Bonafide Religions

At present, many Jews exist who are not spiritually connected in a tangible way, as well as many Christians who are not bona fide Christians, many Muslims who are not authentic Muslims, many Buddhists who are not true Buddhists, and a large number of Vaisnavas who are not genuine Vaisnavas. Therefore, we are encountering both intra- group and inter- group problems. So much dissent has arisen as the result of the misuse of religion that many people now think, “Do away with all this religious stuff because it just brings confusion.” There is nothing wrong with spirituality and deep religion, per se. There is something wrong with devious people who try to hijack religious teachings. Since time immemorial, peo ple have existed who will exploit anything for ulterior motives, including religion. However, applied properly, bona fide religion is extremely powerful.

..from Reflections on Sacred Teachings, Volume Four: Sri Isopanisad, Mantra Twelve

Constructive Economic Growth

Leaders at any level can design programs and implement policies that do not waste valuable resources and that maintain the delicate balance of planetary ecosystems. In line with this approach,the most constructive form of economic growth and development is people-oriented, based on appropriate technology—technology that is on a human scale—and does not consider economic profit as its sole measure of value.

..from Leadership For an Age of Higher Consciousness, Volume 1 - Constructive Economic Growth

Real Renunciation

The real test of renunciation comes as we encounter various situations in daily life. Renunciation means a genuine commitment to serve the Lord rather than ourselves in all circumstances. We must see ourselves as caretakers for the Lord rather than proprietors of anyone or anything. However, renunciation does not mean being impersonal or indifferent to relationships. On the contrary, it actually means being more caring, attentive, sharing, aware, and protective—not because we are attached to our own fulfillment, but because we are making an offering to the Lord. What we are renouncing is the ascendancy of the false ego, which keeps us imprisoned in this material world.

 ...from Spiritual Warrior II: Transforming Lust Into Love - Chapter 5

Real Preaching

Real preaching is through example. Speaking the philosophy without honestly being an example of the message falls into the category of karma-kanda according to Srila Bhaktisiddhanta. A proper devotee’s vacana (speech) should be in line with his pracara (behavior), and his sadacara (good behavior) ultimately is his real preaching. Transcendental knowledge cannot be taught or accepted mechanically. By engaging one’s senses in devotional activities, one begins to acquire causeless knowledge.

..from Reflections on Sacred Teachings - Volume Five: Srila Bhaktisiddhanta's  Sixty-four Principles for Community, Principle 23