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“Just try to learn the truth by approaching a spiritual master. Inquire from him submissively and render service unto him. The self-realized souls can impart knowledge unto you because they have seen the truth.” (Bhagavad-gita 4.34) According to this instruction there are three qualifications for the novice: 1. Visit the guru. 2. Inquire without challenging. 3. Assist the guru in some way. The Gita suggests that the guru can “impart knowledge” when these three conditions are met. My intention in visiting Srila Prabhupada was to explore rather than contend. After meeting and studying many self-proclaimed instructors, I was extremely skeptical, yet Srila Prabhupadada’s followers intrigued me. Once I got past their zealousness, I found a genuine blend of mysticism and renunciation along with convincing explications. I resolved to spend my time with Srila Prabhupada learning rather than challenging. Later on I could always decide to accept or reject what I had heard. In this way I met the