As Kartika month begins today, October 9th. Here is a beuatiful Kartik sonnet by Ananda Vrindavan Devi Dasi.

As Kartik comes our hearts are drawn to You
The autumn moon rises full and deep
This month alone can have us start anew
The lights and songs awaken our deep sleep
It is a month that comes but once a year
It’s worth a thousand lives for what it gives
A chance to banish all unwanted fear
A chance to sing no matter where one lives
It is a time when bhakti rasa sweet
Comes to our hearts in many joyful ways
Not least of all the charming butter thief
Pulls our thoughts through all His Lila plays
And so we must to Kartik give our time
Least we miss this opportunity sublime