Ricky Trivedi
LOS ANGELES: “Our thoughts have an effect on the external environment. When the turmoil inside our minds settles down and peace prevails, the same would be reflected in our external environment.” –
Sister Shivani
On Saturday, June 9 at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, California, the Brahma Kumaris Los Angeles hosted an inspirational event called, “Awakening to the Call of Time for a World in Transition”, with globally renowned spiritual leader BK Sister Shivani. As the theater doors opened, hundreds of guests were welcomed by gentle sounds of the Kora harp, played by Bob Bates, and the upright bass, played by Arthur Kegerreis.
The hosts, Jason Micheal and Heather Powers, spoke on the history of the Brahma Kumaris and introduced the event and its acts. A group of inner-city high school teenagers brought high energy into the crowd by showcasing their spectacular hip-hop choreography, complemented by captivating lighting effects.
In the following acts, the audience members experienced variety of talents including a flute player, singer, pianist, and a talk given by Rod McGrew about his journey towards higher self-awareness. As the talk was occurring, the stage was being prepared for the main talk of the evening. Two large chairs with beautiful, prominent flowers held in an elegant vase were placed center of the stage. Mr. McGrew invited, the highly-anticipated leader, Sister Shivani on to the stage. As she arrived with a friendly smile, dressed in all white, a sense of positive energy radiated throughout the theater.
She began her talk by vocalizing, to the audience in a calm and pleasant manner, “Om Shanti”. She explained Om Shanti means peace for all humankind, peace for all living and non-living beings. She proceeded to ask the opening question of the talk, “What greatness could we have to awaken from within?” and multiple audience members eagerly responded.
She then demonstrated, by providing relevant examples in daily life, how to manage constant over-analyzing and emotions such as stress, ego, and fear that appear as obstacles in our daily lives. Throughout the talk, she continued to engage the audience with more insightful questions and, in return, audience members enthusiastically gave their own answers as if they were having a one-on-one conversation with her.
The dialogue she created, empowered the audience to be aware and responsible of how their thoughts and actions directly affect their relationships with others. To close the event, Sister Shivani, along with Yogis, conducted a guided meditation with all audience members.
From the inspiring songs and choreography to the thought-provoking experiences shared by yogis, and the captivating and engaging talk with Sister Shivani, “Awakening to the Call of Time for a World in Transition” has been an unforgettable experience that will be cherished for a lifetime.
