Hare Krishna. I joined ISKCON in 1979, less than two years after Srila Prabhupāda’s departure. His presence was still strongly felt, and I was immediately drawn to him. I listened constantly to his lectures on cassette and devoured his books. I especially enjoyed the Back to Godhead column Prabhupāda Speaks Out—sharp, insightful snippets of his conversations, often on morning walks. His acerbic wit and ability to cut to the essence of any topic—science, economics, government—astonished me. Raised in an atheistic educational system, I was deeply impressed. I knew I had found my teacher, even if we never met.

Prabhupāda said he was not different from his teachings, and I’ve found that to be true. His writings have repeatedly addressed my doubts and confusions—especially when discussed with others. These discussions bring out new perspectives, opening the heart and mind beyond what solitary reading often allows. Krishna states He is present where His devotees discuss His glories. I’ve experienced that—feeling a deep connection with both the Lord and Srila Prabhupāda, as well as with the devotees I share with.

I believe it’s essential for newcomers to first form a strong relationship with Srila Prabhupāda. His books are the foundation of our movement, and he clearly wanted us to study them regularly. Based on his instructions, I feel discussing them with others should be a daily practice. That’s why we created this resource: to support that process. It takes some training to cultivate respectful, collaborative discussions—but the rewards are immense. You’ll soon feel greater peace, clarity, and spiritual satisfaction in all areas of life.

– Krishna Dharma das

Hare Krishna. I joined ISKCON in 1981, after a difficult childhood and a period of deep spiritual searching. In my teens, I would sit on the rooftop of our home in Tehran asking life’s big questions. Though I pursued philosophy at university, it only deepened my frustration. A heartfelt prayer during a low point was answered unexpectedly—through a Back to Godhead magazine I found while working at McDonald’s. Drawn to its message, I visited the temple the next day and joined shortly after.

My early years in the movement were challenging. I struggled to fit in and questioned things often. A traumatic guru experience and years of emotional instability left me feeling alienated. But at a crossroads—lost, angry, and disillusioned—I felt an inner voice urge me to study Srila Prabhupāda’s books. That guidance changed everything.

OM TAT SAT

Hare Krishna. I joined ISKCON in 1981, after a difficult childhood and a period of deep spiritual searching. In my teens, I would sit on the rooftop of our home in Tehran asking life’s big questions. Though I pursued philosophy at university, it only deepened my frustration. A heartfelt prayer during a low point was answered unexpectedly—through a Back to Godhead magazine I found while working at McDonald’s. Drawn to its message, I visited the temple the next day and joined shortly after.

My early years in the movement were challenging. I struggled to fit in and questioned things often. A traumatic guru experience and years of emotional instability left me feeling alienated. But at a crossroads—lost, angry, and disillusioned—I felt an inner voice urge me to study Srila Prabhupāda’s books. That guidance changed everything.

– Chintamani Dhama dasi

OM TAT SAT