The thought that counts: by Madhu Mangal das
Furthermore, if one engages not only in hearing but in trying to broadcast the message of devotional activities as well, or if he engages himself in helping the missionary activities of Krsna consciousness, he gradually feels spiritual progress. This advancement in spiritual life does not depend on any kind of previous education or qualification. The method itself is so pure that by simply engaging in it one becomes pure. (Bhagavad- gita 9.2)
I approached a young man in Greenmarket Square, on his back he carried a rather heavy looking backpack, which a small tent and sleeping bag was attached to. He looked very tired and a bit disheveled, sweating and unshaven. I could see that he had been on the road for quite some time. He was hungrily eating a cheese sandwich, as though he had not eaten for a long time. I introduced myself to him and presented Srila Prabhupada's to him. He looked at them with interest, (speaking and munching at the same time) and told me that he had see them before and had read some as well. No, he was sorry he could not take a book, as he did not have much money. I told him that it was okay, he could give what ever he liked. I told him that it was the thought that counted, not the amount of money. He finished eating his sandwich, and silently thought for a moment, as though he was about to make an important decision. "My friendnd , I really don't have that much money, but look, anyway I will give you what I have, okay?" He dug into his pockets trying to find the money and took out a ten rand note. "This is all the money that I have left, please take it," He said, and handed me a crumpled ten rand note. That young man, gave everything that he had and thus he received the eternal blessings of Lord Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu and the mercy of Srila Prabhupada for his sincere service to the Lord.
Srila Prabhupada ki jay!
