How Grateful Are We?

Short but sweet anecdote:


Once a man paid a visit to a wise old Gurmukh (Guru-orientated person). The man complained about his poverty and made a lot of noise about his dire situation.

Having listened to the man’s grumblings, the wise old Gurmukh immediately offered the man a huge amount of money in exchange for some of the man’s body parts. As expected, the man refused the offer as his body parts were dearer to him than any money the Gurmukh could offer. This way the Gurmukh was able to convince the man that the poor man wasn’t so poor after all.

ਜਿਹ ਪ੍ਰਸਾਦਿ ਭੋਗਹਿ ਸਭਿ ਰਸਾ ॥
jih prasaad bhogehi sabh rasaa.
By His Grace, you enjoy all sorts of pleasures

ਸਗਲ ਸਮਗ੍ਰੀ ਸੰਗਿ ਸਾਥਿ ਬਸਾ ॥
sagal samagree sang saath basaa.
You are provided with all the necessities of life.

ਦੀਨੇ ਹਸਤ ਪਾਵ ਕਰਨ ਨੇਤ੍ਰ ਰਸਨਾ ॥
deene hast paav karan netr rasnaa.
He gave you hands, feet, ears, eyes and tongue,

ਤਿਸਹਿ ਤਿਆਗਿ ਅਵਰ ਸੰਗਿ ਰਚਨਾ ॥
tisehi ti-aag avar sang rachnaa.
and yet, you forsake Him and attach yourself to others.

(4th Asttpadee of Sukhmani Sahib, Ang 267)
Read the Asttpadee (Chapter)

Thank you, Uncle
Author: Dr. Gurbaksh Singh (Canada)


It was a great experience to work as a heritage teacher at the Khalsa School, Vancouver, Canada. One day the children were playing basketball and I was deputed to supervise them. The basketball poles were very near the boundary fence. When a student attempted to throw the ball in the basket, it hit the board, bounced over the fence and went on to the street.

The students wanted to get the ball back but they did not attempt to go over the fence because I was standing and watching them. Going around the fence and through the gate would have taken a lot of time, almost all of the remaining time of the lunch recess. The students were helplessly looking towards the basketball, trying to decide what to do.

Just then a gentleman happened to pass by. After seeing the ball, he looked at the students. The students, though spoke nothing, but through their eager eyes sent a strong request to him. "Please throw the ball over the fence to us." The stranger bent down, picked up the ball and smilingly threw it over the fence to the students. Every student shouted aloud, "Thank you, Uncle; thank you, Uncle." The gentleman negotiated the corner and the students started playing again.


Supporting myself against the post of the fence, I could not help closing my eyes and thinking of another 'thank you' word, heard some minutes earlier. The students were eating lunch, one boy passed the glass of water to his friend, sitting on the other side of the table. The friend immediately said, 'Thank you' in a routine way.

With my eyes closed, and my mind tuned to the words 'thank you', I listened, "Gurbakhsh Singh! What an ungrateful person you are? Look! The students felt obliged to the stranger when their own ball was returned to them. They responded aloud 'thank you'. Just for pushing the glass of water by his friend, the student voluntarily said 'thank you'. How dare you ignore to feel 'thankful' to Him Who gave you this body and everything in this world to enjoy your life?"

I do not know for how long the above thought continued to occupy my mind. When I opened my eyes the students had gone to their classes. I slowly walked to the building, every cell of my body voluntarily repeating, "Waheguru, thank you."

I still remember myself drenched in the feelings, "God, Thank you." I enjoyed supreme bliss that was beyond words. As mentioned somewhere else, I was lucky to benefit from the association of Sant Teja Singh. While walking or just sitting, he was often heard saying, "Waheguru tera shukar hai, God! Thank you."

Today I recollect that experience, but have not been able to enjoy that kind of bliss again. It was a rare gift from Waheguru.

Happy Gurpurab!

Today it is the Seventh Nanak, Sri Guru Har Rai Sahib jee's prakaash diwas (birth day). Lakh Lakh Vadhaayee (many happy returns) to everyone on this Gurpurb day.

You can read a tribute article I have written on the article below:

"Simrau Sri Har Rai..."

Episode 4 of India Travels: Amrit Peeaa Satgur Deeaa

ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤੁ ਪੀਆ ਸਤਿਗੁਰਿ ਦੀਆ ॥
amrit peeaa satigur deeaa
I drink the Amrit, spiritual life giving Nectar, given by the True Guru.

ਅਵਰੁ ਨ ਜਾਣਾ ਦੂਆ ਤੀਆ ॥
avar na jaanaa dooaa teeaa
I do not know any other second or third.

ਏਕੋ ਏਕੁ ਸੁ ਅਪਰ ਪਰੰਪਰੁ ਪਰਖਿ ਖਜਾਨੈ ਪਾਇਦਾ ॥੧੨॥
eiko eik su apar parampar, parakh khajaanai paaeidaa
He is the One, Unique, Infinite and Endless Lord; He evaluates all beings and places some in His treasury. 12
(Ang 1034)

Its July 1st 2003, day 6 of the trip. I planned to go back to Sri Akaal Takhat the next day after finding out that the Amrit Sanchaar takes places at 12pm on Wednesdays and Sundays. I was excited and nervous after missing the first Amrit Sanchaar. I didn’t know what to expect, will I able to reach there in time or not?

Waking up in the morning I did Ishnaan (bathed) and Nitnem (daily prayers). However, today my was head was feeling HEAVY and I felt SICK. O dear! Of all days to go ill! Either it was heat stroke or God knows. But I didn’t want my health to come in the way of taking Amrit and asking Guru Sahib to accept me at His Feet.

The head was getting heavier and I was feeling queasy. When I walked it felt as if my head was going to topple over onto one side and my body was going to fall over. Chalo, Rab Rakha! I had some breakfast. Unlike Sunday I was unable to make Karhah Parshaad. However, all the family gathered and we did an Ardaas to Guru Sahib to grace Amrit di daat (the gift of Amrit).

This time only three of us went. My cousin, my mum, and I. As I was feeling weak and ill my cousin played Keertan tapes on the journey to Amritsar. “Sat Naam Waaheguroo, Sat Naam Waaheguroo… Dhan Guru Gobind Singh” was on my mind. I prayed that my headache is relieved by the time we reach Amritsar. It was July and therefore very hot.

We arrive in Amritsar and I am still feeling weak, but that didn’t change my mind about taking Amrit. We did Panj-Ishnaan (bathed face, feet and hands) in the Sarowar (pool) of Darbaar Sahib and did Matha Tekh at Sri Darbaar Sahibn. My ardaas was “Guru Sahib please bless me with darshan of the Guru-Roop Panj Piaare and bless your Daas (slave) with Amrit.”


It was 11am and we all sat in Sri Akaal Takhat Sahib and listened to the Paath (Gurbani) being read there. I was feeling better now. Other members of Sangat who wished to take Amrit were gathering and were sitting near us listening to the Paath being read. Then the sewadaars arrived and announced, “All those wish to become Guru-wale (the Guru’s ones) please come over.” My cousin and mum said that they will meet later in the afternoon. I walked over and the Pehredaar (guard) asked everyone that whoever wishes to take Amrit today must have had Keshi Ishnaan (bathed their hair as well as body) and be adorned with the Panj Kakkaar (5Ks). He clarified that the Kachhera should not be boxers or any other type of short. It can only be the Sikh-style of Kachhera which is tight near the knees.

As each person confirmed to the Pehredaar that they wish to take Amrit and are adorned with the Panj Kakkaar (with no jewelry or token of of any other faith on the body) and have bathed their body and kesh today we walked upstairs to the second floor of Sri Akaal Takhat Sahib. Guru Sahib da Prakaash was there. We sat in Guru jee’s presence waiting, and I could hear the people standing next to me reciting Benti Chaupayee Sahib da Paath (a prayer). I joined in and repeated Chaupayee Sahib over and over again. Waheguru! I don’t know how to explain the feeling nor am I going to attempt. Guru Jee nicely summaries the feeling as:

ਜਿਨਿ ਇਹ ਚਾਖੀ ਸੋਈ ਜਾਣੈ ਗੂੰਗੇ ਕੀ ਮਿਠਿਆਈ ॥
jin eih chaakhee soee jaanai goongé kee mithiaaee

Only one who tastes it knows it, like the mute (deaf & dumb person), who tastes the sweet candy, but cannot speak of it.

(Ang 607)

Then we were called up few at a time to go upstairs to the top floor of Sri Akaal Takhat Sahib. At the stair case two Pehredaars (gaurds) stood. They asked each person if they really wanted to take Amrit and whether we have the correct Bana (dress) and Kakkaars (articles of faith). I arrived upstairs and there was a Pehredaar at the door of the Diwaan (room) where the Amrit Sanchaar was to take place. One by one we entered the Diwaan, did Matha Tekh and sat down. The Panj Piaare arrived and said, “Anyone who does not want to become the Guru’s today, who does not want to take Amrit, they are requested to leave the room now. This is your last chance. Only those who wish to take the Guru’s Amrit and become the Guru’s should remain seated, everyone else must leave now.” Waheguru. I felt a shiver in a body. “This is the day” I thought to myself.


I still felt weak and my head still felt heavy and dizzy, however with Guru Kirpa my heachache and dizziness left during the Amrit Sanchaar. I am not going to talk about the Amrit Sanchaar itself and what happened, because I believe taking Amrit is a personal experience. An experience between oneself and his or her Guru. Sharing it with anyone and everyone seems to take away the sacredness and intimateness of the experience. However, I will share that if you would like to read about how the Amrit Sanchaar is conducted then please read the Sikh Rehat Maryada.

One memory, which I don’t mind sharing is of hearing the Jathedaar (leader) of the Panj Piaaré give us the Hukam (order) of keeping Rehat (disciplined way of life and code of conduct) and how we should now live, what is expected of us, what we are promising today, what we should avoid and refrain from and how to keep Chardikala jeevan (high spirited positive life) was mesmerising. There was pin drop silence. It took about 1 - 2 hours to explain the Rehat and Rehni Behni of the Khalsa from birth to death and how one should live life from now on. Dhan Guru, Dhan Guru Piaare.

Afterwards I walked back down to the groundfloor of Sri Akaal Takhat Sahib. My mum and cousin were waiting for me, and my mum gave me one massive hug :)

ਹਰਿ ਤੁਮ ਵਡ ਵਡੇ ਵਡੇ ਵਡ ਊਚੇ ਸੋ ਕਰਹਿ ਜਿ ਤੁਧੁ ਭਾਵੀਸ ॥
har tum vadd vadde vadde vadd ooche so karehi je tudh bhaavees
O Lord, You are the Greatest of the Great, the Greatest of the Great, the most Lofty and High. You do whatever You please.

ਜਨ ਨਾਨਕ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤੁ ਪੀਆ ਗੁਰਮਤੀ ਧਨੁ ਧੰਨੁ ਧਨੁ ਧੰਨੁ ਧੰਨੁ ਗੁਰੂ ਸਾਬੀਸ ॥੨॥੨॥੮॥
jan naanak amrit peeaa gurmatee dhan dhann dhan dhann dhann guroo saabees
Servant Nanak drinks the Amrit, spiritual life giving Nectar through the Guru's Teachings. Blessed, blessed, blessed, blessed, blessed and praised is the Guru. 228.
(Ang 1297)

Episode 3 of India Travels: Amrit is Only with Grace of the Guru

Extracts from diary when I went to Panjab in June-August 2003:

It’s Day 3 of the trip. Saturday 28^th June. I planned to beg for the gift of Amrit the next day at Sri Akaal Takhat Sahib (Amritsar). Amrit Sanchaars are held every Sunday and Wednesday at Sri Akaal Takhat Sahib (Amritsar) and Sri Keshgarh Sahib (Anandpur Sahib). However, we were unsure of the times. My Taayee jee (aunt) received Amrit from Sri Akaal Takhat Sahib in 1995. She said when she took Amrit the Amrit Sanchaar was in the evening and went into the night. However, I thought the Amrit Sanchaar was in the morning. Chalo, no one properly knew.


That night I was so excited. I went to sleep thinking of seeing the Guru-Roop Panj Piyaare and giving my head to Guru Sahib and pledging and committing my life to Sri Guru Granth Sahib jee and the Guru Khalsa Panth.

ਨੈਨ ਤਰਸਨ ਦਰਸ ਪਰਸਨ ਨਹ ਨੀਦ ਰੈਣਿ ਵਿਹਾਣੀਆ ॥
nain tarsan daras parsan, neh neend raiN vihaaNee-aa.
My eyes long for the Blessed Vision of Your Darshan; the night passes, but I cannot sleep.
(Ang 542, SGGS)

Waking up at Amrit-vela I did Ishnaan (bathed) and also did Keshi Ishnaan (washed my hair). After doing my morning Nitnem I was so excited. I did Ardaas asking Guru Sahib bless me with the gift of Amrit and take me into it his arms so that I can serve him all my life.


Everyone thought that the Amrit Sanchaar will probably be at 3pm. So in accordance to that we got ready. I tied my Dastaar and wore my new Kurta. It felt like getting ready to go to a wedding. I prepared Karhaah Parshaad and asked everyone to gather together. We do some Paath, 6 Paurees of Anand Sahib, followed by Ardaas. As a family we prayed for Guru Sahib to bestow the gift of Amrit. Sat Naam. My cousin drove us to Amritsar. My Taayee jee and mum came with us. Throughout the whole 2 or 3 hour journey we sang various shabads. My Taayee and I would take turns to sing shabads and did Simran together. Waheguru.


We arrived Amritsar and I bought a Sarbloh (iron) Kirpaan and Sarbloh Karha. My cousin and I did panj-ishnaan (bathed face, feet and hands) in the Sarowar (tank of pool) at Sri Darbaar Sahib. We the moved towardes Sri Darbaar Sahib and donated some Karhaah Parshaad and did Mathaa Tek. I did Ardaas at Guru jee’s Feet that may He shower the blessing of the gift of Amrit and Naam.

Then went to Sri Akaal Takhat Sahib. Waheguru! We had MISSED the Amrit Sanchaar. The doors for the Amrit Sanchaar were closed 30 minutes ago. Waheguru! It was 12.30pm now. And the Amrit Sanchaar started at 12pm. In mind I said, “Guru Sahib, please, please grace me with your gift of Amrit, please take me into your service, please hold my arm and make me Your son.” However, it was not written in my Karam (destiny) to take Amrit that day. We ate Guru-Ka-Langar and drove back home. I felt really sad, however continued my Ardaas to Guru Sahib.

ਨਾਨਕ ਪੂਰੈ ਕਰਮਿ ਸਤਿਗੁਰੁ ਮਿਲੈ ਹਰਿ ਜੀਉ ਕਿਰਪਾ ਕਰੇ ਰਜਾਇ ॥੨॥
naanak poorai karam satgur milai, har jee-o kirpaa kare rajaa-e. 2
O Nanak, by perfect good karma, you shall meet the True Guru, and then the Dear Lord Waheguru, by His Sweet Will, shall bless you with His Mercy. 2
(Ang 591)

Audio of Keertan at Bheji Simrit Kaur's House

Rsingh has kindly uploaded the Keertan audio from last Saturday's programme:


Keertan by Bhaji Abinash Singh jee
ਸੂਖ ਦੂਖ ਇਸੁ ਮਨ ਕੀ ਬਿਰਥਾ ਤੁਝ ਹੀ ਆਗੈ ਸਾਰੈ ॥੧॥
sookh dookh es man kee birthaa, tujh hee aagai saarai. ||1||
I describe to You my pleasure and pain, and the state of this mind. ||1||
Read the Full Shabad

ਹਾਥ ਦੇਇ ਰਾਖੈ ਅਪਨੇ ਕਉ ਸਾਸਿ ਸਾਸਿ ਪ੍ਰਤਿਪਾਲੇ ॥੧॥
haath de-e raakhai ape kau, saas saas pratipaale. ||1||
Giving His hand, Waheguru protects His devotee; with each and every breath, He cherishes him. ||1||
Read the Full Shabad



Keertan by Bhaji Maninder Singh jee
ਕਾਟੇ ਕਸਟ ਪੂਰੇ ਗੁਰਦੇਵ ॥
kaatte kastt poore gurdev.
The Perfect Divine Guru has removed my sorrow.
Read the Full Shabad

ਦੁਖ ਭੰਜਨੁ ਤੇਰਾ ਨਾਮੁ ਜੀ ਦੁਖ ਭੰਜਨੁ ਤੇਰਾ ਨਾਮੁ ॥
dukh bhanjan teraa naam jee, dukh bhanjan teraa naam.
The Destroyer of sorrow is Your Name, Waheguru; the Destroyer of sorrow is Your Name.
Read the Full Shabad



Keertan by Daas:
ਇਕ ਅਰਦਾਸਿ ਭਾਟ ਕੀਰਤਿ ਕੀ ਗੁਰ ਰਾਮਦਾਸ ਰਾਖਹੁ ਸਰਣਾਈ ॥੪॥੫੮॥
ik ardaas bhaat keerat kee, gur raamdaas raakho sarNaa-ee. ||4||58||
Keerat the poet offers this one prayer: O Guru Raam Daas, save me! Take me into Your Sanctuary! ||4||58||
Read the Full Shabad

ਮਨੁ ਨ ਡਿਗੈ ਤਨੁ ਕਾਹੇ ਕਉ ਡਰਾਇ ॥
man na digai tan kaahay ka-o daraa-ay.
My mind was not shaken; why should my body be afraid?
Read the Full Shabad


More Keertan audios from the programme on Rsingh's blog
For photos check out Bhenji Simrit Kaur's blog

Episode 2 of India Travels: Guru Ka Langar?

Extracts from diary when I went to Panjab in June-August 2003:

We arrived at Amritsar airport Thursday night. My cousin came to pick us up. By the time we got to the house and said hi to everyone it was 3 o'clock in the morning. So I did ishnaan (bathed) and did my morning Nitnem (daily prayers).

Later in the morning I woke up and freshened up. I found out that there is an Akhand Paath da Bhog (the conclusion of 3 days of continous reading of Sri Guru Granth Sahib jee) at my cousin's inlaws house at RuRke (near Gorayia). So everyone got ready. My cousin, his wife (bhabi jee), my neice & nephew, my mum and I got ready and went to the programme.

We arrived at my cousin's inlaws house and we did Matha Tekh. I sat in the room where Guru jee was. Keertan was being sung. Chalo, Samaaptee happens (programme ends). Guru Sahib's saroop was to be taken from the house back to the Gurdwara Sahib (which was down the road). Sat Naam, WaaheGuroo! Guru Sahib's saroop was being carried by the Gurdwara Granthi Singh from upstairs to downstairs. The shocking thing was the only person to do Matha Tekh to Guru jee while walking past downstairs of the house (where the majority of the ladies were standing) were my mum and I. NO ONE ELSE bent down to do Matha Tekh. I couldn't believe it. WHATS HAPPENING?

I asked my mum whether she found that odd that no one did Matha Tekh as Guru Sahib walked pass (instead they slightly lowered their head and had their hands together). My mum agreed that it was strange.

Now it was Langar time. "Roti is ready! Go and eat roti! ...ਰੋਟੀ ਤਿਅਾਰ ਹੈ! ਅਾਜੋ ਰੋਟੀ ਛਕੋ!" Rab Bhalla Kare. "ROTI!" Is this what we have demeaned Langar to be? I said to my cousin and the rest of the men "Bhai Sahib, are we eating Roti or Guru-Ka-Langar?" They realised that they had belittled Langar and said, "No, Langar."

The Langar was meant to be served on the roof of the house. I was just about to walk up the stairs when I saw the "LANGAR" being cooked. Waheguroooo, Wahegurooo, Waheguroo! The "Langar" was being cooked by HALWAAEE (Cooks). Firstly, the cooking didn't look hygienic. Secondly, most of the workers looked non-Sikh. And lastly, most of them didn't even have their head covered!! Chalo, "don't be fussy" I thought to myself (I wasn't Amritdhari yet).

Suddenly these ladies arrived. They are called "BaazigarNeeaa." They are poor people who usually do odd jobs or dance at weddings to make money. Anyway, they came over and asked the family if they could have some Langar to eat. They looked poor and hungry by they look on their face. "GO AWAY!" was the response from the family. "DID YOU NOT HEAR, GO AWAY!" Sat Naam. Dhan Guru Nanak! Have we forgotten what langar is about? Have we forgotten the function of Langar, which is to feed the hungry person's stomach, and where the rich and poor sit together and eat? O dear me! I told my cousin, "Why you turning these people away?" "They will eat and then keep on asking for more and more food and take it with them home!" he replied. Well "I am sure you can at least give them a few Jaleebis (Indian sweets) each? It's not exactly "LANGAR" if you turn people away and only feed certain people!" Sadly they were turned away! Rab Bhalla Kare.



CAN THINGS GET ANY WORSE? I got up on the roof. "Langar Chhako! (Eat Langar)" O deary me. Perhaps I was better off calling the food "ROTI" than "langar"! It was a HELP YOURSELF BUFFET. Reminded me of Pizza Hut lunch time buffet. I felt sick. The plates looked dirty (all catering plates in India are DIRTY!). I thought O well "a man has to do what a man has to do." I tried to pick the plate, which LOOKED the cleanest (well they can't be CLEAN, because they are only washed with water!!). I poured a little bit of daal and sabji and 2 rotis.

A picture of Guru Arjan Dev Ji serving Langar, the way it should be served.


WHERE DO I SIT? Do I have choice? Phone a friend? 50/50? Or perhaps ask the Sangat. The options were either stand up or sit on chairs. I sat on a chair. Ate the food saying "Sat Naam, Waheguru!".

A picture showing how one usually sits when eating Guru-Ka-Langar in Pangat (the congregation).

I could have done with another roti but after I saw people eating and then going back for seconds without washing their hands and touching the rotis and salad with their unwashed hands, i thought "Ermm. I think I will leave it!" :)

In England we know know HOW TO EAT LANGAR! At this function all the men who wore rumaals (which was the MAJORITY), took their rumaals off their heads and ate "LANGAR" bareheaded. It was disturbing to see. I thought "What has happened here! Its like a scene in a horror film!"


The Granthi Singhs came back from the Gurdwara Sahib to the house. I asked them about this. Firstly, how come people didn't properly do Matha Tekh when Guru jee was being carried out of the house. Secondly, I asked him does he know what the Guru's Langar di maryada is (the Guru's tradition for conducting Langar). To the first question he said, "Welcome to Panjab. People don't have pyaar for Guru. They are doing Paath as a ritual." I thought fair enough. It's sad but what can he do.

To the second question he smiled and said, "Yes I know Langar di Maryada?" Then I asked, "Is that being followed here?" He said, "No Bhai Sahib! Welcome to Panjab. No one follows Gurmat. They pay us and expect us to keep quiet. If we spoke they will say "Go home!" to us. What can we do? This is our livelihood. We try to enforce Gurmat where we feel we can do so, but where people do their own way of doing things, we can't stop them."

How sad! :( My mum told the ladies of the family whose function it was that how Langar being served is not how it is should be done and is done in UK. The ladies had never thought about it! And they said "O yeah, I suppose thats true. It should be done like that. However, everyone does it like that in Panjab." I was shocked that people invited Guru jee to their home, have an Akhand Paath and have Keertan sung YET they can't be bothered to COOK Langar themselves, can't even bothered to SERVE langar, and on top of that can't be bothered to do MATHA TEKH to Guru Sahib when leaving the house. Isn't this PURE LAZINESS?


This was my first proper day in Panjab and it was a painful experience to wake up and realise how Sikhi had become a "Karam" (act), rather than "Dharam" (way of life). May Waheguru bless us all with wisdom and pyaar (love) for his Beloved Lotus Feet.

The Cracked Pot...

Its good to know your own flaws, here's why:


The Cracked Pot : A Tale from India

A water bearer in India had two large pots, each hung on each end of a pole which he carried across his neck. One of the pots had a crack in it, and while the other pot was perfect and always delivered a full portion of water at the end of the long walk from the stream to the masters house, the cracked pot arrived only half full.

For a full two years this went on daily, with the bearer delivering only one and a half pots full of water in his masters house. Of course, the perfect pot was proud of its accomplishments, perfect to the end for which it was made. But the poor cracked pot was ashamed of its own imperfection, and miserable that it was able to accomplish only half of what it had been made to do.

After two years of what it perceived to be a bitter failure, it spoke to the water bearer one day by the stream. "I am ashamed of myself, and I want to apologize to you." "Why?" asked the bearer. "What are you ashamed of?" "I have been able, for these past two years, to deliver only half my load because this crack in my side causes water to leak out all the way back to your masters house. Because of my flaws, you have to do all of this work, and you don't get full value from your efforts," the pot said.


The water bearer felt sorry for the old cracked pot, and in his compassion he said, "As we return to the masters house, I want you to notice the beautiful flowers along the path." Indeed, as they went up the hill, the old cracked pot took notice of the sun warming the beautiful wild flowers on the side of the path, and this cheered it some. But at the end of the trail, it still felt bad because it had leaked out half its load, and so again the Pot apologized to the bearer for its failure.

The bearer said to the pot, "Did you notice that there were flowers only on your side of your path, but not on the other pots side? That's because I have always known about your flaw, and I took advantage of it. I planted flower seeds on your side of the path, and every day while we walk back from the stream, you've watered them. For two years I have been able to pick these beautiful flowers to decorate my masters table. Without you being just the way you are, he would not have this beauty to grace his house."


Moral of the story:

Each of us has our own unique flaws. We are all cracked pots. It's the cracks and flaws we each have that make our lives together so very interesting and rewarding. Don't be afraid of your flaws. Acknowledge them, and you too can be the cause of beauty. Know that in our weakness we find our strength.

Let's listen to Guru jee's guidance, which He offers us:

ਗੁਣਾ ਕਾ ਹੋਵੈ ਵਾਸੁਲਾ ਕਢਿ ਵਾਸੁ ਲਈਜੈ ॥
guNaa kaa hovai vaasulaa, kadh vaas la-eejai.
One who has a basket of fragrant virtues, should enjoy its fragrance.

ਜੇ ਗੁਣ ਹੋਵਨ੍ਹ੍ਹਿ ਸਾਜਨਾ ਮਿਲਿ ਸਾਝ ਕਰੀਜੈ ॥
je guN hovniH saajnaa, mil saanjh kareejai.
If my friends have virtues, I will share in them.

ਸਾਝ ਕਰੀਜੈ ਗੁਣਹ ਕੇਰੀ ਛੋਡਿ ਅਵਗਣ ਚਲੀਐ ॥
saanjh kareejai guNeh keree, chhodd avgan chalee-ai.
Let us form a partnership, and share our virtues; let us abandon our faults, and walk on the Path.

ਪਹਿਰੇ ਪਟੰਬਰ ਕਰਿ ਅਡੰਬਰ ਆਪਣਾ ਪਿੜੁ ਮਲੀਐ ॥
pehire pattambar kar adambar, aapnaa piR malee-ai.
Let us wear our virtues like silk clothes; let us decorate ourselves, and enter the arena.

ਜਿਥੈ ਜਾਇ ਬਹੀਐ ਭਲਾ ਕਹੀਐ ਝੋਲਿ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤੁ ਪੀਜੈ ॥
jithai jaa-e behee-ai bhalaa, kehee-ai jhol amrit peejai.
Let us speak of goodness, wherever we go and sit; let us skim off Amrit, the spiritual-life giving Nectar, and drink it in.

ਗੁਣਾ ਕਾ ਹੋਵੈ ਵਾਸੁਲਾ ਕਢਿ ਵਾਸੁ ਲਈਜੈ ॥੩॥
guNaa kaa hovai vaasulaa, kadh vaas la-eejai. ||3||
One who has a basket of fragrant virtues, should enjoy its fragrance. ||3||
(Ang 765-766)

Photos from Simrit Kaur's Keertan Programme

Here's some photos from Saturday's Keertan programme (courteousy of Rsingh) held at Bhenji Simrit Kaur's house. She invited her friends from university and we had a nice get together in the presence of Guru jee. For more photos please check out Rsingh's blog. He should be uploading the audios soon as well.




Satguru, Dhan Sri Guru Granth Sahib jee stting on their throne.



Divmeet Kaur bhenji & Simrit Kaur bhenji. (Haven't seen Divmeet Kaur bhenji for a LONG time. She graduated as a Physio from King's College last year. Bhenji does really nice Kirtan!)



Bhenji Seleena Kaur (King's College) and Bhenji Dilpreet Kaur (UCL) listening to Keertan.



Bhaji Abinash Singh doing Keertan. Bhai Sahib's voice is beautiful :) The Tabla Master is Harkiret Singh (from King's). Veerji teaches how to play Tabla every Thursday at King's College at the Sikh Music classes. He's very talented and travels up and down the country to take part in various shows and contests.



Bhaji Maninder Singh (aka Minna). Very nice Keertan. His grandfather is the late Giani Amolakh Singh jee (a great Gursikh).



Daas doing Keertan



Bhaji Hardeep Singh (from King's) doing Keertan on Sarangi. Bhaji's been learning the Sarangi at the King's College Sikh Music classes for just under a year. Nice to see the young generation keeping traditional Sikh Music heritage alive :)


Sangat listening to Keertan.


Pardhaan Sahib, Bhaji Harjeet Singh, President of King's College Sikh Soc.



Daas reading Hukamnama (the Edict) from Guru Sahib.

The Hukamnama was on Ang (respectful word for 'page') 531-532:

ਦੇਵਗੰਧਾਰੀ ਮਹਲਾ ੫ ॥
deganDhaaree mehlaa 5.
Dev-Gandhaaree (this raag has a common theme of self-realisation & merging with the Spouse, the raag's mood is soft & tranquil), in the voice of the Fifth Guru:

ਮਾਈ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਕੇ ਚਰਨ ਨਿਹਾਰਉ ॥
maa-ee, prabh ke charan nihaarau.
O (my) mother! I (continually) long to see the Feet of Waheguru.

ਕਰਹੁ ਅਨੁਗ੍ਰਹੁ ਸੁਆਮੀ ਮੇਰੇ ਮਨ ਤੇ ਕਬਹੁ ਨ ਡਾਰਉ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
karhu angrehu su-aamee, mere man te kabahu na daarau. 1 rahaa-o.
(and always do Ardaas that O Waheguru!) Be Merciful to me, O my Lord and Master, that I might never forsake them from my mind. 1.Pause.

ਸਾਧੂ ਧੂਰਿ ਲਾਈ ਮੁਖਿ ਮਸਤਕਿ ਕਾਮ ਕ੍ਰੋਧ ਬਿਖੁ ਜਾਰਉ ॥
saaDhoo Dhoor laa-ee mukh mastak, kaam kroDh bikh jaarau.
(O mother! I continually do Ardaas before Waheguru that) may I apply the dust of the feet of the Guru to my face and forehead, (and) burn away the poison of sexual desire and anger.

ਸਭ ਤੇ ਨੀਚੁ ਆਤਮ ਕਰਿ ਮਾਨਉ ਮਨ ਮਹਿ ਇਹੁ ਸੁਖੁ ਧਾਰਉ ॥੧॥
sabh te neech aatam kar maan-o, man meh eihu sukh Dhaarau. 1.
May I always judge myself to be the lowest of all; and within my mind (forever) instill the peace (of humility). 1.

ਗੁਨ ਗਾਵਹ ਠਾਕੁਰ ਅਬਿਨਾਸੀ ਕਲਮਲ ਸਗਲੇ ਝਾਰਉ ॥
gun gaaveh thaakur abinaasee, kal-mal sagle jhaarau.
Come together and sing the Glorious Praises of the Imperishable Lord and Master Waheguru; (through the blessings of singing Waheguru's Praises) all my (past) sins have been shaken off (my mind).

ਨਾਮ ਨਿਧਾਨੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਦਾਨੁ ਪਾਵਉ ਕੰਠਿ ਲਾਇ ਉਰਿ ਧਾਰਉ ॥੨॥੧੯॥
naam niDhaan naanak daan paavau, kanth laa-e ur Dhaarau. 219.
O Nanak! (Say, O Waheguru! from You I ask that) may I obtain the gift of the treasure of the Naam, and hug it close to me and enshrine it in my heart. 219.

You can see more photos on Bhenji Simrit Kaur's blog

Weekend Travels (Part 3)

Chalo, we arrive at radio. Seleena Kaur Bhenji was the guest for this week's show. She had some really nice questions on the English translation of Ardaas, which she had asked me previously and kindly shared on air on Sunday's show.


Below are Bhenji Seleena Kaur's questions (which I am grateful she asked), with my answers below:

I was just re-checking the simran booklet we've made [for Sikh Society] and there is a bit of the translation that I would like to double check with you...I have my thoughts in the text as capitals...

from the ardaas:

sree Bhagautee jee sahaaé
May the respected sword (God in the form of the Destroyer of evil doers) help us!

vaar sree Bhagautee jee kee paatshaahee dasvee
Ode of the respected sword recited by the Tenth Guru.

WHAT DOESTHIS MEAN...HOW CAN U RECITE A SWORD?

The Divine Creative Being has been attributed with countless Names, for example, ‘Allah’, ‘Raam’, ‘Kudaah’, ‘Guru’, ‘Satguru’, ‘Gobind’, ‘Raam,’ ‘Nirunkaar’, ‘Gopal’etc and so on. However Gurbaani clearly states that the Creator Being has no name and is beyond our description.

ਨਵਤਨ ਨਾਮ ਜਪੈ ਦਿਨੁ ਰਾਤੀ ਇਕੁ ਗੁਣੁ ਨਾਹੀ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਕਹਿ ਸੰਗਾ ॥੧੬॥
navtan naam japai din raatee, ik gun naahee prabh kahi sangaa. ||16||
One may chant new names for You day and night, but even so, O God, no one can describe even one of Your Glorious Virtues. ||16|| (Ang 1083)

Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, the Tenth Nanak, says in Jaap Sahib:
ਤਵ ਸਰਬ ਨਾਮ ਕਥੈ ਕਵਨ ਕਰਮ ਨਾਮ ਬਰਨਤ ਸੁਮਤਿ ॥1॥
tav sarab naam kathe kavan, karam naam barnat sumat.1.
“No one can tell all the Names of the Lord, who is called by special Name by the wise, according to His excellences and doings. ||1||”” (P. 2, Dasam Granth)

Therefore, there is no name for Vaheguru, but instead we use Vaheguru’s actions and virtues to address him and praise Him. In the case of Bhagauti, which literally means sword, it is as an adverb (describing doing word) to explain God's attributes. For example, both Vaheguru and the Kirpan share the qualities of being powerful, destroying of tyrants and negativity, delivering justice and protecting the saints and the weak. Therefore the Sword (Bhagauti) is used as an expression of addressing God.

teg bahaadar simreeai, kar nau niDh aavai Dhaa
Remember and meditate upon Guru Tegh Bahadar; and the nine sources of wealth will come hastening to your home.

WHAT ARE THE NINE SOURCES OF WEALTH?...

You can read the reply to this question in an article on Panthic Weekly here.

sikhaa(n) noo sikhee daan, kes daan, rehat daan, bibek daan, bharosa daan, naam daan, sree amritsar jee dé ishnaan, chaunkeeaa(n), jhanddé, bungé, jugo jug attal, dharam kaa jaikaar, bolo jee waaheguroo!
Kindly confer upon the Sikhs the gift of Sikhi (Sikhism), the gift of unshorn hair, the gift of observing Sikh discipline, the gift of wisdom, the gift of firm faith, the gift of belief and the biggest of Naam and of bathing in the respected Tank (sarowar) of Amritsar. O Lord! May the choirs, the mansions and the banners exist forever; may the truth every triumpth; utter Waaheguroo (Wonderous Lord)!

WHAT "MANSIONS, GURDWARAS, AND BANNERS" IS IT TALKING ABOUT?

"Chaunkeeaa(n)" means posts. Large historical Gurdwaras would have these watch posts around the Gurdwara to protect the Gurdwara Sahib from attacks.

"Bungé" means house or settlement. Again, many large historical Gurdwara, especially the the Panj Takhat have houses or settlements were certain regiments or jathas would camp out.

Hé Akaal Purakh, Apné Panth Dé Sadaa Sahaaee Daataar Jeeo, Sree Nankaanaa Saahib té Hor Gurduaariaa, Jinaa To Panth Nu Vichoriaa Ge-aa Hai, Khulé Darshan Didaar Té Sevaa Sambaal Daa Daan Khaalsa Ji Noo Baksho.
O Immortal Lord! The constant Helper of His Sikhs, kindly confer the gift of visiting, maintaining, controlling and worshipping,without any restrictions, the Gurdwara of Nanakana Sahib Ji, other Gurdwaras, and Gurus Mansions of which the Khalsa has been deprived.

WHAT DEPRIVATION IS THIS REFERRING TO? GURDWARAS THAT SIKHS DO NOT CONTROL? WHICH ONES?

After 1947 India was partitioned into Pakistan. During this partition, Sikhs were separated from many of Sikh shrines and historical Gurdwaras in Pakistan. In particular Sri Nankana Sahib. So we do Ardaas that may we be continously be able to visit these Gurdwaras freely, without restriction and that we may be able manage them and maintain Gurmat Rehat in these Gurdwaras.

The ardaas is not just for those Gurdwaras in Pakistan, however it's an ardaas (prayer) that may all Gurdwaras worldwide be managed and controlled by the KHALSA. Is this already the case? Unfortuntaly no! Many Gurdwaras are being run by people who are not Amritdhari and nor do they aim to take Amrit and commit themselves to the Guru. They commit the four taboos (which includes cutting the hair, taking intoxicants like alcohol etc...) and yet manage the House of Guru Nanak. You can read more about this issue on an article published by Bhai Gurmukh Singh on Panthic Weekly

Raaj Karegaa Khaalsa, Aakee R'he Naa Koé.
K'vaar Hoé Sabh Milengé, Baché Sharan Jo Hoé.
The Sikh people shall remain free and sovereign, always, non-challenging this position. For, all shall realise, after bitter frustration, that there is no liberation except in the way of the life that the Khalsa upholds!

HOW CAN SIKHS SIMULTAENOUSLY BELIEVE IN RESPECT FOR ALL FAITHS AND THAT ONLY SIKHS ARE LIBERATED?... DOESN'T THIS INDIRECTLY IMPLY THAT SIKHS BELIEVE THAT THE SIKH WAY IS THE ONLY WAY?... THAT SUGGESTS THAT SIKHI IS SUPERIOR TO OTHER FAITHS AND IS ANOTHER FORM OF CASTE SYSTEM AND DIVISION.

Note: The first part of Dohiraa (the couplet sang at the end of Ardaas) is a Rehatnaama of Bhai Prahlaad Singh jee, who records the spoken order of Guru Gobind Singh jee. Second part of the Dohira (as shown above) is Guru Gobind Singh jee's spoken words recorded in Bhai Nand Lal Singh jee's Tankhahnaama.

Sri Guru Granth Sahib jee talks about the Khalsa as:

ਕਹੁ ਕਬੀਰ ਜਨ ਭਏ ਖਾਲਸੇ ਪ੍ਰੇਮ ਭਗਤਿ ਜਿਹ ਜਾਨੀ ॥੪॥੩॥
kaho kabeer jan bhe-e khaalse, prem bhagat jeh jaanee. ||4||3||
Says Kabeer, those humble people become pure - they become Khalsa - who know the Lord's loving devotional worship. ||4||3||
(Ang 655)

What does the Khalsa stand for and represent? The answer is: Truth; Justice; Courage; Sewa (selfless service); Saint-Warrior; Respect; Honour; Living in Grace & Glory of God; Seeing God in all; Respecting all people and creation; Defending the Weak; Living Dharam; Not polluting the body and causing unnecessary harm to others etc.

It is ONLY through the LIFESTYLE OF THE KHALSA that the world can be liberated. NO ONE can find liberation through ANY OTHER WAY!

The Khalsa projects these values, these principles and these virtues in a PHYSICAL FORM through their Rehat (disciplined way of life) and 5Ks. For example the Kirpaan (sword) is a physical projection of Truth & Justice, the Kesh (unshorn hair) covered with a Dastaar (turban) is a physical projection of the belief of living in the Grace & Glory of God, and the Kachhera (Sikh undergarment0 is an outer projection of the value of living a high moral character etc. So it is ONLY through the KHALSA'S WAY OF LIFE and PRINCIPLES that a person can be liberated.

Look at the Human Rights declaration, a work of the 20th century is something which Guru Tegh Bahadar (the Ninth Nanak) practiced in reality by giving his head for the freedom of human rights and freedom of religious expression. (Amnesty International recognise Guru Tegh Bahadar as the first Human Rights Activist who sacrificed his life for the freedom of others). Now the world is waking up to the principles and message of Guru Nanak Ji (whether they realise it or not). TRUTH IS UNIVERSAL. Sikhs do not have a monopoloy on Truth. Our Guru's simply showed us a simple way of living and a SHORT CUT to EXPERIENCING GOD and EXPERIENCING a LIFE OF BLISS (happiness).

Rab Bhalla Kare! One day there will a smoking ban in Western countries for sure and eventually the world. The same goes for alcohol and intoxicants though it may take a few more centuries.

Weekend Travels (Part 2)

Yesterday I went to Southall (again!). I had been invited to attend the Dastaar (turban) tying class, which takes place in the car park hall at Park Avenue Gurdwara every Sunday 3.30-4.30pm. It was great to see so many children. Most of them had brought Paghs (turbans) from home. They had all picked Pagh-styles, which they wanted. It was really funny. Someone wanted an AFRICAN pagh, another person wanted a DESI pagh, and another person wanted a "TOPI" (as in "HAT") style pagh. It was great fun and the children enjoyed it.

One kid tied a Desi pagh. Firstly, his face was weighed down by the pagh. Secondly, you couldn't see the poor kid's eyes! They were covered up! Thirdly, the pagh was bigger than the poor soul's face. Waheguru! (If you are interested in learning to tie a Dastaar there are some great videos on SikhNet.com)


Below are few examples of the many different pagh styles:

This is what I call "Jalandar" pagh, also known as "Nok" pagh. Very hardcore Desi style! I think its called Jalandhar pagh because it is huge and looks like he could have all of Jalandhar on his head. It reminds me of one the boys in the class yesterday, which I was referring to, who's dastaar was bigger than his head. Sat Naam!



A neat and tidy Dummalla Pagh. Nihang Singhs mainly wear this sytle of Dastaar. Its designed so that one keep ones in the tucked in the Dastaar.

Here's another Dumalla photo. This is Nihang Major Singh from Amritsar. Why on earth would someone want to tie such a huge pagh! 1) Neck pain, 2) How do you turn your head around, and 3) Bending down might be a problem (especially doing Matha Tekh!). Suppose whatever takes your fancy. Apnaa Aapnaa Sir Hai:




Ermm... Perhaps this can be identified as a "TOPI" (hat) pagh. (Doesn't tickle my fancy! I'll stick to my pagh sytle! waheguru.) By the way this is Achanak. Don't know if anyone remembers him?


More of Desi "College-Style" pagh. College Style because a lot of Panjabi boys in colleges and university in Panjabi tie a pagh like that. The bloke in the photo looks bit scary in the purple! Waheguru!


This is the "African" Pagh. Most Sikhs from Africa (who migrated there from Panjab) wear this style Pagh. Its get a sharp point at the end. A lot of people starch their pagh and so it ends up looking like "Blue Peter Pagh," i.e. here's one I made earlier.

Here's some photos of Sikh ladies' turbans (which slightly differs in style to males):

(Hope no one is offended on my commentaries on the few examples of different styles of pagh). The turban is our Guru's gift to us. It is how we crown ourselves as the Singhs and Kaurs who sit on the throne of commitment to our own higher consciousness. For men and women alike, this projective identity conveys royalty, grace, and uniqueness. It is a signal to others that we live in the image of Akal Purakh and are dedicated to serving all. The turban doesn't represent anything except complete commitment. When you choose to stand out by tying your turban, you stand fearlessly as one single person standing out from six billion people. It is a most outstanding act. The turban on a physical level protects our Kesh, covers our head (and dasam duaar, spiritual gate on top of head) and creates a physical reminder to oneself and the world of who's son and daughter you are and how you live an admirable and chardikala way of life.


It was good to see uncle jee's, aunty jee's and children all in a learning environment and having fun. Most children learnt the technique of tying a pagh. They were given a pagh to take home. Till next week they have time to mess around and play about with the Pagh and try to learn how to tie it. Coming back next week they get help and tips etc. Eventually there will be Dastaar (turban) tying contest on Vaisakhi with prizes. So the children are excited in tying a good looking pagh. The age of children was from 11 to 16. So basically secondary school age. The aunty jee's and uncle jee's invited for next week as well and also given me 10 minutes to give a talk about why we tie a Dastaar.


Afterwards I listened to Keertan and then met up with Bhenji Seleena Kaur. We were going to the radio and walking down the broadway and we came across a Gujrati Hindi-speaking elderly gentleman. In Hindi he called us over and asked for help. He looked a bit shaken up. He said that his wife has gone shopping to buy something (in particular). She was meant to buy it and come back, but she hasn't. He said its been half an hour and she hasn't arrived. I said that ladies do take time when browsing shops, and that he shouldn't worried. Sat Naam! Poor guy had tears in eyes and said, "my wife recently had a hear by-pass. We usually never leave each other and go to shops together. She doesn't have her mobile. I am worried for her health." Poor bloke was distraught but I didn't know what I could do other than do an Ardaas! So I told the man (in Hindi, well it was Panjabi with one or two Hindi words!) "Bhai Sahib have faith in Rab (God). God Willing, she is fine and just gone to browse other shops. 30 minutes is long. Please stand near the car so that if she comes back you don't miss her." He sounded relieved to talk to us and then we left him. We didn't help him really, but the man seemed a lot more calmer and relieved sharing his worry.


To be continued...

Weekend Travels (Part 1)

Guru Piyaari'o, this weekend has been busy. On Saturday morning it was Bhenji Simrit Kaur's Keertan programme at her house. It was great programme. Her family did Sukhmani Sahib paath first. Then her friends from university did Keertan. Bhaji Abinash Singh, Bhaji Maninder Singh (aka Minna), Daas, Bhaji Hardeep Singh, Bhenji Divmeet Kaur and Bhenji Dilpreet Kaur did Keertan. I will post the Keertan audios and photos up soon. So watch this space as they say in films.


Afterwards I went to Southall. I think Southall has become a spiritual home for me. I love listening to Keertan and Katha (discourse on Gurbani). It was Bhai Veer Singh Jee Delhi Wale's last evening of Katha at Park Avenue Gurdwara. I mentioned his Katha in a previous post. Bhai Sahib's Katha on Saturday was on the topic of "Nindiyaa" (slander). Bhai Sahib gave a beautiful description of what Nindiyaa is and how it doesn't have a negative effect on the devotees of Waheguru.

A rose plant also grows thorns. What is "Nindiyaa" (slander). Nindiyaa is not recognising the roses on the plant and instead saying it is plant of thorns. We all have "avguns" (negative points) have saying something about someone becomes slander when we make someone out to be fully bad, and see no good in the person whatsoever, i.e. bad through in through. However, no-one is perfect, only the Guru and Waheguru are Perfect. Hence doing Nindiyaa of anyone is bad, defining someone is through and through bad and not recognising the even smallest amount of good quality or virtue in a person is considered Nindiyaa.

Gurbani says:
ਨਿੰਦਾ ਭਲੀ ਕਿਸੈ ਕੀ ਨਾਹੀ ਮਨਮੁਖ ਮੁਗਧ ਕਰੰਨਿ ॥
nindaa bhalee kisai kee naahee, manmukh mugaDh karann.
It is not good to slander anyone, but the foolish, self-willed manmukhs still do it.

ਮੁਹ ਕਾਲੇ ਤਿਨ ਨਿੰਦਕਾ ਨਰਕੇ ਘੋਰਿ ਪਵੰਨਿ ॥੬॥
muh kaale tin nindkaa, narke Ghor pavann. ||6||
The faces of the slanderers turn black (in this life & the next), and they fall into the most horrible hell. ||6||
(ang 755, SGGS)


The saintly people appreciate Nindiyaa. They don't lose anything through people slandering them. This is because the wise person uses people's slander to self-analyse himself or herself and correct his or her "avgun" (negative points) and convert them to "guns" (virtues). However, the Nindak (slanderer) is stuck in slandering and forgets self-correct and improve his own jeevan (life). Hence, the wise saintly people win against the Nindaks.

ਹਰਿ ਜਨੁ ਰਾਮ ਨਾਮ ਗੁਨ ਗਾਵੈ ॥
har jan raam naam gun gaavai.
Waheguru's humble servant sings the Glorious Praises of the Waheguru's Name.

ਜੇ ਕੋਈ ਨਿੰਦ ਕਰੇ ਹਰਿ ਜਨ ਕੀ ਅਪੁਨਾ ਗੁਨੁ ਨ ਗਵਾਵੈ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
je ko-ee nind kare har jan kee, apunaa gun na gavaavai. ||1|| rahaa-o.||
Even if someone slanders the Lord Waheguru's humble servant, he does not give up his own goodness. ||1||Pause||
(Ang 719, SGGS)

Giani Bhai Veer Singh Jee then continued his Katha and shared a story from the Ninth Nanak, Sri Guru Tegh Bahadar jee's lifetime about the question of experiencing God:

Once a Sikh came to Guru Sahib and said "O Guru jee, you say God is in us and everywhere and in everything. However, Guru Sahib I cannot see Him. Where is He? You say He is everywhere but I cannot see Him. Show him to me Guru Sahib!"

Guru Sahib smiled to the Sikh. "O Sikh, it is true that Waheguru is within us all, in everyone and everything, in the land, in the sea and skies. Tell me O Sikh, show me the fragrance of a rose flower!" "But Guru Sahib you can only smell them, you cannot see it," replied the Sikh. "You cannot say the fragrance of a flower does not exist. We cannot see the fragrance of the flower, we can only experience it through smelling it. Tell me O Sikh show me hunger!" The Sikh replied, "Dear Guru, you cannot show hunger!" Guru jee said, "What don't people get hungry? You cannot see hunger, does not mean hunger does not exist. Hunger is FELT by all and EXPERIENCED by all, however it cannot be seen. Now dear Sikh show me AIR... "

The Sikh realised that Waheguru cannot be seen with our worldly eyes. We fail to realise and see the Waheguru pervading in the flower, water, tree, everyone around us, and within ourself. We cannot see God but EXPERIENCE GOD. A fish does cannot see water, because it is in water. However, fish knows that without water it will die!

Gurbani says:

ੴ ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਪ੍ਰਸਾਦਿ ॥
ik-oNkaar satgur prasaad.||
One Universal Creator Being. By The Grace Of The True Guru:

ਧਨਾਸਰੀ ਮਹਲਾ ੯ ॥
Dhanaasree mehlaa 9.||
Dhanaasaree, Ninth Mehl:

ਕਾਹੇ ਰੇ ਬਨ ਖੋਜਨ ਜਾਈ ॥
kaahe re ban khojan jaa-ee.
Why do you go looking (for Waheguru) in the forest?

ਸਰਬ ਨਿਵਾਸੀ ਸਦਾ ਅਲੇਪਾ ਤੋਹੀ ਸੰਗਿ ਸਮਾਈ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
sarab nivaasee sadaa alepaa, tohee sang samaa-ee. ||1|| rahaa-o.||
Although he is unattached (from Maya - the illusionary world), he dwells everywhere. He is always with you as your companion. ||1||Pause||

ਪੁਹਪ ਮਧਿ ਜਿਉ ਬਾਸੁ ਬਸਤੁ ਹੈ ਮੁਕਰ ਮਾਹਿ ਜੈਸੇ ਛਾਈ ॥
puhap maDh ji-o baas basat hai, mukar maahi jaise chhaa-ee.
Like the fragrance which remains in the flower, and like the reflection (of a person looking) in the mirror,

ਤੈਸੇ ਹੀ ਹਰਿ ਬਸੇ ਨਿਰੰਤਰਿ ਘਟ ਹੀ ਖੋਜਹੁ ਭਾਈ ॥੧॥
taise hee har base nirantar, ghat hee khojahu bhaa-ee. ||1||
the Lord dwells deep within; search for Him within your own heart, O Siblings of Destiny. ||1||

ਬਾਹਰਿ ਭੀਤਰਿ ਏਕੋ ਜਾਨਹੁ ਇਹੁ ਗੁਰ ਗਿਆਨੁ ਬਤਾਈ ॥
baahar bheetar eiko jaanhu, eihu gur gi-aan bataa-ee.
Outside (in every place) and inside (the body and outside the body), know that there is only the One Lord (prevading everywehre); the Guru has imparted this (spiritual life giving) wisdom to me.

ਜਨ ਨਾਨਕ ਬਿਨੁ ਆਪਾ ਚੀਨੈ ਮਿਟੈ ਨ ਭ੍ਰਮ ਕੀ ਕਾਈ ॥੨॥੧॥
jan naanak bin aapaa cheenai, mittai na bharam kee kaa-ee. ||2||1||
O servant Nanak! Without knowing one's own (spiritual) self, the moss of doubt is not removed (from the mind). ||2||1||

Then afterwards listening to Bhai Jatinderpal Singh Noor-Puri's Dhadi Jatha. Beautifully sung Dhadi Vaaraa(n). The prasann (topic) was Baba Banda Singh jee's Shaheedi (martyrdom). The Dhadi's sang about how Baba Banda Singh jee Bahadar's four year old son's heart was ripped out alive and Baba jee was forced to eat it. Yet he continued saying "Waahe-Guroo, Waahe-Guroo..." Then he skinned was pierced and his eyes were poked out with hot iron rods. Sat Naam, Waheguru! The hairs on my arms and my head stood up and tingled with Bir Ras (energy). It made me feel how lucky we are to be Sikh, yet we so easily forget how the value of being a Sikh is beyond count. I will post a separate post on this story and the stories of other Sikhs who were martyred alongside Baba Banda Singh jee Bahadar.



To be continued...

... Meeting the Atheist (Final Part)

Continued...

So the atheist pulls out both of his arms and puts them up, one on top of the other. He leaves a gap in between his hands (for example like holding an imaginary box from both sides). He said, "Look this is God. This is Enlightenment. I have given you Brahm-Gyan." I said, "Isn't Rab (God) everywhere? Not just in between both your hands." He was hell-bent on saying "God is empty space, God didn't create the world, and God has no power. He TRIED to justify his peculiar views with this line from Gurbani:

ਲੋਗਾ ਭਰਮਿ ਨ ਭੂਲਹੁ ਭਾਈ ॥
logaa bharam na bhoolahu bhaa-ee.
O people, O Siblings of Destiny, do not wander deluded by doubt.

ਖਾਲਿਕੁ ਖਲਕ ਖਲਕ ਮਹਿ ਖਾਲਿਕੁ ਪੂਰਿ ਰਹਿਓ ਸ੍ਰਬ ਠਾਂਈ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥
khaalik khalak, khalak meh khaalik, poor rehi-o sarab thaa(n)-ee. 1 rahaa-o.
The Creation is in the Creator, and the Creator is in the Creation, totally pervading and permeating all places. 1Pause

He said that "Khaalik" means EMPTY VOID... so HIS translation of the shabad was "THE EMPTY SPACE IS THE CREATOR, AND THE CREATOR IS IN THE EMPTY SPACE" or something. Silly bloke! If only he read the full shabad, possibly the FIRST LINES of the shabad! Here's the shabad if you wish to read.

I said then "Who created everything, who creates, sustains, and destroys this creation?" He continuously replied, "KUDRAT." Kudrat has two meanings meaning "Coincidence" but it also means God in sense of "the Creator - Causes of Causes." I was thinking perhaps you need to hear your own voice saying "KUDRAT, KUDRAT, KUDRAT" and realise you are accepting and acknowledging God without knowing. Waheguru!


ENOUGH IS ENOUGH. My mum and I had enough! He was annoying, imposing his cyncial atheistic views on me and furthermore he was trying to make himself out to be some sort of new-age Guru who does seminars in villages in Panjab and converting people in the masses (he claims) to realise through Gurbani that there is no God and instead the whole world is about "me" (the opposite to what Gurbani says! Gurbani tells us to lose our ego and become one withe Infinite Lord). I told the bloke, "Excuse, I agree to disagree. I don't wish to discuss further." He would be quiet and then start again. Twice I ended up saying "I AGREE TO DISAGREE. THAT'S IT."

It comes time for me to do Rehraas Sahib da Paath (evening prayer). I get out my Gutka Sahib from my bag and start doing Paath quietly. SAT NAAM. The atheist just STARED at me while I was reading Rehraas. I could sense the negativity and he didn't want me to read paath. He then started to laugh. Freaky? Yes! The man was like an embodiment or physical representation of KALJUG (Era of Darkness/Falsehood).



(The story is soon to finish! hehehe). Okay, now we arrive in Turkmenistan and we have to change our flight to go to Amritsar. At the airport the ATHEIST FOLLOWS US TO WHERE WE SIT inside the airport. He starts saying to me "Why take Amrit? What's big deal with Water and Sugar mixed in? So how do people take Amrit?" He was on purpose mocking. I gave minimal response knowing that he wanted to play mind games, as he thought he could persuade me not to take Amrit.

AT LAST. My mum and I were excited, AT LAST WE CAN MOVE SEATS AND SIT SOMEWHERE ELSE in the aeroplane. On getting on the new flight we quickly sat away from the dodgey hard-core atheist Narakdhari, thinking we can get some peace and quiet and go to Amritsar without the hassle of the negativity of this bloke. So we sat down. WAHEGURU, WAHEGURU, WAHEGURU! The air-hostess does an announcement, "Ladies and gentleman please take the SAME SEATS as you were sitting in the flight before. Please don't change seats." I felt saying "KABHEE NEHEE!" (No way!!!!).

So we ended up sitting back in the same seats. My mum and I quickly planned that we were going to ignore the bloke and NOT MAKE A CONVERSATION and if he says something just reply with shaking head or MINIMAL RESPONSE. So thats what we did. I knew why. However, he was UNSUCCESSFUL in shaking my faith in the ALMIGHTY WAHEGURU.

I wondered to myself is Guru jee testing my faith? Well, DEFINITELY the bloke was challenging my belief in Waheguru, Guru Sahib, Gurbani and Amrit. If anything the experience made me even stronger. However, remembering the face of the atheist is not a pleasant thought. His eyes were DARK and looked PITCH BLACK (there was no light showing from his eyes) and he looked like he had no soul inside him. More of a dead man walking!

ਬੋਲਹਿ ਕੂਰੁ ਸਾਕਤ ਮੁਖੁ ਕਾਰਾ ॥੪॥
boleh koor, saakat mukh kaaraa. 4
The faithless cynic barks out his lies, and his face is blackened. ||4||
(Ang 239, SGGS)

Chalo may Waheguru bless us all with wisdom. End of day everything is in Hukam (Will) of Waheguru. May Waheguru bless us all with undetermined pyaar (love) and stern faith in Him :)

ਮਾਗਉ ਦਾਨੁ ਕ੍ਰਿਪਾਲ ਕ੍ਰਿਪਾ ਨਿਧਿ ਮੇਰਾ ਮੁਖੁ ਸਾਕਤ ਸੰਗਿ ਨ ਜੁਟਸੀ ਰੇ ॥
maa(n)gau daan kirpaal kirpaa niDh, meraa mukh saakat sang na juttsee re. ||
I beg this blessing of You, O Merciful Lord Waheguru, ocean of mercy - please, don't bring me face to face with the faithless cyincs.

ਜਨ ਨਾਨਕ ਦਾਸ ਦਾਸ ਕੋ ਕਰੀਅਹੁ ਮੇਰਾ ਮੂੰਡੁ ਸਾਧ ਪਗਾ ਹੇਠਿ ਰੁਲਸੀ ਰੇ ॥੨॥੪॥੩੭॥
jan naanak daas daas ko karee-ahu, meraa moondd saaDh pagaa heth rulsee re. ||2437||
Make servant Nanak the slave of Your slave; let his head roll in the dust under the feet of the Holy. 2437
(Ang 535, SGGS)