As we begin our practice of Krsna consciousness our motives for seeking Krsna's shelter may appear as being somewhat selfish. As described in the Bhagavad-Gita, there are four types or classes of people who seek the shelter of Krsna, namely: those who are sometimes distressed, those who are in need of money, those who are sometimes inquisitive, and those who are sometimes searching after knowledge of the Absolute Truth. While none of these motives are necessarily pure or perfect, such persons are still considered pious, since their quest has led them to the Supreme Lord. While at first they may be concerned mainly for their own welfare, because they are coming to Krsna for help they are considered pious.

Our situation in the material world may be likened to being trapped inside of a burning building. Our first motivation must be one of self preservation. We must find a way to save ourselves first. In a similar way, when we are trapped in the patterns of old destructive habits and thinking, the only hope we may have is if someone throws us a rescue line. We certainly can't hope to rescue others until our own rescue is certain.

Once we are firmly established in Krsna consciousness we will naturally think with a mind toward helping others. This is because the quality of compassion naturally manifests in a Krsna conscious person. Just as we presently hope to assist other prisoners in writing this small book, previously other compassionate Krsna conscious devotees mercifully assisted us in our time of need. Likewise, before they, other Krsna devotees made it their life's work to assist all in their midst by spreading Krsna consciousness everywhere.

This same progression of Krsna devotees bringing enlightenment to others has continued on for many thousands of years, actually since time immemorial. In our own lifetime we were first given the gift of Krsna consciousness by our great spiritual master, His Divine Grace A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, or Srila Prabhupada, as he was affectionately known to his disciples and followers. As an elderly man, Srila Prabhupada ventured out into the world, delivering Krsna consciousness to the Western countries, eventually traveling and delivering the Krsna philosophy to all portions of the world. He established his ISKCON centers all over the world, giving everyone the opportunity of spiritual refuge in Krsna consciousness. It is only due to his great love, mercy and compassion that any of us can lay claim to being a part of the Krsna consciousness movement today.

The entire tradition and science of Krsna consciousness has been continuously handed down through time, from Lord Krsna Himself, to us in the present day, in an unbroken chain, through what is known as the disciplic succession. That is, from the bona fide spiritual master or teacher who has himself received Krsna consciousness from his own spiritual master. He in turn passes this same, exact knowledge down to his students and disciples. The bonafide spiritual master does not add or subtract anything from the pure, original message of Krsna consciousness. He simply repeats and presents the message exactly as he received it from his spiritual master, as it is, without personal motivation or interpretation. In time, when his own students and disciples reach spiritual maturity, they may, in their turn, teach yet others as their students, and so on. In this way the unbroken chain of spiritual masters continues. Speaking with one voice, this chain of spiritual teachers delivers the unadulterated knowledge of Krsna consciousness across the pages of time.

Nearly all the members of ISKCON and its contributors are associated as the direct disciples, grand disciples, or great grand disciples of Srila Prabhupada. Because he is the founder and Acarya (A great spiritual master from whom all others take lessons) of ISKCON, he is held in the highest esteem. Indeed, worldwide he was widely considered by many to be a great saint. Most of the spiritual texts studied today by students of Krsna consciousness are the product of his tireless translating and preaching efforts. He was truly empowered by Lord Krsna to spread Krsna consciousness all over the world.

By following the instructions given us by Srila Prabhupada for the development of our Krsna consciousness, a byproduct of our advancement in spiritual life is that we automatically become exemplary persons. We have seen that when convicts doing time in prison sincerely take up Krsna consciousness they automatically become model prisoners, just as devotees on the outside become model citizens. By our sincere efforts to regularly chant Hare Krsna and follow the four regulative principles we automatically avoid most of the difficulties many prisoners become entangled in. For example, many violent encounters in prison occur over sexual disputes. Drugs also play a prominent role as does gambling. A prisoner following the positive harmony of Krsna consciousness automatically avoids all of these things. By sincerely chanting Hare Krsna and honestly endeavoring to follow the four regulative principles, our lives remain on a positive, secure course. In truth, prison officials would do well to encourage Krsna consciousness in every prison. The simple vegetarian diet, aside from being more healthy, would be easier and less expensive to prepare and maintain. Automatically prisoners would present far fewer difficulties for them. The simple program of Krsna consciousness would give an entirely new meaning to the term "rehabilitation."

So as we advance in Krsna consciousness it is natural for us to hope to assist others. The first and best means of doing this is by our own personal example. You will see that people will approach you, wondering how it was that you turned your life around. You need not get "preachy" to explain your new Krsna conscious attitude. For starters you could give them a copy of this book and then let them decide for themselves. In time people will ask you questions. Just explain the Krsna philosophy from your own level and base of understanding.

As you advance more and more in Krsna consciousness people will see you as someone they can trust and learn from. Because you will only repeat as you were taught, you will become fully authorized and empowered by Krsna. This is an important point. If there is a topic or area you are not clear on or understand fully, there is no penalty. Just speak as far as your personal realization goes. In time, as more is revealed to you, you will be better able to explain more topics. Avoid speculating on topics you are unsure of. If the message is kept simple most people will accept it as it is. And if some persons inquire but disregard your words, that too, is to be accepted. Not everyone you meet will be ready to accept Krsna consciousness.

By sincerely chanting Hare Krsna each day and following the regulative principles you will see a transformation occur in your own life that others will notice, too. With patience and determination your life will become a success.

It may also happen that people from other "faiths" will try to debate the legitimacy of Krsna consciousness with you, hoping to dissuade you from your practice. While we welcome finding the common ground among various religious modalities, it is generally fruitless to try to sway someone whose mind is already made up. In truth, we do not wish to convert persons of other faiths. If they are Christians then we say they should become perfect Christians. If they are Muslim, Hindu or Jewish, please be the best of your faith. If their religion is true they can benefit from it. The test of any religious modality is in how much it brings the practitioner toward loving God. Even if in our neophyte state we can't counter the arguments of others, be secure in your faith of Krsna consciousness. It is better not to disturb others in their beliefs, regardless of how crude or basic they may seem. But when the opportunity arises, we can encourage others to join us in Krsna consciousness.

Part 5: THE SPIRITUAL MASTER AND KRSNA CONSCIOUSNESS

The best, easiest, most effective and truest way for us to learn to perform a special task or to learn about any given occupation is to approach someone who is already personally familiar and fully conversant with the subject in question. For example, in learning carpentry we could study books written by expert carpenters, and this would give us some basic understanding. Still, if we hope to become carpenters ourselves we would need to study and work under the personal guidance of other expert carpenters. Likewise, if you wanted to become a barber, you couldn't begin by cutting hair. You would first have to learn the art of barbering under the guidance and supervision of an expert barber. The same would be true if you wanted to become a doctor. You would certainly have to read many technical books written by expert doctors and then work and learn further in the close, personal company of other, more experienced doctors. On the job training, so to speak. Simply studying from a book or guessing would not give one sufficient knowledge and the necessary experience to become a carpenter, barber or doctor. The recognized masters of these trades and occupations would be required to impart their personal instructions to us before we could ever hope to become qualified to perform the duties of these occupations.

In a similar way we also require the expert guidance and blessings of the bonafide spiritual master if we are to advance in Krsna consciousness. This humble book can serve as the initial step toward you establishing your eternal link with a bonafide spiritual master. However, it is not that this book establishes an end in itself. Rather, we can only hope to bring you to the point where you may inquire about seeking out a true spiritual master.

We are able to authentically present these facts because of our own eternal link with our spiritual master, who is himself eternally connected with the disciplic succession, originating with Sri Krsna Himself. Because we are connected to the bonafide spiritual master we can act as his authorized agents in bringing you this important transcendental knowledge.

When we become a little more advanced in Krsna consciousness it is natural that we will begin to feel the necessity of accepting a spiritual master or guru. By sincerely chanting the Hare Krsna mantra and following the regulative principles we gradually become attuned to our higher purpose in life. Krsna, as the overseer, Supersoul dwelling within our hearts, recognizes our sincere efforts and will guide us toward meeting such a bonafide spiritual master. The same spiritual chanting that works to purify our consciousness also guides us to spiritual maturity and the acceptance of our spiritual master.

The necessity of accepting a bonafide spiritual master as our ultimate spiritual guide can not be over stated. The process of Krsna consciousness is also referred to as the science of self realization.

For the correct result to manifest in any scientific operation the proper procedure must be followed. Just as in the building of a house, it is essential that a good foundation first be secured. If the foundation is weak or faulty, the entire structure will fail.

So too, in our spiritual development, the spiritual master oversees our progress and development and gives expert guidance on how to advance. The spiritual master always knows exactly what is required for our best spiritual advancement. This is because the spiritual master is in direct contact with Krsna through his devotional service to Him.

Because the spiritual master is counted among Krsna's most confidential servants, he is very dear to Lord Krsna. Just as the king, president or head of state has his confidential servants, ministers, etc., because they act purely on behalf of the king or president they are seen to have practically the same power as he has. Because the spiritual master is always engaged directly in the service of Krsna, his connection with Krsna is understood to be very intimate. Therefore, if we can somehow please our spiritual master, Krsna will automatically become pleased as well.

Imagine if we were able to do some special favor for the son of a king. We may not have personal access to the king, but surely his own son does. So by assisting the son of the king, once the king learns of our kindness he will automatically become favorably disposed toward us.

So too, when we please the spiritual master, Krsna is also pleased. This idea of pleasing the spiritual master is at the core of advancing in Krsna consciousness. Without pleasing the spiritual master we will not make any advancement. However, because the spiritual master is quite merciful he allows us to serve and please him in simple, uncomplicated ways. Simply by faithfully chanting Hare Krsna and following the regulative principles we can please the spiritual master.

For his part, a bonafide spiritual master is one who has conquered his senses and is in the direct disciplic line coming from Krsna Himself. By control of the senses is meant that he can control the urge to speak unnecessarily, the demands of the mind, the actions of anger and the urges of the tongue, belly and genitals. It is said that such a person is qualified to make disciples all over the world. Likewise, such a bonafide spiritual master is fully conversant in the Vedic scriptures, such as Bhagavad-Gita and Srimad-Bhagavatam, and has personally realized the ultimate purport or essence of such scriptures. This is the standard for becoming a spiritual master within our ISKCON Hare Krsna movement. In your search for a spiritual master you should settle for nothing less.

While there are many spiritual masters it is understood that the bonafide spiritual master is one. By this is meant that the message and instruction given by all true spiritual masters never changes from the core principles of Krsna consciousness. However, just as certain people may be more or less attracted to each other, so too, a devotee will be naturally more inclined to serve a particular spiritual master or teacher.

Within the ISKCON Hare Krsna movement today there are many such bonafide spiritual masters. If you sincerely follow the instructions given in this book it is certain that you will make the transition and heart connection with your spiritual master. Lord Krsna sitting within your heart as the overseer Supersoul knows your true heart. Krsna from within, and His representative without, the spiritual master, aspire to serve your highest welfare. You may be confident that in due course, by following the basic program of Krsna consciousness, your connection with a bonafide spiritual master is certain. Just continue on chanting and following the four regulative principles. These basic steps will bring all auspiciousness and success into your life.

Part 6: THE SPIRITUAL BROTHERHOOD OF KRSNA CONSCIOUSNESS

It is said that we are known by the company we keep. As the saying goes, "Birds of a feather flock together." People everywhere tend to seek out others with a mind set similar to their own. This is also true of Krsna conscious devotees. It is easier to become Krsna conscious in the company of other like-minded people. The Hare Krsna scriptures recommend that we only associate with other devotees. Naturally, this presents something of a problem for prisoners. We have no control over who our neighbors will be. It isn't as though we can move to a new neighborhood. However, what we can do is associate with people on the basis of our spiritual beliefs.

By setting a good personal example of how a Krsna conscious person conducts his or her self, we automatically begin to separate ourselves from persons who do not share our values and beliefs. Setting the proper example doesn't mean we need to become overbearing or "Get in people's faces" about Krsna consciousness. If we strive to regularly chant, follow the regulative principles, etc., we create an atmosphere around ourselves that is distinct and positive. You will soon see that many of your former friends and associates will likewise notice. It may happen that you and some of your former friends will begin to drift apart, no longer sharing as many things in common. Still, for every friend or associate that fades from your company, many more will be entering, namely, your new close friends and family in Krsna consciousness.

This seeming reversal of fortunes is a natural part of one's spiritual awakening. In the Bhagavad-Gita it is said, "What is night for all beings is the time of awakening for the self-controlled; and the time of awakening for all beings is night for the introspective sage." Srila Prabhupada comments as follows:

There are two classes of intelligent men. One is intelligent in material activities for sense gratification, and the other is introspective and awake to the cultivation of self-realization. Activities of the introspective sage, or thoughtful man, are night for persons materially absorbed. Materialistic persons remain asleep in such a night due to their ignorance of self-realization. The introspective sage remains alert in the "night" of the materialistic men. The sage feels transcendental pleasure in the gradual advancement of spiritual culture, whereas the man in materialistic activities, being asleep to self-realization, dreams of varieties of sense pleasure, felling sometimes happy and sometimes distressed in his sleeping condition. The introspective man is always indifferent to materialistic happiness and distress. He goes on with his self-realization activities undisturbed by material reactions.

Because our constitutional nature and position is one of serving Krsna, once we are awakened to this fact we will no longer find the same happiness or satisfaction as before in materialist endeavors. Once we are exposed to the higher taste of Krsna consciousness it is difficult to revert to a more base mentality. We will only find happiness in serving Krsna and the devotees. It is for this reason that we and some of our former friends are seen to drift apart. It doesn't mean you no longer like them. It simply means your interests have changed and are no longer the same as theirs.

The path of Krsna consciousness takes us into new frontiers and protects us from many types of danger. even for the beginner, there is great benefit. As Krsna Himself declares in Bhagavad-Gita, "In this endeavor there is no loss or diminution, and a little advancement on this path can protect one from the most dangerous type of fear." Srila Prabhupada comments in part:

Devotional service is so pure and perfect that having begun, one is forcibly dragged to ultimate success. Sometimes a person will give up his ordinary material engagements and out of sentiment take shelter at the lotus feet of the Supreme Lord and thus begin the preliminary execution of devotional service. Even is such an immature devotee falls down, there is no loss on his part.

This means you always are protected by Krsna and once starting Krsna consciousness, never leave the family of other Krsna conscious persons.

Reading Krsna conscious books and scripture is another powerful way of associating with devotees. For example, by reading any of Srila Prabhupada's books we are directly associating with him. We can associate with Srila Prabhupada and the other great spiritual masters of Krsna consciousness in two ways: by their personal, immediate association, or through following their instructions as found in the many books they have left for our benefit. When we read Srila Prabhupada's books and act according to his transcendental instructions it is the same as gaining his personal association.

By daily chanting, following the regulative principles and reading Krsna conscious literature we will gain the necessary strength to overcome any difficulty. It has been my personal experience that most people will give you new-found respect once they understand you are sincere in your beliefs. For example, while some of our views and beliefs differ, many are similar or the same as those of our Muslim brothers and sisters. While they don't eat pork, we take the concept further, avoiding all types of meat. In my present situation a number of the Muslim men have the same vegetarian diet as me. They found it is often safer than having to guess what is on their food tray. Indeed, some of my best friends in prison are Muslims. They see I am sincere in my beliefs and appreciate it.

If we can remain focused on the positive aspects of our surroundings, even in prison there is cause for happiness. In truth, the Krsna conscious person is the enemy of no one.

If we satisfy the spiritual master and Krsna we automatically satisfy all other living beings. We may experience that some will still not like us, but we need not reciprocate in kind. Enmity, unless it is returned, cannot find a home in our hearts. Because the devotee is the true well wisher of everyone, we are never considered to be anyone's enemy.

For example, if we wish to water and feed a tree, hoping to see it grow and flourish, we must supply water and nutrients to its roots. Watering the tree's leaves and branches will not be effective. If the root of the tree is sufficiently watered then the tree will grow properly, all of its needs cared for. In a similar way, by watering or nurturing our own spiritual root, that is, by developing our natural Krsna consciousness, we automatically serve our own best interests and the interests of those around us. By sincerely chanting and following the regulative principles, the good qualities of a devotee will automatically begin to manifest within our character. Qualities like kindness, compassion, forgiveness, etc. This is the power of chanting Hare Krsna and following the regulative principles.

By always striving to do our very best we can remain unaffected by the negative energy that so abounds in prison. Fulfill your obligations like always, such as work details. Likewise, we should do what is required to remain healthy and fit. Our ultimate goal is to become the best possible servants of Krsna and the devotees.

When we see others eating meat or acting contrary to our religious beliefs, we do not condemn them. We always can remember that once, we too, were situated in ignorance. Nor do we look down on others because of their bad habits. We must always view the misfortune of others with compassion, tolerance and humility. These three, compassion, tolerance and humility are required for success in Krsna consciousness. We all can see that so many negative encounters in prison could be avoided if only a speck of humility and tolerance were present.

By displaying compassion, tolerance and humility we are not, in effect, becoming weak. Often in prison people feel there is a danger that a bit of kindness will be interpreted as a weakness. However, that can only apply if such a person is weak willed. No one could ever think that of a devotee. The very fact that we are daily chanting and following the regulative principles is proof of our strong will and determination. In time others will readily see how these good qualities are actually characteristics of strength. This strength will become evident to all in our midst. By remaining connected to the source of all strength, Lord Krsna, we will gain all necessary strength and remain focused on hearing and chanting. For the devotee, his protection is guaranteed. We are under the divine protection of Lord Krsna.

Your worthless servant,
Tirtha dasa