The Hare Krishna Movement is arguably among the world’s most misunderstood spiritual paths, externally appearing biased along sectarian lines but with an inclusive and non-sectarian core philosophy.

Srila Prabhupada faced the monumental task of delivering this fully inclusive message of Sanatan Dharma (the eternal position of all souls) while presenting it with all the cultural trappings of historical Vaishnavism. This is no criticism, but rather an appreciation of the countless challenges and obstacles that Prabhupada and subsequent ISKCON leaders have endured and continue to try and overcome in trying to touch souls in every town and village.

At first, for new practitioners, the protective bubble (i.e., strong boundaries) that many could call sectarian extremism is almost essential, like soaking a newly planted bush or tree with extra water to help the roots take hold.

However, since the vast majority of new believers will inevitably fall short of institutional standards (expressed in different ways in all full-surrender spiritual paths), guilt can accompany followers on their journeys like flies following horses.

Here’s how it plays out: Most of us live and work in the “material” world, whose energy regularly pokes holes in our protective bubbles (spiritual boundaries). For many of us, the guilt of falling short of the highest spiritual standards can be harder to shake off than the persistent flies in a barn full of horses. This is where we can each be part of the solution.

When we know that someone is struggling, do we react with patience and heartfelt love? There are so many examples of Srila Prabhupada showing the depth of his compassion with patience, tolerance, and affection. If we, as Prabhupadanugas (followers), take his sublime example to heart and move more and more into this mood, the ISKCON family will continue to progress as predicted by Lord Chaitanya Mahaprabhu.  Yes, it is about progress and not perfection.