Understanding of god
God is in our heart. Work is worship. Family is strength — this is the essence of my life. In my opinion, god is within us. When I help others, be more humane, smile more, hug more, and care more, I see god in myself and in them.
Spiritual beliefs and practices
Do good to others. Love more. Make this world a better place! I have a personal goal of making at least one person smile everyday.
Favourite pilgrimage sites
I have never believed in searching for god outside of me. I don’t remember the last time I went to a temple. What is the point in going for a pilgrimage when we end up bribing for a so called ‘Special Dharshan’? What’s the point in spending thousands of rupees and going on a pilgrimage, while the needy battle for a single meal? Can we not serve them instead? I consider love, care, brotherhood, unity and peace as god. Frankly, no religion recommends us to bribe, go visit a pilgrimage and boast about it.
Take on miracles
I believe in miracles. Around this time last year, on the Bangalore highway, our car was smashed by a lorry. My limbs were broken and I was in bed for 45 days, but my hope and faith remained intact. I could count only on god then! I closed my eyes and prayed. ‘God please keep me alive. I need to get back home. My babies are waiting for me.’ God was kind, and I am blessed! I know for sure that god has kept me alive for a purpose. And the purpose is to transform a million lives globally.
(Deepa Aathreya is the CEO of School of Success, a leadership training programme for children)