Hare Krishna Maharaja

Please accept my sincere obeisances.

All glories to Srila Prabhupada

I am writing to you in response to my informal request for shelter.

My sadhana has not changed much since the last report.

16 rounds: Yes. (For two years but I failed for a few months) I resumed them 8 months ago with a few days of rebellion.

4 Principles: Yes. Strict two years ago with some flaws. I took them back 8 months ago.

Studies and Sadhana: Mangala Aratik, four or more days a week. Daily SB classes, currently studying Bhakti Sastri.

I lead a life outside the temple so it is an eternal struggle with time, professional and devotional occupations.

Let me explain, I asked you for shelter in this informal way because of your response to my previous letter, where you tell me that: “I should initiate before marriage”, just for that. I am aware that I must greatly improve my japa chanting if I am to serve you as you indicate on Jayarama.us. I apologize if my request seemed bold.

HpS - ASA - Enthusiasm is more important than patience, but without patience it turns to passion. You seem to us to be doing very well.

My goal is to cultivate a relationship with you through your daily classes and general instructions in each of them. For me, the relationship with the guru is a priority, getting to know each other, learning to serve Krishna through his preaching. Initiation is not a priority for me (at this time) and precisely because of this I am communicating more fluently on your blog and classes, to cultivate a relationship between guru and aspiring servant. I do not know if one day I will feel ready for initiation, the regulative principles are not a problem for me, thanks to Krishna, but the rounds are a great challenge that I live every day.

HpS - In 10th chapter of BG Krsna say, "Yajnanam japa yajno 'smi". Among sacrifices I am Japa. If that is a fact then how can we find it a small thing!? Yet, the challenge is not talking, chanting, for 2-hours. We can all do that withour hesitation, usually. The thing is to sacrifice our tongue and mind to focus on KRSNA!!!!

Chanllenge for me daily. I have developed lots tricks. Lots of experience an education from SP that it is root of all success in everything so I have that asset. You will get the same asset from this life, or previous lives, as you continue.

I am making plans to live in a city (another country) where I can be protected and congregate in a healthy way, where I can cultivate a healthy association and resume my practical service in the temple. But that will be after the pandemic. Meanwhile, I am away from the temple and devotees.

I hope I have cleared up this confusion and been clear with what is in my heart.

My only wish is to know more about Krishna from a bona fide spiritual master and you inspire me.

Your would-be servant

Petti Michelena (Stefani S. Michelena) / Chile.

HpS - Have there been problems with participating in the Temple programs in Santiago? Not details, just general perspective. Have those improved with the new management arragements? On the path your are on, success is guaranteed!