MAD AFTER KRISHNA

A Letter from a Former Member


Soon after leaving the cult, I corresponded briefly with Cheryl Wheeler, who was known in it as Syama devi-dasi. One of the first devotees on the West Coast and one of the first women in the Movement, she had recently walked away from the cult after nine years of involvement. Her warm and thoughtful words helped to smooth my transition from slavery to freedom. Here are some excerpts:

Dear Paul,


"Remember, God is not limited to any movement, group of people, or rules, dogma, or indoctrination."


I am glad you are out of the Hare Krishna Movement. It is time now to celebrate life and thank God you saw the light. I know these first few months will be somewhat shaky, but it is time now to hold on to yourself and develop your conviction and steadfastness on a truly personal relationship with the God inside your heart. You will grow stronger daily. ...

I hope that you are well and happy and relieved, and I wish you all the patience and self-reliance at this time. It is time now to remain grounded in what you personally believe to be the truth. Be grateful for the support of your loving family and for your own desire to really know yourself. And know that you are not alone. ...

Face it — Hare Krishna is a negative power and I'm glad you saw your way out of it. The Hare Krishna people destroy Intuition — it is a gradual process to regain it. We made a mistake in the first place to ever join up with such a group. Remember, God is not limited to any movement, group of people, or rules, dogma, or indoctrination. ...

Remember in the Bible it says, "Honor thy mother and father." Just look at that for a minute. Family love is so deep — as you know how your parents helped you to get on your feet. I honor my parents with great respect and humility now, for I know my mind was not my own. I was being manipulated. ...

I feel it is our duty to let the public know what the truth of the Hare Krishna Movement is. ...

Love to you and your family. Keep your chin up.

Cheryl Wheeler