This morning, the FedEx truck dropped off an envelope sent by a successful businesswoman who used to live in Fairfield a long time ago. Inside was an invitation to an upcoming lecture being given in NYC by Swami Prakashanand Saraswati. What stood out for me was this:
"This extraordinary program is a rare chance to have very close association with a renowned Saint. Attendance is limited to about 100 people, and it is designed specifically for those who have achieved substantial success (spiritually and professionally) in their lives, and have a desire for further spiritual development. It will be given by Swami Prakashanand Saraswati at the Palace Hotel in NYC on May 3rd and 4th." Designed specifically for those who have achieved substantial spiritual and professional success? That sounds to me like what she's *really* saying is "has accumulated substantial wealth." So, I emailed her back and asked how much it costs. She replied that there is no cost and that it isn't a fundraiser. Ok, but, if it costs nothing, and it's not a fundraiser, then why gear the event toward wealthy people... er, the professionally successful? My recollection is that Prakashanand's extreme hostility toward Maharishi is based, at least in part, on Maharishi's pursuit of money. And, this invitation leaves me with the impression that Lil Prakashy is also in pursuit of money but simply isn't upfront and honest about it.
