The festivities go on to honour the origins of ISKCON, and Brooklyn is the place. 60 years ago the papers were signed to acknowledge the beginning of a revolution in consciousness.
I was slotted to act as Dance Master at Union Square. A half hour (we went overtime) of enthusiastic moves and grooves at the square ensued while Gaura Vani and later, Raghunath with his band "Shelter" gave delight to the street pedestrians. Monks, brahmacharis , took a corner of the space to serenade with mantra . It became a happening scene.
Further on, the Brooklyn temple hosted a mini musical where the youth, under the direction of Pallika, had captured hearts. The subject? Prabhupada as a child growing up to become the exponent of spirituality as he is known. A magnificent kirtan led by Laksmi Nrsingha has us all on our feet. It was exhilarating moving with melodies of the past. Thanks to the Prabhupada disciples who have retained those tunes from the 60's and 70's.
The entire weekend was a boost of energy for all of us as we were reminded that it was in New York that humble beginnings took place here, in Manhattan in particular. I picture in my mind Prabhupada struggling through the snow in the worst blizzard anyone has seen in years. He did it all for us, for humanity — a general who gave the command, "Let's love God — live for Him, die for Him."
There's a lot of work to be done in regards to inner and outer development. The world could be a kinder place.