Victoria Region of the SSSIO celebrated the 100th anniversary of the advent of Sathya Sai Baba by holding a two-day spiritual retreat. A truly uplifting and inspiring event.
Sathya Sai Baba was born on earth to re-establish righteousness, for the protection of all beings and to guide people to recognise their inherent divinity through love, selfless service and spiritual transformation.
Since this was a momentous time in history, the celebrations were marked by many celebrations and initiatives, both at centre level and at personal level which devotees undertook leading to Swami’s 100th birthday.
Some spiritual practices offered were 100 days of sadhana, blood donations, packing Christmas hampers for Queen Victoria Market service, Share the Dignity project contributions, and some devotees undertook personal service initiatives in silence, as an improved version of oneself.
One of the centre initiatives included interviewing long term devotees every month for 6 months and sharing their experiences of a journey with Sai on the You tube channel.
Finally, the day of the 2 day-retreat arrived which each devotee was eagerly awaiting. Victoria region celebrated Sai Baba’s 100th anniversary in the picturesque Dandenong Ranges, at Wombat Corner Camp, surrounded by luscious green trees, amongst natural flora and fauna and a lake nearby in the serene natural environment.
The first night started with an introductory talk by the National President. Then followed devotional singing around a bonfire under the dark, cold night and misty skies and finishing with fun games.
Early next morning the session started with prayers, devotional singing, nature walk, ice breaker sessions, interactive sessions on health and well-being and a session on Sai Baba’s “your life is my message’. There was also a powerful sharing of personal experience.
The next 2 days were full of heartfelt devotional songs, a divine musical offering, spiritual games filled with fun and laughter and nature walks and plentiful food.
In between sessions, participants got to mingle to know each other better while enjoying great companionship and experiencing divine energy.
The devotees also got together in helping pack 120 bags of hygienic products for Share the Dignity project.
The retreat was a great success due to great teamwork in decision making with a united and positive mindset.
We are blessed to be born at the time and witness the glory of Sai’s mission. Our gratitude and homage to the all-pervasive, the eternal charioteer, Sathya Sai Baba for leading us to a life of truth, righteousness, peace and love.
“The best way to love God is to love all and serve all.” -Sathya Sai Baba
