When people ask, “What is ECKANKAR?” what do I say?

—Caroline, at age 14,
North Carolina

Dear Caroline,

It’s best to keep it simple. One answer could be, “It’s people trying to learn more about God.”

Another possibility is to say that, then ask if the other would like an ECK brochure. Here’s where you must pay close attention. Some people are satisfied with a simple answer. Their eyes or face will say, “Oh!” They’ll have just what they need.

Others want more. This second group will like your offer of an ECK book or brochure. Above all, give those who ask about ECK no more than they want. They are who they are, what they are, and where they are—in a spiritual sense. They’d be uncomfortable if they got too much too soon.

A good approach, if they want to know more about ECKANKAR, is to tell one or two things you like about it. Has it helped you? How?

Listen to promptings from the Mahanta for guidance.

Keep it simple and light.

(from April 2003 Letter of Light)