Well done to the kids for making it on time to Balavihar on Sunday even with the clocks going forward! Congratulations to all the kids who participated in the Shokaton on Saturday. Spring is approaching, the snow has melted and we are starting preparation for our class play! On Sunday we reviewed the Ramayana, the kids did a great job remembering the details of the story we have covered so far. We also completed Hanumanji's journey across the ocean, chapter 27.
Reminders:
1.) Snow make up class - March 15th - please bring your children for this class
2.) Bhajanotsav - Saturday May 2nd - please register your children
3.) Class Play - Saturday June 13th - please confirm your child's participation ASAP.
4.) Gita Chanting Chapter 12 - Saturday April 18th - At Chinmaya Vrindavan
5.) Gitosavan Chapter 15 - Saturday May 9 - Online
Values:
Hanuman faced 3 obstacles crossing the ocean: Mainaka, Surasa and Simhika. Each obstacle was a test of character.
1.) Dedication & Focus - Mainaka's offer although kind was a distraction, Hanuman had to overcome the temptation to relax and take it easy.
2.) Let go of pride & ego - Surasa challenged hanuman in a competition of size, but rather than continuing to grow bigger Hanuman shrunk his form. Continuing to expand in size would have been a never ending competition.
3.) Be fearless - Simhika tried to drag Hanuman down, although she was powerful, Hanuman had the courage to fight back.
Everyday examples:
1.) Complete your homework and jobs without getting distracted by TV or games. Pace yourself, plan well and persevere when it's hard.
2.) When you are competing in a game/sport don't focus on being better than others, focus on your strengths and play your best.
3. ) Always stand up for what is right. Do not be pulled away from your goals because of fear.
Chapters 27:
Cheering "JaiSriRam", Hanuman pushed off mount Mahendra and soared into the sky. Soon after he took off, a glittering peak surged out of the waves. It was the golden mountain Mainaka, years ago Hanuman's father the wind god Vaayu had saved Mainaka from danger by allowing the mountain to hide in the ocean. As a mark of gratitude to Vaayu, seeing that Hanuman had an long journey ahead Mainaka rose up from the ocean to offer him a place to rest. Although the option to rest a while was tempting it was a distraction that would slow down the completion of Hanuman's mission. Touching the mountain's peak with his hand Hanuman declined respectfully saying, "I have taken a vow not to rest until Sri Rama's work is done".
Hanuman continued his flight to Lanka, surging through the sky at lighting speed. Suddenly, the sky darkened as the monster Surasa emerged from the waves blocking Hanuman's path. Her yellow snake like eyes glowed menacingly, she opened her mouth revealing her sharp fangs, hissing at Hanuman she said, "I have been waiting for you! You have crossed my path, therefore you must enter my mouth!" Surasa opened her mouth wide, seeing her mouth expand, Hanuman grew to the size of a mountain. Surasa expanded her mouth wider, stretching the opening for miles across the horizon. In response Hanuman expanded his body high into the sky. The two continued to challenge each other. Knowing this would be an endless competition Hanuman had to think quick and think smart. As Surasa grew larger to engulf him, Hanuman shrank to the size of a tiny speck, darted into her mouth and zipped out again before she could dig her fangs into him. Laughing loudly Hanuman resumed his original size and declared, "I have entered your mouth as required, now let me proceed." Surasa chuckled, dropping her terrifying disguise to reveal her divine form. Blessing him she said, "Well done Hanuman, the gods sent me to test your intelligence. May you been successful in your mission". Thankful for her blessing Hanuman bowed and instantly shot back up into the sky continuing his flight to Lanka.
The final peril that awaited Hanuman was the most sinister. Beneath the waves lurked the demoness Simhika. She did not grab her prey by the arms or legs instead she grabbed their shadow. As Hanuman's massive shadow drifted over the water, Simhika seized it with her magic. Hanuman felt an invisible weight dragging him down. Looking down he saw Simhika. Hanuman felt his strength draining as she dragged his shadow toward her jagged teeth. Realizing that this was no test of wit but a battle for survival, Hanuman roared with fury and focus. He dove straight into her gaping maw but before she could devour him he raced into her monstrous body and clawed his way out from inside. Bursting out he destroyed Simhika, as her grip released the demon sank into the ocean. Hanuman completed the final leg of his journey across the ocean. As the sun began to set the island of Lanka appeared on the horizon.
Prayers
1) Chanting OM & Sahana Vavatu
2) Gita Chanting - Chapter 12 - Bhakthi Yoga (Yoga of Devotion) Verses 7 & 8
Assignment:
Continue with coloring for homework.
Spend some time writing Likhita Japa.
Practice Ramayana Values.
Communication:
Please check for any messages in our Sun PM Grade 1 WhatApp group. Remember to send us a message if your child will be missing any classes. Our numbers:
Aastha - 551 482 5003
Vijaya - 609 503 1816
Thank you for your commitment to Chinmaya Mission. Jai Shree Ram!
With Guru's Blessings.
Aastha & Vijaya
Class Supplies Check List:
1. Hand book
2. My Prayers book
3. Bala Ramayana coloring book
4. Crayons / Coloring pencils
5. Pencils sharpened
6. Eraser
7. Scissors
8. Glue
9. Notebook for Likhita Japa
