“The correct person for the position is of the utmost importance and must not be neglected.”

— KRSNACANDRA DASA

Dear CHAKRA readers,

Please accept my humble obeisances. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.

As my letter "Round pegs in square holes" attempted to point out, we can make so many plans that will affect the superstructure and processes of our movement. These plans on the whole are mainly changes in duty statements and areas of responsibilities. They are not, however, in the most vital area of selection criteria.

The correct person for the position is of the utmost importance and must not be neglected. It is not simply that the devotee is chanting their rounds and following the morning program (although I am not denigrating this). They must be of suitable character, qualities and skills befitting the position that they are responsible for.

We are no longer a small movement and have access to many devotees from all over the world. Such a pool of sincere souls must not be overlooked.

If we do not look more seriously into Selection Criteria then we will develop systems that are no more than political musical chairs where we appoint devotees to positions on a social or political necessity basis and not according to their individual qualities.

In Drutakarma's article we see the suggestion of lifetime posts. This is only a practical suggestion when we see the individual occupying the post as having the requisite qualities, abilities and vision to handle the responsibilities of our growing community.

I know that this is 'seemingly' easier said than done.

In one way it is easier to look for a better system or plan. However, we can posit many development plans, but until we understand that it is not only what we do, it is who we get to do it, that makes the plan successful, we will be doomed to seek plan after plan ad infinitum.

Yours in the service of Srila Prabhupada

Krsnacandra dasa (kcdasa@esia.net.au)

© CHAKRA 7-May-2000

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