a 3 day retreat focused on spirituality with the specific theme of “Seeing Through Problems” held at an Ashram in the Central Florida region on April 6th – 8th. The program had as its main speaker and teacher Vivek who heads the CHYK outreach section of the Chinmaya Mission which is the organization based on the legacy of Swami Chinmayananda – a dynamic guru from India who has taken a philosophy called Vedantra and translated Vedic holy texts and commentary for the benefit of a worldwide audience.
His example and legacy has inspired devotees and teachers alike to continue the work of building Ashrams, self-development, teaching interested ones, and community outreach programs. Vivekji is a charismatic and knowledgeable person who has devoted his time and teaching skills to the foundation and was the special guest at the retreat we were a part of. The individuals who attended were from a wide range of backgrounds. From college age students to working professionals a wide gamut of ages and occupations were represented. All wanted to learn how “Seeing Through Problems” could be applied in their life. The retreat lasted 3 days beginning on Friday evening with a welcome talk to the group participants and a evening meal. On Saturday and Sunday the program started with early morning group meditation guided by Vivekji then a series of talks and break out sessions along with meals and fun activities.
In between lectures there were group activities such as painting, games and even a field-trip that thematically tied together the discourses which were the main focus of the program. The series of discourses used a book entitled Tapovananjali as the basis for the spiritual discussions and delved into the example of Swami Tapovana who inspired others to uplift themselves and remove the mental blinders so as to skillfully deal with life’s challenges. This was a main theme of the retreat: Challenge + purpose = training; challenge – purpose = problem. All in attendance learnt that life’s challenges need not become problems if wisdom and discernment are applied.There were other salient points taught such as skillful interaction with family members, how to build healthful relationships, re-framing failures as leaning experiences and reminders that service to others is a hallmark of spiritual life for happy individuals. To work through our problems we were encouraged to slow down, step back and see more.
The brief synopsis of the discourses do not do justice to the useful information imparted or the feeling of community that was apparent among the attendees. There were some in attendance who had been a part of the Ashram for years and others who were joining for the first time – we all left as friends who share a bond of unity and love among one another. If any can be a part of the next program I would encourage you to do so. Vedanta philosophy transcends everyday living and becomes a part of life and the way others are viewed and treated. Let us all continue to grow spiritually and give thanks for the efforts of our teachers, coordinators, sponsors, volunteers and those who make retreat programs like “Seeing Through Problems” possible!
