SRV Youth Focus

SF Children learn the difference between the changing and the unchanging

Water and oil do not mix,
but they seem to when shaken together.

Like this, the Atman appears one with Maya
when seen through the restless mind.

By meditation, the wise control the mind
and behold the ever-pure & blissful Atman,
distinct from everything else - matter, energy & thought.

Read more: Magic Meditation Cylinders

At the SRV Summer retreat on the American River this year, we were once again blessed with a group of intelligent, perceptive kids, mostly 12 years of age.  All of the classes with the children were drawn from the stories of Sri Ramakrishna, which are an endless source of inspiration, with so many ways to unwrap them for the benefit of giving our youth a sound foundation in dharma -- in cosmology, philosophy, and spirituality.

Besides some very fun projects involving clay, and making a mosaic pedestal for a sundial, the kids had an opportunity to learn more about Holy Mother, Sri Ramakrishna, and Swami Vivekananda.  As the children enter their young adult years, these great beings -- the example of their lives and experiences -- hold increasing interest and relevance for them.

Read more: 2009 Kids Retreat at the American River