September 8, 1972 – ISKCON Pittsburgh
This is my first full day as Srila Prabhupada's personal servant. My total training consisted of getting to watch Sudama Maharaja give one massage, and being told, "When Srila Prabhupada rings the bell, go immediately to his room and see how you can serve him."
It is now about 2:00 P.M. The bell rings. I nervously trot into Srila Prabhupada's room and pay obeisances.
Sitting up I inquire, "What can I do, Srila Prabhupada?"
He smiles and says, "Oh, nothing. I just wanted to see how quick you are."
After successfully completing my first mission, I relax and go back to my room. Srila Prabhupada is expertly putting me at ease with his kindness, gentleness, and sense of humor.
(Excerpt from a work in progress.)