I was a sixteen-year-old boy, born in Chatsworth. I suffered childhood abuse. At that young age, I developed the ability to discriminate between right and wrong, and was acutely aware of a burning desire to correct the behavior of those that wronged others. This prompted me to join the navy. A compelling need to protect, help, support and serve was already inculcated in me. But with it came an insatiable appetite to fulfill the responsibilities of a son towards my much loved father. I was the fifth son and with a keen sense of duty, I generously provided my family with emotional and financial stability, working tirelessly for many years. I recall my father’s words “Don’t sit and use dhoti’s and pretend to be someone that you are not – Help people because they will say thanks to you and leave rose petals on your doorstep, not thorns!”
I had no prior involvement in temple work.
However, the scars of early childhood abuse, not easily eradicated lent to later years of aggressive behaviour and alcohol abuse, until one day in the year 1990 a powerful life altering experience changed my destiny. I died, frothing at the mouth, pulse less. In this state of death, contact was made with the divine power of Baba and Muruga Swami; whereupon I received Baba’s new assignment and “calling” that would ultimately take me on a journey of re-birth. A pathway of spiritual discovery, into an avenue of communication with the supreme power of our Avatar and many other Deities. A clear audible “You will do this work!” was given as instruction and I spoke to this voice and said: “I don’t know you, God and I don’t know how to do this work. Please teach me, and I will try my best.”
From humble beginnings of a self-erected temple in the confines of a residential dwelling US690 came into being. US, symbolising Universal Soldiers and embracing all colours, classes, creed and religious groups of people. 690 Clove Drive, being my address and so utterly amazing that “clove” a symbol of prayer.
Untold miracles of divine intervention were witnessed by thousands of devotees. Structural changes to a modest home dwelling, was transformed into a serene temple and annual prayers and birthday celebrations of the Deities are now being observed. Kavadies are held with chariot-pulling, initiated and strictly controlled by me, Guru Morgan. Sacrificial offerings by Swami’s show a test of true faith when vows are fulfilled. Many other charitable fund drives and Blood campaigns also bear testimony of my promise to serve those in need.
With the selfless sacrifice made by my supportive wife, a crowd gathers week after week as they seek comfort at our temple, competing brazenly for their weekly dose of dharshan and a place where they could belong.