*”Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.” Mahatma Gandhi*
Today, in Coventry I stopped a senior gentleman who revealed he was familiar with the Bhagavad Gita, having been a school teacher for decades. As we spoke further, I was left stunned as I realised he was my teacher in my final year at primary school – Mr James!
When I quoted his name, he was taken aback. Excitedly, I told him that I recognized him when he mentioned being the deputy at the primary school I attended. Our paths crossed after approximately 34 years!
I discussed Srila Prabhupada’s Bhagavad Gita emphasising his meticulous word for word translation from Sanskrit to English. I explained its a synopsis of life’s purpose & unravels life’s profound mysteries.
Mr James warmly accepted the Bhagavad Gita divulging his unconventional approach to teaching. He conveyed his commitment to stimulating insights & realisations within himself so that he is able to bring about a deeper understanding & awareness for his students.
Despite nearing retirement, Mr James expressed that a teacher never retires from the desire to learn & enlighten oneself on the meaning of life & above all, to continue to share the wisdom to others.
I was deeply moved by Mr James. His wisdom truly shines through, recognising that we are lifelong students. I actually do recall him as being a good & compassionate teacher.
I was left marvelled at the beauty of Srila Prabhupada’s arrangement, reuniting me with an old teacher who had once bestowed knowledge upon me as a kid. Now, I had the privilege of presenting him with the most sacred, life changing wisdom. Mr James is a fortunate soul…retirement is the commencement of a new journey of knowledge & growth, graciously gifted to him by Srila Prabhupada.
~ Gurushakti devi dasi
ISKCON UK Book Distributor
for Bhaktivedanta Manor