I had no idea what to expect when I arrived at Sudima Auckland Airport Hotel on December 8, 2013 to attend a transformational programme conducted by Swami Swaroopanandji.
I had heard that he had presented the Programme successfully at many reputed institutions such as the Harvard Business School and Stanley Morgan. Having been associated with the Chinmaya Mission for many years, Swamiji’s passion and dedication to bring his knowledge to the wider community was well-known, but what I did not know was that the event was to change my life forever.
By the end of the day, I was shaking off my self-imposed limitations, felt rejuvenated, well equipped and ready to face anything.
Krishna speaks
There are many motivational programmes but what makes this Programme unique is that it is based on the wisdom of Hindu scriptures. This comes directly from Lord Krishna handed down by sages and their works.
This Programme was not designed to motivate you momentarily, but make fundamental changes to your thinking, perception and life. It helps you change the way you look at situations and make decisions based on lateral thinking rather than confused by what stares you in the face.
Swaroopanandji cited the example of Arjun (who all of us represent in one way or the other) in the battlefield of Kurukshetra, also fighting his inner battle so effectively that we could relate to our own, daily problems.
Breaking barriers
The programme has been compiled keeping in mind various types of personalities and life situations and therefore it is all encompassing and enabling everyone to relate to their own life.
Each of us was asked to write down our own situations and problems; and then find a solution based on the exercises and guidance given by Swamiji.
Each exercise was designed to break down barriers within us by bringing them to the fore and acknowledging them; making a decision to resolve it and then finding a way to accomplish the objective.
Self-realisation
The programme helps us to recognise who we are, gives clarity to the path we want to take and inspires us to do better by giving positive affirmations to our wishes and dreams rather than negative thinking and helplessness.
I could feel the power of acceptance rather than denial.
It was all about pushing the boundaries, for the human spirit is infinite. It was very profound, yet simple. It was about digging deep within and tapping into our own hidden strength with which we are blessed.
The Swamiji presented us with the tools; it is now up to us to Make It Happen.
From all points of view, the event organised by Chinmaya Mission New Zealand was a great success, attracting people from all walks of life, including professionals, businesspersons, corporate officials and students.
Each of them said that the seminar was beneficial with a general feeling of motivation and rejuvenation.
Charul Shah is a volunteer at Chinmaya Mission New Zealand. She lives in Auckland.
