As the days progressed, Ajay decided to stay back at the Bodhik Retreat Centre even after the course ended, volunteering to assist the Purohit in successfully running future retreats. He offered to help manage the everyday affairs of the centre. The Purohit agreed to let Ajay stay on. He was provided with a separate, modest room in exchange for his volunteer services.
The Purohit could sense a genuine quest for spirituality in him and recognised him as a true disciple.
Likewise, Ajay began to see the Purohit as a guru and the guide he never had. Theirs was a beautiful bond, characterised by endless discussions on life and their practices for self-awareness.
One day, Ajay shared his thoughts with the Purohit after reflecting on his own life and the hardships he had faced during tough times.
“I now realise, Master, that during my low phase, I was experiencing stress, guilt and anxiety. Had I chosen to deal with it on my own, it would have been a difficult path, and there was no guarantee how long it would have taken me to overcome it. I feel incredibly fortunate to have come here,” said Ajay.
The Purohit replied, “Try to avoid using terms like stress, anxiety and…
Source: From a self-help novel: A cricket coach and his protégé discover purpose in their lives
