Love LIVES HERE
LOVE
LIVES HERE
A project inspired by the family at Sri Ram Ashram Prepared by Cheryl Garden and Christina Riches Mount Royal University India Field School May 2012
Love Lives Here is a tribute to the Sri Ram Ashram family from the Mount Royal University, 2012 India Field School. We thank you so very much for welcoming us into your home with open hearts and sharing your generous spirit, kindness, and warmth with us. In such a short time, you have given us a new perspective on life. You have shown us what it means to really be connected to the people who are close to you, and how the simple things in life are often the most significant. We started this project hoping that we would be able to find some inspirational stories that we could share with our friends and friends of Sri Ram Ashram. We didn’t have to look far to experience an overwhelmingly inspiring community of loving and generous individuals. Inspiration was everywhere. And everyone at the ashram contributed to our journey of discovery and learning. For that we are truly thankful. It was inspiring to watch the ashram at work: chores shared, contributions made, tears dried, laughter ignited, beliefs practiced, dreams chased, and education pursued. We felt a profound sense of safety, trust, honesty, and love. The size of the family lends itself naturally to communal activities like sports, dancing, and worship – providing many opportunities to learn about each other, cheer each other on, and find peace in worship. We discovered incredible magic in the intimacy shared; Rashmi, the mummies, and Andrea understood every child – their ambitions, fears, challenges, and dreams. The girls and boys knew love and acceptance without question – this was reiterated over and over. Here, we share with you some of the amazing memories that we hold close to our hearts, some of the moments captured in photographs that tell their own stories, and some of the inspiring words you have shared with us. We noticed a striking theme when we put everything together – that love and life thrive at Sri Ram Ashram.
“There are always flowers for those who want to see them.” – Veena
Prema is a quiet, warm, kind, and calming presence – a precious big sister to all; she is the metaphor for still waters run deep. We found Prema to be a gentle and disciplined leader within the family. Her brothers and sisters respond to her with love, admiration, and respect. Prema was often observed holding, comforting, and loving her younger siblings. Her quiet, shy seriousness would crack open with her radiant smile, and laughter would emerge. We experienced her kind leadership as she guided us through the intricacies of a Bollywood dance routine with patience, humour, and dedication (we were an undisciplined bunch at times). We met with Prema one afternoon and she spoke about giving back to her family who has given her so much. She shared her dream of helping her family financially while enhancing tourism in her country, so others can savour India. By focusing on tourism,
she is able to give back to her family and share with visitors the beauty of her home – India. Prema shared a commonality with the Mount Royal student group in that we all believe that travelling provides the opportunity to learn something new each day. India is a place of many cultures, languages, and traditions that provide visitors the opportunity to understand both themselves more intimately and their homeland as well. We felt her generous spirit and pride in being Indian as she spoke. Prema commented how Rashmi took time to approach each individual, listen to his/her struggles, and offer support, advice, and love. It was clear she admires Rashmi greatly. – Cheryl and Christina
“As much love as you give, you will get.” – Prema
The first thing we noticed about Vijay is he is FIT, really fit. Recently back from the Asia CrossFit Games in South Korea, and the only competitor from India, he was ranked 16th overall. We congratulated him on his amazing accomplishment. Vijay was humble in his reflection of the event; he had completed the workouts at a level that allowed him to remain in the competition. On a personal level, his family was watching and he wanted to make them proud. Then, we noticed Vijay’s passion is around both the physical and mental challenges that fitness provides. He is committed to the dictum that good health is an essential element in life; CrossFit gets people healthy. He recognizes how overcoming difficult physical challenges provides the mental fortitude to face and overcome all life’s difficulties. Physical activity has caused Vijay to realize that he can push past challenges. Vijay shared his admiration of Chris Spealler and Brett Marshall, both men are accomplished CrossFit coaches. When these individuals visited Sri Ram Ashram, Vijay noticed both coaches had a similar build to him, further inspiring his commitment to excellence. CrossFit for Vijay is a family – participants are kind, encouraging, and caring. This model echoes Vijay’s life at Sri Ram Ashram, no wonder it is the perfect fit for him.
Vijay was unshakable and quiet in his views: “Life is beautiful. Community is about support and treating each other with kindness.” It is imperative to be humble, recognize the gifts you receive, and help others achieve their dreams, just as he has. Vijay was clear about the commitment he will make to the ashram. “Anyhow I can help this place I will do so for my lifetime.” Vijay exuded humbleness, gratitude, and modesty. He was passionate about his life, his family, and his future. He spoke about connectedness to all things, people, and nature. Vijay, like his brothers and sisters at the ashram, touched the earth, his heart, and his head before going onto any playing field, giving thanks to be able to use the earth in that manner. Vijay has a sparkle, humour, and drive that are tangible, and a warmth and generosity that is infectious. If anyone can bring physical fitness to India, it will be Vijay Raj. – Cheryl and Christina
“I think life is so beautiful. The community here and the support here is beautiful. I have lots of love for this place.” – Vijay
Priyanka has tremendous love and respect for her family. Priyanka’s dreams of a career in travel or perhaps dancing – she confessed it would likely be hip hop or break dancing. And yes, Justin Bieber was discussed. Priyanka appreciates the discipline she receives from her brothers, sisters, and Rashmi, because she knows her family wants her to succeed. She depends on her brothers and sisters counsel to steer her towards more suitable decisions. Priyanka inspired us by saying, “If you act with kindness and care in the world, you can do anything.” Knowing the value of the gifts she receives, she shared with us the importance of passing that spirit forward. She demonstrates this by giving her used school books to other children at the school whose families are struggling. We found Priyanka’s ambition and aspirations infectious. She has a flame, an openness, and a spark that ignites. She is honest, realistic, and yet looks to her future with dreamy possibility. She is eternally grateful for and to her family, and knows each moment is precious. She basks in the support of the trustees, Babaji, and Rashmi, and speaks to the importance of each of those integral individuals. Priyanka knows, “If I leave here, I will cry forever.” – Cheryl and Christina
“I love everyone here – no need to doubt.” – Priyanka
In our discussion with Jaya, she mentioned that within the ashram there is a solid support system, “My brothers and sisters love me without question – out there, no one cares for you in that manner.” She glowed when she told us she showers the babies with love and she acknowledges the power of those actions. “Here is where wishes are granted.” Jaya spoke about the importance of Rashmi in her life, from whom she receives honest advice and direction towards the “right” path. Jaya credits Rashmi’s counsel for giving her the skills to assist others in facing their tough decisions. We asked Jaya if she wished for anything, her response was clear: “I want nothing. Sri Ram Ashram provides me with everything I need.” It was easy to see the sparkle
in her eyes as she shared her dreams of financially supporting her family and visiting Babaji. She is attending a college in Dehradun, hoping to apply her gift of insight in the area of humanities and psychology. We are certain Jaya will make her dreams a reality. Jaya resonated love, sanctity, and safety. We felt such warmth, care, and kindness in our discussion. Jaya exuded such grace and gratitude for her life and the opportunities she has been afforded. Her family is love, is everything. Jaya’s quiet, gentle spirit takes you in and envelopes you; she has love to share. – Cheryl and Christina
“In life, love is everything. With love you feel like the whole world is yours.” – Jaya
On a Sunday afternoon, Naresh and I tossed, hit, and chased a green tennis ball around in the swelter heat of the ashram compound. He reminded me of my younger brother and the bond we had over spending our summer afternoons outside. Thanks for the game, Naresh! – Jessica
My favourite memory of our time at Sri Ram Ashram was when the MRU students and Sri Ram Ashram children went swimming in the pool for the first time since its new paint job. What a great way to cool off on a hot, sunny day! – Danielle
Sri Ram Ashram taught me that today, right now, is always the right time to play, be goofy, and laugh. – Keisha
“When you laugh in the morning, you laugh all day.” – Radha
Love. That is all there is. I never truly understood what that meant until I stepped into Sri Ram Ashram. The children are brought into this place and are surrounded by unconditional affection. The atmosphere was intoxicating. I felt so welcomed and blessed to be part of their family. From the moment I arrived, I was Ashley-Didi, and now, there is no looking back. These children taught me that love gives you all. They taught me to live each day to the fullest, and accept each person as they are – without judgement. I will carry these children with me forever in my heart and hope that their knowledge, strength, and love enables me to become a person they would be proud of. – Ashley
The day we arrived at Sri Ram Ashram, the children ran to us, took our hands and excitedly showed us around their home. These three girls held my hand and touched my heart. I had never felt so instantly loved or accepted by strangers before. It was a beautiful start to my visit at Sri Ram Ashram. – Carolyn
“There is one moon, one sky, one Earth. Nature is the same, it is culture that is different.” – Kavita
“This place has given me everything.” – Arun When meeting with Arun one afternoon, he asserted, “This place has given me everything – it is a tough life out there.” He said, “I love this place – this place is a home.” Arun, like his brothers and sisters at the ashram, spoke of his commitment to assist the Sri Ram Ashram in the future. Once he grows up, and is able, he will support them. Arun said he looks forward to some environmental and political reforms to come to India, and he is anxious for his future to begin. A hint of devilishness, Arun knows he needs to be a good person and not make trouble. He acknowledged the magic of the ashram in stating, “Rashmi helps people make their dreams come true.” And we believe that too. – Cheryl and Christina
One of my favorite moments at the ashram was feeling of a little one tugging at my sleeve, looking at me just like this, and then taking my hand firmly and directing me to the swing. Preeti took me to the swing, and soon after, a handful of other little ones followed, asking me to push them on the swing. I had to run back and forth in between the swings. The best moments were while we were on the swings and the sun was just about to set. The little ones would sing Hindi songs and then ask me to sing English songs like Twinkle Twinkle Little Star. They would smile at me often while on the swing and I know I won’t forget little things like that. – Kaitlyn
We asked Swati if we could meet in her favourite place – this was the aarti room, the spiritual home of the ashram, beside the photo of Babaji. Swati told us she is in her second year at a college in Dehradun pursuing a Bachelor of Commerce. Swati shared with us that when she arrived at the ashram at the age of four, how everything felt so unfamiliar. She noted how important routine and structure were to the functioning of the ashram. However, Swati happily adjusted and reaped the benefits of warmth and love. She acknowledged with gratitude how the structure at the ashram has positively affected her life. This skill allowed her to incorporate spirituality, study-time, work-time, meal-time and rest-time into her day, where her classmates often struggled with the demands of a busy school schedule. She credits the ashram for providing her with the tools to live a full life – Swati has all she needs for happiness. In her soft voice, Swati told us, “I love and care for everyone.” She is secure in the support of her family. She can seek and obtain advice and help from anyone – her trust in her brothers and sisters was implicit. Rashmi was a key piece of the puzzle for Swati. She indicated that the advice you receive from your family may not be what you want to hear, however, it is given from a place of love to guide you in selecting your right path. We were embraced by Swati’s very quiet, calm, and gentle spirit. Her kindness and care were evident in her shy smile. She was so incredibly humble and filled with gratitude for her life at the Sri Ram Ashram. Swati displayed an innocence and introspection that was absolutely beautiful. – Cheryl and Christina
“We know our brothers and sisters love us, and so we trust that they will give us good advice.” – Swati
My favourite memory of the ashram, is working out with Vijay Raj. I had never done CrossFit before, and I had an amazing time working out with him. It wasn’t just a workout, it was a way to bridge the communication gap between me and some of the older boys, as we all had something in common – CrossFit. I also enjoyed the early morning workout sessions because it brought me closer with my classmates who participated in the workouts with me. We were all able to share sweat, pain, and laughs as we worked hard in the morning hours. Of course we also “tested” Vijay. In one workout we ended up laughing so hard we couldn’t do the workout. Exasperated, he said, “There is no laughing in CrossFit.” Of course, this made us laugh even harder! – Corinne
“Empowerment of the children is the goal, through unconditional love and acceptance. At our school every child is given the chance to grow through love.” – Mrs. Jyoti Nandi
Carolyn and I had the distinct privilege of meeting Mrs. Jyoti Nandi who shared her values and methods with us. It was obvious in visiting the school that joy was abundant – children were respectful and hardworking, yet vibrant and exuberant. We felt it is Mrs. Nandi’s style that allows everyone to flourish. “We are all connected by our hearts,” she said. “We are all the same and equal.” In this philosophy there is no jealousy nor any fighting. Children feel valued for who they are, they are loved and are proud of their achievements. She shared with us that her goal is to meet all obstacles with love, not bitterness or anger. “If you encounter someone in such a state, then continue to offer only love to crack the wall of bitterness that exists.” She was certain and solid in her belief that no one can take what anyone has. Her strength and love will sustain her, always. She saw our visit to the school as an opportunity for connection and learning for the children. She mentioned that even if the children were somewhat shy, that after we leave they will ask questions and seek understanding. Our discussion returned always to love and relationships, the connectedness of all beings, and acknowledgment and sharing of life’s gifts and blessings. “I only need to give seemingly small amounts of love – my gifts of love are returned to me many fold.” As we stood with her, the children echoed her views in action; their admiration and trust in each other were evident by the smiles and exchanges that occurred between them. To possess such insight and vision is profound to me – then to apply these principles as an integral part of the education process, is visionary thinking. Mrs. Nandi’s genuineness, openness, and willingness are an inspiration. Loves lives there. – Cheryl
There were many beautiful moments in my memory; the visit to the Sri Ram Ashram School was significant for me. The morning assembly was inspiring. The entire school, prior to classes, gathered together to sing and pray. Their unity was evident and it felt so powerful to begin one’s day in such a contemplative, melodic, and devotional manner. The symmetry of the lines and praying hands was interrupted by one young boy who peeked around his classmates, curious about the visitors. So sweet. I can easily recall their clear, strong voices and fresh, vibrant faces. It was an amazing beginning to another unbelievable day at Sri Ram Ashram. – Cheryl
It is hard to choose just one favourite memory at the Sri Ram Ashram, as they were all so memorable. If I had to narrow down my choice it would be on one of the first days where Katie and I read to a group of girls. It started out with Katie and I reading Bambi, just us two. Then, all of a sudden, more and more kids started showing up to read with us. In a matter of seconds, some jumped on our laps, while another grabbed my arm and put it around her. They told us to keep reading. One book led quickly to five books. Honestly, that was the first time since I arrived in India that I felt homesick for my family back in Canada. However, I soon realized that these girls, for that short week, welcomed us into their family with love and affection. From complete strangers, we became their Didi’s and they became our life-long sisters. – Sibyl
Mother’s Day In India: I had never been apart from my mother on my own with people she didn’t really know before, and what was even more disconcerting was to know that the one person who has been my rock wasn’t with me to be honoured. However, on that Sunday in India, we did things that my family does when we’re together: watch sports, be active, and share some laughter. It made me feel like my family was there in spirit while I was abroad. That was the moment I knew that Sri Ram Ashram is, and will remain, a second home in my heart. – Jenny
This is a favourite ashram photo for me because it reminds me of the feeling of being there. Reading to the girls, answering questions, and chatting was such a simple thing, but a fun thing and good thing; for me and hopefully for them too. – Terry Uncle
“Every child who arrives has a different story. Sometimes they just need play, and when they are scared, we just surround them.” – Rashmi
The 2012 Mount Royal University India Field School sends Sri Ram Ashram our sincere love and thanks for a most memorable experience. Jennifer Anson, Stephanie Bakalik, Chelsea Barclay, Sibyl Bigler, Anna Brooks, Kaitlyn Brown, Carolyn Butler, Jessica Clark, Yasmin Dean, Giselle Dino, Jocelyn Doll, Curtis Dowhaniuk, Jodi Egan, Danielle Fermin, Terry Field, Katie Fisher, Cheryl Garden, Keisha Kipling, Laura Lushington, Dianne MacDonald, Ashley Materi, Alexandra Rabbitte, Christina Riches, Corinne Sato, Roxana Secara, Ashley Tymko, Gautam Verma, Pauline Zulueta
“I love you!” – Jhanvi
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