Chicago: July 5–11

On The Plane From Denver To Chicago Srila Prabhupada scanned the lead article in an international news magazine entitled, "Crime: Why and What to Do." He noted that the overwhelming problem was lucidly presented, but that no practical solution was offered. So, in Chicago, when the local mayor, a representative from the police force and a state assemblyman came individually to visit Prabhupada, he spoke to them for three consecutive days about the Krsna conscious solution to the problem of crime.

All three gentlemen were very receptive, especially the state senator, Mr. John Porter, who came with his wife:

Mr. Porter: I understand you were speaking to some police officials about crime.

Prabhupada: Crime means anything you do without Krsna consciousness. It is simply a question of degree. Material life is criminal life. Everyone is busy. So many cars are going this way and that, here and there, but ask anyone what is God, he'll be disturbed; "What is this nonsense?" He thinks it is a waste of time to talk about God. But one in spiritual life is only interested in God. Actually, human life is perfect when one remembers only God.

Mrs. Porter: Can you live a spiritual life outside the temple?

Prabhupada: Yes. It is a simple method: chant Hare Krsna. You can do it anywhere, even while walking on the street. There is no tax, no loss and you can develop your spiritual life. Is it difficult? You have a tongue, you can chant. Do it and see the practical result. The temple is a place where you can come once in a day and get inspiration. But if you have no time, you can chant the Mahamantra anywhere you are and gradually make advancement. If you have more time, you can read our books.

Mr. Porter: Christians have the concept of original sin and salvation. What is your view of that?

Prabhupada: As I mentioned, anyone who is in the material world is criminal. It is like a prison house-everyone there is a criminal except the officers. Everyone in the material world is sinful to some degree. Those who are completely purified understand God, love Him and go back home, back to Godhead. In different countries, at different times and under different circumstances, there are different religious principles and methods of purification. Just like in the Christian religion there are ten commandments how to become pure. But if you do not follow them and still say that you are Christian, that is hypocrisy. If you follow the instruction given by God or God's representative, then you are religious; but if you don't follow, simply to say, "I am Hindu, I am Christian, I am Muslim," has no meaning. The main business is how to understand God.