What’s your name?

The other week one very lively individual approached me, however I could neither place them nor recall the persons name that was not only frustrating but also a little embarrassing.

Names have always been a problem but it was the first time I’ve had problems recalling a face this caught me very much unaware and judging by the facial expression it appears my reaction was not that which the individual expected.

In many ways it was a humbling experience but also had me thinking much about my reaction or lack of it and the importance this has on those we meet and interact with.

What also struck me was how easy it is to become focused entirely on the service to hand and those who are helping us rather than individuals who are needing to or wanting to interact with us, dismissing or giving only fleeting attention.

The greatest service is not only that which we are assigned to do but that of giving association, talking and discussing Krishna and devotional life. Doing this helps to make devotee, maintain devotional life, and continue to progress in understanding, to achieve this there is a need to become more personal in our own dealings with others, for me that means that I make more effort in remembering names and taking a more personal interest in those who enthusiastically engage me in conversation.

To become a stumbling block in someone’s devotional life ultimately leads to a stumbling block in my own devotional life.