Spiritual Leadership

Written by Sripad Nemi Maharaja

Everyone has two fundamental, basic needs. We need to have a sense of individuality, and to be recognized as a valid individual. We also need to belong to something greater than ourselves, the group that we value and that values us. This gives us a sense of belonging, of relatedness, without which we cannot feel satisfied and fulfilled.

Srila Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada established his movement in such a way as to fulfil both of these needs. He gave us an inspiring vision, a vision of a transcendentally better future and way of living. This inspired us to practice, work and preach in order to improve our lives, and the lives of others. Srila Prabhupada also established his movement on the basis of love: “Our Society is like one big family and our relationships should be based on love and trust.” [Letter: 6th August, 1970] “Our ISKCON should be taken as being a family based upon love and trust.” [Letter: 21st September, 1970]

Srila Gurudeva has also followed the same principle. When he established the Bhakti Trust in 2004, the following announcement was made: “Srila Gurudeva wants the Trust to serve all the devotees, and to be guided by the essential principle of love and affection.”

Many modern organizations have also recognized these needs, and they have developed a new type of process, a completely new way of working together. This new approach has the same two essential aspects: creating a compelling vision, and establishing a culture based on altruistic love. The effect on members is twofold. Firstly, they have a sense of calling. They sense that their lives are significant, and that they can make a worthwhile difference in the world. Secondly, they have a sense of relatedness. The result is that they have more commitment to the organization and its vision. They are inclined to make the goals of the organization their own, and the organization becomes more effective and productive.

The wonderful thing is that our beloved acaryas are ahead of the field. If we follow the pattern that they have established, our lives will be successful and we will find real fulfilment. At every level we require a clear vision that inspires members to serve together, and we need a mood of altruistic love. Srila Prabhupada talked about “love and trust” and Srila Gurudeva talks about “love and affection.” Group vision becomes possible as we develop our individual and collective vision of transcendental service to Guru-Gaura-Radha-Krishna. Love within the group becomes possible as we develop our transcendental love, beginning with love for Srila Gurudeva.