FOOTSTEPPING IN RUSSELL

Wednesday, May 27th, 2026

Russell, Ontario

The monks of Toronto and I arrived in Russell, a town where some Krishnaites reside. It is a very safe place, good for raising a family, nothing fancy, a slow flowing river runs through it. The new “Food Basics” grocery store is a plain green box. I couldn’t check myself from remarking that the non-aesthetic look of the building too is the sign of the times and perhaps the beginning of the end of a fairly decent civilization. It could use some embellishment - something. Maybe a dome? Unless you’re a nomad and dragging a teepee around, then build a building with some class.

The boys and I enjoyed breakfast at the home of Krishna Dulal - some goodies, a mix of nice veggies in a Buddha bowl. Ajit and I took to the streets and trees. Quiet town with some nature! Some kids on the trampoline were enjoying the jumping. “There’s that walking monk!” said one of the kids.

An evening at a home punctuated the line of day. A sangha happened, a last minute invite by Radhika and Surinder. Thirty people showed up. I was pleased to see Daivi Bhakti from the west coast. The topic for speaking was “Boosting Your Bhakti” and basing it on verses 27, 28 from Chapter 5 of the Gita. It is always my objective during these sessions to hear from everyone, not just myself. I crave to hear and for feedback.

“Please tell me what you liked in what I just said, and why you liked it?”

With that approach I find everyone participates. Also on a zoom call today with devotees from Africa and Europe, I expect everyone to raise some point of interest, whether shy or not. That’s the way to do it, I’m convinced.

MAY THE SOURCE BE WITH YOU

9,996 FOOTSTEPS