Hari Om Parents and Students,
We had yet another fun filled, interactive learning session.
This is the recap of what we did today:
Opening prayers: Shlokas followed by Guru Strotam
Meditation: The meditation has become very focused and peaceful compared to what it was in the beginning of the session in September 2018. The students are more focused and calmer, and this gives us a very positive beginning to our class. The students know that whoever comes late must wait outside. Today we would like to mention Aditya who came a little bit late and waited outside the class but still participated in our focus exercise looking at us from outside and got the marble count correct! Great job Aaditya. This is an example of a student who tried to participate to the best of his ability even though he was outside the classroom. This is a great example of sticking to the disciple and implementing what has been taught irrespective of the situation.
Key to success:
The Reins of the chariot: When we have the four qualities of strength, discrimination, self-control, and concern for others, the chariot of life moves forward. Yet the chariot driver must use his reins to keep the four horses under perfect control. So, the reins of the chariot are; Forgiveness, Compassion, Equanimity. The story of Ekanatha Maharaja was shared for forgiveness. We had a discussion about compassion, our privileged lives and how we can extend compassion to others.
We also discussed what the Charioteer stood for. If the wheels, the horse, and the reins were fine, but the charioteer was no good, what will be the fate of the chariot. Therefore, Sri Rama says,
"Devotion to God is the intelligent charioteer."
Quote of the day: Whatever you do, Oh Lord! Who am I to quarrel with Thee? Does the picture ever quarrel with the painter?
This was tied up to the theme of the class today. The students responded and told us that the Lord is the creator and we are part of his creation. How can we question the creator? If we surrender ourselves completely into the hands of the Lord and seek refuge in Him alone, He takes charge of our life. We also talked about how life is full of good and bad events and how we never question when anything good happens to us and but always complain to Lord when something distressing happens. Why can't we just have full faith and trust that whatever is happening in our lives is happening for good. We talked about the tennis player Arthur Ashe (1943-93) who won many trophies in his career, but got very sick and when journalists asked him if he was bitter and angry as to Why God did this to him, he responded:
"All these years, the success I had and the cups I lifted, I didn't question, 'Why me?' When God blessed me with victory and happiness, I never asked why me? And now when I've contracted this disease, on what basis do I challenge? Why why-me now?" This also connects to the "equanimity" we discussed as well.
Bhagwat Geeta shlokas: We chanted the shlokas with Swamiji
Card making: The students made an inspirational card to thank someone who inspired them and loved them using the theme of what we have learned so far. Many students made cards for their mothers, fathers, friends, teachers, janitors, cafeteria lady etc. The point was to be grateful and thankful for what we have and show our gratitude and kindness to the people that make a difference in our lives. The image is attached.
Brain storming for Annual day: Please see the attached proposal by Raghav. We are still figuring out how we will accomplish this. More details to follow.
Conclusion: The class ended in the temple hall with a wonderful performance by Kindergarten class followed by Aarti and pledge.
Thank You,
Sincerely,
Suma and Ruchi
