Reflection by Gail Cusmai

At first, I thought that I was going to reflect only on the article entitled "Bhakti Renders the Metaphysical Physical and the Physical Metaphysical", but upon reading the other two articles, I discerned that the same theme was present in all three, i.e., that by utilizing the physical things available to us in a devotional mood, those things become spiritualized or metaphysical, and then by His own sweet, independent will, Krsna reciprocates with our devotion by manifesting Himself in our lives in some form or other - the metaphysical becomes physical.

In the case of the aforementioned article, I extrapolated that through the devotional approach to the physical things of this world, not only can those things become spiritualized, but we can also transform their effects on our consciousness from material to spiritual - the physical becomes metaphysical.  Our devotion can also inspire Krsna to manifest Himself in holy places, mantras, Deities or in whatever other physical forms He chooses - the metaphysical becomes physical.

From the article entitled, "The World Sees Outside-In; God Sees Inside-Out", I understood that when we utilize the physical objects in our environment - which includes our minds, bodies and words - to connect with Krsna in a loving way, the physical is being rendered metaphysical.  And in reciprocation, Krsna manifests Himself in various ways such as the fulfillment that's felt in the heart; the expression of talents that might even exceed our karmic capabilities; and a diminishing of feeling overwhelmed by personal deficiencies in other areas that would otherwise stifle those talents.  Thus, the metaphysical is rendered physical.

"Choosing Krishna is the One Choice that Empowers Us to Make Better Choices" also illustrates this toggling between the physical and the metaphysical.  When we make earnest endeavors to regularly practice loving Krsna, we are repeatedly choosing Krsna over material alternatives.  Employing our intelligence in this devotional way renders the physical intelligence metaphysical, i.e., the intelligence is becoming spiritualized.  When we persevere in applying our intelligence in this way despite the obstacles that dot our path, Krsna reciprocates.  This article enabled me to recognize Krsna in the physical form of not only the triumph over bad habits but also in the form of the precursor stages that lead up to that victory, such as a growing distaste for relapses and the intelligence to make choices that will support the growth of my loving relationship with Him.