The tension between the essence of spiritual teachings and the harmful fundamentalism that often arises in the name of religion is an issue that has engaged my mind practically as far back as I can remember.

The most transformative and gentle humility and pride. But they transform in opposite ways.

I try to maintain balance and apply principles the best I can in my daily life. What is the difference between material and spiritual? We are taught that, "God is perfect, ultimately everything that comes from God is perfect." If we fail to recognize something's relationship with the ultimate source, we fail to recognize how to live and utilize things in harmony with God's grace.

Out of all the opulences of a living entity its humility which pleases Krishna. Other opulences can also please Krishna if offered with humility.

The diverse religions and races bring beauty to the world if we truly understand in our hearts the essence of who we are and what we stand for. And that really is the essence of spirituality.

Real compassion means to understand what the needs for body, mind and soul are.

The dirty wax of egotism accumulated in the heart prevents us from clearly hearing the Lord's voice within. A guru, with the stick of knowledge, cleans our hearts. It's really ugly to see what may come out, but by following patiently, we keep cleaning.