August 4th had one of the interesting panels. The topic was on Navjote/Sudreh Pushi Ceremony & Khushti Ritual. The panelists each spoke about their own ceremonies and the experiences that come with being involved with family, friends, and faith. Then my favorite speaker, Karl Khambatta, came out in his sadro and did the entire Khushti Ritual in English. I know everyone has a different opinion about whether the prayers should remain in Avesta or if an English translation is acceptable. I personally like both, and that's not to say I would pray only in English. I like both together. I think that works best for me. Recently, I've taken on the challenge of learning new prayers, but as I began to do so, I realized I had no clue what the prayers I already had previously memorized meant. First, I went back to through basic khushti prayers, and read the translations. It means so much more to me when I recite those prayers everyday, now that I know and understand them. What I have do is taken the prayers and translations and posted up on my wall where I normally stand to prayer everyday. After doing my khushti prayers, I read through the translation and I feel it gives a new purpose to my life.
My challenge to you today: Don't just recite your prayers. Take an extra 2 mins to read the translation as well. It will change the way you move about your day, I promise.
Saturday, August 11, 2012
August 3rd
The day began with Roshan Rivetna's presentation about Zoroastrian History in North America. The first Zarathushtis made it to North America as early as the late 1700's. Interesting facts:
1) 1885 - The first Zarathushti was born in North America.
2) The first group of Zarathushti group was founded in 1929.
In the next panel, Ferzin Patel said something that really resonated with me. "If you go to the gym once a month, can you really expect to see results?" And let's think about this. Most religious classes meet once a month for a one hour class. We put more energy into cleanliness, hygiene, and food on a daily basis than we are putting into educating our kids about our religion. Here's my proposal: if you expect your kids to take your religion seriously and to be involved with the community, then you had better be there to back it up with proof that your yourself are committed to serving the community and prove that you are serious about religion as well.
Next, we had a short presentation of Parzor. You can read all about the amazing oral story projects as well as other projects they are working on: http://www.unescoparzor.com/
Finally, I went to Zoroastrians Women's International Network meeting. For the first time, there is a Zarathushti organziation that is exsists solely to help anyone and everyone who may need it, and STRIVES to stay out of the Zarathushti politics and religious debate that continues to deadlocks our community. If you would like to become part of the organization simply email zwin3-subscribe@yahoo.groups.com to join the group.
1) 1885 - The first Zarathushti was born in North America.
2) The first group of Zarathushti group was founded in 1929.
In the next panel, Ferzin Patel said something that really resonated with me. "If you go to the gym once a month, can you really expect to see results?" And let's think about this. Most religious classes meet once a month for a one hour class. We put more energy into cleanliness, hygiene, and food on a daily basis than we are putting into educating our kids about our religion. Here's my proposal: if you expect your kids to take your religion seriously and to be involved with the community, then you had better be there to back it up with proof that your yourself are committed to serving the community and prove that you are serious about religion as well.
Next, we had a short presentation of Parzor. You can read all about the amazing oral story projects as well as other projects they are working on: http://www.unescoparzor.com/
Finally, I went to Zoroastrians Women's International Network meeting. For the first time, there is a Zarathushti organziation that is exsists solely to help anyone and everyone who may need it, and STRIVES to stay out of the Zarathushti politics and religious debate that continues to deadlocks our community. If you would like to become part of the organization simply email zwin3-subscribe@yahoo.groups.com to join the group.
Monday, August 6, 2012
August 2nd
Opening Ceremonies
The opening ceremonies were very entertaining. First we had our priests open with prayers.
We had the ZAGNY Choir perform "Khudavind Khavind" and "Khan Ashem Vaho."
Here's a link to the next song they performed, "Khan Ashem Vohu:"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sRU9gtQJN0w&feature=context-cha
The beautiful music you hear in the video is not a recording as many people assumed. Two very talented musicians accompanied the choir in the performance.
Next the flags were presented by service members from both the United States and Canada. I was so moved by the presentation of the colors.
Later in the day Ervad Soli Dastur, spoke on Core Beliefs. The one topic Ervad Dastur mentioned that really stuck with me was our relationship with God. We as Zarathushtis different relationship with Ahura Mazda than our friends of other faiths do. We don't see Ahura Mazda as an overarching Father and one who is stern and authoritative. For years, I had described him as a loving Grandfather to my friends. In his talk, Ervad Dastur described the relationship as that of two friends. I really like that analogy. Think about this idea for a moment. Ahura Mazda is my friend. He is there for me when I need him and I in turn work to do my utmost best everyday for him. For those of you who know, you can see why this idea is so brilliant and totally fits my personality. I take my friendships in life very seriously. I try to surround myself with people who are happy, fun loving, and are truly dedicated to being kind compassionate individuals. I do this primarily because I want to become a better person. There is always room for improvement and you are after all "the company to keep." So as I move forward in the coming months and years, I am going to make a more concerted effort to strengthen my relationship with my friend Ahura Mazda.
Finally, the moment you are all waiting for: my speech. I do have to admit, I was very nervous. I had never given a speech of any kind before I don't think of myself as a public leader. I was very shy as a kid and I guess I still have the little kid inside me who would rather hide than be in the center of attention. It wasn't as bad as I thought it was going to be. And I am no longer afraid of public speaking. Being on stage and telling my story made me realize one thing: I am not alone. I have the love and support of a community. They may be living in different places all around the world, but they are out there. Here are just a few of the comments I heard in the three days following my speech:
1) "You go girl! You will reach the top of the mountain soon, and it's all down hill from here."
2) "You are all beautiful! Bring it (the youth involvement) to the UK!"
3) "You are truly awesome."
4) "You brought me to tears."
5) "Thank you for your service to our community."
6) "I knew that you were going to be a great speaker because you are from the South. You have a nice calm voice. You should look into law school and becoming a judge, because you have a naturally calming voice and disposition." - Don't know what to make of this comment, but it made me smile.
7) "You are fantastic. Do you know that?"
8) " I just want to tell you that I am here for you. If you ever need anything, call me, email me. I WILL help you."
9) "My hero!" [Then tackles me. Gives me a great big bear hug.] Me: "What did I do?" Reply: "You teach our kids. That is why you are my hero."
I typed these comments into the blog, not to flatter myself, but to show you the love and compassion I have received from my fellow Zarathushtis in the past few days.
Honestly, before coming to the Congress, I was a little frustrated and desperately needed motivation. Coming to New York and meeting all those people gives me a motivation and new drive to continue my efforts. I already tell everyone "I do this for the kids," but now I also do it for you. The members of the Zarathushti community. The ones who have shown me such unadulterated love and everyone who helps me get from one day to another. I've added a Sunday school tab to my blog where I will post our lessons, discussions, and possibly photos for everyone who wishes to follow us on our journey.
The opening ceremonies were very entertaining. First we had our priests open with prayers.
We had the ZAGNY Choir perform "Khudavind Khavind" and "Khan Ashem Vaho."
Here's a link to the next song they performed, "Khan Ashem Vohu:"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sRU9gtQJN0w&feature=context-cha
The beautiful music you hear in the video is not a recording as many people assumed. Two very talented musicians accompanied the choir in the performance.
Next the flags were presented by service members from both the United States and Canada. I was so moved by the presentation of the colors.
Later in the day Ervad Soli Dastur, spoke on Core Beliefs. The one topic Ervad Dastur mentioned that really stuck with me was our relationship with God. We as Zarathushtis different relationship with Ahura Mazda than our friends of other faiths do. We don't see Ahura Mazda as an overarching Father and one who is stern and authoritative. For years, I had described him as a loving Grandfather to my friends. In his talk, Ervad Dastur described the relationship as that of two friends. I really like that analogy. Think about this idea for a moment. Ahura Mazda is my friend. He is there for me when I need him and I in turn work to do my utmost best everyday for him. For those of you who know, you can see why this idea is so brilliant and totally fits my personality. I take my friendships in life very seriously. I try to surround myself with people who are happy, fun loving, and are truly dedicated to being kind compassionate individuals. I do this primarily because I want to become a better person. There is always room for improvement and you are after all "the company to keep." So as I move forward in the coming months and years, I am going to make a more concerted effort to strengthen my relationship with my friend Ahura Mazda.
Finally, the moment you are all waiting for: my speech. I do have to admit, I was very nervous. I had never given a speech of any kind before I don't think of myself as a public leader. I was very shy as a kid and I guess I still have the little kid inside me who would rather hide than be in the center of attention. It wasn't as bad as I thought it was going to be. And I am no longer afraid of public speaking. Being on stage and telling my story made me realize one thing: I am not alone. I have the love and support of a community. They may be living in different places all around the world, but they are out there. Here are just a few of the comments I heard in the three days following my speech:
1) "You go girl! You will reach the top of the mountain soon, and it's all down hill from here."
2) "You are all beautiful! Bring it (the youth involvement) to the UK!"
3) "You are truly awesome."
4) "You brought me to tears."
5) "Thank you for your service to our community."
6) "I knew that you were going to be a great speaker because you are from the South. You have a nice calm voice. You should look into law school and becoming a judge, because you have a naturally calming voice and disposition." - Don't know what to make of this comment, but it made me smile.
7) "You are fantastic. Do you know that?"
8) " I just want to tell you that I am here for you. If you ever need anything, call me, email me. I WILL help you."
9) "My hero!" [Then tackles me. Gives me a great big bear hug.] Me: "What did I do?" Reply: "You teach our kids. That is why you are my hero."
I typed these comments into the blog, not to flatter myself, but to show you the love and compassion I have received from my fellow Zarathushtis in the past few days.
Honestly, before coming to the Congress, I was a little frustrated and desperately needed motivation. Coming to New York and meeting all those people gives me a motivation and new drive to continue my efforts. I already tell everyone "I do this for the kids," but now I also do it for you. The members of the Zarathushti community. The ones who have shown me such unadulterated love and everyone who helps me get from one day to another. I've added a Sunday school tab to my blog where I will post our lessons, discussions, and possibly photos for everyone who wishes to follow us on our journey.
Friday, August 3, 2012
August 1st
First thing I had to do when I came to New York was ... get pizza of course!
Then looking through the booklets in the I found same very interesting ideas. Youth social - It was a lot of fun to meet new people. It was a great opportunity to socialize, but I was a little disappointed that most people did not get up and dance though.
Then looking through the booklets in the I found same very interesting ideas. Youth social - It was a lot of fun to meet new people. It was a great opportunity to socialize, but I was a little disappointed that most people did not get up and dance though.
Wednesday, August 1, 2012
New York City!
Hi Everyone,
Today Zubin and I are headed to NYC. Tomorrow we are on the panel for Intergenerational Dialogue at the 16th North American Zarathushti Congress. So excited about the adventure! Keep checking for updates over the next five days.
Talk to you again soon!
Today Zubin and I are headed to NYC. Tomorrow we are on the panel for Intergenerational Dialogue at the 16th North American Zarathushti Congress. So excited about the adventure! Keep checking for updates over the next five days.
Talk to you again soon!
Monday, February 27, 2012
Become a Superhero!
Did you ever have a superhero growing up? What did you like about this superhero?
I would like to be a superhero. I don't know what I would want as a super power though. I don't want to be super smart, to have super speed, or even the ability to fly. Maybe I would like to have the ability to see everyone's pain and be able to ease their pain. Some people hide their problems better than others. Maybe it's better on my sanity not to be able to see all the pain that everyone carries around with them all at once.
But starting today, I'm going to work harder! I'm going to look harder. I'm going to do a better job of being a frriend, and I'm going to help ease someone's pain each day.
Today, I saw a homeless man standing on the street corner with a sign. Within the course of ten minutes, I saw four groups of people stop and give him money. Just when I start being pessimistic about the world, I see the care and love that people have to offer.
Here are some suggestions of how you can be a hero too:
1) Talk to a friend and help him/her solve a problems that is currently stressing them out.
2) Post something funny (instead of pessimistic) on facebook.
3) Ask a friend, what he/she needs help with.
4) Don't just speak, but actually talk to everyone one you run into, especially the people who serve you (it will make their jobs a little happier, I promise!)
5) Volunteer! It will change your life; it has changed mine!
Here are some organizations that truly are inspiring:
a) Asha for Education - dedicated to educating India's underprivileged children.
b) Gram Seva
c) Habitat for Humanity
d) Teach for America
e) American Heart Association
Let me know about the organizations you are a part of or organizations that inspire you in the comments below!
I would like to be a superhero. I don't know what I would want as a super power though. I don't want to be super smart, to have super speed, or even the ability to fly. Maybe I would like to have the ability to see everyone's pain and be able to ease their pain. Some people hide their problems better than others. Maybe it's better on my sanity not to be able to see all the pain that everyone carries around with them all at once.
But starting today, I'm going to work harder! I'm going to look harder. I'm going to do a better job of being a frriend, and I'm going to help ease someone's pain each day.
I can be a Superhero too!
Today, I saw a homeless man standing on the street corner with a sign. Within the course of ten minutes, I saw four groups of people stop and give him money. Just when I start being pessimistic about the world, I see the care and love that people have to offer.
Here are some suggestions of how you can be a hero too:
1) Talk to a friend and help him/her solve a problems that is currently stressing them out.
2) Post something funny (instead of pessimistic) on facebook.
3) Ask a friend, what he/she needs help with.
4) Don't just speak, but actually talk to everyone one you run into, especially the people who serve you (it will make their jobs a little happier, I promise!)
5) Volunteer! It will change your life; it has changed mine!
Here are some organizations that truly are inspiring:
a) Asha for Education - dedicated to educating India's underprivileged children.
b) Gram Seva
c) Habitat for Humanity
d) Teach for America
e) American Heart Association
Let me know about the organizations you are a part of or organizations that inspire you in the comments below!
Sunday, February 19, 2012
Stare Down
Has you ever been disappointed in yourself?
Well look yourself in the mirror, and Give yourself a PEP TALK!!!
Don't be disparaging! Don't be negative! Have a stare down! Tell yourself what you like about the situation, and what you could do better!
If you are not going to be serious with yourself, is there much chance of improving?
Or even feeling better about yourself?
Show that person in the mirror, I can do this!
You can be proud of me!
Show that person in the mirror, I can do this!
You can be proud of me!
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Happy Valentine's Day!
Make time for the loves of your life. Whether is your best friend, your joy of cooking, or the thrill you get from running. Put a smile on your face, and go do something you love! You deserve it!
P. S. Don't forget about yourself! You ARE your own best friend, the one that takes of you, the one who loves you, and needs love too!
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Cherish life!
I know it's hard, sometimes feels impossible, but we only get to live once. We only get once chance at making friends, one chance to make someone happy, one chance to love without holding back, one chance to change the world and leave YOUR mark on the world.
How will you do that? Will you leave your mark by making delicious food to share, by holding your friends hand through the darkness, or by healing someone?
Life is too short! Live. Love. Laugh. Be happy. And SMILE 
because You're Awesome!
I know it's hard, sometimes feels impossible, but we only get to live once. We only get once chance at making friends, one chance to make someone happy, one chance to love without holding back, one chance to change the world and leave YOUR mark on the world.
How will you do that? Will you leave your mark by making delicious food to share, by holding your friends hand through the darkness, or by healing someone?
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
Ever feel like not doing anything? Have too much work to do and not enough time in the day to do it all? Ever just want to run away?
Well, do it! No, I'm not advocating you to run away from your problems! But go, get out of your room, your office, your house, and run. Take ten mins to run around the block. Go out and get that blood moving. Get charged! Then come back and work. You'll be more energized and be more productive I promise.
We all need breaks! Here's one for you: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0HygFG-yvh4
Well, do it! No, I'm not advocating you to run away from your problems! But go, get out of your room, your office, your house, and run. Take ten mins to run around the block. Go out and get that blood moving. Get charged! Then come back and work. You'll be more energized and be more productive I promise.
We all need breaks! Here's one for you: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0HygFG-yvh4
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Did you do something that made you feel accomplished?
Did you finish an assignment? Or go to the gym? Or do a 'random act of kindness' just to make someone smile?
Brag on yourself! Let someone what you have accomplished! Don't get carried away (because most people don't like that too much :p )!
I ran a 1/2 mile today. I know that's not a super big accomplishment, but it was for me since I spent 6 hours on the couch in pain!
Did you finish an assignment? Or go to the gym? Or do a 'random act of kindness' just to make someone smile?
Brag on yourself! Let someone what you have accomplished! Don't get carried away (because most people don't like that too much :p )!
I ran a 1/2 mile today. I know that's not a super big accomplishment, but it was for me since I spent 6 hours on the couch in pain!
Monday, January 30, 2012
Smile!
Why you ask? My answer, why not?
Did you know that there are many ways smiling can actually make you feel better?
Top Ten Reasons to Smile
10) It makes you happy.
9) It makes you less scary.
8) People that smile more live on average a decade longer.
7) Smiling takes less effort than frowning.
6) You can make someone walking past you to smile as well.
5) Smiling releases endorphins.
4) Smiling causes others to see you more positively.
3) Even fake smiling has the possibility to change your mood.
2) Smiling makes it more memorable to everyone.
1) It's contagious!
Why you ask? My answer, why not?
Did you know that there are many ways smiling can actually make you feel better?
Top Ten Reasons to Smile
10) It makes you happy.
9) It makes you less scary.
8) People that smile more live on average a decade longer.
7) Smiling takes less effort than frowning.
6) You can make someone walking past you to smile as well.
5) Smiling releases endorphins.
4) Smiling causes others to see you more positively.
3) Even fake smiling has the possibility to change your mood.
2) Smiling makes it more memorable to everyone.
1) It's contagious!
Today's To Do List: Print off pictures of friends, family, or puppies smiling. Post them up around your home or office. It will make you smile every time you look at them. Look at the pictures; I dare you to try and look with cracking a smile! Can't do it, can ya!?!
Sunday, January 29, 2012
Stressed? Make dinner, invite your friends! Celebrate a friend's accomplishment, a joyful moment, or just get together to laugh. It will make you feel better.
Decadent foods are always party favorite, but remember to make something healthy. Good food, not only nourishes your body, but your soul too. Take a minute to think about that ... good, HEALTHY food helps your body take care of itself and when your body is taken care of won't you feel better both mentally and emotionally?
And good food does not have to be bad for you. It also does not require great effort of preparation.
Today's challenge make yourself a delicious healthy meal. Invite some friends if you would like and celebrate life, because you only get this one chance at life. Why waste is complaining?
Decadent foods are always party favorite, but remember to make something healthy. Good food, not only nourishes your body, but your soul too. Take a minute to think about that ... good, HEALTHY food helps your body take care of itself and when your body is taken care of won't you feel better both mentally and emotionally?
And good food does not have to be bad for you. It also does not require great effort of preparation.
Today's challenge make yourself a delicious healthy meal. Invite some friends if you would like and celebrate life, because you only get this one chance at life. Why waste is complaining?
Saturday, January 28, 2012
Think about the friends in your life. Do you have one who makes you happy no matter what? Is there someone in your life who is your rock, your inspiration, your light?
I have a friend ... she is my inspiration. She makes me happy. She's always there to encourage and support me.
I have a friend ... she is my inspiration. She makes me happy. She's always there to encourage and support me.
I just want to say Thank You!
Today's message: Tell that one person, who loves you no matter what, how much they mean to you.
Thursday, January 26, 2012
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
It all starts with you!
Hi guys,
This is going to be a place for inspiration, a place of empowerment, a place where you can come to feel better. There are so many things in the world around us that can bring us down, but I am going to try and post something here everyday. Some days it will be something inspiring. Other days, it might be something funny, but either way it's going to be something that happy.
So I hope this becomes a sanctuary of sorts, and hopefully I can make you smile in the process!
Today, I leave you this thought. I choice the name of the blog, because I whole heartedly believe that life is what you make of it. If something is broken, fix it. If something is wrong, correct it. If your life is missing something, change it. You don't have to donate a million dollars to make a difference. Start today, leave a note for one of your friends. Tell them how awesome they are, and how privileged you to have them in your life.
This is going to be a place for inspiration, a place of empowerment, a place where you can come to feel better. There are so many things in the world around us that can bring us down, but I am going to try and post something here everyday. Some days it will be something inspiring. Other days, it might be something funny, but either way it's going to be something that happy.
So I hope this becomes a sanctuary of sorts, and hopefully I can make you smile in the process!
Today, I leave you this thought. I choice the name of the blog, because I whole heartedly believe that life is what you make of it. If something is broken, fix it. If something is wrong, correct it. If your life is missing something, change it. You don't have to donate a million dollars to make a difference. Start today, leave a note for one of your friends. Tell them how awesome they are, and how privileged you to have them in your life.
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