Dear IIMC,  

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for welcoming me so warmly during the month of January. There’s so many sounds and scents I recall from the indoor that I hope to treasure forever: kids laughing, the melodies from the dance class, Dosa gently calling for cuddles, the colourful birds chirping in their little cage, the warmth of cha time, the evening incense, and the serene beauty of the water lilies blooming at night. The Indoor was a sanctuary of mindfulness, peace, and pure happiness, a space brimming with kindness and endless smiles.

To Dr. Sujit,

You are truly one of a kind. Your vision and philosophy are a guiding light, “Life is simple”, as you often say, but how rare it is to meet someone who truly lives by this belief. Your passion, energy and unwavering positivity are contagious. Thank you for reminding me that every barrier always hides an opportunity. You are a spectacular example of perseverance. Every conversation with you was like discovering a new fresh perspective or a profound answer to life’s questions. Thank you for sharing your wisdom so generously.

To everyone at IIMC,

You have been my biggest inspiration so far in life. Every single person at IIMC is so special, and together you have created something extraordinary. IIMC is a temple of love, joy, and pure happiness. The energy and the positivity I felt throughout this month have completely purified and recharged me. Your Mission is so honourable: giving people the tools and opportunities to stand up for their dreams and dignity. You are recognising the power and value that lies within each human being. What you are giving to others- hope, love, and joy- is flowing back to you a hundred fold.

To all the foreign volunteers,

Make the most out of this experience. Say “yes” to everything, embrace every opportunity and step out of your comfort zone. Go for it. You truly don’t want to miss a single moment. Every experience I had at IIMC, no matter how small, made the journey unforgettable. I was able to do things I never thought I could. Injections, Dancing Bengali songs on stage in front of a crowd, Planting rice, Teaching in a classroom. Taking cold showers for an entire month (and enjoying it). Each moment was a chance to grow and discover something new.

This month has shown me a truth so simple, yet so powerful: there is so much more joy in giving than in receiving. Through helping others I realised I was growing love and beauty not just around me, but within me. I wish everyone in this world could feel at least once the gratitude and emotion that comes from helping someone else.

I have been enlightened on so many aspects that I find it so hard to go back to my reality.

Something deep within me wishes to stay forever between the blue walls of the Indoor, to hold onto that peace, that connection, that purpose, that pure energy of the IIMC Mission.

I count the days until I can come visit again.

Grateful beyond words.

Gaia G.

Italy

January’25, Participant