Radhanath swami explains - One reason why our japa goes through a ritualistic phase is the deep rooted tendency in our hearts of wanting to be in control of things. This is merely a reflection of our propensity to be the enjoyer, the root cause of suffering in this material world. Let us briefly understand how this tendency to control manifests in our daily life of chanting? .

Once when a student asked me if it helps write letters to God, I said, “Of course it does”. He then enquired, “Do you also write letters to God and to your guru?” I honestly confessed, “I am not as much of a writer as I am a prayerer. I love to pray.” Whether it’s writing a letter to God or talking to Him, a heartfelt prayer always helps us connect to God more intimately. I then reflected on an incident when as a seven year old, Danny, a friend in the neighborhood filled my heart with fear, and I was .