The Montreal Sai Young Adult organized a summer retreat; titled “Rejuvenate and Reset”, the mission was to reaffirm our commitment in pursuit of self-transformation and rejuvenate our core believes in preparation for the back-to-work and -school routine. Together as Sai devotees, we were able to collectively uplift not only ourselves but as a group of like-minded young adults.

Over the three-day retreat, some of the activities included were study circles on relationships, morning exercises, hiking, kayaking, and fire camps. Apart from regular retreat activities, the young adults organized a baking challenge that promoted team building skills. A large amount of the retreat was allocated for young adults to self-reflect, where YAs had the opportunity to sing devotional songs, play board games, walk through the surrounding woods, engage in active sports, and most importantly heart-to-heart mini study circles.

At some point during the three days, everybody had the chance to help in the kitchen to prep, cook and/or clean. The favorite meal preparation of the group was making pancakes on Sunday morning.  The primary theme of the retreat study circles where were on relationships. We touched upon several subtopics: First, our relationship to our parents; primarily, how do we approach and discuss the topic of relationships with them. Second, what are the important factors to consider when we begin to contemplate a committed relationship. Third, how do we ensure that we have an open and honest communication with ourselves, parents, friends, significant other, and society in general. And, lastly, how do we create an attitude of openness towards change in our daily lives.

Our retreat’s guests were a true blessing as they brought with them different perspectives, personalities, and life experiences to the weekend. The most beautiful aspect was that even if more than half of the participants hadn’t met our three guests from Toronto, we were all able to connect with each one of them during the retreat. When they left Sunday afternoon, we knew that the bond we shared was timeless and steeped with love. This was only possible because of the presences of our Dearest Bhagawan in each of our lives as He serves to guide us from within.