Rebuilding Your Devotional Love for Lord Krishna as a Student
Dear students, it can be challenging to maintain a consistent devotional practice amidst the busy schedules and academic pressures of college life. As a student, it's completely normal to feel a wavering in your love and connection with Lord Krishna. However, with dedication and effort, you can reignite your devotional flames and experience a stronger, more permanent love for Lord Krishna.
Understanding the Journey of True Love
The journey of love, whether it's for a person, a deity, or a cause, often involves periods of ups and downs. Just as we strive to form and nurture relationships with our parents and partners, our love for Lord Krishna can also wane and wax. True love, however, is when we can find happiness and contentment in our relationship with Lord Krishna, even when it faces challenges. To rebuild your love for Lord Krishna, it's important to repeatedly contemplate your happiness in Him, just as you did when forming other significant relationships in your life.
Practical Steps to Rebuild Your Love for Lord Krishna
Just as we develop our connections with loved ones, equally important is the practice of devotion to Lord Krishna. Here are some practical steps you can take:
Chanting Mantras
Chanting mantras like the Hare Krishna mantra or the Om Narayanaya Namah can be a powerful tool in strengthening your devotional practice. Dedicate specific times in your day to chant these mantras and follow the example set by students like yourself.
Offering Your Actions to Lord Krishna
Offer your studies, engaging in activities such as drawing, dancing, or singing, to Lord Krishna. Offer your meals to Him by performing abhiseka (offering water) and prasadam (holy food offerings) as a way to honor His presence. This practice, known as karma yoga, can help you align your actions with your devotional goals.
Reading Spiritual Texts
In vacations, dedicate time to reading sacred texts such as the Bhagavad Gita, Bhagavata Purana, and other spiritual books. These texts can deepen your understanding and inspire your devotion, offering insights into the nature of divine love and service.
Engaging in Devotional Activities
Consider the 64 devotional activities elaborated by Gaudiya Acharya Rupa Goswami in his 'Nectar of Devotion.' Choose activities that resonate with you and integrate them into your daily routine. Devotional activities can include music (bhajan), painting, cooking prasadam, and other spiritual practices that enhance your connection with Lord Krishna.
Surrendering to Lord Krishna
Articulate your surrender to Lord Krishna with sincerity and devotion. Express your wish to be under His protection and guidance by offering your mind, body, and soul to Him. This act of surrender is a key component of Bhakti (devotion).
Association with Devotees
Seek out the company of devoted Vaishnavas (devotees of Lord Krishna). Their spiritual guidance, support, and examples can strengthen your practice and satiate your soul. Avoid bad association, which can pollute your spiritual journey and hinder your progress.
Perseverance and Patience
Remember that true devotion is a lifetime journey, not a short-term commitment. Be patient and persistent in your practice. Develop a deep, intimate connection with Lord Krishna, free from other motives. Enjoy the process and the bliss of your heart.
As a student, keep your dedication to your studies and academic pursuits. However, don't neglect your devotional life. Continue to practice your devotional activities in all conditions of life. Through guru-ka-Anubhava, support from good devotees, and the grace of Vaishnava Acharyas, you can attain steadiness and success in both your academic and spiritual life.
Conclusion
Dear students, as with all relationships, devotion to Lord Krishna requires constant effort and dedication. By following the steps outlined here and maintaining a consistent devotional practice, you can reignite your love and connection with Lord Krishna. Remember, true devotion is a journey, and with perseverance and guidance, you can experience a stronger, more permanent love for Lord Krishna. May Lord Krishna protect and grant you satisfaction and solace in all situations of your life.
Jay Shree Krishna