India journal - Great Lakes Leadership Academy - Michigan State ...

Shanti Ashram Gift Allocation
February 28, 2012
It seemed unreal that it was already "decision time" as we sat
in the upstairs room with our group and the representatives
from Shanti, with the fans moving the warm India air, these
representatives who had became friends and will forever be
part of our lives and memories just days before we had never
met seemed surreal. Sipping our water, this scarce water, and
the amazing tea and cookies we realize how lucky we really
are in the world and how wasteful our lives are. It is hard to
fathom that it is snowing at this moment in Michigan and that
soon we will be returning to our normal routines, yet be
forever changed by this country, these people.... The slap in the
face of reality and home has already started.
Two years ago our GLLA group may have debated at length
just where we should put our support, today it seemed we all
realized that any decision would make such a profound impact
here, we all knew it was far greater a decision than each
person individually, my how we have grown.
We all sensed the emotion of the moment...not just in the
decision, but the reality of the trip. As Luke opened his mouth
to speak, in a way only Luke can, the room is captivated. He
states that, " We don't have a leader in the group, we are all
leaders in training.... But today I will represent the group...."
He goes on and eloquently tells the group how much our time
with them has made an impression, knowing that there aren't
words for the change we are all feeling in ourselves. As we go
through the options he makes a statement to the room that is
powerful..."Is there something that is on your hearts that we
did not discuss yet today..." a beautiful way to ensure all
options are on the table. GLLA LAP III participants agreed to
target the funds we had raised to the developing Gandhi
Leadership Institute.
We again realize any vote can help and move into something
none of us want to do... Say goodbye. We move to a circle on
the stage area and all express one by one our gratitude and
appreciation for our experience... Shanti...a place that will
remain in our hearts forever!
Stacy Welling, photos by Andrea Boughton
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