Notes by Veda P
Last Week’s Recap:
We talked about the Sanskrit word “VIVEKA”, meaning the ability to see things the way they really are. Viveka also helps us choose clearly, choosing clarity over confusion. Sumanji told us the story of Puthana who visited Gokul disguised as a princess. The villagers chose confusion over clarity, letting her in without asking any questions. Krishna saw through the mask instantly and was not confused.
Every day we have “Puthana” moments to distract us, we have to pause and ask ourselves, ”Am I doing the right thing? “
Revive Activity:
Intentional breathing in a triangle pattern – breathing in for 5 seconds, holding for 5 seconds and exhaling for 5 seconds.
Content for the Day:
We learned about two more asuras. Asura is one whose light has dimmed, one who is dark inside.
Asura 1 – Shakatasura: Gokul was celebrating. Baby Krishna was sleeping and his mother placed him under a cart. The cart was Shakatasura in disguise. He tried to crush baby Krishna, but Krishna was awake and he kicked the cart away, killing Shakatasura. His mother was relieved to find that baby Krishna was OK.
Shakatasura symbolizes GREED AND MATERIALISM. When wanting more becomes our focus, too many things will pile on and we will get crushed by the pressure.
So, before asking for something ask three questions.
- Do I need it or do I want It?
- Do I already have one that is enough? (Not sure if Veda got this one right.)
- Will I want it tomorrow or next week?
Asura 2 – Trinavarta: Came disguised as a giant tornado and swept baby Krishna away. He carried baby Krishna higher and higher into the sky and was planning to drop him. But then Krishna got heavier, and he gave Trinavarta a tight hug with all his might. Trinavarta lost control, fell to the ground and died.
Trinavarta symbolizes DESIRE. Desire grows fastest when we compare. In the face of desire, we forget what we have. We have to pause, take a breath to clear our thoughts.
Sanskrit word for this week is “DAMA” or self-control. Guiding our senses instead of letting our senses guide us. Dama is the strength to say, “ I choose where I go.” Dama is the remedy to both asuras.
RAW for the Week:
Pick one space and do a needs check. If we don’t need something, we donate it.
Dynamic Activity for the Week:
Brainstormed recipe ideas for the cookbook. Complete recipes by weekend. E- mail to First Friend Anvita. Goal is to have the cookbook ready by the time of the retreat in July 2026.