Our Volunteer - Bhamini

our volunteer - bhamini I had the great fortune and privilege of visiting 30 of the free Art of Living schools in West Bengal, Assam, Tripura and Jharkand. For me the trip was a great learning! It opened my eyes to a new dimension and meaning to education. SRI SRI Schools bring alive the hopes and dreams of the villagers and their children, breathing life into a new generation of learners.

Never did they dare to dream that one day their children would go to school, yet today they stand in disbelief yet overwhelmed with gratitude that the dreams and aspirations they held in their hearts for their children will be translated into a reality that they will live to see.

The schools have been initiated by simple youth warriors/villagers (Yuvacharaya’s) trained to bring alive the dreams of a community. In one village the women folk got together to build a structure that serves as a school to their children. The men assisted by putting a roof over it, and the community was brought together for a single cause - to action a future for their children.

In places, where roads are yet to be made, water and electricity to be sought, the villagers find solace in simply constructed structures that serve as schools. Learning in open spaces, in the fields, under the trees, they sincerely seek ways and means in which to breathe life into their dreams.

The teaching methods used are truly inspiring. A new generation of learners is nurtured to become not only great scholars but also great human beings! Students learn about one another’s religion and culture. They celebrate and learn to live the inherent human values that make life joyful and pleasant. The holistic educational system allows for the blossoming of one’s personality and is truly a winning formula for nurturing successful human beings. Walking through the villages I learn’t from each one, each one in that moment became my teacher, and I realized that education wasn’t just about going to school.

Testimonials

M.,
age 26
“I had decided to go back to my anti-depressants before this (The Art of Living) course, but now I don’t need them. I will practice these techniques every single day for the rest of my life. I only hope other people are lucky enough to take this course. It has given me more help than I could have ever imagined possible. Thank you.”

Course participant

“I’ve been suffering from a loss of concentration, weak memory and extreme anger. Now I feel as if something heavy has been lifted from my back.”

Course Participant

“I found that this training of breathing is so useful and its benefit shows when I do it. I feel that my heart is stronger and younger. When I can’t sleep I just do the breathing and I feel energy in all parts of my body.”

Dr. Venus

“I feel peace with myself and have less stress. I think if I continue with the practice, this feeling of peace will continue to grow.”

M. Ali Bankat

"Before this experience, I was sad, depressed and starting to lose hope because of the situation here in Iraq. Now, after only four days, I feel confident in myself – happier, have hopes and dreams again and I feel that life is so beautiful. I have started to love everyone and physically I have much more energy and am able to do more things. I want to thank you very much for helping all of us feel better.”