On Srila Prabhupada's Spiritual Revolution
Misinterpretation can cause chaos. An example is Christianity, whose early adherents were vegetarians and believed in reincarnation. Later, these principles were rejected from mainstream Christianity, which has largely remained divorced from the true spirit of Christ ever since. It is incumbent, therefore, on the followers of Srila Prabhupada to carefully grasp the essence of his teachings and not speculate or deviate in any way. It is simple to understand: if we rationalize, minimize or simply disobey Srila Prabhupada's instructions, we will wither and die.
Although the guru-parampara is under the protection of Krsna (Srila Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati Thakura said that the line of Bhaktivinoda will never be stopped), if we allow maya to enter, the natural development of the mission will be impeded. So we have to be careful.
At the same time, we should not become overwhelmed by the inevitable difficulties that ISKCON faces. Srila Prabhupada himself weathered many storms as he captained the ISKCON ship, always maintaining equilibrium by dint of firm faith in Krsna's protection. It may be that our problems are not greater now than then, but that our ability to overcome them is less due to our lacking full Krsna consciousness.
Whatever the difficulties and their causes may be, true followers of Srila Prabhupada should always remain connected to his mission and continue to work as dedicated servants within it. They should maintain the constant endeavor to uphold and improve standards. Going away won't help. The test of a true disciple is to carry the burden of love given by the guru. For followers of Srila Prabhupada, that means to continue the preaching work within the organization started by him. Others may invent their "own" programs, but the true disciple sticks to the service given by the guru. It is the duty of all disciplic descendants of Srila Prabhupada, at least as long as physically possible, to work within their capacity and within ISKCON for the deliverance of the conditioned souls.
Without becoming engulfed by problems within our society, let us go on with our work, being always confident of Krsna's blessings. If we simply follow in Srila Prabhupada's footsteps, all success is guaranteed.
- From the "My Memories of Srila Prabhupada" by HH Bhakti Vikas Swami
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