When I try to focus on something at the moment, I can’t find any energy. Then when I look at a picture of Bhakti Tirtha Swami I suddenly become aware that I will not see him again in this lifetime. I will never again be in one of his kirtans. And worse than that, no-one else will. My son will grow up in a world without Bhakti Tirtha Swami’s manifest physical presence. What a wonderful man, and what a shame, in one sense, that the only contact Prahlad will have with him will consist of looking at a photo taken in Peru before Prahlad turned one, Bhakti Tirtha Swami smiling and holding him up, waving his little hand at the camera.
In another sense, the indirect connection is the more substantial one. The mood of Narottama das Thakura expressed in his song “Saparsada-bhagavad-viraha-janita-vilapa” is becoming more accessible to us.
Bhakti Tirtha Swami was a very charismatic man. He had a powerful and beautiful physique and an impeccable dress sense. He radiated confidence. Whenever you were around him you felt assured. He was powerful and confident. He inspired others to feel confident. He was a harmonizing force that drew communities together. He was a powerful believer in Prabhupada’s movement, and the power of his belief helped others to believe in it too. He would dance in kirtan for hours, and would inspire others to dance in kirtan for hours. He had boundless energy. He had a mellifluous voice and beautiful teeth. He made everyone feel they were special and that he belonged to them. He was a Remarkable Person.
He drew out the essence of teachings and explained them in a way that connected with people. He was concerned about fundamental principles. He was a communicator, speaking to people in their language. He went to where people were at, to bring them back with him. He appreciated and valued people. He sought abiding truth. He spoke out against the abuse of power. He demanded accountability. He demonstrated the power of forgiveness. Above all, I believe, he demonstrated the characteristic of an authentic leader: he created lasting value by leaving behind him a legacy that will continue in his absence.
To the Spiritual Warrior’s greatest victory! His Holiness Bhakti Tirtha Swami Maharaja ki jay!
