Many years ago I had a long running conversation with one of my consultant friends about how we could promote good health and reach those groups less likely to access health care professionals before they problem becomes acute or more problematic to treat.

The main thrust was that we should hold clinics were these client groups were more likely to be, as a health care professional the pub would be one of the places, “can you take a quick look at” or “what do you think I should do about” whilst your just actually sat trying to have a quiet pint.

The rational as simple as this was our experience why not use it, hold a clinic were people go and are, also I think we were also looking at if it was quiet we could sink a few pints or at least at the end of the shift we could; so may be not the purist of motives.

So why do I mention it?

Over the festive period some of the clients I have worked with have been within walking distance of my home, wrapped up against the cold I have left the car parked up and took the opportunity to walk.

On a number of my return journeys early evening I have had torches shone on me, it has been the young people who joined us chanting Hare Krishna on the local landmark. Again they have remained chatty and joined in the chanting of the holy names.

What occurred to me is that they will not come into the warmth of the house but remain enthusiastic to join in were they feel safest, out side on the street and as devotees we need to be sympathetic and understanding of this. Yes naturally it also means taking us out of our comfort zone, outside chanting and talking about Krishna when the temperature has dropped to below zero is not very attractive; but the results very much so.

I was reminded that Srila Prabhupada made himself available to all; we see many pictures of him in parks and open public places, especially in the early days. He simple went were the people were and naturally they were attracted to the chanting of the names of Krishna.

Srila Prabhupada (for me the most inspiring picture)

It is something that remains important to today, few will just come to our centres, even more will come to events we put on, but even better if we simply take the time to go to were the majority of people are. Even though it may be cold and uncomfortable, if we make the effort the rewards are immense.