Article by Jc Suchetha,
Secretary
What is Independence?
Independence means different to different
people. For some it is the freedom of expression, freedom of choice while for
others it is the very basic freedom to live, to be alive.
We asked the
same question to a bunch of school students; to come up with their own idea of independence.
They were asked to depict their ideas in the form of a chart. This is how we,
JCI – Bangalore Horizonites celebrated our first ever social event
JCI – Bangalore
Horizon wanted to celebrate our I-Day in a special, more meaningful way and what better way to celebrate than with school
kids when the young minds gives us the utmost, pure meaning of Independence
The day of 15 Aug, 2012 began with 5 of our chapter
members heading for People trust campus at Sri Ramanahalli to meet the students
of TREP (Total Residential Education Program). Around 50 boys and girls are given free
education and accommodation here.
We were
introduced to some of the great, inspiring people from all walks of life.
-
An ex-army brigadier, who has seen many battles and earned many awards,
- An American couple, who have dedicated their life to impart value based growth to the underprivileged children
- Other staff members, who play key roles in the success of this program
We were given a tour around the campus by two simple
yet great personalities, Mr.Harish
Uthaiah, and Mr.Bobji, who are the inspiration behind the TREP
Along the way,
we came across numerous kids who cheerfully greeted us with the words ‘Sai Ram’. Everywhere and in everyone we
found simplicity, humbleness and noble thoughts.
After the brief tour of the campus, soon it was lunch
time and we had organized for a special lunch for the kids and staff of TREP
complete with delicious dessert et all. The kids loved it!
Post lunch, we
were taken to the ‘Sun room'; a big, spacious room upstairs, which was pleasantly illuminated
by lots of sunlight. The prayers were in order, many patriotic songs followed.
Earlier, we had
requested the children to form groups and prepare charts on theme of Indian
Independence
We were amazed
by their creativity exhibited through the charts. We collected the charts and carried them back
to select the three best charts.
Chocolates and few
other basic stationery were distributed to the students.
The entire
experience reinforced my trust in JCI. I realized the meaning of independence
in a whole another perspective. The feeling of goodwill in this place is
infectious.
This experience makes
us believe and reinforces our faith in humanity that much more. It was an
absolutely different, unique, inspiring experience and that is exactly what it
makes it so special. One of my childhood dreams came true on 15 Aug
thanks to JCI, looking forward to more such visits.
Link to the People'e Trust ...
TREP website
People's Trust Website
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Link to the People'e Trust ...
TREP website
People's Trust Website
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