Anantaram das: In our preaching work we constantly find ourselves in conflicting situations. We often bitterly fight over the ‘correct’ siddhanta on the origin of the soul, the role of Srila Prabhupada and the GBC in ISKCON, the way ISKCON relates to other Vaishnava missions, or whether our acharyas are nitya-siddhas or attained spiritual perfection in their last lifetime by the mercy of Hari-Guru-Vaishnava.
We tend to defend our position strongly, even zealously. Yet, I have realized that fanaticism will not help establish truth, whether relative or absolute. (In fact, it may hinder the blossoming of truth.) For instance, it may well be that my shoes are black or that God exists, yet if I simply defend my position at any cost, I will most probably not inspire others to consider or appreciate that truth. On the other hand, if others see that a sober, intelligent, and peaceful person holds certain views and acts in a certain way, then they may be inspired to inquire and ponder the matter.
Thus, as Srila Bhaktivinoda points in his “The Bhagavata,” others might see the truth with their own soul. This is wanted; yet, we must be careful not to express this fanatically. Herein lies the trap that long bewildered me.