What a Surprise…….
Our backyard had become a mess of dirt and broken concrete. There were piles of soil and stacks of wood. The back laundry was shared with a wall of tools and shovels. A man was renovating our backyard under the order of the land lord. We passed him each day at breakfast while using the back laundry to wash our plates. The devotees and I made some small chat as we went by and life went on as normal. Sometimes we were in dohtis and sometimes we were in normal street wear but the man acted as if it was all normal.
Finally after a few days had gone, the small talk I passed off ended up with some inquiry. He was curious about where we were going and what we were up to. I think the constant change of dress had him suspicious. I explained what we do, showing people books on the street about the self, spiritual science, yoga, reincarnation, etc. He seemed quite appreciative. The normally five seconds of conversation turned into five minutes. I was lightly answering all his questions and praying to the super soul within not to say anything stupid. He suggested his friend was interested in such things and he himself found it a bit interesting. I talked about our books and he said lightly that maybe he would have a read some time. I was going to leave it at that and see if he was around the next morning but then I thought, "Well he suggested it."
I asked him if he wanted a book or some books. He was joyful to hear my proposal. "If you have any" he said. I looked over my shoulder at the seventy boxes of books concealed in the other room. I picked out a hard back Gita and hard back SSR. He was excited to see them. I was thinking to give them just as gifts, to make a friendship, he was keen to read them so why not. Then I turned around and he asked, "Can I give a donation." He was more than happy to give me $50.
It's amazing who Krsna puts in your backyard. "There is a bhakta on every street corner" (and backyard?). Krsna even rewards ajnata sukriti to those who renovate the sankirtana devotees backyard.
Your Servant,
Madhavendra Puri Dasa
