The trainees of Don Bosco Pvt. ITI, Kokar, Ranchi, had the privilege of attending a Life Orientation Program on October 23rd and 24th, 2024. The sessions were conducted for the second-year and first-year trainees, respectively. Led by Fr. Deepak Kindo, an experienced speaker who has conducted numerous seminars for young people, the program was energetic and deeply engaging. Held within the institute's premises, it captivated the trainees, who were excited to participate.
The first session explored fundamental questions: Who am I? How am I? With whom am I? What do I desire? Why am I here? The second session emphasized the uniqueness of life, reminding students that it only happens once. The third session highlighted the importance of respecting parents and teachers.
This program aimed to help the younger generation develop a positive outlook on life. Many young people struggle to understand the true meaning of a contented life and the fulfillment they seek. The sessions focused on the importance of creating one's identity, stressing that this life offers no second chances. Respect for parents and teachers, along with leading a life of dignity, was emphasized. It was also pointed out how, when faced with unfulfilled desires, some youths contemplate drastic actions, such as ending their lives or getting involved in unhealthy relationships with friends who have a negative influence. Fr. Kindo addressed the dangers of drug addiction as an escape from these pressures, highlighting the need for self-control and inner strength.
The following key points were shared with the students:
· Accept that whatever happens, happens for a reason, and embrace who you are.
· Focus on your strengths, not your weaknesses.
· Value people while they are still alive.
· Remember: I may be just one person to the world, but I am the world to my family.
· Dreams aren’t what we see while sleeping; they are what keep us awake at night.
These lessons, along with an impactful video clip, created a calm and reflective atmosphere in the seminar hall. Many students were visibly moved, emotionally touched by the insights shared.
The seminar's core objective was to inspire the trainees and make them aware of the consequences of losing one's sense of identity. Fr. Kindo spoke openly about how unfulfilled desires can lead young people down destructive paths, including suicidal thoughts and associations with bad influences. The sessions focused on cultivating positive change and making better life choices.
The seminar began with a meditation session, during which the students were asked to sit quietly and close their eyes. After a few minutes, they were invited to reflect on key questions: Who am I? How am I? With whom am I? What do I desire? Why am I here? The students shared their answers, revealing their personal aspirations—one wanted to be a responsible citizen, while
another recognized the importance of family. Fr. Kindo followed this with further reflections and a motivational video.
The video depicted children with physical disabilities—some without an eye, a hand, or a leg—who were still able to lead happy, fulfilling lives, embracing who they were. The students were reminded to be grateful for their health and physical well-being.
In the second session, the theme of the irreplaceability of life was discussed in depth, supported by video clips highlighting the tragic choices made by today’s youth when faced with disappointment. Fr. Kindo showed how some young people fall into bad company, engaging in actions that bring shame to themselves and their families. One video portrayed Ahmad, a child born without hands, who still managed to entertain others through dance. His story was a testament to resilience.
The final session stressed the importance of respecting parents while they are alive. A poignant video clip depicted a mother’s sacrifices in raising her son, only for the boy to later be led astray by bad influences. In a tragic turn, he killed his mother at the request of a girl he was infatuated with, only to be abandoned by her afterward. The video deeply moved the students, bringing many to tears.
The program concluded with a practical session, where each student shared what they had learned. The insights gained were profound, and it was clear that the lessons would have a lasting impact on the students' lives. On behalf of the trainees, Amal Kujur expressed gratitude to Fr. Deepak Kindo for the enriching sessions.
Prepared by: Amit Kindo, Electrician Instructor