A BUCKEYE DAY

Monday, May 4th, 2026

Cleveland, Ohio

As we were making our way to the Marion Correctional Services, Akilananda and I were headed toward the moon. But that moon was slowly fading as it was the sun’s turn to take prominence. Trees were revealed, including Ohio State’s official tree, the Buckeye. Trees are always good to look at.

Our purpose in going to prison is not so much to view trees, but to visit Arjuna, a devotee from Ohio. He has four more years to go.

Arjuna met us in the section where visitors meet prisoners. After Akila and I showed ID, got searched and went through several sliding doors and corridors we entered that visitor’s chamber. There is a mark on the floor where you are permitted to give a mutual hug with the inmate. Then you are assigned to a numbered table where you sit and chat. The line marked half-way on the table is a demarcation line restricting any hand over exchange. Any under-the-table gestures are avoided. There is a glass wall there so there is no possibility for that to happen. Two supervisors sit strategically high keeping an eye.

Arjuna has been a good inmate. He follows a strict regimen by our bhakti yoga standards. In other words, good behaviour is his motto. Between the three of us we were planning what services he might volunteer when Arjuna comes back into civilian world. That was his request. He is very gifted with his hands. Currently he is employed and has a license in welding. So, I believe he is set for the future. He is not perfect. Maybe, a little like the buckeye tree which produces shade, leaves, flowers and nuts - but nuts that are not edible.

MAY THE SOURCE BE WITH YOU

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