In my service to Lord Krishna, I travel. I am always coming upon youth in Temples and other places that are in need of a Seniors or Elders guidance. Some of these youth are coming from homes to where there was no love, affection nor training of any kind. They are in need of a true Mother and/or Father figure. I am blessed to have been able to sit down with some and just listen to them pour out their hearts. What happened to the older ones teaching the young? Some of these youth don't even get shown any type of physical love or touch. There is nothing wrong with a hug. I have had youth both women and men cry in my arms. This is the future of the movement. One bramachi young man was going to take his life, if I had not been there to talk him out. Another young woman, had not had a hug from anyone in a long time. She held on for dear life. I am just saying...are people scared to show love and affection. Is it fear of being taken the wrong way? I have seen young men put to work like slaves in an ashram, with no instruction or care, just told to do their service, come to morning program or get out. No other lessons, care or instructions. The temple where I saw this can't seem to keep youth there to serve, it is all older devotees, all I could do was pray.
I came across one young man who was told to just chant, that would take care of all his problems. He left the movement. I am still in contact with him, I counsel with him regularly, he found a different path to serve the Lord. He said there just wasn't any love in KC. This is not the 1st time I have heard this said.
When I go to festivals and kirtans, I make it a point to engage the youth in conversation, hugs, dancing, and anything to make them smile. I like to know what is going on inside them and show genuine concern for their well-being. Like I said some are coming from homes where there is no love or affection. Do we want them to find it the wrong way? God forbid. Please engage the youth. See what is on their minds, and help make it better in the movement for them. There will be more youth coming in from the outside, not born into KC. I wasn't born into a KC family myself. but I have wonderful associations in my hometown, and where ever I go.
Hari Bol!
Your Servant Catie
(Caitanyatulasi)
Comments
Hare KRsna Mataji,
PAMHO.
You are right mataji. We have to keep this in mind - the youth are our future and we have to nuture them with love.
Thank you for this post. I will try to keep it in mind and do my bit.
Haribol,
Your servant,
Rashmi