Delving into the Bhagavad Gita through my local study group in the past several years has been a thorough and joyful experience for me. The concept of Karma Yoga, the path of selfless action, resonated deeply with me. It’s about detaching from personal gain and focusing our energy on serving the greater good. I find such a powerful example of this philosophy in the ancient text and the actions that have surrounded me since childhood.
Giving back to the community has always been a way of life in my family. My parents instilled this value in me from a young age, emphasizing the importance of helping and sharing with others in whatever capacity possible. Looking back, I see the connection now – it aligns perfectly with the principles of Karma Yoga and even echoes the spirit of Gurudev Swami Chinmayananda’s Chinmaya Mission Pledge: “We live honestly the noble life of sacrifice and service, producing more than what we consume, and giving more than what we take.”
Fast forward to today, and the Chinmaya Mission Portland volunteers have become a real inspiration. Their commitment to service goes far beyond keeping things tidy at Chinmaya Haridwar. These volunteers are driven by the same spirit I grew up with – serving others without seeking personal reward. They’ve adopted a stretch of road, organized beach cleanups to combat plastic pollution, and planted trees for a greener future – all with a smile and a strong sense of togetherness. Their impact extends to those in need as well. From whipping up warm meals for homeless shelters to volunteering at food banks, they bring food, smiles, and a sense of community.
Witnessing their dedication has been truly inspiring. It’s a beautiful reminder that serving others isn’t just about the tasks themselves but about the connections we build and the joy we create along the way. The Chinmaya Mission Portland volunteers aren’t just cleaning roads or feeding the hungry; they’re weaving a tapestry of service, one act of kindness at a time. With the support of the wider Chinmaya family community, we’ve also been able to root these values in our children.
A huge shoutout and sincere thanks to our study group lead volunteers and participants! Our discussions help us digest the knowledge of the Bhagavad Gita scriptures and illuminate the path to Karma Yoga. Collectively, these actions solidify the belief that giving back to the community is a powerful path to purpose and inner peace, echoed by the wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita and Gurudev Swami Chinmayananda’s teachings.
