August 13, Mayapur, India — I am also feeling very grateful for Mayapurdhama itself, and especially the ISKCON compound here. The abundant green tropical foliage, the flowers, the tulasi plants everywhere–so many tulasis–the birds, the tree-covered walkways, the beautiful buildings, the rain dripping from palms–one can practically just experience India’s positive spiritual side here. Thank you, Krishna, and thank you, Srila Prabhupada.
I’m feeling so grateful for the facility that Mahaprabhu has given me for my service here. I have the use of a large flat (apartment) with a beautiful altar for my silas and a kitchen. The place is an easy walk to the International School (SMIS) and to the temple. (Not such a great walk to my daughter’s place, but I’ll soon have a bicycle).
There is a girl who comes to clean everyday and take care of laundry and an incredible downstairs neighbor who feeds me breakfast (lunch is at SMIS) and looks after me in general. And someone getting first-class fruit for me to offer to my Lord. There is a first class desk, chair, and Internet connection (In India, that’s amazing and astonishing; very, very rare).
At the SMIS I can print and make copies of what I need. The temple for mangala arotik and japa is enlivening and beautiful. The weather is extremely humid and sticky but I have perfect clothes for it (thank you, Bijal Majithia for buying me those, if you remember) and lots of fans and a clean bathroom (in India! Wow) where there is only cool/cold water which is perfect for this time of year.
My health is good here (not a small thing for me). I am filled with energy and gratitude. Lots and lots and lots of gratitude.
All glories to Srila Prabhupada, please accept our humble obeisances. From all at New Varshan – New Zealand, we pray you are continously blessed by Mahaprabhu. Urmila Devi Mataji, you have are a great
inspiration to us as well.