BK LA Youth Series

Los Angeles, 26th September

Om Shanti,

BK Los Angeles Center has started a new program for the youth entitled – “Empowering Youth”. Last Saturday, on the 24th of September 2005, the first session of the program was commenced which initiated, which was focused on Self Esteem.

The Empowering Youth program is based on different topics ranging from Self Esteem, Decision Making, Positive Thinking and Meditation. These topics were chosen, keeping in mind the challenges today’s youth face in their day to day life. The different series planned are based on various topics, which will provide the youth with the tools and techniques they need to connect with their inner being and assist them in understanding their core values .These series will introduce them to interactive workshops and sessions, which will enable them to think in a focused and positive manner and make correct decisions in their lives, in line with their purpose.

The program was well attended, with youth coming from all over Los Angeles and a couple of them coming all the way from Phoenix, Arizona. BK Sister Lorien began the program with a warm welcome of all the participants and introduced them to the concept of Self Esteem, followed by session from BK Vivek, who coordinated the workshop.

The program started with the first topic of the Self Esteem series – Self Identity. All the participants were introduced to the concept of the Self Identity with various examples, which were followed by an interactive workshop - Role vs. Soul. The workshop helped them distinguish between their real self and the different roles they play on a daily basis.

There was a small break, followed by the second half of the session. The second half of the session introduced participants to Self Affirmation exercise. All the youth present were given time to deeply reflect on their qualities and then prepare blessings for themselves. The participants created beautiful blessings using multitude styles and colors, which they shared with others later on. In the end, all the participants went through a guided meditation on Self Esteem for around 15 minutes.

The program was rounded off by Sr. Gita giving toli, gifts and blessing cards to everyone, followed by lunch in the open. It was a beautiful and relaxed atmosphere, which everyone enjoyed as a family.

Going further, the BKLA Youth Program would be conducted every second Saturday of the month.

All those who are interested may RSVP to bklayouth@yahoo.com