Vaishnavism 2 - Universalist Radha-Krishnaism

all spiritual practices. We should not simplylook back to the great persons and revelationsof the past, but see the Divine in all thingshere and now while developing a lovingpersonal relationship with God-dess.56. Dr. O’Connell: . . . It becomes Raganugawhen the motivation shifts. Externally youmight still do the same things . . . But themotivation has shifted from merelyfollowing good advice, or injunctions, to aninner longing, an intense desire. You reallyfeel it. You want to do these things. (234)In the beginning, it may be necessary for adevotee to follow some rules and regulationsuntil one gets a taste for devotional practices.Once one has a taste for them and a longing topersonally serve Radha Krishna, one mayspontaneously follow one’s inner promptings.57. Dr. O’Connell: . . . the development ofthis raganuga system is a significant part ofthe Caitanyaite tradition, . . . It is animportant elaboration on the principle ofsadhana. (235)It is unfortunate that most Vaishnavateachers in the West discourage raganugadevotion, rather than encouraging theirstudents to advance to this higher platform.Perhaps they fear losing control.58. Dr. O’Connell: . . . VisvanathaCakravarti . . . emphasizes that when and ifone goes from vaidhi to raganuga, one mayengage in all of the same practices ofsadhana or discipline as before, but only if31