November 19, 2017

Hari Om, Parents

Gratitude ! We are so thankful for so many things - especially the opportunity to teach this year's brilliant and fun Vijayam Class. As somebody pointed out at today's thanksgiving luncheon speech, Balavihar is not just for kids, we are also learning in the process - about our culture, scriptures, and most importantly, about ourselves, and are thankful for that opportunity. (As your kids would tell you, what we are learning this year - 'Self Knowledge' is the Key to Success.)  Thanks for all your active engagement, dedication and support to the class activities, and encouragement to the kids. 

We had a new child in the class today, and for his benefit, and for everybody's benefit, we reviewed the lessons learnt so far. We also practiced 'Sannyasa Suktam'. (Words and meaning elsewhere in the blog). 

Reminders:

• Please mark your calendar for Bhiksha on December 17th, that we will offer at the Cafetaria.  For those unfamiliar with Bhiksha,  

"Bhiksha is 'an offering to the teacher from whom one has received knowledge'. BBNJ is a satellite chapter affiliated to Chinmaya Vrindavan Ashram located in Cranbury. Swami Shantanandaji visits us about once a month, during which each class takes turns to offer Bhiksha. Students/parents volunteer to bring some dishes, and we offer to Swamiji, and have a joint lunch with him, after which the kids get to have some Satsang/Q&A with Swamiji. We also chant Guru Stotram, Sannyasa Suktam etc., at the session. More details are found in the following website: 

http://www.chinmayamissionalpharetta.org/seva-groups/yagnas-and-camps/bhiksha-to-visiting-acharya. 

It is an offering to a teacher from whom one has received knowledge. It is a sadhana, an act of reverence, and an expression of gratitude. By gaining knowledge one can understand oneself better. Devotees have the privilege of inviting a Sadhu to their home or serving him where He resides, with humility and devotion.

• We need couple of parent volunteers to coordinate the Bhiksha. We have expert Sevaks who can guide you with what needs to be done. Please let us know ASAP if you can volunteer.

• Please ensure that your child carries a note book, and a folder with Pens/Pencils, along with Slokathon, and 'Values in Bhagavad Gita' Manual.  Taking notes during the class is highly encouraged.
  
• Please share this email and blog with your child. In case you want yours kids' emails to be added, please forward. Thanks! This is very important, because they are also getting an opportunity to write the blog ! This is going to reinforce what they learnt and reflect on them, and also showcase their 'writing' talent! Talking about which, these are the student volunteer blog writers for the upcoming weeks:

Suchir - Dec 3, 2017

Maanas - Dec 10, 2017

Dhruv - Dec 17, 2017

Nikitha - Jan 7, 2017

• Homework: 
• Please help the kids to practice Sanyasa Suktam
• Children are asked to pre-read the lessons in the 'Values from Bhagavad Gita' Manual. (Chapters upto Arjavam have been covered so far) and attempt the questions.  Acaryopasanam will be covered next class. This year's lesson homework exercises require them to reflect on what they learnt in the class, do some introspection, and complete the homework. Please encourage them to attempt the questions. 

Have a great thanksgiving,

See you next class - Sunday Dec 3, 2017.

With Om & Prem,

Vijayam Class Teachers