This New Years Eve party produced a night of inspiring wholesome entertainment. A delightful evening with a picture perfect atmosphere stimulating the mind, body and soul.
The party was different to the usual New Years Eve rage 'blowing your mind away', or just hiding away. At this drug and alcohol-free event there was a generous smorgasbord of delicious non-slaughtered (pure) food and refreshing beverage. Captivating cultural entertainment played throughout the night to an appreciative audience of one hundred like-minded people. We all happily sang, danced and interacted.
Govinda Valley created the right kind of stimulus for ushering in the new year with genuine goodwill and loving intent. The tranquil natural landscape of Govinda Valley complemented its superb facilities, and the openness of the people themselves made an atmosphere of satvik pleasure (the mode of goodness).
I was not the only one to feel these good vibrations during this event. Although unforeseen, it almost seemed ordained when news came that a storm had caused the cancellation of a performance by the internationally acclaimed Le Carnival Spirituel. They were scheduled to perform at the Peats Ridge Festival.
The touring Carnival troupe were staying at Govinda Valley while appearing in Sydney. So, it was most fortuitous that they offered themselves freely and spontaneously, to everyone’s openhearted appreciation. The sky remained blue at Govinda Valley and the temperature was ideal, whether outdoors or inside its spacious main hall.
An enlightening interlude of reflective meditation also occurred when Percy, the director of Govinda Valley, inspired us to focus our intent on those things that are most important to us. His delivery of thoughtful and gracious words enhanced the mood of this meditation. And, the chanting performed by the Govinda Valley Band was indeed uplifting, and noticeably, diametrically contrasting the raucous inebriated folly often experienced in the city during New Years Eve.
The younger people present there also appeared amused and elated and took every opportunity to dance, play and enjoy the safe and hospitable celebrations. There were no divisions of generation or culture at this party. Everyone mingled happily and satisfied in this pleasing atmosphere.
Singing, dancing and feasting in this way seemed remedial to the soul. It was wonderful, inspiring and uplifting to engage in. I'm sure everyone experienced this kind of unity of pleasure, feeling to some degree, liberated by the entertainment and goodwill this New Years Eve party held for us.
We look forward to seeing you enjoy the next event or retreat, at our Govinda Valley Retreat Centre!
