Bhakti

Bhakti is a word you will often hear in Krishna Consciousness. The word Bhakti is simply defined as devotional service, but as I understand it, it is loving devotional service. It is this mood that is channeled when serving someone and mainly for a God. This Bhakti practice is a form of Yoga as it harmonises the body, mind and soul. Bhakti is not something best understood by reading and contemplating but rather by doing.

In my early days of discovering Krishna Consciouness I approached this spiritual path like a hobby. I was open and curious and wanted to learn as much as I could and make my decisions and reflections later. The first thing I noticed about the people in this spiritual movement is that they are so kind, they are so helpful and friendly. I was at an event in London and when it finished, people stayed behind and tidied up. People handed out cake and tea, they came up and spoke to me about how the event went and my thoughts on it. I was shocked by the friendliness of these strangers.

As the weeks went on and after my 6th event in London the main organiser was organising a retreat to Belgium and decided I wanted to go. This is where I heard the word Bhatki for the first time and even then I didn't fully comprehend what it means. I'm not sure I fully do now. During that retreat the attitude of service of the event organisers and hosts were on full display. I was in awe of the sincerity and understanding these people showed me. At lunch on my first day, I was in line as an event organiser handed me a plate.

"The food looks amazing", I said.

"Are you hungry?" He replied.

"I can always eat," I joked.

"Well help yourself to seconds, and thirds if there's any left".

And in that moment, I thought, "these guys aren't bad".

As the retreat went on, I watched the hosts work and serve and answer questions making sure we were comfortable. As the long weekend went on I watched them again and again practice what they preached. Meditation, philosophy, Bhatki, prayer, focussing on a Higher Power and help and support each other. One of the things I look out for in people is if a persons' words and actions align. Those who do what say and say what they do, are my kind of people and they won my heart that day. They not only preached the philosophy they taught but they practiced it and that made all the difference.

This started a new journey for me to learn more about love as a practice. What it really means to help and support those who are closest to me and even strangers. Who do I want to serve most. How do I love myself more wholly. Are my actions and words aligned?

Happy Valentines Day!

Timothy