My spiritual journey has been a unique one, as I was introduced to various paths of spirituality. However, it was the Sanatana Dharma that truly captured my heart and soul from the very moment I encountered it.

At times, I find myself pondering how different my life would be if I hadn't discovered this profound love for Shiva and Krishna at such a young and impressionable age. I am filled with gratitude, as this faith I practice daily has given me a path, a direction, and a moral compass that continues to shape my life.

This month is Kartik in our faith, the most auspicious month, and is a most dear month to Sri Sri Radha Madan Mohan ( the beloved of Krishna, his essence and Shakti in another body). About this month is said:

“na kartika samo maso na krtena samam yugam

na veda sadrsam na tirtha gangaya samam

kartikah pravaro maso vaisnavanam priyah sada

kartikam skalam yastu bhaktya sevate vaisnavah”

There is no other month equal to Kartika, and there is no yuga equal to Satya-yuga. There is no scripture equal to the Vedas. There is no place of pilgrimage equal to the Ganges. Kartika is the chief of all months and is very dear to the Vaishnavas (devotees of Krishna). Therefore, the Vaisnavas serve the Supreme Lord with great Devotion in this month.

It is a month in which we can show and display our love for God through some many performances, from austerities to our sadhana or spiritual practice. With God's mercy, we get to enjoy the passion for the truth and with each of our practices, we have an opportunity to feel closer to that eternal truth (or Sanatana Dharma).

So, whatever practice or path of life you choose, use this month to bring yourself closer to your truth, listen to your heart, and bring compassion and kindness to others around you. Chant the names of God, meditate, and practice reciting mantras because in this month, your practice will bring the auspicious and beloved Radha to shine and polish your love for Krishna and the eternal tradition.

Hari om tat sat.