South-Central Regional Retreat: Bruceville, TX
During the Labor Day weekend, in 2024, about 350 SSSIO members from the South-Central Region-USA, including young adults and children, headed to URJ Greene Family Camp in Bruceville, Texas, to be immersed in a wonderful retreat that rejuvenated their spirits and nurtured their spiritual growth.
Each morning began with a Jyothi (light) meditation, followed by an uplifting Nagarsangeethan (devotional singing). The day was filled with enriching workshops designed to foster personal development and spiritual learning, tailored to each age group - adults, young adults, and Sai Spiritual Education (SSE) students. Speakers, Brother Leslie Frank and Dr. Ramadevi Sankaran, inspired the audience with their thoughtful insights on “Loving Engagement with Awareness and Practice Towards Sai 100.” The Sai Spiritual Education (SSE) program began with icebreaker activities to promote teamwork and cooperation, followed by instructive sessions by Brother Leslie Frank and Dr. Ramadevi Sankaran on building self-confidence, handling criticism, and connecting to the Sai within. Service opportunities were available for those wanting to engage in activities to help those in need and take care of surrounding greenery. Attendees also enjoyed outdoor recreational activities such as canoeing, zip lining and indoor sports such as basketball.
Dr. Ramadevi’s session was described as extremely informative, providing invaluable tips on nurturing children with love, a principle she brings daily to her clinical practice. She focused on helping children face mental health issues and overcoming them with patience, gentleness and love. Simply put, Dr. Ramadevi stressed “Nothing is impossible when there is love, compassion and empathy". Sister Lakshmi Vyakaran's session on the divine feminine principle of Shakthi was “illuminating, powerful and gripping” said one attendee. A key takeaway was Shakthi’s vast feminine power encompassed both the strong warrior spirit as well as the nurturing life force, which one could tap within oneself.
Many were also profoundly impacted by Brother Leslie Frank's heartfelt account of his journey to Sri Sathya Sai Baba, which made them reflect on their own spiritual journey. Brother Leslie shared how the loving Lord had blessed him with close personal attention - granting him daily darshan (viewing), sparshan (touch), and shambashan (conversation). Despite the allure of materialized trinkets, Leslie remained resolute to serve. Sathya Sai granted him his wish to work in the canteen kitchen for six years, which he did with unwavering devotion. His unshakable faith and complete surrender inspired one and all.
The retreat left a lasting impression on everyone who felt spiritually nourished and mentally rejuvenated. They felt a powerful sense of community, and many were eager to continue their journey of self-discovery and spiritual development. The retreat allowed participants to step away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, to collaborate, exchange ideas, and support one other in their growth, as they immersed themselves in a spiritually uplifting environment. Whether it was through devotional singing, interactive engaging workshops, or service activities, the retreat provided a space where each person could connect to their higher self and experience a personal breakthrough. Many described the deep joy and peace they felt, carrying the spirit of the retreat with them long after it had ended.
A heartfelt thanks is also owed to the volunteers who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the retreat ran smoothly. From organizing logistics such as transportation and meals to managing technical details like audio and video, their contributions were invaluable. These volunteers worked with quiet dedication, giving freely of their time and energy to ensure that every aspect of the retreat ran seamlessly. Their commitment to the success of the event reflected the spirit of service that was at the heart of the entire weekend, and their efforts were deeply appreciated by all who attended. The smooth execution of the retreat allowed participants to focus on their spiritual journey, knowing they were in capable hands.