, it's hard to remove</p>
<p id="viewer-1eark" style="text-align:center;">You will never satisfy everyone<br /> It's natural for all under the sun</p>
<p id="viewer-b8kqb" style="text-align:center;">Yet decisions must be made<br /> So one need not be afraid</p>
<p id="viewer-4lpsc" style="text-align:center;">Just have fixation on duty<br /> That is a true leader's beauty</p>
<p id="viewer-aepdl" style="text-align:center;">Be ready to accept correction<br /> The willingness to take direction</p>
<p id="viewer-fq96m" style="text-align:center;">That is the measure of great honour<br /> No personal trait could be stronger</p>
<p id="viewer-i9sm" style="text-align:center;">Remember, you are not Bhagavan<br /> The false notion should be withdrawn</p>
<p id="viewer-13u3" style="text-align:center;">There is only one leader in the end<br /> Make alliance with that One Big Friend</p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12282125094,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="500" alt="12282125094?profile=RESIZE_584x" /></p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12282125860,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="300" alt="12282125860?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></p>
<p id="viewer-4cghg" style="text-align:center;"><br /> <strong>Source:</strong> <a href="https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/leadership">https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/leadership</a></p></div>A Touch of Class by Bhaktimarga Swamihttps://iskcondesiretree.com/profiles/blogs/a-touch-of-class-by-bhaktimarga-swami2023-11-01T11:47:22.000Z2023-11-01T11:47:22.000ZISKCON Desire Treehttps://iskcondesiretree.com/members/iskcon_desire_tree<div><p><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12281526263,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="300" alt="12281526263?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></p>
<p>In a 2X6 metre rustic hut, the home of Gaura Hari, Madan Gopal (my sponsor for this French trip) fixed breakfast with his own homemade bread for the three of us. That provided some energy for our day's journey to Chateau de Chenonceau, a castle located on the Cher River. After Versailles, the structure with the grounds is the biggest tourist attraction for castles.<br /><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12281526290,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="300" alt="12281526290?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></p>
<p><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12281531258,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="300" alt="12281531258?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></p>
<p id="viewer-8m482">What did we see?</p>
<p id="viewer-708t5">Impressive architecture, fine interiors of furniture, utilities, and artwork for the high-end folks of the 16th century, were on display. Some of the pieces are just awesome, like the Virgin Mary in a blue veil, and strong man, Samson, defeating a lion. From the fineries one can appreciate the pampering lifestyle for some fortunates of the past. But I was still more charmed by Gaura Hari's modest cabin, if you want me to compare.</p>
<p id="viewer-f1q2b">We spent a good amount of time at the castle, and after a meal, a nap, and a drive, Madan Gopal dropped me off at that rustic home of Gaura Hari, who sent me on a trail and then the road back to La Nouvelle Mayapura for a solo walk.</p>
<p id="viewer-9t469">The sun (soliel in French) was so much in my favour after the cloud and rain of the bygone days. Then there was the wind (vayu in Sansrkit) that tossed my garments about. Once I reached the woods, all was calm and I got to the front door to the place where actual aristocracy resides – Their Lordships, Krishna Balarama and other divine royalty.</p>
<p><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12281531685,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="300" alt="12281531685?profile=RESIZE_400x" /><br /> <strong>Source: </strong><a href="https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/a-touch-of-class">https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/a-touch-of-class</a></p></div>Somewhat immobile in the Air by Bhaktimarga Swamihttps://iskcondesiretree.com/profiles/blogs/somewhat-immobile-in-the-air-by-bhaktimarga-swami2023-10-26T12:12:55.000Z2023-10-26T12:12:55.000ZISKCON Desire Treehttps://iskcondesiretree.com/members/iskcon_desire_tree<div><p><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12269221285,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="500" alt="12269221285?profile=RESIZE_584x" /></p>
<p id="viewer-1e3eg">Flight 872 via Air Canada was pleasant enough. The meal, a trite bland, was healthy. You don't want to overeat anyways when not being too active. About the most I do on these flights is mobilize my fingers on the right hand while chanting on my japa beads.</p>
<p id="viewer-evrek">Once my prescribed 'rounds' are done, I read, which is nominal movement, and then treat myself to a National Film Board of Canada documentary. Tonight's film was on the topic of throat singing by an Indigenous woman named Tanya. This means my index finger rises about two feet higher to press the screen for viewing – that's not a lot of physical exertion.</p>
<p id="viewer-8577c">The passenger couple next to me hail from Avenue Road, the street where I reside. Rick and Liz are en route to Amsterdam. Rick wrote a book about leadership and is presenting a talk on the subject. I told them of my book, The Saffron Path, recalling my walking journeys. I gifted the couple with a copy and they were grateful. Rick said he'll come by the temple/ashram (my residence) and reciprocate by giving me his book once he returns home.</p>
<p id="viewer-fcsjh">Great couple to talk to.</p>
<p>At the Paris Airport, Madan Gopal, a Danish devotee, was there to greet me. Our four-hour journey by car took us to New Mayapura, a castle in the north. Madan Gopal climbs trees for a living (it's good money). I asked him what it's like playing Tarzan, and he responded, "I get called in to take down trees that are hazardous." Interesting!<br /> <br /> <strong>Source: </strong><a href="https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/somewhat-immobile-in-the-air">https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/somewhat-immobile-in-the-air</a></p></div>A Need In Barrie by Bhaktimarga Swamihttps://iskcondesiretree.com/profiles/blogs/a-need-in-barrie-by-bhaktimarga-swami2023-10-21T12:38:13.000Z2023-10-21T12:38:13.000ZISKCON Desire Treehttps://iskcondesiretree.com/members/iskcon_desire_tree<div><p><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12263257085,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="400" alt="12263257085?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></p>
<p>Georgian College hosted an event to encourage students, and it was Mohit, Naina, their son and daughter, and student, Yash, who made the connection for bhakti yoga practitioners. I was really taken by the duo Indradev, on drum, and Ekanath, on harmonium. These boys hail from Lithuania and Latvia. Their bhajan songs were sweet, as was a cozy room we were given to sing and speak in. I didn't mind the high ceilings and glass walls at all; there was a very good energy.</p>
<p>The fact is that many students find their studies rather challenging, especially those who come from other countries. Suicide is a reality among students. Home sickness, pressure from parents, culture shock, dietary change, and drastic change of weather are some of the serious challenges they face. Yash, whom I mentioned earlier, is one of those students who has witnessed some of his classmates go through trauma.</p>
<p id="viewer-7geoe">It was a pleasure for me to speak to some of these young men and women who are finding some difficulties on this social level. Naturally, I'm offering advice to them on spiritual terms. Some of the tools – practices that Krishna consciousness offers, can really help one to cope with some of these problems.</p>
<p id="viewer-1c0n9">I did receive some suggestions from more than one person, "Why don't we have a centre here in Barrie – a place where students can come regularly and feel a sense of home, a sense of camaraderie?"</p>
<p id="viewer-b88mf">In the big city of Toronto, there are various temples or outlets for these young people to benefit from, but in a smaller city like Barrie, population 160,000, it has not yet manifest.</p>
<p><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12263257281,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="500" alt="12263257281?profile=RESIZE_584x" /><br /> <strong>Source: </strong><a href="https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/a-need-in-barrie">https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/a-need-in-barrie</a></p></div>In Diverse Association by Bhaktimarga Swamihttps://iskcondesiretree.com/profiles/blogs/in-diverse-association-by-bhaktimarga-swami2023-10-20T13:29:21.000Z2023-10-20T13:29:21.000ZISKCON Desire Treehttps://iskcondesiretree.com/members/iskcon_desire_tree<div><p><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12260542454,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="300" alt="12260542454?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></p>
<p id="viewer-bd8c3">As a <em>sannyasi </em>practicing detachment, I accept my services wholeheartedly if the day calls for being put in one place or moving around. Today was one of those nomadic days where i enjoyed being in diverse association.</p>
<p id="viewer-8bine">For starters, It was a great pleasure to be present in the temple room with mostly 20-year-olds who enjoy an early morning chant-and-dance for God. They are genuine party animals, I must say, and they are preoccupied in the program of the <em>Bhakti Academy</em>.</p>
<p id="viewer-7bc1a">From that location at 243 Avenue Road in Toronto, I was whisked away by Nimai Nitai and destined for Kitchener. We arrived perfectly at 11 am as per the schedule. It was my first time with these lovely folks that turned up a bit tardy with their arrival. Of course, I knew Yuri from Latvia, and there was Parama Hansa who became my physiotherapist after my knee surgery.</p>
<p id="viewer-8aiob">“What is today’s topic for speaking?” I asked.</p>
<p id="viewer-4jjpj">It was concluded the theme was going to be “The Importance of Saintly Association.” That went well because it was interactive enough.</p>
<p>From Kitchener NN and I went to see and encourage a cancer patient in Oakville at the home. The visit, though brief, was powerful because of the hope of support for the family.</p>
<p id="viewer-69svg">Burlington was our next stop for their weekly get together. The theme here was, “What do Vaishnavas actually do?” And the answer is in Chapter 10, Verse 10. Yes, 10, 10! We engage in positive messages. Working towards optimism, challenging cynicism, focusing on the marvellous ways of the Supreme Personality of Godhead. Nice energy in Burlington.<br /> <br /> <strong>Source: </strong><a href="https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/getting-about">https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/getting-about</a></p></div>Learn from the past by Bhaktimarga Swamihttps://iskcondesiretree.com/profiles/blogs/learn-from-the-past-by-bhaktimarga-swami2023-10-10T11:00:31.000Z2023-10-10T11:00:31.000ZISKCON Desire Treehttps://iskcondesiretree.com/members/iskcon_desire_tree<div><p><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12245477476,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="300" alt="12245477476?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></p>
<p>Coyotes sounded in the night just as the bonfire was about to begin. We were lucky to secure veteran monk, Varshana Swami, resident sannyasi in the rural community of New Vrindavan, who spoke about the pastimes of walking monk, Chaitanya.</p>
<p>Sometimes people naturally ask which Vrindavan is better – the original in India, or New Vrindavan in the hills of West Virginia. The explanation by our founder/teacher, Prabhupada, is that they are non-different. Indeed, both of the locations are of a transcendent nature. My input would be something like this: "I appreciate both, but the one in America is more rustic, foresty, and it's cleaner."</p>
<p id="viewer-d7m">Apart from the howling of coyotes, it is common to see deer everywhere in New Vrindavan, as well as raccoons, opossums, skunks, and the odd bear; and West Virginia boasts the most diverse number of wild vegetation in the continent. You can understand why I'm leaning where I am on the above question.</p>
<p id="viewer-aibnt">My dear godbrother, Partha, did a marvellous presentation on the topic of a man's approach to REAL renunciation, as opposed to immature renunciation. In the early days of ISKCON, the view of renouncing the world and going the detached way was not so wholesome. As an example, a phrase from sastra (scripture) read something like, "Married life is a deep, dark hole," and such a statement would be isolated by an inexperienced person who would take it out of context and misapply it.</p>
<p id="viewer-6irfb">Let us learn from the past mistakes and take good guidance.</p>
<p><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12245477499,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="300" alt="12245477499?profile=RESIZE_400x" /><br /> <strong>Source:</strong> <a href="https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/learn-from-the-past">https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/learn-from-the-past</a></p></div>What is it with ____ ? By Bhaktimarga Swamihttps://iskcondesiretree.com/profiles/blogs/what-is-it-with-by-bhaktimarga-swami2023-09-29T14:36:52.000Z2023-09-29T14:36:52.000ZISKCON Desire Treehttps://iskcondesiretree.com/members/iskcon_desire_tree<div><p><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12235924888,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="500" alt="12235924888?profile=RESIZE_584x" /><br />I was extremely happy to share some of my poetry with the very content devotees in Brampton. They took to kirtan so well, and to listening. One of the poems about prayer really captured them. Here it is:</p>
<p> </p>
<p>WHAT IS IT WITH PRAYER?</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Is it not the most divine form of communication</p>
<p id="viewer-b3ok6">A way of expression, a marvellous supplication</p>
<p id="viewer-2naeu">An urge from the heart due to a hurt or a wound</p>
<p id="viewer-82ecc">A cry so desperate from feeling so ruined</p>
<p id="viewer-1rqf9">A call for help as if lost in dense jungle</p>
<p id="viewer-evtnc">Seeking signs for a way out of the tangle</p>
<p id="viewer-6cav7">Prayer can be a request for strength, hope, courage</p>
<p id="viewer-68d51">It certainly transcends any mundane verbiage</p>
<p id="viewer-f928v">But special requests do not alone constitute prayer</p>
<p id="viewer-9ajbm">Prayer should not only refer to events of despair</p>
<p id="viewer-8p4p7">Not just reserved when life appears abhorrent</p>
<p id="viewer-fidp2">For prayer is rare when we're sunk in comfort</p>
<p id="viewer-bbnha">The better prayer is praise in which we thank</p>
<p id="viewer-5h34m">For compared to the Divine we're in a different rank</p>
<p id="viewer-31fgn">It's unwholesome to lodge blame on the Creator</p>
<p id="viewer-dfmjj">And not owning up, it puts one in a hole, a crater</p>
<p id="viewer-p67r">Prayer is acknowledgement of His great worth</p>
<p id="viewer-73d4p">Though the ego declares, "Mine was the greatest birth"</p>
<p id="viewer-f1hq3">Prayer is a good medium for reconciliation</p>
<p id="viewer-a7ihm">Becoming then an exercise in self realization</p>
<p id="viewer-ceful">Prayer should not be a shopping list on what's missing</p>
<p id="viewer-dns87">Rather a counting of blessings as the Universe is kissing</p>
<p id="viewer-5en52">Prayer is power, a super-healing process</p>
<p id="viewer-5bnll">An opportunity to invoke human progress</p>
<p id="viewer-15c1k">Our heart can soften like a lotus flower</p>
<p id="viewer-1tcio">When we pray in gratitude each and every hour<br /> <br /> <strong>Source:</strong> <a href="https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/what-is-it-with-_______">https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/what-is-it-with-_______</a></p></div>Stuff Along The Way by Bhaktimarga Swamihttps://iskcondesiretree.com/profiles/blogs/stuff-along-the-way-by-bhaktimarga-swami2023-09-28T14:44:22.000Z2023-09-28T14:44:22.000ZISKCON Desire Treehttps://iskcondesiretree.com/members/iskcon_desire_tree<div><p><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12234161661,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="300" alt="12234161661?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></p>
<p id="viewer-6u85d">Uday and I agreed to meet at Yonge and Bloor for the subway train to head west for a live<em> Gita </em>class session. And on my way for the 5 o'clock juncture, a Palestinian man walked next to me. "What are you?" he asked.</p>
<p id="viewer-l99k">"A monk with Krishna."</p>
<p id="viewer-s2n3">"Are you Indian? You dress like one, but you are white."</p>
<p id="viewer-3h3ch">"I thought I was beige. My parents are from the Netherlands. Mom looks Dutch. Dad's got some Italian in him, so I speculate. And what are you?"</p>
<p id="viewer-b7vjt">"I come from the land stolen by a thief. The name starts with an 'I'."</p>
<p id="viewer-ee9p0">"Israel?"</p>
<p id="viewer-5g564">"That's right," he said. Then he went on about the history of the land that was stolen, etc., and spoke of the concept of truth.</p>
<p id="viewer-b1vvf">"Have you ever thought that if we all identified less with the body and more with the soul we could all enjoy equality on a higher level?"</p>
<p id="viewer-3o74l">At that moment I spotted Uday and we headed for the train to Kipling, then walked to Dundas St. into the depth of Mississauga. The walk was great. A gas station was a rest point. We went for a bio break there when I met a man from Hyderabad at the other other end of the counter. Oh, he was excited and wanted our picture taken together. Uday and I went onward.</p>
<p>You know, people are pretty happy on Friday. You just say to them, "Have a good weekend! Haribol!" and they respond happily. Pedestrians are fewer in the 'burbs, but when you meet one, it's precious. A Jamaican gave a fist bump and talked about Bob Marley, monkism, and a cigarette habit he's trying to kick. "Only on weekends do I smoke." I suggested he cut down his weekend, to shrink it somehow. He liked that and gave another fist bump.</p>
<p id="viewer-9r3g8">Finally, Pusta Krishna picked us up and a group enjoyed chatting about 2.7 from the<em> Gita</em>.<br /> <br /> <strong>Source:</strong> <a href="https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/stuff-along-the-way">https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/stuff-along-the-way</a></p></div>The people who make a difference by Bhaktimarga Swamihttps://iskcondesiretree.com/profiles/blogs/the-people-who-make-a-difference-by-bhaktimarga-swami2023-09-12T13:44:26.000Z2023-09-12T13:44:26.000ZISKCON Desire Treehttps://iskcondesiretree.com/members/iskcon_desire_tree<div><p><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12222496483,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="500" alt="12222496483?profile=RESIZE_584x" /></p>
<p id="viewer-akqjd">It is wrap up time for my visit to B.C., and I am receiving all kinds of gifts (such as a watch) that I'm not worthy of, a pack up lunch for the plane, hugs and goodbyes of all sorts and kinds. Satyabhama has been so sweet with daily unch during my stay here, and her son, Arjuna, in his teens, offers comic relief. Vishnu Priya pops by for gifts too, and Makunda Madhava, who offered me teabags of valerian for my insomnia, stood there to hear my testimony on how this substance worked for me for two nights in a row. Manu and Janaki Jivan, the major management team here, offered some cash (much appreciated), a bakshish to assist any traveller who has put in some service. That donation is a part of a cultural service. Expenses are there, even for air travel. Budget airlines charge for the carry on.</p>
<p id="viewer-3brvs">The flight back east I spent reading from Chasing Rhinos with the Swami. I have to say, I love this book and I have to read it in modest gulps. The author, Shyamasundar, is so detailed in his delivery that swallowing the material is a challenge at times.</p>
<p id="viewer-1qjc6">After four hours of flying we land and three hours appear to be lost by the time zone change. Nanda picked me up, and with some time to kill at a 10 to 11 p.m. slot, I get a chance to catch up on news from within (our community) and without (the outside world of politics). Some of this is good and some not. Such is life. Before tucking myself in, my heart is filled with a gratitude for the people that keep me afloat. Thank you!<br /> <br /> <strong>Source: </strong><a href="https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/the-people-who-make-a-difference">https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/the-people-who-make-a-difference</a></p></div>Visits and visitors by Bhaktimarga Swamihttps://iskcondesiretree.com/profiles/blogs/visits-and-visitors-by-bhaktimarga-swami2023-09-11T13:43:52.000Z2023-09-11T13:43:52.000ZISKCON Desire Treehttps://iskcondesiretree.com/members/iskcon_desire_tree<div><div>
<p id="viewer-dknfm"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12221871264,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="400" alt="12221871264?profile=RESIZE_400x" /><br />The Vancouver Krishna community celebrated the birthday of Balarama with chanting, class and feasting. I took the opportunity to read my poem, "About Balarama", a synopsis of his pastimes and why we honour him so. He is just one of those many avatars that enrich the lives of bhakti practitioners. He is indeed colourful and precious. When we chant the Maha Mantra, the words Rama Rama refers to Balarama. Being the half-brother of Krishna, he is bound to demonstrate wisdom, love, and playfulness.</p>
<p id="viewer-dojj7">Speaking of playful, a raccoon comes to visit me each day. He comes to my doorstep most likely for food. It is unfavourable to fee it because it will constantly be dependant on human food. Better that it does its scrounging within the elements. You also don't want to get too close to these guys as a number of them have rabies. It's quite common. You need to know how close to get to them.</p>
<p>In general, we do need to maintain a respect for all wildlife and keep a bond with the social animals - humans. For the last few days in the Vancouver area, I have made home visits for more kirtan, and it's always suitable to open up the Gita within a group. It doesn't matter to which page one opens, there's always a message relevant to the person who browses. I went randomly to the opening page of Chapter 9 wherein Krishna speaks, "Because you are never envious of Me, I shall impart to you this most confidential knowledge and realizations." There is a qualification to absorbing this wisdom.</p>
<p><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12221871286,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="337" alt="12221871286?profile=RESIZE_400x" /><br /> <strong>Source:</strong> <a href="https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/visits-and-visitors">https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/visits-and-visitors</a></p>
</div></div>Another Place by Bhaktimarga Swamihttps://iskcondesiretree.com/profiles/blogs/another-place-by-bhaktimarga-swami2023-08-14T13:03:36.000Z2023-08-14T13:03:36.000ZISKCON Desire Treehttps://iskcondesiretree.com/members/iskcon_desire_tree<div><p><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12189049498,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="335" alt="12189049498?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></p>
<p id="viewer-bpc7f">After a long prairie ride on that familiar TCH (Trans-Canada Highway) from Saskatchewan, we finally landed in the next province, Manitoba, and more specifically, the city of Winnipeg, at 2 am. The next morning (today) was the inauguration of Winnipeg's Ratha Yatra (Chariot Fest), and for that, our team of four was required to be there at 10:30 am. Fine!</p>
<p id="viewer-e0tcu">The popular Hindu temple on St. Anne's Road was the venue for the event. It was a good choice. The temple became packed in no time prior to our outdoor pulling of a modestly-sized chariot with onboard deities, Jagannatha, Baladeva, and Subadra. This festival, by the way, is not a regular practice for the Hindu community. The rath (chariot) is a popular draw for the people on the eastern side of India, but more recently, because of the cultural thrust from ISKCON, the Chariot Fest is taking hold all over India and around the world. Who would have ever thought that in conservative corners of Canada and the USA, that people of a spiritual fervour would come out, without apprehension, and flaunt Their Lordships on the street.</p>
<p id="viewer-bac1a">In Winnipeg, the procession stayed on temple grounds, but next year's organizers vow to go to the streets. I guess this is all a small chunk of the Vedic diaspora taking tiny steps to be known.<br /> <br /> At downtime after the event, I ventured to a park and there met a Burmese fellow new to the country and new to the university. He only came three days ago and let his homeland which he describes is in turmoil with a civil war. Currently there is an attempted coup. So here he is, Aaron, by name, with no friends yet, except for me, I suppose. I let him know I am indeed his amigo, and so is Krishna in the heart.<br /> <br /> <strong>Source: </strong><a href="https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/another-place">https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/another-place</a></p></div>Seeing And Feeling The Struggle by Bhaktimarga Swamihttps://iskcondesiretree.com/profiles/blogs/seeing-and-feeling-the-struggle-by-bhaktimarga-swami2023-08-12T12:26:51.000Z2023-08-12T12:26:51.000ZISKCON Desire Treehttps://iskcondesiretree.com/members/iskcon_desire_tree<div><p><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12187843884,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="500" alt="12187843884?profile=RESIZE_584x" /></p>
<p>The hawk was in flight and had something clutched to its claws, and while the bird was beelining itself above me, I saw a second bird, a blackbird, making irregular dashes at the hawk. More than once it lunged towards the larger bird. Within seconds, the smaller bird gave in and took its own course, most likely frustrated by its intruder who likely stole something from the tinier bird.</p>
<p>This outdoor trekking that I do in the morning offers dramas such as this that you won't find when pacing on a treadmill. On top of that, I capture the air, or it does me, the same with the sun or wind, and an opportunity to greet humans who are doing the same as me.</p>
<p id="viewer-6ievc">Witnessing the struggle of the bird reminds me of the pain people endure. In Regina at today's version of their Chariot Fest, when we were gathered at 1279 Retallack Street, Elder Archie representing the First Nations, reminded us of the difficulty his people encountered by foreign aggressors from the past. On his brief speech, he also expressed appreciation for the ISKCON communities in this march in the North Central neighbourhood where many Indigenous folks reside.</p>
<p id="viewer-cv5e4">We marched together to the beat of both drums, chanted mantras, and cheering each other along the way. Our pace was slow with purpose and thoughtfulness. It was a unique fest for our travelling crew. After the feast, Elder Archie sang and drummed with his companions in praise of the Creator – the theme that predominates this event wherever we go.</p>
<p id="viewer-f6n9c">Our Regina fest was smaller than usual, but fun and meaningful, nevertheless. Our day became hectic with the rush to zoom off to the Chariot Fest held in Winnipeg – a drive of 6 or 7 hours. While Gaurav stops his Tesla to recharge, I get the chance for more walking. I had the chance to walk in Whitewood and saw another hawk in flight. It flew solo.<br /> <br /> <strong>Source:</strong> <a href="https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/seeing-and-feeling-the-struggle">https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/seeing-and-feeling-the-struggle</a></p></div>By The Serpent by Bhaktimarga Swamihttps://iskcondesiretree.com/profiles/blogs/by-the-serpent-by-bhaktimarga-swami2023-07-26T12:30:35.000Z2023-07-26T12:30:35.000ZISKCON Desire Treehttps://iskcondesiretree.com/members/iskcon_desire_tree<div><p><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12161209292,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="320" alt="12161209292?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></p>
<p id="viewer-1qrqq">Everyone loves Nikhil. Now, with his initiated name, Nityananda, he appears even more lovable. That's just his disposition. He was kind enough to drive me to Serpent River, a usual destination point for our Krishna Culture bus tour. It is nature 's fun place, the only thing is that Chirag lost his phone to the rivers water. It looks like the serpent nabbed it.</p>
<p id="viewer-1v11i">“Farewell, Nityananda. You are off to Alberta for new opportunities. Keep Krishna in your centre.”</p>
<p>The fellows from the Festival of India (FOI) also converged here. Serpent River is the best kept secret. We picnicked together, swam together, and chatted together. This is bear country and so it was suggested I read from my book, The Saffron Path and its chapter, “A Prayer and a Bear.” It is not a bad idea to be ‘bear smart’ in these parts. What about ‘moose smart’?</p>
<p id="viewer-10oic">Any drivers on these northern trails know that you have to be on the lookout for these largest of the deer family. In fact, during our night travel beyond Sault Ste. Marie, we passed by a motorist who hit, and likely killed, a moose who was lying in the ditch. It appeared this driver was actually caring as he had left his vehicle and watched with concern over the body of this beautiful creature.</p>
<p id="viewer-7v1ea">My contemplation at the day's end was centred around my good fortune in having the company of these young folks. They really are special – a future generation of pious leaders, perhaps? Because of their age, being youths, they do get tempted by the serpent of maya (illusion). May they be protected and guided.<br /><br /><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12161209481,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="400" alt="12161209481?profile=RESIZE_400x" /><br /> <strong>Source: </strong><a href="https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/by-the-serpent">https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/by-the-serpent</a></p></div>A Swim At The End by Bhaktimarga Swamihttps://iskcondesiretree.com/profiles/blogs/a-swim-at-the-end-by-bhaktimarga-swami2023-07-21T13:34:05.000Z2023-07-21T13:34:05.000ZISKCON Desire Treehttps://iskcondesiretree.com/members/iskcon_desire_tree<div><p><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12157866652,RESIZE_400x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="320" alt="12157866652?profile=RESIZE_400x" /></p>
<p id="viewer-epi7">Brian Carwana Always manages to bring a great set of people over for a religious encounter experience. The last time he came was in May with folks mainly from the States. Today, he welcomed to our temple people from North America, including some Californians and those from Scotland. From our place he arranged for a visit to a First Nations centre, and then to the Hindu Sabha for an arati (service).</p>
<p id="viewer-4g798">It is my opinion that the caliber of people Brian shows up with are about the best on the planet. To one of the gentlemen, over a scrumptious meal at our Govinda’s, I suggested, “You folks are all brahmins.” He took it as a compliment. And one of the women in their mid 50s even expressed an interest in our Bhakti Academy, which is a three-month training course on everything you want to learn and experience about the culture. It's actually a live in the ashram retreat.</p>
<p id="viewer-6fc1b">The group liked chanting and dancing. One of the fellows was a reverend at the Saint Andrews church on Bloor St. His name is Neil Young.</p>
<p id="viewer-9rlr7">“You're not the original, you can't be,” I joked. He mentioned he's mistaken for the Canadian musician quite a lot.</p>
<p id="viewer-2juf4">We just had so much fun together.</p>
<div>
<p id="viewer-c51a7">Speaking of fun, I was always drawn to Krishna because I saw Him to be lighthearted. The service to that Almighty Krishna brings out the best in people.</p>
<p id="viewer-a5oee">When I completed my Gita Chat on Zoom tonight, during which we discussed verses 2.46 and 47 addressing the heat, three of the boys from Bhakti Academy and I headed for Cherry Beach. This was after sundown. Recreation is permitted for the renunciates.<br /> <br /> <strong>Source: </strong><a href="https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/a-swim-at-the-end">https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/a-swim-at-the-end</a></p>
</div></div>Covering School by Bhaktimarga Swamihttps://iskcondesiretree.com/profiles/blogs/covering-school-by-bhaktimarga-swami2023-07-20T12:52:12.000Z2023-07-20T12:52:12.000ZISKCON Desire Treehttps://iskcondesiretree.com/members/iskcon_desire_tree<div><p><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12157489682,RESIZE_710x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="600" alt="12157489682?profile=RESIZE_710x" /></p>
<p id="viewer-570mm">In order to get some walking in today, I decided to start with earlier morning sunrays instead of the forecast steam to come later. I enjoyed the track from 1626 Pie IX all the way to Jeanne Mance Park. It's a clear 8-kilometre hike. Sunday morning couldn't be quieter. Of course, on the more commercial streets, one can witness the aftermath of a Saturday night fever. It's rather disgusting what party animalism produces in the way of refuse. This is not a criticism on the city of Montreal per se. I love Montreal. The weekend dynamics are the same everywhere.</p>
<p id="viewer-2rro3">I arrived at the Chariot Fest on time to meet with our drama crew from the youth bus tour. It was to be their premier performance at 2:00 PM. The chairs were starting to fill up in front of the stage. Performances by good classical musicians enchanted the people. An Odissi dancer also moved people. On this second day of the festival for the Krishna consciousness movement, no drama was presented and so our ten actors on the stage, brightly attired, also became a sensation. It was fresh, different.</p>
<p>Now, I have presented The Gita for almost three decades, and it remains as a power play, especially when you consider new generations evolving. Once again, The Gita was a hit.</p>
<p id="viewer-3o6rp">Our drive to Toronto required a break, so what was convenient was a stopover at the midway point, Kingston, where we caught the tail end of a first chariot fast in that grand city. The spiritual enthusiasts who assembled the program really enjoyed this good excuse to get together.</p>
<p><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12157490287,RESIZE_584x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="450" alt="12157490287?profile=RESIZE_584x" /><br /> <strong>Source: </strong><a href="https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/covering-ground">https://www.thewalkingmonk.net/post/covering-ground</a></p></div>