Propagation toolkits

what is this blog all about?

noreply@blogger.com (les) — Thu, 12 Mar 2015 18:24:00 +0000

Well, firstly welcome to this blog.

We are a small team of volunteers who like to share Prem Rawat’s message of Peace. This blog has a number of ideas and some gleaned 'know how' for anyone else who also likes sharing his message. We also hope that people can send us some personal stories of what happened to them and what they learnt when they did something - especially if it worked! Then we can post them up too.

You will see on your right a series of headings, these when clicked will give you access to some of of these ideas and guidelines, please feel free to use them and adapt them as you see fit. They are only there to help you. If you have stories, other ideas, or need help with a project that you want to undertake please contact either you local helper or email us on gettingsupport@hotmail.co.uk

You have access to other websites and information that will also help you along the right hand side, so why not try a project in your local area and have some fun !

Over 3 million reasons to be happy today

noreply@blogger.com (zxkl) — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 16:48:00 +0000

Remembering 21st September

8 a.m. on 21st September and I am driving back from the shops after buying the Sunday papers with eager anticipation. It’s International Day of Peace and all over
the world people are focusing on the need for peace in their country and lives.

Get home, clear kitchen table and start reading. First, The Independent and then, The Observer. A rare thing to feel happy reading the papers these days but I am so thrilled to see an advert for Words Of Peace on TV on the first spread of both papers. The papers report on everything that affects us in life; the economy, technology, politics, and now there a simple message that sits well within these pages. Watch a special edition of Words of Peace on International day of peace.

We have a large advert on page 2 of The Observer and page 3 of The Independent. We also have adverts on the TV pages of both. The double page strip advert across the bottom looks great.

Over the past few weeks I have been hearing about a wide range of activities undertaken by individuals working to give others the chance to find out about Maharaji on TV. People want to help because they appreciate his words and the positive effect they have on their lives.

Radio adverts have been running for the past few weeks now in at least 3 regions; Scotland, the South East and Gloucestershire, where a small campaign aired at least 10 times a day and was supported by a live interview with a local there.
In SW Scotland two people organised radio adverts that were heard by 78,000 people. They posted a car as a mobile advert, leafleted the area and are now looking at local TV options for the future.

gettingsupport@hotmail.co.uk

I believe this is the first time that clips of Maharaji speaking have been played on radio. The clips include one of Maharaji speaking about 6.7 billion reasons for peace. There are 5 clips in total each with a voice over pointing to the TV programme on Sky channel 189.

There have been local events to mark the occasion, some including dignitaries like the Lord Mayor in Swansea, Wales.

Some people joined local sponsored walks for peace with T-shirts carrying the wordsofpeace.tv logo

There have been ads in Gujarat Samacha. There has been a lot of local advertising including a bus in Devon and an advert in Bristol’s version of Time Out called Venue.

These are just the tip of the iceberg of people’s efforts. I can’t report all of them as most of them are done by people who I don’t know and will never hear of. They help because they feel gratitude and they don’t look for thanks. If you are one of these please consider adding your story to the blog as it helps others to try new things.

So what has been achieved? A lot.

We estimate between 3 and 4 million people have had the opportunity to see an advert or hear a radio commercial from the activities we know of.

We know that thousands of people watched the special edition of Words of Peace that ran on the 21st, due to this special promotion. We have to approximate the numbers watching from the numbers visiting the website and texting for DVDs. We had about 1,729 people visit wordsofpeace.tv direct and more visiting wordsofpeace.net. I have been told that you would add a nought to that to estimate viewing figures.

It also acts as a reminder to people who have heard about Words of Peace before. They may have seen a DVD or heard about it from a friend. Seeing an advert in the national newspapers is a good reminder.

This is a great start, it shows we can advertise nationally and that if we work together we can make a bigger difference.

PS Look out for a full page ad in November’s edition of Psychologies Magazine out now.

PPS A prize of free advertising (inside and out) on a London black cab for a month starting 3rd November was won by someone who rather than use this to promote his own travel agency business he has asked for his favourite charity to be the beneficiary and the cab will be covered in promotions for wordsofpeace tv and website.

There will also be an award ceremony during the month at a major exhibition and the cab will be there. A miniature dinky car of the cab - complete with advertising, will also be given and this will be sent off to Maharaji.

It is wonderful to see more ways evolving to let people hear this message.

Peace day in Newport Pagnell

noreply@blogger.com (zxkl) — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 15:28:00 +0000

A warm breeze sweetly blew Maharaji’s message of peace through the High Street of Newport Pagnell yesterday! What an incredible day it was!

Right from the start of the day on 21st September, the sun shone, an azure blue filled the sky, and as the overnight dew evaporated in the warmth of the new day, a feeling of peace and joy was wafting out of the hearts of those who were their to help set up the mini event.

Newport Pagnell had never seen anything like this before! It was as if the thoroughfare where we erected MAVIS was made just for this day! Perfectly sized plot, perfect in every way!

It took us nearly 2 hours to set everything up and in that time CDs were playing inspirational music with quotes of Maharaji, that incredible feeling of Service, that beautiful joy, brought the team together and before we knew it, MAVIS was up; the generator hummed quietly round the corner; chairs cleaned and set up; information tables covered and adorned with DVDs and leaflets; and the sound of Maharaji voice speaking his message was to be heard for the first time to the public who were passing by!

Some stopped to read the side panels of MAVIS – Peace is a Feeling - some read ‘Inspire’ posters that were placed on the lamp posts, some passers by looked, saw and continued. But some others….

A young man came up and smiling, he asked what was happening. He was invited to sit and listen and it must have been over an hour later that he came away from watching the DVD and brimming over with joy he took away some DVDs and other information, saying that he had to tell others about it!

An elderly lady on a motorised scooter stopped and asked what we were about. Having answered her questions with no, we are not Evangelists, and no, this is not a religion etc, she smiled, something was touching her heart and she asked if she could have some information! Offering her a DVD she had expected to pay for it and was even more delighted when everything she wanted was offered freely! She went away down the High Street quite a happy lady!

A mother and her young daughter were walking back from church when she came up to me saying she recognised Maharaji’s face! She couldn’t think where she had seen him before, but she knew she had and although she couldn’t stay to listen to the Words of Peace DVD she wanted to hear his message and took away a DVD and information of the Sky broadcast.

A young lady was waiting to catch a bus and she was overjoyed when she heard Maharaji speaking. She gathered lots of information and kept standing nearby, watching and listening to Maharaji’s message. Luckily her bus was running late and she left with such an incredible smile that you could see the joy radiating from her heart.

One lady had already walked passed and then returning, she started to read the panels. Looking at the information tables she was offered some DVDs and other information, she didn’t have time to listen but was so grateful and went on her way, smiling.

Another lady was in town as her husband was in the pub, watching football. She stopped and couldn’t believe what she saw and heard. She taught relaxation to people from China and India and wanted to have as much information as possible to show them! We had written information and DVDs in both Hindi and Chinese, so she went away armed with lots. This lady couldn’t believe that this was all freely given and kept on insisting that she wanted to donate towards the costs! She even came back to try again to offer money!

A friend and colleague of mine had heard Maharaji once before on my home computer when I was looking on YouTube. He said that he had enjoyed listening to Maharaji speak, but he never took it any further. He knew that we were having this event in town and although he was invited he said he couldn’t make it. But, low and behold, on this incredibly sunny day he turned up, went and bought a pint from the local pub, brought it back, sat down and watched and listened to Maharaji for well over an hour! He was beaming when he eventually left!

Many people passed by that day, including people in buses, on bikes and in cars. One car full of young males called out of their window “Peace is a feeling!” as they went down the High Street. An elderly lady sat with a child on the nearby bench, watching and listening to Maharaji. She went away and then came back again, sat and enjoyed even more! Others stood across the road, and Maharaji’s voice could be heard and they were listening!

Even a Premie who hadn’t been in touch for sometime had read the article we had placed in Your Local Flyer and was so pleased to hear that there were Premies in the area! He arrived and watched, chatted and took away information including ‘You’ve Got It’ DVDs for his friends. He was telling me that he didn’t always meditate so I remembered what Maharaji had said and told him “A little bit of something is far better than a lot of nothing!”. He quite liked that!

Then came the time to take MAVIS down, clear everything away and head for our homes. There was no evidence left that showed we had been there, no posters, information, nothing. Yet I know that what had taken place would never be forgotten. Maharaji had again touched the hearts of many.

What a joy.

Peace day south west

noreply@blogger.com (zxkl) — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 09:45:00 +0000

Articles and adverts were run in various newspapes and magazines in the UK for international day of peace. The advert above ran in "The Argus" a local newspaper for the Brighton area and in a local commuter paper.

The article below ran in the South Downs Living magazine.

Peace day Brent show

noreply@blogger.com (zxkl) — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 16:30:00 +0000

On Sunday 21st September a few of us set up a stall at the Brent Countryside Show. We did this last year and it was a great day, this year they gave us an even bigger space and since EV is a charity the stall was free.

We set up some display panels and a large plasma screen playing a DVD with some cordless headsets for anyone who wanted to listen.

That day started of slow, but gradually the momentum grew. A lot of people were interested and took away cards promoting the special Sky broadcast for IDOP. Some took DVDs and others sat to listen. It was a great day, spent talking to people about a lovely message.

We even had one lady who borrowed Key one after listening last year, but she lost her mobile phone and all contact (not very PC literate), however she came back at this event to return the key and get the next one….

Below are some statistics and comments by people who listened to the message.

40 people sat and watched a dvd presentation and 370 dvd's were taken

Comments
• This is an incredible message, I will listen to the broadcast on Zee TV and it’s a shame I missed yesterdays one
• I came and listened year and now I am on the keys and enjoying listening
• I worked at Wembly Arena and saw this speaker. He sounded really good and had a big smile on his face

Sham

Devon day of peace

noreply@blogger.com (zxkl) — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 18:06:00 +0000

hi there just to something about the bus ads we did in devon .After leaving glasgow event found myself stuck behind a bus with something very funny on it struck me that in that position you can not help but see the ad . we payed for 3 buses that were used on main routes around plymouth.the manager of advertising so liked the ad she only charged us for one.

Peace day in Amsterdam

noreply@blogger.com (zxkl) — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 17:12:00 +0000

We had a wonderful day on Internationale dag van de Vrede Sunday 21st Sept. A big thank you to all who gave their support and most of all to M for giving us this opportunity.

Armed with dvd's, brochures, cable tv flyers, invitations and event posters, we arrived at 11.30 to set up the glass walled, circular room on the 6th floor of the ultra modern Amsterdam central library (called "Discovery of heaven room"). Early enough to give plenty of time to gather as a team, have a short briefing and prepare the event.

The Library intro event has taken place every month since April 2008 and on this day we took a significant step in teamwork during our briefing. By unanimously agreeing on our objective and how we planned to do that on this day.

No sooner than we began the set up, arranging the plush red leather chairs, info and dvd tables, hanging the blackout curtains, and testing the dvd's to be played, two people wandered in and sat down. So the event actually started 1 hr earlier than planned, for these two to enjoy Maharaji's message on "Journey Within"!

The day rolled beautifully from thereon. Throughout the afternoon we took it in turns to stand outside in the warm sunshine giving out invitations (650) to Library visitors. 58 people (age range 18 to 60 yrs) took the time on a beautiful sunny day, to come and watch Words of peace during the three and a half hours continuous presentation. Some stayed for an hour, some even longer-soaking up the sweet rain of his words. 58 people is almost twice as many people than have been attending our monthly Friday afternoon intro event.

Many dvd's and materials were taken. We left a selection of materials on small smoked glass tables outside the room, for people to help themselves. We used a total "hands off" policy so people are free to come and go as they wish and are free to choose whatever material they want to take away.

You can picture this team at the end of the day, gathered in a small circle for a debrief, fully delighted with hearts filled with joy and glowing with knowing that we just had the privilege of playing a very small part in this amazing play. Thank you Maharaji.

Peace day in Stroud

noreply@blogger.com (zxkl) — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 16:25:00 +0000

In Stroud they like peace and as part of the International Day of Peace celebrations they were out in force. They are only usually active when protesting at the outbreak of wars. Yesterday (Saturday) there was a film festival entitled "War And Peace" at Stroud Valleys Arts. I went there to hand out invites to our peace day event at the local arts cafe. All but one of the eight films shown was about war, the eighth wasn't about peace either, which goes to show that artists and reporters are drawn more to the glamour and horrors of war than they are peace. Maybe it is because peace isn't deemed good news, nothing is happening when peace breaks out, it cannot be described, put in print or on film. Afterwards, I was invited to join an organised discussion, chaired by our local Mayor with some of the directors and a few media types , one notably worked with the UN in Haiti and Sierra Leone, promoting peace through perfomance. They pondered the question "what does it take to build peace" and "how can artists contribute to peace? ". I listened, trying to stay open minded and not being too critical of the ideas presented. It was clear that some were laying claim to the idea of peace as their own and some, though very sincere, were struggling to offer any answers.

I began to realise that I have an opinion on this that was totally valid, that would blow all there ideas to smithereens and felt strongly compelled to say something but I didnt. I just sat there feeling my peace and to be honest a little smug and then, the unthinkable happened. Out of the blue I was asked to say something about our event the next day, I was quite taken aback but my passion took control and was able to tell them of my thoughts on peace and that for me, peace just wouldn't happen unless I felt peaceful ( pretty obvious really) and that my teacher was showing me how. I went on to tell them about my enthusiasm for peace day and invited them all to our event tomorrow.

A few people went out of their way to say that this was what they wanted to hear. Some were clearly moved. I gave information to an Indian guy from Coventry and one of the directors , (the one who's film wasn't about war) who had come all the way from Iran. I was blown away by the experience. In Knowledge we have a powerful tool, that works its magic in the most amazing and subtle way. We should not be afraid to tell people what Maharaji is doing for us. Let the magic happen.

Today is Peace day, the sun was shining for the first time in weeks and we took part in a colourful and moving Flag Ceremony put on by a local group of Buddhists, where the national flag of each country was presented. Small children, young people and old people carried a flag to place in a circle while a call for peace was made for each nation.

Our mayor made a speech denouncing war mongering and calling for solidarity in the fight against war and the suffering it creates. In Stroud we have a green mayor a member of Mayors for Peace * an old Stroudie who was a radical politician and peace activist in the 60s & 70s and is still very vocal and active in the Green Movement .
He had been given an invitation and had agreed to come.

We were able to hand out more invites, and at the finish an announcment was made inviting people to our event . The afternoon was very peaceful and was enjoyed by all.

Its 5.15pm and our event is ready, we have a small room there are 24 seats and it looks and feels great. we put on a walk-in slideshow with wonderful quotes and music called "What is Peace" from Mavoh.com . People are starting to arrive, the mayor and his partner took their seats, we wait another 5 or more mins for stragglers, there are 24 in the room, 8 premies and 16 new people. The room is quiet and still.

We started the event with a short introduction followed by a film of Jeremy Gilley, whos inspiration and persistant lobbying of the UN started Peace Day. Then " A Peace Yet Undefined" another slide show with Maharaji speaking . This was followed by Maharaji speaking to the New Zealand Parliament on Peace day 2006. A lengthy DVD with a rather long introduction. I had been worried we might lose some of our guests but they all stayed, Maharaji spoke beautifully and the audience was wrapt. We finished with short announcements and then a walkout slideshow "A Thirst for Peace". Some stayed in their seats to watch it on repeat.

The mayor had to leave because he had another engagement, but the cafe was open and people stayed for coffees and cakes, many took advantage of the free DVDs on offer and 9 people left their contact details.

A truly wonderful day. Lets make every day a Day of Peace.

* "The Mayors for peace, through close cooperation among the cities, strives to raise international public awareness regarding the need to abolish nuclear weapons and contributes to the realization of genuine and lasting world peace by working to eliminate starvation and poverty, assist refugees fleeing local conflict, support human rights, protect the environment, and solve the other problems that threaten peaceful coexistence within the human family."
You can check whether the Mayor of your town is a member at the website, where all participating mayors from all over the world are listed. There are 2410 members from 131 countries and regions. If they are not, maybe you could tell them about it and why they should join.

Some photos attached.

Love and peace
Howie

Peace day in Rochdale

noreply@blogger.com (zxkl) — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 16:02:00 +0000

The sun shone on Sunday morning as 18 of us from the Manchester area gathered in Rochdale to put on our T-shirts printed with "Peace is a feeling" and wordsofpeace.net and hoisted the banner, reading "6.7 billion reasons for peace and you are one of them". With other groups, we followed the brass band through the streets to the cenotaph in front of the town hall. All gathered with guests of honour and observed 2 minutes silence as the clock struck midday.

Amidst the various musical entertainers, Joe manned the video camera while Tony interviewed key members of the audience and public, including a representative involved in the struggle for peace in Kashmir.

Many took materials from our display and Moira was available to talk to the people who were interested in learning more. I chatted to guests about Maharaji's message and gave Adi mags, brochures and dvds to some including Nancy Del'Ollio, representing Truce International, the Mayor of Rochdale and John Cushnahan, formerly involved in the peace process in Northern Ireland.

It was wonderful to spend the day surrounded by people who are working for peace. After the day's programme, as we were left with full hearts and satisfaction with our efforts, Joe used up the end of the tape with us giving thanks to Maharaji who gave us the inspiration to make it possible.

peace camp

noreply@blogger.com (les) — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 08:09:00 +0000

Peace Camp (3) in Norwich ~ 26th July

It was an amazing day. We didn’t know what to expect, but we just went anyway in the hope that we would be able to share something about Maharaji’s message, a band of 4 shining people full of promise.

Well, we began the day with a cup of the old brew, coffee for some; sharing thoughts on what we might envisage could happen on the 21st September, which has been heralded as an International Day of Peace.
This was our aim ~ to promote Maharaji’s message through the magnificent tool ‘Words of Peace’. We realised that we were offering not just the ‘one’ day of peace, but a possibility of having peace with inside of us every day . . . always!

First stop, we approached this seemingly elderly gentleman who seemed just like a gnome dozing in his chair. But what a surprise, when we started speaking to him; he just lit up like a light and suddenly he was completely enthused about suggesting we contact the Interfaith group saying that they might like to hear what the ‘words of peace’ were offering. And then he asked for something to show at his next group meeting on the 3rd Sept. We left him a dvd and said that if there was nothing that he liked ~ a promise to get him a copy of Maharaji / Prem Rawat "Address at The United Nations"

We went on for the rest of the day around the Forum speaking to each stall in turn; the Quakers, GreenPeace, the Jewish group, the Muslims, CND and many more. it was an amazing experience to be met over and over again with smiles and enthusiasm for sharing and wanting to know more. In all, twelve copies of the dvd plus information about the Info shop with the promise of being able to discover for themselves the peace that lies right inside of each and everyone of us.

It was a wonderful experience of ‘networking’ instead of just having a stand to ourselves and trying to put it out there. What a day, and there is still a promise of more!!
Jette

Amsterdam Central Library

noreply@blogger.com (zxkl) — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 10:23:00 +0000

Friday 27th June
The best event so far this year in the Central Library Amsterdam took place yesterday.

New guests (multi national) enjoyed various 30 min Dutch subtitled films of Mararaji throughout the three and a half hour event in a very relaxed, environment created by the team, in a glass walled room on the Library's 6th floor.

We received many sincere thanks from people. Two young lady guests stayed for 3 hrs and watched two repeats of "Journey Within" ! All guests came from the "On site" promotion via invitation flyers and posters, except one who came via the local Salto cable tv broadcast.

Circa 500+ Library visitors were handed an invitation outside the building, which included website info.

Countless people stood outside the open doors to take a quick look and a free dvd with info that signposts the Salto tv program and follow up websites.
People left their contact details for invites to local / national events with Maharaji

Wonderful results, thanks to Maharaji and the many people who continue to support these events with: subtitled dvd production, Printwork, Materials, Donations, PR, Set up, Promotion, Guest reception and care, Cable tv and Website support. (a lovely team effort)

Apart from this most encouraging increase in guest numbers, it felt like the best event so far because of the joyful team work (there were ten of us who helped) and exquisite feeling which subsequently saturated the room. (Inspired from our attendance of Maharajis recent events in Europe).

We are having a blast! It is exciting, a lot of fun and an absolute privilege to help out and introduce so many people to Maharaji and his message via this event. It has the potential to reach many thousands of people, not only in Amsterdam, but worldwide!

With thanks

Steve O on behalf of the event team

Something is happening at Camp Hill

noreply@blogger.com (zxkl) — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 19:21:00 +0000

May 19th to 23rd was Adult Learners’ Week in the UK. Camp Hill Prison Education department dropped the usual agenda and replaced it with a week of alternative learning activities. Alongside the yoga, a DVD series entitled Words of Peace was shown. The presentations include excerpts from worldwide addresses by Prem Rawat, a respected international voice for peace, who offers a unique perspective on the universal quest for personal peace and fulfilment. Prem Rawat, also known as Maharaji, has dedicated his life to spreading his message of peace to the world, and has been speaking to large audiences since the age of eight.

Words of Peace is relatively new to UK prisons. In the USA, the series is broadcast 20 times weekly on the Correctional Educational Association’s TV channel, Transforming Lives Network(TLN) reaching up to 900,000 prisoners and 300,000 correctional staff nationwide. The Words of Peace DVD series is also presented regularly at prisons in New Zealand, Africa, Mexico and Argentina. In Camp Hill, ten sessions took place with an overall attendance of around eighty prisoners. We had a fabulous week. Yoga helps relax mind and body so, by the time the Words of Peace talks began, everyone was really still and focused. Here is a selection of the comments made by prisoners who attended:

“I found the message very positive in helping to promote a more caring and happy existence. More information and sessions would be greatly appreciated. I’m sure this could benefit many people.” (Mark W)

“Very helpful and contributory to promoting peace within the prison system.” (Otto A)

“This man is telling us some very good things about ourselves. I think we all forget who we are, and what he is saying helps to remind us who we are and that we should not forget our true selves.” (Elvis C)

Almost everyone who came to hear Prem Rawat commented on the clarity, sincerity and wisdom of his message and felt it has incredible potential for prisoners.

What Prem Rawat talks about is more than just words. To those with a thirst to know more he offers a self-paced learning process which - ironically for prisons - he calls The Keys. They are a series of DVDs, like a distance learning course, which address the possibility of experiencing inner peace, clarity and personal freedom – a freedom, Prem Rawat says, “which can be felt even in a prison” The Keys help a person develop the skills and understanding for feeling contentment every day. They are best watched at one’s own pace and in one’s own time. The DVDs can be borrowed free of charge by anyone and may soon be available to prisoners in CD format.

I’m hoping that more of these events will happen in Camp Hill and in other UK prisons and feel it’s only a matter of time before many more people will know about Prem Rawat and his wonderful message of hope. What better hope than to live one’s life in dignity and peace, not just surviving but thriving. Prem Rawat insists that this is very possible for every single human being who wants that in their lives.

For a complimentary information pack with written, audio or DVD materials, or to find out more about The Keys, please write with name and prisoner number to: Words of Peace, PO Box 999, Hove BN52 9BT. You will also find Words of Peace materials in many prison libraries. Prison librarians can place orders by emailing feelfreeinside@elanvital.org.uk.

I felt it fitting to end with a poem by Tony Edwards, a prisoner currently serving at Camp Hill. This poem was inspired by the Words of Peace presentations and is getting a lot of hits on youtube:

PEACE

If Peace fulfills my heart’s desire
While Past and Future both conspire
To harm me and mislead;
If Peace can warm me when I’m cold
And comfort me as I grow old,
Then Peace is all I need.

If Peace can soothe me with her charms
And gently hold me in her arms,
My shelter in the storm;
If Peace can shower me with love
When cloudy skies are up above,
Then Peace can keep me warm.

If Peace can make the darkness bright,
Protect me like a shining knight,
And all my dragons slay;
Then I would be a fool to doubt
That Peace is what it’s all about,
For Peace can light the way.

If Peace will always be my friend,
A friend on whom I can depend
To easy my troubled mind;
If Peace can answer all my prayers
And gently wash away my cares,
Then Peace can save mankind.

HMP CAMP HILL- 2007

Public Event in Norwich

noreply@blogger.com (les) — Sun, 01 Jun 2008 16:59:00 +0000

The Gift- An introductory event held in Norwich in April

This was the first event for a long time in Norwich that was directly aimed at the general public. It was inspired by the possibility of a visit from Charan Anand in April.

The preparation
We had quite a few conference calls and invited those to help who felt really happy to put it together, re Maharaji’s emphasis nowadays on enjoying participation.

We divided into one team for publicity for the event and another on the content of the programme.

We decide to hold it at an arts centre called appropriately, The King of Hearts.

The publicity was through posters in as many places as we could find put up about 2-3 weeks before the event. Also an article and advert in two local alternative magazines Eco Echo and The Triangle. We had already written and had published in EcoEcho several articles over the months before the event by different premies in Norwich.

We also decided to offer tickets even though it was a free event. They were placed in a central location and at the venue and about 12 were taken or reserved before the event. We thought this might seem more ‘normal’ than an invitation which is usually personal.

The event
Just before the event we heard that Charanand was definitely not available, so we had to step up ourselves and explain that our speaker was not coming which obviously was a disappointment to us and those who came.

However, four of us gave personal short expressions, two of which included poems and one a pocket history of Prem Rawat and his message. Then we showed Finite and Infinite, the whole programme lasting about 1 hour.

The outcome
There were 35 new people.15 had come from reading the article in EcoEcho, the others were invited by premies or had seen a poster. 8 copies of Introduction to the keys taken and many free DVDs and printed material.
Many people stayed afterwards for refreshments (a small bar in the café) and to chat to us.

Comments then and since.
‘I had to come in case it was important and I have been really touched’
‘As soon as I walked in I felt something very special and different’ (These two people are now on key2.)

One of the centre staff said she felt it was the one of the nicest events they had had there.

Learnings
It was not all smooth sailing. As ever we have learnt a lot about what is needed to present the message efficiently, simply and from the heart. However, it was very enjoyable for us to find that, as he is always telling us, people are thirsty and want to hear his message.

Our next event will be much smaller, an open day at the Words of Peace centre in Norwich with screenings of 1/2 hour videos through out the day.

The centre is a great asset both to the premies in this area and to aspirants for the keys library, but outreach is needed to bring it to the attention of the general public and that is our focus at present.

Margaret Goodyear

Nelson Market 2008

noreply@blogger.com (zxkl) — Wed, 07 May 2008 07:56:00 +0000

New Zealand

A few people have got together a stall at Nelson market, It is regular so there is a continuity and recognition factor. Here are a couple of reports

Another wonderful day at the market, we got there a bit late and set up our stall on the edge.

The first person to come to the stall asked if this had something to do with the keys as he had some information sent to him a while ago but his life had got very complicated and he had not been able to watch the keys. He took away an ADI magazine, as he does not have a DVD player, and wanted something to read. I let him know that if he felt he wanted to start the Keys we were here every week. He was so pleased and watched a podcast for a while.

A lady gave us a 'peace plant' to put on the stall and was pleased to take a DVD and an info card. So many people came up to the stall and we gave away DVD's, leaflets and cards. Quite a few people said they would show the DVD's to their friends and were so pleased we had the stall.

A peace activist took a DVD, she had never heard of Maharaji and was really interested to hear his message. A stallholder came up and said he was a peace activist and was doing a lot for peace and was interested in having a DVD.

People enjoyed reading the quotes that we have hanging up and 2 women expressed how much they like them and started pointing out all the ones they liked and that they would like some to hang in their house. They took away DVD's, leaflets and cards.

An older Maori gentleman looked at the Wellington event DVD and then came back with his young grandson and showed him the DVD, the grandson read the info on the DVD and asked how much it was, he was pleased to know it was complementary and took it away with a card.

There were quite a few younger people today who were enthusiastic about having a DVD and a leaflet and looked through everything with interest. One man came and asked if he could take some photos of the "What does Peace mean to you" interactive board, as his daughter had been going on about it so much that he wanted to take a photo of it.

The morning flowed and was so much fun, such a sweet experience. It feels so necessary to have the continuity of the stall every week so that people can have a follow up if they want to. Its exciting to see how it unfolds and how we can improve and simplify the stall and have good quality materials to give out.
We are going to start showing the 1 min extract they show in Brisbane on the ipod and have it running continuously, as the podcasts are quite long. We also hope to have some of the leaflets printed, we had a 'sample' one on the stall today and the first person to look at it asked if they could have it as it had really good information on.

Two weeks later

Had a wonderful day at the market on Sunday, gave away DVD's and lots of cards, we had our first request for the Keys using the market as a distribution center.
Had a wonderful offer of an opportunity to be able to show a DVD presentation on Maharaji's message at a venue on the 12th Sept. 2008, no cost. He is interested in having a 'peace day' (12 Sept) in Nelson. He has a conference center and theatre in the center of town. He took away the Wellington event and DFJ and was very excited that our stall was at the market.

A Maori woman pronounced 'Kia Tau Te Rangimarie' on the Wellington DVD for us and said her father always used to say it. It means if you are down or need encouragement find peace. She was so pleased to get the DVD.
Another lovely Maori woman took my hand and thanked me when she got her Wellington DVD, she was so pleased to know that an event like that had happened in NZ.

Another woman said she had heard him before and really liked what he had to say. so glad she could hear more.

So many lovely interactions, and the board Michael made using the design idea from the Brisbane markets worked really well. Just need to replenish our dvd supply before next Sunday as we only have a few left.

We are going to have a seperate stall once a month at the market selling cakes, cards, clothes, etc. to help fund the cost of the DVD's and materials. Brande, is very keen to help with this and so is my mum Katherine.

If you want to have lots of fun try having a stall at the market.

Hawkesbury River 2008

noreply@blogger.com (zxkl) — Sat, 12 Apr 2008 15:32:00 +0000

We are finding that this blog is being read all around the world, it is inspiring people to help and take part in propagation. So we have decided to post personal stories from other countries. This is from an outreach event in Australia.

Playground Weekender at Wisemans Ferry is a 3 day camping and music festival held on March 7,8 & 9 about an hour from Sydney.
There were five stages of music, an outdoor cinema, cabaret acts, a cocktail bar, a healing area, yoga, international food and market stalls and for the first time ever at this event a stall devoted entirely to spreading Maharaji's message.

All the great ideas that were destined for the Peats Ridge Festival :
1. Peace Wall (a 3 metre wall where people can express what peace means to them)
2.Vox Pop (interviews with the audience on their opinions of peace and how it is to be reached are going to be screened)
3.Peace Forums (socratic style open forums with 15 minute dvd screenings)
and the distribution of dvds, cards & electronic media were also used at Playground Weekender.

A core team of 5 people which including a professional camera man from Brisbane who filmed the Vox Pop's . More volunteers from around NSW helped out with the festival attendees and participated in the Peace Forums and Vox Pop.

Ilkley Complementary Medicine Fair

noreply@blogger.com (zxkl) — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 18:15:00 +0000

29th & 30th March
The Ilkley fair takes place twice a year and is one of the premier complementary health shows in the north. This is the second time we have had a stand and we are now starting to be recognised by the other stall holders and people attending. The feedback has been very positive. Several people helped this time and the following is a report, with quotes, from two of them.

Carolyn
We had a very simple stand with "Peace is a Feeling" backdrop, DVDs, leaflets, a TV with DVD playing quotes. I was wondering if our stand was a bit old compared with others but a stall holder made a point of saying how much he liked it and how the message "Peace is a feeling" was really striking. I realised then, that although there is always room for improvement, it really is the feeling that counts.
The atmosphere at the fair was really warm with pleasant interaction between stall holders. We were upstairs where the refreshments were served, so people were constantly drifting past and many stopped and read the message on the backdrop. Most took a DVD or leaflet and some really positive comments were made. Quite a few people recognised Maharaji's face and said they had seen him on TV and some remembered us from last time. One lady said that she had taken a DVD at the last fair and had just got round to watching it and asked if there was any more so I gave her Introduction to the Keys. She also said she would like to attend events in Hebden Bridge and gave me her contact details. I also met an Asian man who said he was an artist in Bradford and was working with groups interested in peace. He took a DVD and gave me his email address as he felt that we may be able to work together in some way. So many lovely exchanges happened.
One woman remarked on how everyone else was selling something and we were giving DVD’s away and she thanked us for that and smiled so sweetly and took a DVD.
I think I speak for everyone who helped, we all had a very enjoyable time and it felt really good to help in this way and witness the magic that can happen with propagation.

Mick
These are some comments that people made:

One guy said "I watch Maharaji on TV and I think Maharaji is wonderful and we need more like him and less like George Bush." He took a DVD.

“I took a DVD the day before," one stand exhibitor said, “ I was blown out by Maharaji Saying 'I CAN HELP'”.

“I’m from Scarborough and have seen Maharaji on TV and he is wonderful." When she watches Majaraji on TV, she feels the heat projecting from the television, (I hope she keeps a fire extinguisher close by!) but I knew what she meant. They asked how we get to see him, the other lady was from Lincoln, and I explained how they could get an invite. They both accepted a DVD.

One man, from the healing exhibition stand stated, “peace starts within individuals, not in society,” and agreed with what Maharaji says.

Another said, when I asked him if he wanted a DVD, “No Thanks, I do Tai Chi.”
“Well," I replied, "there's always room for improvement,” (tongue in cheek). He immediately replied “give me a DVD.”

I had fun and the feeling is always sweet, look forward to doing more.
Driving home I just felt beautifully humbled and so proud to be involved with Maharaji.

Words of Peace information centre

noreply@blogger.com (les) — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 09:19:00 +0000

Words of Peace centre

The Words of Peace Information Centre opened a year ago in a suburb of Norwich and has been a source of propagation and inspiration ever since. It is in a small shop that was very run down. It is rented out monthly for a peppercorn rent as the landlord was just happy for it to be used for a good purpose rather than left standing to deteriorate. Volunteers spent a month turning it into a lovely environment, with counter tops, and display stands.

It is open on Saturdays and Tuesday evenings for a couple of hours. Local volunteers take it in turns to man the centre. There is a Keys library, with DVD players if anyone wants to watch a DVD or a Key at the centre. This has really been a help for people who do not have a DVD player or who can’t watch at home.

People who have heard about Maharaji’s message are invited to come to the centre to find out more and if they so wish take away the Keys. People with Knowledge also love coming to the centre to take away the Keys or other materials and chat about what they can do the help.

Local propagation activities such as the DVDs in shops and cafes and local articles and adverts in magazines advertise the centre on a regular basis, and some people have responded and then decided to find out more as a result of such efforts.

Here are some of the comments from volunteers in the Captains Log that is kept to record any activity:

Another wonderful day – magical - thank you!

A chilly autumn morning but
lovely and cosy inside. Quite a busy first half hour with someone on the Keys.
He was coming in for Key two, and is watching them with his wife. He said; “we
really look forwards to watching them, they have made such difference to our
lives, we think we would like to keep them (the Keys) but then no, we want to go on!”

noreply@blogger.com (les) — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 09:19:00 +0000

Another wonderful day – magical - thank you!

A chilly autumn
morning but lovely and cosy inside. Quite a busy first half hour with someone on
the Keys. He was coming in for Key two, and is watching them with his wife. He
said; “we really look forwards to watching them, they have made such difference
to our lives, we think we would like to keep them (the Keys) but then no, we
want to go on!”

DVD project

noreply@blogger.com (les) — Sun, 23 Mar 2008 17:36:00 +0000

DVD project
Venues & location of dvds
Examples of possible outlets you may want to consider:
Local Newsagents
Small independent supermarkets
Coffee bars
Off Licences
Hairdressers
Restaurants
Music & DVD stores
Health & Health Food Stores
Health Clinics – both traditional and alternative
Dental Practices
Video Rental Shops
Garages
Sports clubs & Swimming pools
Superstores
Jobcentres
Takeaway
Alternative lifestyle shops / bookstores
Adult Education/evening class institutes
Libraries

Legal considerations: Some outlets are not suitable as they can pose legal problems - for instance schools should never be approached. Hospitals and other public sector venues have sometimes caused problems, so do make sure you have clear consent before leaving DVDs in these premises. If in doubt contact your local helper.

Agree with the shop owner the location of the DVDs. A prominent location near an entrance or on a notice board where the FREE DVD sign can be seen is often effective. Leaving freestanding DVDs on a counter top may be OK, provided they are not in anyone’s way.

Safety and security

The location is very important – it should be as secure (for example vandal-proof) as possible. and should not be somewhere that is left unattended for any length of time.
Be aware of safety considerations. Never position a holder where it could injure anyone if it falls.

Materials you will need

DVD stands - the smallest ones seem to work best.
Leaflets - a new leaflet has been designed which goes with the DVD .
DVDs - You've Got It or Designed for Joy. Someone may be acting as the ‘DVD distributor’ in your area and you may be able to get DVDs from them (every area is different) they can usually be picked up at a local video event. NB: donations are eligible for gift aid. If for any reason you cannot get them from your distributor, then you can order them direct from here

Use one of the "FREE DVD" display cards which are available for download from www.wordsofpeace.net, or through your distributor. These signs increase the number of units taken, as they are designed to be noticed, and will therefore attract more people to take a DVD.
Dispensers and posters may be available from your distributor. If not then they can be ordered from http://www.wordsofpeace.net/

Other bits and bobs: Blu-tak (to hold a dispenser in place)Hooks with rubber suckers (for hanging strips)Maybe some self-adhesive Velcro spots, drawing pins.

It’s a good idea to have enough DVDs and brochures to top up your outlets for a few weeks.

Other considerations
It is essential to ask for permission. Once given, check that it’s OK to continue.

If the person you first speak to doesn’t have the authority, ask when it would be a good time to come back and see the manager.

When an outlet has accepted DVDs, return after 2-3 days to check all is well and nothing has changed that affects the distribution. This can also be a ‘courtesy call’ to reassure the venue that you are keeping an eye on things.

Top up your dispensers on a regular basis - the regularity depends on the setting but a weekly top-up is often suitable. It may be that someone else will help with this. The person who finds the outlets doesn't have to be the one who keeps them topped. When looking for outlets it can be easier to go with a friend.

Keeping Records is important
This can be a pain but don't let it stop you putting out DVDs! It would be be helpful if you keep a total each month.
Send them in to:gettingsupport@hotmail.co.uk giving the name of the town/city or pass on the details to the person from whom you pick up your DVDs.

If you want to know more click here

Unmanned exhibitions

noreply@blogger.com (les) — Sun, 23 Mar 2008 17:19:00 +0000

Unmanned Exhibitions (Libraries, Universities, etc)

Venues
Possible places for an exhibition: Libraries, Universities, Foyers, etc.
Google the desired venue, e.g. library and the name of local town, (libraries are also on
local authority website, or visit your own library - should have list of branches).
Book your space – choose a popular spot inside the building, go see the manager taking with you letter, DVD, etc. (Popular question: Is it a religion, a political movement or a cult. To which the answer is ‘No. It is an Educational Charity’) There is an official EV letter which you can get by writing to gettingsupport@hotmail.co.uk .

Allow for and ask for a slot of time e.g. one or two weeks. You may have to wait for your slot

What you might need
Three art boards (Approximately 60cm wide X 90 cm high (alt. sizes available)
One Display Stand with three panels, to mount the boards on. (Libraries could provide display stands if asked)
One plastic holder for the give –away DVD’s
A packet of ‘stick-on Velcro’, to fix the boards onto the display panel available from art shops
Stock of give away DVDs
Stock of written material
Local contact nos if desired for follow up

First things first
Form a core planning team of 2-3 people to take responsibility for the planning of the project
Agree on goals: e.g. nos of DVDs give away, then you can match against results

Costings
Best to cost in advance then put costs to finance person/local community if need be – but could be low cost e.g. most libraries provide the facilities at no charge to charities

People
At very least two people are needed to set up and maintain an unmanned display ( like DVD stands it will need topping up regularly) If time, the project manager could ask for volunteers via SAM ( you will need at least 1 months notice)

Timings
Best to check out if clashes or complements with anything major ( e.g. events with Maharaji, local football match). You might want it to coincide with a local public event or ad in magazine.

Public events

noreply@blogger.com (les) — Sun, 23 Mar 2008 17:07:00 +0000

Public events
First things first
Consider goals (i.e. number of guests )
Measure results (this will help to assess how often to host the programmes and if they are successful)
Responsibilities (Where, When, What)…. and Who?
Decide as a team on purpose and nature of the event & type and nos of intended audience; think innovative perhaps.

Venue
Venue should be big enough for projected nos, easy access, quiet, if poss. Inexpensive if poss, but comfortable.When deciding on date best to check out if clashes or complements with anything major e.g. events with Maharaji, footie matches, wedding next door

What you might need
Materials table with give away DVDs, Intro to Keys Discovering More and Keys Library plus written materials
AV system –projector/TV with DVD player that will play the kind of DVDs you have (e.g. if copied may not work so needs to be checked beforehand by AV guy- suggest full technical rehearsal)
MC ( try to use different people who are trained /know what they are doing and great if young/newish person sometimes!
Guest Speakers to give expressions including new young people! Suitable DVDs (best 1 or 2 short, recent -under 2 years, mixed and matched- interviews with Maharaji or people having a nice time are well received)
Live or recorded music where appropriate – if live audition them if unknown talent!
Food and refreshments if appropriate

Set up
Form a core planning team of 2-3 people to take responsibility for the planning and content of introductory events. Get team together well in advance ( via SAM but they will need at least 1 months notice)
Need event manager and at least 6 people for set up inc. materials person, MC, AV plus helper to set up, ushers/networkers,
Will there be breaks and/or plenty of time even an hour after formal event for chatting - past experience suggests the more human the better.
Book the venue and speakers well in advance
Work out agenda well in advance
One week before pre event briefing to go over roles etc and one week or so after post event debrief is helpful

Promotion
This needs a great deal of thought and the more effort the better. The usual ways are word of mouth, at local events/mailings and advertising via press/posters/ what's on pages. But brainstorm more adventurous ways!

Finance
Best to cost in advance then put costs to finance person/local community if need be – if a big event might need to be fundraised in advance.

Home events

noreply@blogger.com (les) — Sun, 23 Mar 2008 16:47:00 +0000

Home events
People often feel more comfortable coming to someone’s house rather than a hall. There are a number of ways this could be done including all or some of the following elements: food, drinks, music, guest speakers, and DVDs.

Invitations: when you invite your guests, best to let them know the evening will include a presentation on Maharaji and his message. Invitations can be done by phone, by card or both.
Set-up: Use your commonsense, and adapt for your culture: make sure you and your guests are comfortable. First impressions are lasting.

There is no substitute for your own enthusiasm and confidence.
Ensure everything looks fresh and clean and consider flowers and decorations.
It’s nice to have a good quality, satisfying dinner so people really enjoy themselves.

Possible Format/Content: Welcome each guest as they arrive with refreshments, Dinner, followed by MC explaining the rest of the event, and including a short intro to the subject of the evening. Or live musician can draw everyone’s attention together.

Food: Generally buffet dinners work best. Plan where the food is served and eaten. If event is in same room as where people eat, consider re-arranging room for the presentation.
1 or 2 DVDs of approx 10-20 minutes each and/or special broadcast and/or guest speaker.
Guests are offered free materials and leave as the evening winds down. Keep an eye on time.

Materials: For event: Parts of Designed for Joy, You’ve Got it, Within You, Embrace Life, Introducing Peace, Story of Life, At Ease With Yourself and Discovering More are good possibilities.

Also materials should be made available when people leave. Possibilities include: Designed for Joy, You’ve got it, the Discovering More booklet, invitation to local events, Maharaji’s event schedule, and printed material available on websites.

If you go with an introductory video followed by Discovering More, consider having Key 1 pack and Keys registration form at hand so that guests so wishing can immediately enrol in the Keys process.

Follow-Up: A week or two after the dinner party, call each guest. ‘’How did you feel about the presentation?”

Tameside Independence Day

noreply@blogger.com (zxkl) — Sun, 23 Mar 2008 14:53:00 +0000

Ashton Town Hall
12/3/08

This was an event organised by the Tameside Third Sector Coalition, which is part of Tameside and is there to assist groups to develop and function in the region.
We were invited to this event and were offered a stall, which we accepted and organised a display.
The people who came were mostly 50 years of age and over but the general public were also invited.
I used the Manchester display boards and handed out free dvd's to all who showed an interest. We had all four types of dvd's

You Got it
Designed For Joy
Hindi and Dual Language

Only one person I spoke to had heard about Prem Rawat and she took a dvd. Few people showed no interest and the rest were happy to listen and take a dvd to watch at home.
I was also requested for an interview on Tameside Radio. They asked basic questions of who I was, what I was doing and who I represented, etc.
The Asian Age Concern group have invited me to their meeting later this month.
I have also been requested to give my group a name and register it with the library, so that we can be invited to other events that Tameside organise.
A successful event and very enjoyable. I would like to thank the Manchester team for the lone of the display boards and the dvd's

Mind, Body, Spirit Fairs

noreply@blogger.com (jjd) — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 21:10:00 +0000

It can seem a daunting task to approach an MBS Fair with the intention of giving away DVD's to help propagate Maharaji's message but one advantage of these fairs, is that the majority of the people are coming because they are searching for something - maybe it's relief from pain, help to see the future or whatever, but they are searching; so that is why they are ideal for us.

My partner and I have frequently done these type of stalls on our own with just another couple taking over during a lunch break. This has been fine with us. Some people like to have a team of people so that no-one does more than a couple of hours.

As we are not selling anything, unlike all the other stalls, some people can be very suspicious of 'free' stuff, so we like to be hands on and ask people if they would like a free DVD. We always stand at the front of the table and if people approach the stall, we ask them if they would like a free DVD. Personally, I get a real buzz from manning the stall and being pro-active but I know that some people do not like doing it this way. Each to their own. There is no right or wrong way to do this and you do what is comfortable for you.

People are generally curious and want to know what it is about, whilst others shy away from being approached in any way. We never push DVD's on people who don't want them. I love talking to the people; those who heard about Maharaji way back when, or those who just seem curious as to what we are doing with the stall.

At the end of the day when we pack up, I know I always feel as though I did something worthwhile with my day, even if not many people took DVD's, at least I tried to get Maharaji's message out there.

You Tube

noreply@blogger.com (zxkl) — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 19:19:00 +0000

I have been sharing Maharaji's message online for over a year, mainly on video sharing sites. I started an account on You Tube and have posted over a hundred clips. There is a real thirst from people all over the world who want to listen to this message. In one year there have been over 140 thousand views of video clips I have posted.
People from all corners of the world regularly leave comments on how a video clip has touched them.

"you cannot have too much inspiration in life.
maharaji provides inspiration plentiful...
thank you!"

"it is very fantastic for me. I just want to say thank you,
Maharaji and I hope to see you one day in CAMBODIA."

"Thank you for this video. I love this approach
about being able to see the similarities between us and not the differences."

"he speaks of joy and peace in the most beautiful way!!!!"

"Just what I needed to listen in this moment! Thank you."

"Que bonito!!!! Muchas gracias por compatirlo!!!"

"Beautiful video, beautiful words! It brings a quality that can be felt from a very sincere place. It's great to have this in YOUTUBE. Thank you."

"Next time you see a sunset look at the sunset and then remember you are alive, you exist, you. Gratitude, to be thankful not for the sunset but for that breath that is allowing you to see the sunset"
Thank-you I really needed to hear that

It's a great feeling to know that people are hearing Maharaji's message, in some cases for the first time and being touched by it's simplicity.
A year ago there were only a few clips of Maharaji on the net, now there are hundreds on You Tube alone. The internet has made it possible for everyone who has access to a PC with internet connection to hear and see Maharaji, 24 hours a day

WHAT A RESOURCE !