Katyayan Gauniyal - Roorkee, Uttarakhand

 

I was introduced to the philosophy of quiet time and four absolute standards of Moral Rearmament through a conference held at Gurukula Kangri Vishwavidyalaya in April of 2022. I came with no expectations of it being transformative. I came here thinking it as any other camp that happens at our university. First day of the regional conference nothing special happened. But as the days passed, the atmosphere of restlessness and commotion inside the auditorium gradually turned into a serious one. At the end of each day, I spent some time talking to my family group coordinator Sayok sharing my challenges and asking for ways to overcome them. Listening to him, made me believe in me and slowly I took baby steps to conquer my fears.

 

During the session on relationships and family, I realised I had a damaged relationship with my father. We were not on good terms due a reason which in hindsight seems silly. With the help of Viral Bhai, I could gather courage to apologise to my father. He embrace me into his arms. The feeling was overwhelming and after a long time we had a meal together in good spirit. 

 

 

One other thing that had left a positive impact on my way of living was LMAD's efforts in bringing together a like-minded organization to our doorstep. I instantly felt connected with the work Aviral Ganga project and volunteered myself in many cleanliness and awareness drives they organise in various parts of my city. I took an initiative to clean my university because that is what IofC-LMAD taught me to be the change that you want to see.

 

At the end of the four days conference seven of us were called on the stage and I was selected for the National Youth Conference at Asia Plateau Panchgani. I remember getting jitters and could not hold my tears of joy. I was thankful for the opportunity I received. The Haridwar Youth Conference ended on a positive note. One unique thing about this institution is that they keep contact and help at each step, the association doesn't end with the conference.

 

Asia plateau reminded me of my home state Uttarakhand not just because of the mountains but a felt homely as it radiated an essense of spirituality and peace. I recall that we reached Panchgani a little late and just rushed for the Asia Plateau tour.

 

LMAD definitely has transformed me into a better human being and I am through my actions becoming better each day. It showed me values that are necessary for good living. I loved the way LMAD celebrated Khadi day, it evoked a sense of patriotism; I felt proud to be an Indian. LMAD gave me a platform to express myself and my thoughts. It was not just a place of learning and introspecting, but a place where I made a lot of friends whom I trust. Incidents and actions of mine which I cannot share with my parents, I am comfortable in sharing with my friends at LMAD. I don't have to think about being judged, bullied or ridiculed. I am confident and empowered when I am with LMAD.

 

I tried to hold my tears back on the family day, but could not combat the intensity of emotions within me. When my group leader Mudit Bhaiya asked if anyone wanted to call their parents during the evening group discussion, I took his phone and called my father. The first thing he enquired was of my well being. I talked for about 23 minutes with him, it was the happiest feeling.

 

I learnt time management and have become focused in my day to day activities. I with assurance can advocate that Quiet Time done with diligence and discipline will change a person from inside. Quiet Time is not a paracetamol taken only when there is no way.

 

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