I am scared that if I am open about being an ECKist it will change or affect a lot of my friendships.

I would like to tell of my wonderful experiences in ECKANKAR. I know I can share them with family, in Satsang, or with other ECKists, but it is important to me to be truthful with my friends. Even if we are on different spiritual paths, I think we can still be friends.

How do you know when to share ECKANKAR with non-ECKists and not scare them? Or give them too much? I want to be honest and say, “Yes, I am an ECKist!” and simply let people know it. I am fearful because I don’t want them to be afraid of me.

—Anna,
Hawaii

Dear Anna,

There is a tried-and-true saying that warns not to talk about religion or politics unless the other is of a like mind.

Do your friends openly discuss what faith they belong to? Another saying to be mindful of is that discretion is the better part of valor.

Many people have but a shirttail interest in religion, because theirs is convenient to them for some reason. It is a social badge, little more. Keep mum around them.

Very few people are spiritually ready for the ECK teachings. So wait to hear from those who are. How will you know them?

When an especially close friend confides in you about a perplexing situation of a very personal nature, you will first just listen. Then stay open to the Mahanta’s guidance. There will be some sign if it is OK to reveal you are an ECKist.

Then speak from your heart. You may tell of a personal experience that relates to your friend’s problem, but keep it short.

Of course, there is a risk. You may lose that friendship and several others, if your friend is a gossip. You should not want or need such people in your circle of friends. They are unreliable.

Do you need friends at any cost?

(from October 2008 Letter of Light)