When Stumbling Blocks Become Stepping Stones

As long as we are in this material world we are going to be besieged by so many obstacles or stumbling blocks, because this material world by its very nature is problematic. Therefore in order to successfully navigate the path of bhakti we have to tolerantly persevere through so many difficulties. We will never be overwhelmed or psychologically devastated by these obstacles if we always take shelter of Krishna, remembering that He will never give us an obstacle which is greater than what we can handle. Therefore we should always see the stumbling blocks or obstacles as Krishna's special blessings to help us advance nicely and rapidly along the path of bhakti. In this way, if in the face of so many obstacles we always remain Krishna conscious, the stumbling blocks will all be transformed into stepping stones for our conveniently attaining the ultimate goal of pure devotion, pure Krishna bhakti.

Sankarshan Das Adhikari

Answers According to the Vedic Version:

Question: Purity Required for Chanting?

I have been reading the Bhagavad-Gita As It Is. I have now finished Chapter 6 and came to Text 44 where in the purport it reads:

"Unless therefore one is purified, one cannot take to the principles of Krishna consciousness or become engaged in chanting the holy name of the Lord, Hare Krishna."

I had come to understand that anyone could take chanting. So this was a bit contradictory. Can you please clarify my doubt?

Regards,

Akhilesh

Answer: Chanting Gives Purity

If somehow or other one takes to the chanting of the Lord's holy name, he will become purified and thus qualified to advance further and further along the path of pure bhakti. Generally if one takes to chanting it means that is reaping the benefit of purification from his previous lifetime. But even if one has no previous pious activities, the holy name is so powerful that if one seriously takes up the chanting of the Hare Krishna mantra, he will quickly and easily attain the supreme perfection of going back to home, back to Godhead.

Sankarshan Das Adhikari

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