The Sharad Shibir (Fall Camp) held on Sept 30th – Oct 2nd in Atlanta, GA started with the invocation of “Sewa bhav” in the minds of everyone by an audio-visual presentation of the relief efforts done by the volunteers of Sewa Bharati in the wake of the Tsunami disaster. Over 35 families listened in rapt attention to Shri Shyamji Parande, international co-ordinator for Sewa International, about the selfless service performed by thousands of volunteers of Sangh whenever natural/man-made disaster struck. He related many instances of personal sacrifice and enlightened everyone about the motive force that guided these people.
The next day started at 6.30 AM with the chanting of Ekatmata Stotra followed by physical activities like Yoga, Games etc. Shri Sandeep Khadkekar, Bal Pramukh, USA impressed upon everyone the need to understand and work towards the ‘World Mission of HSS’. This was followed by a workshop on how to celebrate birthdays in a Hindu way. Everyone participated by enacting a skit on this topic and relished the moments of laughter and fun. All the children were mean-while busy doing arts/crafts projects and preparing for the evening skit.
The afternoon became more memorable with all the families and kids going for a short hike for collecting wood for the evening camp fire. After a good fat dinner, everyone enjoyed the Hindu Jeopardy, Dance, Skit, Fancy Dress, followed by Camp Fire and Antakshari which continued upto mid-night. After spending more than 1 ½ days together, it was difficult to say goodbye. The same question was expressed by everyone, “when is the next family camp” and the HSS team replied “Very Soon”.
