Hidden Gems

In ancient times, sacred scriptures were few and far between, hand-copied, and in the possession of only the most fortunate. One saint’s manuscript of Srimad Bhagavatam was blotted, smudged and rendered practically unreadable due to the tears of love which were shed during his reading. Today, such priceless books are readily available at our fingertips and we can read them anywhere and at any time on our smart phones, tablets, e-readers and laptops. Our shelves are lined with the published copies – big books, small books, deluxe collectors’ items and ‘all-in-one’ versions – a veritable library of wisdom! But how much quality time have we devoted to reading them? And when we do, are we in the right headspace to draw the unlimited inspiration that is available? With improved access we must simultaneously intensify our deep absorption and contemplation of the subject matter. After all, a few short sentences, properly digested, can change one’s entire life.

“I am requesting all of my students to read my books very seriously every day without fail. In this way, if your mind becomes absorbed at least one or two hours daily in the transcendental subject matter of Srimad-Bhagavatam, Bhagavad-gita, and other books then very easily you will make your advancement in Krishna consciousness.” (Srila Prabhupada, Letter, June 13, 1972)