America the Land of opportunity: Groups of Indians come into the USA

When I came to the USA in 1994, I came on a student visa (F1), passed a tough interview for job, and then obtained a green card after 5 years and finally obtained citizenship after a period of an additional five years. Now it seems other pathways have opened up.

America continues to be the land of opportunity in 2023/2024. Pictured here (for review only and no copyright violation intended) are a group on Indians crossing over. This is due to brilliant journalism by Fox news on Jan 15, 2024.

Immigrants reasons for coming to the USA are complex and varied, and often driven by a desire for a better life for themselves and their families.

• Economic hardship: Many people who immigrate illegally come from countries with limited economic opportunities and widespread poverty. They may be seeking a chance to earn a living and support their families, even if it means working under difficult conditions.
• Violence and persecution: Some people come to the USA to escape violence, persecution, or war in their home countries. They may be fleeing for their lives or seeking a safe haven for their families.
• Family reunification: Many people immigrate to be with family members who are already living in the USA. They may be seeking to be closer to loved ones and build a life together.

Deportation of undocumented immigrants in the United States in 2023 was a complex and multifaceted issue with various factors influencing the numbers and processes involved. Here's a breakdown:

Overall Deportation Numbers:

• Increase compared to 2022: U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) deported over 142,000 immigrants in fiscal year 2023, nearly double the number from 2022. This rise can be attributed to several factors, including:
• Increased enforcement at the border: The administration implemented certain stricter border control measures in 2023 to address the surge in illegal crossings.
• Focus on interior removals: ICE also shifted its focus to apprehending and deporting undocumented immigrants already within the country, especially those with prior criminal convictions.

Types of Deportations:

• Expedited Removals: This process allows for quicker deportations of individuals apprehended near the border without appearing before an immigration judge. The number of expedited removals increased significantly in 2023.
• Removal Proceedings: Individuals apprehended further within the country typically go through formal removal proceedings in immigration court. The backlog of cases in immigration court continued to grow in 2023, leading to delays and uncertainties.

Other Considerations:

• Family separations: The deportation of parents with children has been a controversial aspect, with concerns about family unity and the impact on children. The Biden administration implemented policies aimed at minimizing family separations in certain cases.
• Humanitarian concerns: Critics of the increased deportations raise concerns about the potential human rights implications, especially for vulnerable individuals fleeing violence or persecution in their home countries.

It's important to note that the deportation of undocumented immigrants is a complex issue with no easy solutions.

Moving to our eternal home Vaikuntha in the spiritual world

Moving from one country to the other can improve our economic interests. However we need to leave this planet at some point and go back to our home, back to godhead. For that the process is the chanting of the Hare Krishna mantra.

This path, often referred to as Prabhupada's formula, consists of nine core principles:

1. Chanting the Hare Krishna maha-mantra: This 16-word mantra, Hare Krishna Hare Rama, Rama Krishna Hare Hare, is considered the cornerstone of bhakti-yoga. Chanting it with sincerity and devotion is believed to purify the mind and heart, awaken Krishna consciousness, and ultimately lead to liberation.
2. Following the four regulative principles: These principles, which include abstaining from meat, fish, eggs, and intoxicants, gambling, illicit sex, and unrestricted use of violence, are meant to help devotees cultivate self-control, purify their habits, and focus their minds on Krishna.
3. Associating with devotees: Surrounding oneself with other devotees who are also striving for Krishna consciousness is crucial for providing support, encouragement, and inspiration on the spiritual path.
4. Studying sacred scriptures: Studying the Bhagavad-gita, Srimad-Bhagavatam, and other ancient Vedic texts provides devotees with knowledge and understanding of Krishna, bhakti-yoga, and the process of spiritual advancement.
5. Serving the deity: Offering food and other items to the deity form of Krishna with love and devotion is a way to cultivate a personal relationship with God and to express one's gratitude for His blessings.
6. Hearing from the spiritual master: A qualified spiritual master, who is a representative of Krishna, can guide and instruct devotees on the path of bhakti-yoga and help them overcome obstacles.
7. Living a simple life: Avoiding unnecessary material pursuits and attachments helps devotees focus their energy on their spiritual practice and cultivate detachment from the temporary world.
8. Remembering Krishna: Keeping Krishna in the forefront of one's thoughts and actions throughout the day helps to cultivate constant Krishna consciousness.
9. Sharing Krishna consciousness: Devotees are encouraged to share their knowledge and experience of Krishna consciousness with others, helping them to also embark on the path of bhakti-yoga.

These principles are not meant to be followed in a rigid or legalistic manner. The true essence of Prabhupada's formula lies in cultivating genuine love and devotion for Krishna, and practicing these principles with sincerity and enthusiasm.