The first time I experienced a spiritual renewal, a spark or call to positive action was when I was 15 yrs old. Our convent school as well as many others in Goa would have a compulsory module where students of the final year i.e Std 10th would attend a three-day retreat at Old Goa. It was titled the Lights of the World retreat and was essentially a call to all students to become torch bearers of goodness, kindness, compassion, love and peace; with Christ’s life as a great example for human transformation.
It was a fantastic experience, as although we considered ourselves as ordinary students with average skills and many flaws we were inspired and motivated to be better in not just practising good deeds and actions but also leading others to do the same. We felt empowered that any ordinary person even a mere student could bring about positive change. Become better and inspire others in the process.
Yes this was in a time where our needs and wants were far less materialistic than today. Also our affinity and understanding of goodness and faith in God was far less blemished than what we experience today.
A student’s life today is far different and removed from real issues encountered as he or she grows older. It is a routine of materialist needs, rewards and so many conditions. Will I get grades if I do this? Will I get a reward in return for this task you want me to complete? At home it is no different as parents are asked, I will do this task only if you give me more television time or phone time. How about a two-wheeler on my next birthday? I can get all that I want, why work hard. Is there really a God?
There is a lack of spirituality and therefore a lack of values into student lives today with materialism, rewards and conditional goodness taking priority. This is more so because parents and adults too have lost their connection and faith in spirituality and God.
While schools in Goa no longer take their students on such retreats, it was heartening to see our senior students from the catechism class recently attending one at Old Goa. Not quite understanding what was going to unfold. Many thought it was like a picnic wondering if they could carry their gadgets, board games, etc. But on returning were enthused with a new energy where all their aspirations seemed achievable and equipped with tools to handle any challenge positively.
I too recently attended a spiritual renewal retreat at Kerala with my family and was so enthused with the positive learning that all humans, however, flawed always have a chance to do so much better. The challenges and situations perhaps are not in our control, may not change but each of us has the strength and courage within us to react positively and constructively. And this positive power within, brings about the most wondrous transformation, first within oneself and then has a ripple effect on one’s family, neighbourhood and community. Imagine if each person had to tap this power of goodness how entire communities and the world could be positively transformed.
There is hope as our children and young students show the most amazing insights in the little experiences they encounter and find this spark.
At the Thursday adoration at Don Bosco recently, we had a chance to see Sahil Tavora, Goa’s super and young football icon praying in complete oblivion deep in conversation with God. Both Vikram and little Varun were so excited and also moved on seeing him that they immediately followed his example, knelt down, closed their eyes and began their prayers. Thank you Sahil for your subtle message that however successful and talented one may be, God still remains central to one’s life to be guided and led in every high and low moment or experience.
Another gem came our way recently when along with many kids, little Varun and young Aditya were happily playing in the shallow waters of the Madhei River in Valpoi. We were nearby watching them play as they lay sitting on the slippery pebbles with fresh water fish nibbling aggressively at the dead skin on their feet. Suddenly Varun called out, ‘Mama Mama please help me’. I was anxious and was rushing to help him as all mothers do in the aftermath of bouts of sleep terrors, separation anxiety and the fear of the dark. And before I could reach him this is the conversation that ensued. Young Aditya spoke sternly, ‘Varun right now your Mama is far away, she will take some time to reach you on these slippery stones. Right now only God can help you. Do you believe in God?’ Varun innocently nodded, ‘ Yes of course, I pray every day. At home, in my school, along with my family, friends and teachers, even my doctor.’ And Aditya wisely and happily added, ‘ So now, just pray, only God can help you.’ And God worked magic. Thank you Aditya.
(Tallulah D’Silva is a
practising architect in Goa and has recently taught at the Goa College of Architecture as adjunct professor)
