Steve Tells Swamiji What He Read in Srimad-Bhagavatam

The boys found Swamiji not only philosophical, but personal also.

Steve: A few nights later, I went to see the Swami and told him I was reading his book.  One thing that had especially caught my attention was a section where the author of Srimad-Bhagavatam, Vyasadeva, was admitting that he was feeling despondent.  Then his spiritual master, Narada, explained that his despondency had come because although he had written so many books, he had neglected to write in such a way as to fully glorify Krishna.  After hearing this, Vyasadeva compiled the Srimad-Bhagavatam.

When I read this, I identified with the fact that Vyasadeva was a writer, because I considered myself a writer also, and I knew that I was also despondent.  “This was very interesting about the author, Vyasadeva,” I said.  “He wrote so many books, but still he was not satisfied, because he had not directly praised Krishna.”  Although I had very little understanding of Krishna consciousness, Swamiji opened his eyes very wide, surprised that I was speaking on such an elevated subject from the Srimad-Bhagavatam.  He seemed pleased.