Blog Entry 11 * 5-11-22
It’s truly wonderful to experience the different flavors of bliss you encounter when visiting one sacred space after another on your journey to connect more deeply with God. Practices like daily japa are helpful for integrating spiritual growth and managing daily life stress. However, relationally, it’s not always as effective as one might think. It can sometimes turn into mere repetition, with the mind distracted by other thoughts. In contrast, remembering Radha and Krishna and inviting God into everyday moments, sharing loving thoughts with them, creates a deeper relational connection. I feel them closer in this way, as it supports me in my day-to-day life. On both good and bad days, I can feel them with me, sharing whatever I’m experiencing in the moment.
For example, if someone says your name 50 times, you might start to hear it like the passing of air or water, and eventually, it becomes just noise. But if someone takes a moment to say your name once with love, and you can truly feel the love in their words, it has a far greater impact. I find my devotion and meditation are similar in this regard. It’s a constant effort to nurture my emotional connection with Radha and Krishna, sometimes more, sometimes less. Over time, I’ve developed a deeper sense of what helps me connect with God through loving focus and intent. This approach breathes life into any spiritual practice, carrying you further than just performing rituals daily. After the emotion fades, the greatest potential for growth often diminishes too.
I’m currently van camping on Highway 1, heading north toward Eureka and the Redwood National Forest in this photo. The ocean looks incredibly peaceful today, like a vast, calm lake. I witnessed an amazing sunset while sleeping next to the ocean.
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