We started with 3 OMs followed by the opening prayer "Sahanavatu", Ganesha, Saraswati and Guru shlokas. We learnt up to verse 5 of the Gita Dhyanam.
We explored the Mahabharata episodically, focusing on Cause/Effect and Lessons Learned based on the following specific incidents: Draupadi's Svayamvaram, The Dice Game, Draupadi being insulted at the dice game and the Conflict Resolution attempt by Krishna before the war started.
Attached are the children's analysis - it was a very interactive session with everyone contributing their views. Some of the important lessons learned were:
- Constantly work on your skill to take advantage of opportunities
- Do not be jealous of others' success, it can be destructive to everyone around you.
- Curb your weakness, set limits on perceived risky behaviour
- Have faith in Krishna
- Treat others with respect and dignity regardless of their situation
One becomes learned by listening, successful through tapas (austerity), a good companion through patience and intelligent by serving elders.
We discussed that listening means being focussed and open-minded, paying attention, austerity means not being distracted from your goal (eg. not considering your comfort when something has to get done), serving elders lets one absorb their wisdom.
