Padmanabha dasa
Dear Guru Maharaja,
Hare Krsna. Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.
On this auspicious day of your Vyasa- Puja, I recall with gratitude the guidance you provided to me in critical times. As years roll by, some realizations become deeper. Difficulties come uninvited.
tal labhyate duhkhavad anyatah sukham
kalena sarvatra gabhira-ramhasa
(Srimad-Bhagavatam 1.5.18)
Happiness and miseries come automatically due to the influence of time. Time is Krsna. Good and bad events in my life are simply part of His plan and arrangement, and I should accept them with love. They say life is a great teacher. It is true only if one is under the guidance of a Spiritual Master. The lessons that one learns are then on a higher platform.
The last two years were an intense experience for me. My wife made valiant efforts in tolerating the pain of cancer with patience and hope. While caring for her on a full-time basis, I found myself absorbing some of that pain. Then I shared with you my situation. Immediately, I felt lighter in heart. You indicated that serving family members was also devotional service, especially if they are devotees. This transformed my consciousness completely. As in the past, I continued to read and hear scripture with her. But now, this turned into an uplifting experience for both of us. We saw the divine connection. She began to accept her situation and was remembering Guru, Krsna and the Vaisnavas in her final days.
For the first time, I emerged stronger from such a situation. I felt nearer to Krsna.
Both of us felt your shelter in many ways. The warm association of devotees in Indore was touching. Though far away, His Grace Vedanta Caitanya Prabhu and His Grace Aravindaksa Prabhu provided much support and sustenance.
Maharaja, I submit my humble prayer at your lotus feet. Kindly keep me engaged in serving you. This way I will feel connected with Guru and Krsna. Only your shelter can support me for the rest of my life.
Your grateful servant,
Padmanabha dasa