Where to now?
The focus of this site was originally targeted at the ex-BK community. It is co-ordinated by ex-BKs without any connection to the BKWSU whatsoever. Initially, we hoped to be able to offer resources for those recoverying after Raja Yoga only. After a short time we discovered that whereas, on one hand, there were both many active BKs that also wanted to be able to express their feelings openly, their observations and doubts; on the other hand, there were many individuals that considered themselves to be ex-BK but who still held onto certain aspects of the lifestyle or beliefs. In essence, the line between BK and ex-BK was blurred.
Into that equation then stepped the PBKs, individuals who also considered themselves "Baba's children". They practiced Raja Yoga but were barred from orthodox Raja Yoga centres by the BKWSU hierarchy because of their desire to examine 'God's teachings' at a deeper, more metaphorical level. Uncomfortably for some, they wanted to apply "The Knowledge" to the Brahmin world rather than just apply it to the non-Brahmin, or Agyani, world.
ex-BKs also carried with them 'ghosts of the past' that had been written out of BKWSU history. It started to appear as though there were in fact many hues of individual requiring support and a forum, not just ex-BKs but ex-BKWSUs. The organization and the practice were not the one and same. Far from a single, homogenized product centrally delivered from Madhuban, the BKWSU experience was actually a rich variety of interests and widespread experiences, some inspiring, many abusive. It is notable that most of the early and leading Western BKs have left the BKWSU and yet the BKWSU continues to sell their books and make use of their input without informing newcomers.
On the basis of this, and aware of the unchallengeable authority exercised within the BKWSU, we were chose a more inclusive, universal and non-judgemental position in which the individual's growth and needs, not the organization's, was put at the centre. The response of the Brahma Kumaris World Spiritual Organization was to start expensive legal action against us, using one of the world's top Intellectual Property law firms in attempt to take away our domain name and ostensibly shut us down. It failed wasting money, time and energy that could have otherwise been spent on serving humanity.
As we progress, it is hoped to include resources for all of the wide spectrum of individuals interested in free and open discussion. Even valuable resources for those that chose to remain with the BKWSU and to work from within to make positive change by way of a Duty of Care policy, an independent Ombudsperson service and addressing the continued historical revision and editing of the channelled messages making up its core teachings which have created a false past for newcomers. In the meanwhile, please explore the growing links section or read and contribute to the Encyclopedia project documenting all aspects of life as a Brahmakumari.
Submissions of news, articles and opinion pieces are welcome, anonymity protected. Please email us at the address below or use the Anonymous Dropbox on the Up/Download page.
For alternative resources, see :
• BKWSU Watch
• xBKInfo
