By Diana Dopfel

Being displaced from their hometowns, many college students find it difficult to maintain the rituals of spiritual worship they may have once practiced. The church, mosque, synagogue or other places of worship that one may have frequented since birth is no longer conveniently close. Here at Northeastern, a new club lovingly “christened” the Karmic Awareness Club is an ideal way for many students to stay in touch with their spiritual self while attending class.

Founded by two students from the classes of 2004 and 2007, the Karmic Awareness Club strives to promote the achievement and maintenance of good Karma.

For those unfamiliar with the concept of Karma, it may be succinctly defined as a spiritual practice with roots in Buddhism and East Asian religions that promotes inner balance and simplicity of mind to benefit one’s inner self and the world around them. Karma, however, is a much deeper concept than such a superficial definition may provide. The members of the Karmic Awareness Club encourage students to explore the many aspects of Karma

Although Karma is a religiously-based idea, the Karmic Awareness Club is strictly non-denominational and promotes spirituality, not religion. The club is educationally based and does not preach. Its main goal is to educate its members about Karma

Meditation sessions, community service activities, guest speakers and special events will all help to open one’s eyes to the practices of Buddhism. The members also hope to bring in university faculty to help enrich the club experience.

There is little reason not to explore what the Karmic Awareness Club has to offer. If it’s not for you, there is no obligation to become a member, and if you happen to enjoy it, your heightened sense of spirituality and active engagement with the world around you will no doubt enrich your life.

The Karmic Awareness Club meets every other Monday in the Sacred Space of Ell Hall. Club meetings take place during Monday’s activity period, from 11:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. All are welcome. For further information, contact club advisor Patricia Venter at [email protected] or Alex Litovsky at [email protected].