Here’s an inspiring story from Mrs. Vijaya who came to volunteer at the Isha Vidhya school.

Volunteering is a way of learning to make our lives into a process of just giving and being willing. Not just willing to do this or that, simply willing. – Sadhguru

Isha Foundation is run largely by over two million volunteers worldwide, and is dedicated to cultivating human potential. The Foundation is a human service organization that recognizes the possibility of each person to empower another – restoring global community through inspiration and individual transformation.

Here’s an inspiring story of one such volunteer, Mrs. Vijaya.

Mrs. Vijaya comes from the Pudukuppam village in Tamil Nadu. She and her husband, Mr. Devadoss first came to know about Isha Foundation when the Isha relief team worked in their village to rehabilitate people during the 2005 Tsunami.

Impressed with the sense of service and dedication of the Isha volunteers, Devadoss and Vijaya started hosting Isha volunteers whenever they visited their village. They also attended Isha Yoga program, which deepened their association with Isha.

Later on, a tragedy struck the family when they lost their only son to an accident. This loss almost broke Vijaya and for a long time she was in a dark place within herself, even contemplating suicide. It was at this time that she decided to dedicate herself to volunteering for the Cuddalore Isha Vidhya school. Being an exceptional cook, she asked for permission to volunteer in Cuddalore school kitchen. She soon started coming regularly and got involved in all activities – cleaning, cooking and even gardening. She finds joy in watching the children enjoying her cooking. In tears, she shares: “I see my son’s face in each child’s and I hope my health stays good so that I can continue to volunteer here.”