By Sapna Rao

From August 12 – 14, Chinmaya Yuva Kendra (CHYK) and Chinmaya Setukaris (CSK) gathered for a Retreat hosted by Chinmaya Mission Boston. Over 30 participants communed, traveling from the local region and out of town, to spend the weekend at Chinmaya Maruti located in Andover, MA. With loving guidance from Vivekji, Shankarji and Shashikalaji – greater Boston’s resident teacher, the Retreat consisted of daily discourse and opportunities to integrate learnings through activities ranging from quiet reflection, gardening, skits, a cooking challenge and outdoor sports.

The Retreat’s theme “Coming to Unity” lived up to its name in all ways! Participants spanned a wide range of ages – late teens to 40s – bringing a unique mix of perspectives and a familial feeling to the Retreat. Our Retreat Guides delivered inspiring discourses on developing a higher vision of love. Participants further reflected on the teachings through discussion groups, which were uniquely set up based on an entry prompt of “what would you like to ‘drop’ and ‘keep’ to support your self-development?’. Participants served at a local community garden, helping with weeding and harvesting produce that is donated to food pantries in the New England region. In an effort to support the environment, all meals were served on reusable dishware, often prepared by Retreat participants, and the whole group practiced composting food scraps. Taking turns serving meals and tending to clean up reinforced the spirit of community and caring for one another.

Deep gratitude to Vivekji, Shankarji, Shashikalaji, Chinmaya Boston sevaks, and all Retreat participants for enabling this meaningful experience for all.