We hope you like our new newsletter. I hear some of you asking, "What exactly is Bhakti-våkña?" I will start by explaining the literal meaning of Bhakti-våkña. Bhakti means devotion and våkña is the Sanskrit word for tree. The Krishna consciousness movement (ISKCON) is not intended to be a small movement for a selected few, who find themselves fortunate enough to fully apply the practices of Bhakti yoga (Krishna consciousness) by joining an ashram ‘full time’. Most people are not in a position to fully adopt the lifestyle of a renounced monk. Does this mean that they are not able to practice spiritual life? Of course not. However, those of us who do not live in the spiritually safe environment of temple life are only too aware of how difficult it is to pursue a spiritual existence in the midst of a world bent on materialism. Bhakti-våkña can be compared to a tree of devotion that branches out to every corner of human society giving everyone shelter. As we read on we will see that there are others like us who understand the need for Krishna conscious association. We will hear that everyone can successfully apply Krishna consciousness whatever their situation. Bhakti-våkña, implemented properly, will enable all of us to gain the association of devotees in a positive and uplifting way. It is not possible to illustrate the Bhakti-våkña programme in its entirety in this one newsletter. Nevertheless, we hope that those who are not familiar with this programme will be more informed by reading this first issue. You may be inspired to find out more, or even visit a Bhakti-våkña group near you. To those of you who enjoyed reading Irish FOLK, we hope you like Bhakti-våkña. You will recognise some of the old favourites like Elf Realisation and Dinadayadra’s recipes. Of course we still want to hear from you so keep in touch. Your servant, Uddhava dasa