The Question
By Jennifer Miller, Reporter
Chopra to share message of change during ‘Seduction of Spirit’ retreat
The author and leader in mind-body health is coming to Whistler July 30 to Aug. 4 for the Chopra Centre’s Seduction of Spirit meditation retreat — the first of its kind in Canada — but some local wellness leaders have helped organize an open community evening on Aug. 2 to allow everyone the chance to hear Chopra’s message of change.
The event is titled “Be the Change” after Gandhi’s famous words: “You must be the change you want to see in the world.”
“You can be the change in a small way, all by yourself. You can be the change in a group, which is what Deepak is encouraging,” said Kelly Oswald, one of the event organizers. “It doesn’t matter where the change is as long as it’s happening. And it can be micro to macro.”
The event will be a unique, interactive evening with Chopra and local wellness leaders walking about 800 participants through the three ancient traditions of India that are necessary for change. First, satsang is about gathering together to share wisdom and guidance, Oswald said. Next is simran, or reflecting on who we really are. The final component is seva, which means being in service with devotion and compassion. “It’s very interactive, it’s very involved,” Oswald said of the event. “It’s not like we sit and listen; (Chopra) encourages conversation.”
Oswald, together with Laurin Kyle-Boyle and Glenn Iles of Whistler Wellness, are helping organize the event to give people in the Sea to Sky area the chance to be exposed to Chopra’s wisdom while he is in Whistler. Chopra really wants to connect with the local community, Oswald said. “We really felt that since he was here, it (would) be great to do something for the community,” she said. “I think we’re so blessed to have him up here.”
The “Be the Change” event with Chopra is planned for Aug. 2 from 8 to 9:30 p.m. at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler. Admission is by suggested donation of 10 for adults and $5 for youth age 12 to 18. Seat reservation is required for the event and new reservations are currently on waitlist basis. Volunteers are also needed for the event.