Banbury Children's Sikh Camp...

On Monday 17th April, the first ever children's Gurmat Camp was held at Banbury Gurdwara in Oxfordshire with the help of Khalsa Foundation. With Guru Sahib's Grace the camp was successful with both parents and children enjoying the day.

Considering how small the population of the local Sikh community, the camp was attended by around 15 children. This is a small town, where when I was younger we never had any Kesdhari children visible or even Amritdharis at the Gurdwara. Now, with Guru Ji's Kirpaa (blessings), children have asked their parents to stop cutting their kesh, there are Amritdharis in the town, and children come to the Gurdwara wearing Bana. This is the miracle of Guru Granth Sahib Ji Maharaj! 

Bhai Vijay Singh Ji and Bhenji Kirpa Kaur Ji blessed the local Sangat with sharing Gurmat with the children. It was amazing that all the children 7 years and above were taught a Simran tune on the vaaja. This was great achievement for those who have never touched a Vaja before. 

The local Sangat has asked Khalsa Foundation sevadars to come back soon and do another camp for the children. If you would like them to come to your local town to do a Sikhi camp or do a talk for the Sangat, then you can book them on their website. Also a big thank you Bhenji Ranjeet Kaur from 'Sikh Colouring' who provided colouring activity books for the camp that she has especially designed for children.

Some photos from the day: 

 

We started the camp with the importance of doing Simran and the meaning of Mool Mantar

Chilldren doing Simran at the start of the camp

 Bhai Vijay Singh discusses the importance of good character for a Sikh with the elder group. Despite some technical difficulties, the children eagerly listened to Bhai Sahib and got fully engaged.

Bhenji Kirpa Kaur discussing what Amrit means using 'Sikh colouring' books.

Bhai Vijay Singh teaching children how to do simple Simran tunes on the Vaaja

Children learning how to do Simran on the Vaaja

Children taught other children how to do Simran on the Vaaja

Children learnt about reincarnation, the soul and the purpose of life through some creative props.

Children learning watching a video about the life of Guru Nanak Dev Ji

Group quiz on the life of Guru Nanak Dev Ji

Bhai Vijay Singh with the youngest group making posters relating to the message of the Mool Mantar.

The truth of industrial dairy farming...

Consider the following 5 dairy facts, most of which are common to all forms of dairy farming in the West:  

 

1. The dairy industry is linked to the meat slaughter industry

21,000,000 dairy calves are slaughtered for veal or cheap beef every year globally. Whether on factory farms, “family” farms, or small, humane-certified farms, male calves and surplus females are sold to be slaughtered for veal or cheap beef. The veal industry would not exist without the dairy industry. The following “high welfare” slaughter of “humanely-raised, pastured” dairy calves was openly filmed for public television. (See video clip)

2. Cows are unnaturally forced to produce more milk

Due to extensive biological manipulation, today’s dairy cows produce up to 12 times more milk than they would naturally produce to feed a calf. Trapped in a cycle of forced impregnation, perpetual lactation and near constant confinement, most dairy cows’ overworked bodies begin producing less milk at around 4 to 5 years of age, at which point they are slaughtered. In natural conditions, cows can live 20 to 25 years. To keep them lactating at maximum yields, cows are artificially and repeatedly and forcibly impregnated year after year. The constant cycle of forced pregnancy and birth creates a huge surplus of calves. Dairy cows are forcibly impregnated once a year to keep them at peak lactation. Artificial insemination involves invasive, nonconsensual rectal and vaginal penetration.

 

3. Calves are forcibly removed from their mothers

Even so, virtually all dairy calves are stolen from their mothers within hours of birth in order to maximize profit. 97% of newborn dairy calves are forcibly removed from their mothers within the first 24 hours. The rest are removed in a matter of days. On so-called humane dairy farms, cows are often taken within the first hour of birth as separation of mother and calf is considered less stressful when they have not been allowed to bond (see video clip).

4. Cows are beaten and tortured

Workers at various dairy farms have been secretly filmed punching tiny calves and kicking cows in the face. In one footage from a farm in the UK, which supplies Muller Milk & Ingredients (formerly Muller Wiseman), one of the main processors used by Tesco, Sainsbury’s, M&S and the Coop for their own-brand milks, it showed workers pinning calves to the floor and shouting obscenities in their face, repeatedly kicking and slapping nursing cows and violently throwing small calves to the floor. In another, they were filmed aggressively twisting cows’ tails and repeatedly slamming metal gates into them. (See news link; See video clip)

5. Female calves are kept in cruel conditions

Some female calves will join the milking herd. They typically spend the first 2 to 3 months of life confined in lonely hutches, fed a diet of milk replacer while humans drink the milk intended for them. Calves on this small and so-called humane dairy farm are taken away from their mothers within the first hour of birth. (See news link)

If you’re interested to learn more you can watch documentaries like Earthlings, Cowspiracy, and Vegucated.

A Perspective: Sikhi and modern-day dairy

Theologically, Sikhs are not forbidden from drinking milk or consuming milk products, e.g. yoghurt, butter or cheese. On the contrary, there are numerous references to drinking milk, and eating rice-pudding for example in Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, and milk is called 'Amrit' in Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. Such things were offered in the Guru's Langar also. There is no questioning of this. However, it is to safe to say that Sikh Gurus and the Sikhs of the Guru treated animals they had, whether horses, bulls, cows or hawks, with due respect and care. 

Sikhs are against animal cruelty, and for this reason a Sikh would not eat meat, fish or eggs. However, using the same logic, the modern industry of dairy farming in Western countries, would raise questions about whether it is okay to blindly drink milk without consideration of where it came from and whether there blatant abuse and cruelty was involved.

With the rising high cholesterol and high diabetes rates in the Panjabi community, perhaps there is a need for today's Sikh community to recognise their responsibility to become more aware of diet and health. Where there is an increasing awareness of using organic foods in Langar, perhaps more consideration should be given to avoiding dairy products for health and ethical grounds. Gurdwaras should be role models for promoting health, well-being and ethics.

Can a Sikh truly be totally dairy-free? The answer is no as the Maryada (tradition) of making Karhah Parshaad is reliant on using Gheo (clarified butter), and to change this is altering Maryada. Where we have to use Gheo, butter, or milk, it is worth considering using an ethical farm that is organic and promotes animal welfare. In general, lots of Gurdwaras have began using vegetable oils instead of Gheo for cooking Daal (lentils) and Sabzi (vegetables) in Langar, after a campaign of health awareness targeting Gurdwaras. Putting all these arguments to the side, I think all Sikhs can hopefully agree that from the above facts it would be responsible and ethical to at least reduce dairy intake where possible, and where necessary to use organic ethical farms!

Small changes that we could all consider is to use cocunut oil or vegetable oil instead of gheo or butter for cooking; and, if one's Rehat (religious discipline) allows, to drink almond, cocunut or almond milk instead of dairy milk.

Some general myths and facts about a dairy-free diet

1) 'A Vegan diet is not healthy'
On the contrary, they can be far healthier! Eating vegan is like other ways of eating: take care with what you’re putting in your body, and your body will take care of you. However, vegan diets also have numerous advantages over others. Vegans are far more likely to reach the recommended 10 portions of fruit and vegetables a day, have lower rates of obesity and reduced risk of colorectal and prostate cancer.

2) 'Vegans need to drink dairy milk to get calcium’
That's incorrect! Leafy green vegetables such as kale have been shown to have excellent absorbability compared to dairy milk, which lags behind these vegetables. Not to mention the fact that fortified plant milk has just as much calcium as dairy milk, while calcium-set tofu is a really rich source.

3) ‘Only vegans need supplements’
Vegans and non-vegans alike can take a supplement like to ensure that they are getting all they need, though this is not a requirement as a well planned diet can be sufficient for optimal health. Fortified foods are necessary for healthy living in both vegans and non-vegans. Manufacturers add supplements to the foods we eat in order for us to get the vitamins, minerals and nutrients our bodies need. Dairy milk, like many plant milks, is commonly fortified with Vitamins A and D. Moreover, before countries across the world started to add iodine to table salt and cattle feed, iodine deficiency was rife. This is also the case with B12 being fed to cattle, as it no longer naturally occurs in the soil.

4) ‘Vegan diets are not suitable for children’
The British Dietetic Association says that a well-planned vegan diet is suitable for ALL ages. Some people believe it is unfair to serve children healthy vegan food because they have not had the ‘choice’ to have meat: but how can forcing a child to eat animal products before they know the facts surrounding their production be a ‘choice’?

5) 'Vegan diets make you weak'
Then how do you explain the success of Germany’s strongest man, the world champion of French Kickboxing and two of the greatest tennis players of our time. There is also a growing number of Vegan Sikh weightlifters and fitness enthusiasts that promote health and well-being on social media.

Awaken the Singh within!...

A network for all Sikh males to come learn, share and develop together. Whether you have just found your path towards Sikhi or you have been on it your whole life, one will leave camp in a whole new spiritually powered mindset. Inspiring Speakers, powerful influential workshops, a welcoming atmosphere; Toronto Singhs Camp is a lasting experience you will not forget!

7th Annual Toronto Singhs Camp 2017
Wednesday, July 12th to Sunday, July 16th

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

NEW LOCATION: Pearson Williams Christian Center in London, ON 
CLICK HERE for more information about this camp site!

-NEW MULTIPLE INTERNATIONAL SPEAKERS (TBA)
-Uplifting Amritvela & Kirtan Divans
-Motivating & Inspiring Creative Workshops
-Paintballing & Battle Archery
AND MUCH MUCH MORE!!!

Get your SCHOOL & WORK dates booked off now!!

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Praying for Bhai Jagraj Singh...

New Zealand Trip 2016-17: Meeting Mata Gurdev Kaur Ji... (Part 2)

Continued...

We were all served some fruit before the Sangat was to do Keertan. Mata Gurdev Kaur Ji asked Bhai Surjit Singh Ji Nadala and I, on several occasions, if we could speak to her grandchildren and convince them to follow the Guru's Path. I explained to Mata Ji that Sikhi is a gift from Guru Ji, and that I don't have the ability to make anyone a Gursikh. We can only share the love and knowledge of the Guru, and provide Sangat for someone. The dard (anguish) and longing Mata Ji had for wanting her family to follow Gursikhi was heart whelming. 

Before going to Guru Ji's room, Mata Ji did an emotional benti (request) that can Bhai Sahib do the following Ardaas, "May the Buttaa (plant) of Sikhi remain in my family. May it never dry up. After I am gone, may Sikhi continue in this family." Mata Ji had tears in her eyes when making this request. Bhai Sahib accepted Mata Ji's humble bent (request).  

 

 

In Guru Ji's room, everyone  gathered. Youngsters did Keertan, followed by Bhai Surjit Singh Ji. Mata Ji was clearly joyed and overwhelmed that the Sangat had travelled so far to see her and do Keertan. It made me realize how we take Sangat for granted, and even listening to Keertan! Not everyone has the opportunity to attend the Gurdwara, or Smaagams, either for health reasons or the simple fact that there is no Gurdwara or community nearby.

After the Keertan, Bhai Sahib fulfilled Mata Ji's wish and did Ardaas on behalf of the Sangat, that the seed of Sikhi flourishes and grows in her family, and continues on. It was amazing, how Mata Ji had made all of Guru Ji's bastars (clothes), and does Guru Ji's seva daily, despite old age and health problems.

Before leaving, I took the opportunity to sit with Mata Ji and ask her some questions about her life. Below is a short biography of Mata Ji's life:

Mata Ji's husband was born in New Zealand. Her husband's grandfather had immigrated to New Zealand a long time ago. Therefore, her husband was 3rd generation. Her husband went to India to marry her, and she came over to New Zealand in 1953.  In 1973, she made the decision to wear black clothes, to display humility. In 1977, she travelled to India with her in-laws. This was her first time back to India. As her children were now grown-up, she decided that despite her husband not being religious, she wanted to take Amrit. Without telling many people, she decided to take Amrit on her visit to Sri Hazoor Sahib. 

When she approached the Jathedar about taking Amrit, he gave her a leaflet to read, and a Gutka Sahib. He asked her to read the leaflet before making her mind to take Amrit. The leaflet stated that women were not given Khande-Di-Pahul at the Takht Sahib, as taking Amrit of the double-edged sword brings Bir-Rass (the warrior-spirit). As women are already hot tempered and full of spirit, taking Khande-Di-Pahul, would risk women causing problems in their respective homes and fighting with their husbands, as they will not be able to control themselves. Therefore, the leaflet said women are instead given 'Kirpan Amrit', which I remember correctly she said was prepared by one Singh.

Desperate to quench her thirst for the Guru, she agreed to the 'Kirpan Amrit', although she did find it strange that Amrit that had been equally given to men and women by Guru Gobind Singh Ji, had been changed by the Takht custodians. Although, in the Amrit ceremony she had not explicity been told to keep Bibek and only eat and dine with the Khalsa, she said that everytime she looked at food that had been cooked by those who did not fully observe the Guru's Rehat, whether at home, at the Gurdwara or someone's house, she would see things moving around in it. She would get turned off. From day 1, Guru Ji blessed Mata Ji with cooking her own food and eating it. 

Mata Ji, said although she knew within her soul that she was incomplete without a Dastaar, she never had anyone instruct her to wear a Dastaar or teach her how to tie one. She said that she had never seen a woman with a Dastaar, but knew that it was what Guru Ji intended for both men and women. In 1985, she saw the first Dastaar wearing Singhni in New Zealand. The Bibi's name was Bibi Amarjit Kaur Ji of Dyalpur. Mata Ji said that seeing her made her overjoyed. She straightaway asked her if she could teach her how to tie a Dastaar. Since then, she has kept the Rehat of staying in full Khalsa Bana.

A year later, in 1986, there was an Amrit Sanchaar on 31s December in New Zealand. 25 Singhs of the Akhand Kirtani Jatha, had travelled to New Zealand to spread the message of Guru Nanak Dev Ji through Kirtan and inspire the Sangat to take Amrit. This group of Singhs included Bhai Rama Singh Ji and Bhai Rajinder Singh Ji Dudley. That day, 45 people recieved the gift of Amrit. Mata Ji, also took Amrit in accordance to Gur Maryada and got Naam Drir from the Panj Pyaare. She said, she felt very blessed having being blessed with Amrit and Naam.

In 1989, Bhai Jeevan Singh Ji visited New Zealand. Bibi Ji said that Singhs always asked to eat food cooked by her hands. She felt very priveleged and blessed that she had the opportunity to serve Gursikhs. For some time, Mata Ji stayed at the Gurdwara Sahib as her children were now grown ups, and Mata Ji wanted to dedicate time to serving the Guru and serving the Sangat at the Gurdwara, and escape the influences of Maya. At some point later, she came back home where now her son and grandsons take care of her.

Despite old age, Mata Ji wakes up Amrit-Vela, does Naam Simran, loving does Guru Ji's Saroops's seva, and cooks her own Parshaadaa. Truly the Guru's Sikhi is the life and soul of Mata Ji, and she cannot bear the thought of her children to lose the opportunity of becoming the beloved children of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. Listening to Mata Ji's story, it reminded me time and again, of the embroidery she has made by hand on Guru Ji's Rumaala Sahib - Rehat Pyaaree Mujh Ko, Sikh Pyaare Naahi (Guru Gobind Singh Ji says: "I love the Rehat, not the Sikh.")

New Zealand Trip 2016-17: Meeting Mata Gurdev Kaur Ji... (Part 1)

During Khalsa Camp New Zealand 2016, someone humbly asked both Bhai Surjit Singh Nadala Ji and I, if we could visit an elderly Gursikh Mata Ji who lived far away on a farm. It was said that the Bibi was a Chardikala Gursikh, and due to old age she cannot travel far, but she would appreciate us visiting her. The same request was repeated by someone else on visiting Australia after the camp. 

On arriving back in New Zealand from Australia, a programme was made to visit the elderly Mata Ji. The name of the Bibi Ji is Mata Gurdev Kaur Ji. Mata Ji, lived about 3 and half hours away from Auckland, where we were staying. The journey there was scenic open farmland, with very little villages or towns on the way. 

I had been told lots of things about this Mata Ji. I was told that she is a Naam-imbued soul and that she was blessed with the Sangat of Bhai Jeevan Singh Ji and Bhai Rama Singh Ji of Akhand Kirtani Jatha. Mata Ji always wears Bana (Khalsa attire) and keeps strict Bibek Rehat, which is not so common in that part of the world. In particular we had been told that Mata Ji's wish is that Gursikhs visit her and influence her family in adopting Gursikhi, as her children have not followed the Guru's Path as she had hoped. Mata Ji, despite being 80 years old, and physically unable to walk without a walking frame, she cooks her own food and daily does the seva of Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji at their home.

Bhai Navraj Singh (Derby), young Amritdhari pilot

Veer Navraj Singh from Derby (UK), who was at the time training to be a pilot in New Zealand, brought it to my attention that Mata Gurdev Kaur Ji is mentioned in Bhai Rama Singh Ji's book 'In Search of the True Guru'. In the actual book she is called 'Bibi Ranjeet Kaur'. I know it is her because she took Amrit from Hazoor Sahib and is a 'Bibeki', i.e. adheres and lives by all the Hukams of Guru Sahib. He showed me a paragraph from the online PDF version of the book. The book states:

"Our Jatha arrived in New Zealand on 31 December. The sangat welcomed us very warmly. There is a beautiful Gurdwara in Auckland. Arrangements were made for the Jatha to stay there. The sangat was very impressed to hear Bibi Manjit Kaur's melodious kirtan and to see her in Gursikhi dress. We held Amrit Sanchaar, the first in this country. We met a very d evoted lady, Bibi Ranjeet Kaur She had received Amrit initiation from Sri Hazoor Sahib and was a bibekee i.e. one who lived an austere life style according to strict standards of rehat. Every day she would pray, "O, True King, be kind to us . Please send your Singhs so that people here can receive Amrit initiation." Our Jatha performed the Amrit Sanchaar and many Singhs and Singhanis joined the Sikhi fold. This lady told us with great affection, “Today, the True King has answered my prayers!" During the Amrit Sanchaar, Rain-Sabaaee Kirtan continued in the main Gurdwara sangat hall. When the Panj Piaray led the procession of those who had been initiated into the main sangat hall, many others were so moved by the spiritual impact, that they too desired Amrit initiation."

Bibi Jagjit Kaur Ji, an American Singhni (pictured in the centre), who visited New Zealand with Bhai Rama Singh Ji

Sangat of New Zealand during the Parchaar tour of Bhai Rama Singh Ji

On 2nd January 2017, the Sangat from Auckland got together and visited Mata Ji's farmhouse. Both Bhai Surjit Singh Ji and I were longing to see this Gursikh Mata Ji and have Darshan. The place were Mata Ji lives is very secluded and there is no nearby Sikh community or Gurdwara Sahib. They don't even have any neighbours. 

On arrival, we first met Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. Guru Sahib's room had a very strong spiritual vibration. Intrigued by the intense spiritual vibrations in Guru Ji's room, I opened the next room's door to see if that room also had such Naam vibrations. The room that had opened was Mata Ji's bedroom, and her room had the same peaceful and intense spiritual vibrations. After meeting Guru Ji, we all shared Guru's Fateh with Mata Ji and her family.

To be continued...

Show on significance of 'Bana'...

Everyday Sikhi show with Bhai Amanjot Singh (East London) and Bhai Uttam Singh (East London) on the significance and importance of 'Bana' (Sikh attire/dress).

 

Mormons on Sikhi...

Below is a video of a group of Mormon professors from Brigham Young University who travelled to Sri Darbaar Sahib, Amritsar, in April 2012. For many on this trrip, this was their first contact with Sikhs as a people and as a religion. The Mormons visiting Sri Darbar Sahib, have only but praises to sing of Sikhi. For someone belonging to a religion that believes in evangelism and conversion, it is rarer to see such genuine praise for another religion.

 

National Geographic documentary on Hola Mahalla...

'India's Mega-kitchens' is an English documentary aired on National Geographic channel. In this particular episode it shows how food is cooked and served during the festivities of Holla Mahalla that take place in beginning to mid March.

Recommended Gurbani website...

I have recently come across Khoj Gurbani website. It is an excellent website for searching Gurbani. In particular, the good thing about the website is that it has an option for reading Gurbani in Pad-Chhed, Larreevaar and in unicode font. Unicode font is useful if you are searching for Gurbani on a computer that doesn't have any Gurbani fonts installed. 

There is a selection of Teekas (translations) to choose from. In English you have Bhai Manmohan Singh and Bhai Sant Singh's translations. What was particularly useful was that for the Punjabi Teekas, there was also an option for Giani Harbans Singh's Teeka. 

The website is easy to use, and well recommended for comparing translations and understanding Gurbani.

www.KhojGurbani.com

"I dont believe in God because..."

 
Last week, I was talking to a young white English man who had various issues and decided to talk to me. I asked him, "Do you believe in God, and have a religion you follow?" He replied, "I don't do religion or believe in God." I asked, "Do you mind me asking, if there is any reason you don't believe in God?" "Well you see, I don't believe in God because I don't believe in anything that I see for myself. You get me?" he replied.

I then asked him, "Does Africa exist?" He replied, "Obviously it exists." "But have you been to Africa and seen it with your own eyes?" I said. He responded, "No." I replied back with, "So, how do you know Africa exists, when you yourself have not seen with your own very eyes?" He said, "That's easy! I have seen Africa on maps and seen it on the television." I replied, "But how do you know that what is being shown on the TV is true, and that maps are not lying?" He then stopped and began to think.

I ended with, "Whether you choose to believe in God or not, that is up to you. However, the map of God is the Word of God of revealed and the holy saints. The beautiful nature you see around you are the signs of God. In order for you to believe, you will will first have to faith in yourself. Once, you have faith in yourself, you will have faith in the one keeps you alive, gives you the breath of life, makes the sunshine, and makes the world turn."

The young man began to really think and contemplate. He smiled and said, "I suppose its like the wind. You cannot see it, but you can see its amazing power.... and you cannot see oxygen, but without it we would be dead."

At the end of the conversation, he said he will explore his religious roots and visit Church on Sunday to make him feel better.

Blessed souls of Spain...

These children are from Spain and live in a small village called Santa Caloma. The youngest 5 and the eldest 9. They wear Khalsa Bana (attire) and Dumallaa to school (as pictured). They refuse to wear any other clothes other than Bana. When the eldest was asked what she wants to become when she grows older, she replied "KHALSA".

Blessed are their parents who daily remind them that their real parents are Guu Gobind Singh Ji and Mata Sahib Kaur ji and that their real family is the Khalsa.

ਆਪਿ ਲੀਏ ਲੜਿ ਲਾਇ ਦਰਿ ਦਰਵੇਸ ਸੇ ॥ 

ਤਿਨ ਧੰਨੁ ਜਣੇਦੀ ਮਾਉ ਆਏ ਸਫਲੁ ਸੇ ॥੨॥

"They, whom the Lord attaches to Himself are the real saints that stand at His Door. Blessed is the mother who gave birth to them and profitable is their coming in this world."

(Aasa Fareed Ji, 488)

The True Decoration...

Someone was doing Keertan and this line was in the Shabad. It made me think that if we do not follow what Vaheguru Ji says and do what we think is right but still decorate our bodies with Guru's jee roop and Panj Kakkaar then its useless!

 

I was sitting in the Keertan contemplating this one line....

 

If we wear a dastaar but do not wake up Amrit vela,

if we keep Kesh but laugh at people at other's expense,

if we wear a Kirpaan but do not do regular Naam Abhiaas for one or two hours,

if we wear a Kara but do not do Nitnem,

or if we keep Sarbloh and yet have no maturity or humility,

then Guru Ji says our outside Sikhi we show the world is all "useless and false".

 

May Guru ji bless us all that we can truly please him and that our outward decorations and Sikhi are expressions of accepting Vaheguru Ji's Hukam. Vaheguru!

 

 

Edinburgh: Guru Nanak's Free Kitchen...

Bhai Vijay Singh in Edinburgh

 

Bhai Vijay Singh (Luton) has been in Edinburgh this week. Yesterday he participated in Guru Nanak's Free Kitchen project that is run by the Sikh Sangat of Edinburgh. Bhai Sahib sent the following message about his experience.

 

"Doing Guru Nanak's Free Kitchen in Edinburgh yesterday was an amazing experience. They are doing some amazing work! And people are so appreciative of it. People came again and again to say that you guys are saving lives and giving people hope.

 

They have over 100 people who come every week. They have a link with Starbucks who provide free tea and coffee as well as those green containers which cost hundreds of pounds each. Starbucks also give the sevadaars (volunteers) free hot drinks if they want to drink something.

There is so much Kirpa (Grace), and so much parchaar (educational awareness) is happening. Not necessarily just about helping the homeless, but breaking down community barriers and taking Langar to the streets."

 

Some photos:

Guru Nanak's Free Kitchen Edinburgh

Guru Nanak's Free Kitchen Edinburgh

 

 

 

ਨੀਚਾ ਅੰਦਰਿ ਨੀਚ ਜਾਤਿ ਨੀਚੀ ਹੂ ਅਤਿ ਨੀਚੁ ॥

ਨਾਨਕੁ ਤਿਨ ਕੈ ਸੰਗਿ ਸਾਥਿ ਵਡਿਆ ਸਿਉ ਕਿਆ ਰੀਸ ॥

ਜਿਥੈ ਨੀਚ ਸਮਾਲੀਅਨਿ ਤਿਥੈ ਨਦਰਿ ਤੇਰੀ ਬਖਸੀਸ ॥੪॥੩॥

"Nanak seeks the company of the lowest of the low class, the very lowest of the low. Why should he try to compete with the great? In that place where the lowly are cared for-there, the Blessings of Your Glance of Grace rain down. ||4||3||"

(Siree Raag M:1, 15)

School presentation on Sikhi...

A few weeks ago I was invited to a local Church of England primary school to do an assembly on Sikhi for Years 5 and 6 (aged 9-11 years). The interactive presentation was just over 30 minutes long. I thought I would share what was said with images of the slides used so that others can borrow ideas if they wish to do something similar in a school in their local area. 

Slides should be only used as a visual aid to help the audience, in particular children, to stimulate and interest. The worst thing one could do is a write up a script and read from a piece of paper. Frankly, its is boring and loses the human touch! However, for the purpose of giving ideas to the Sangat on this blog, I have made a transcript what I said to the children at this particular assembly. 

When presenting to young children, the speaker should be full of enthusiasm and really bold and over the top with their body language. Your excitement rubs off on the children. If you value what you say, they will value what you say. 

Wherever, there are questions, I actually asked the children those questions and took 1 to 2 responses from different students. One thing to remember is that young children love to talk, so you cannot give every child with their hand up the chance to say something.

Hopefully, the transcript and slides below will help others. The assembly had a great response from both teachers and students. It would be great if others could share the message of Guru Nanak Dev Ji with their communities. Through awareness and education, misunderstandings and ignorance which leads to racism and bullying, can be prevented.

A very short introduction to Sikhi

Good morning everyone! [The children sweetly replied together in a loud voice, "Good morning Mr Singh".]

You may be looking at me and realise that I look different. I have a lovely beard, a neatly wrapped turban on my head, and wearing this dress. Well, by the end of the assembly you should be able to understand why I look this way. Let's make a start...

1. The difference between animal life and human life

What makes a human being special?

Is it sleeping?... But animals also sleep!

Is it eating?... But animals also eat!

Is it talking?... But animals also talk!

Is it having a family?... But animals also have families?

Is it working?... But animals also work!

So, what is the purpose of human life? It must be something special, and something that makes us different to animals!

2. The purpose of human life

Before, we go to our answer, I want to you to show these images, which can help us get to our answer.  

Can you please tell me... 

Do we tell our lungs to work? [The children responded, "No".]... They just work. We just breath. Evening if we want to hold our breath, we cannot totally stop breathing!

Do we tell our heart to pump blood across the body? [The children responded, "No".]... The heart just works. Blood is pumped around the body, without me or you having to think about it.

Do we tell our digestion system to digest food? [The children responded, "No".]... When we eat something, our body automatically digests the food and takes the goodness out of the food to help the body. So it works without us doing anything.

Do we tell the earth to spin around? [The children responded, "No".] It happens without me or you doing anything.

Now, these things don't just happen - there is a hidden one 'Amazing Power' behind all of this -- who made me, you, and the world around us. That Amazing Power is the breath of life inside me and you, the battery that powers the world, and makes everything work! Pretty amazing, don't you think?

So, what is the purpose of human life?

The purpose of human life is to experience and meet that Amazing Power, the One, which some call 'God', some call 'Allah', and Sikhs call 'Vahiguru'. Pretty amazing, don't you think?

3. Connecting with Vahiguru, the Amazing One

So how can we do that?

Everything that we see around us is vibrating. Even the walls are vibrating, although it looks still. But the vibration is so subtle, so quiet, that it cannot be heard with our ears, or seen with our eyes.

So, where does vibration come from? The answer is... Sound!

This 'Amazing Sound' comes from the 'Amazing Power'. Through this sound vibrating, the universe was made, and everything exists. This amazing vibration is called 'Naam'. Can you say 'Naam' for me. [Then I said well done to the children.]

To experience the One-- the Amazing Power--... we have to connect, feel and become in tune with its vibration.

Vibration leads us to the Sound, and the Sound leads us to the Word. If we work backwards, then the Word leads us to the Sound, and that Sounds leads us to the Vibration. That special Word is given to us to by the Guru to meditate and connect with the Amazing Power. The special word is 'Vahiguru'. Can you all say 'Vahiguru'. [Then I said well done to all the students for saying it so nicely.]

'Vahi' means 'Amazing', and 'Guru' means 'Light', but not any ordinary light. What does light get rid of? [The children replied, "darkness".] In the dark people get scared, people can't see, they don't know where to walk, and it gets lonely. But when the light comes on, then you don't need to feel lonely, nor sad, scared or feel lost. This is what happens when the one Amazing Power comes in our life.

4. Simran Practical

Our mind can behave like a monkey sometimes and jump all around. So how can we control the monkey mind and become focused. Well, just like a ship in the sea can get carried away with the waves, it needs something to keep it from moving. Can anyone tell me what that would be? [One child replied, "An anchor."]. Yes, an anchor is needed. Even if the ship is overwhelmed by the waves, the anchor pulls back the ship to where it should be. Similarly, when the mind begins to behave like a monkey, doing meditation -- repeating Vahiguru-- helps to bring back the mind, become calm, and feel peace. [I then got the children to repeat "Vahi Guru" and feel the energy and power of Simran, and asked how they felt doing it. The children gave a positive feedback].

5. The Great Teacher

So, who can teach us about the Amazing Power, which we call 'God' or 'Vahiguru'?

Well, the Amazing Power, showed itself in the world as a 'Guru' --an 'Amazing Teacher'-- through a human body... called Guru Nanak.

Can you all repeat "Guru Nanak" for me.... [Then I said well done to them.]

Now, just to understand who the Guru really is, we are going to try and use an example.

Imagine, that someones grandmother has died. The child looks at his dad and says, "Daddy, grandma's gone!" The dad then points at the grandmother's dead body and says, "Son, grandma is in front of you." The child then says, "No! Grandma's gone!"

Now, does anyone know why the child says "Grandma's gone" when he can clearly see the body? [Some of the children gave some interesting answers, and others went off topic, which can happen with young children.]

Well, the child was looking for the grandma that used to speak to him and give him love. That 'living voice that spoke' has moved on. Similarly, the Guru is not the body, but the 'living and speaking voice' of the Amazing Power, God. 

One day the body will get old and die, but the Amazing One doesn't die. So when the Amazing Power showed itself as Guru Nanak to the world, it then moved to another body when Guru Nanak's human body got old and died. So the living speaking voice of the Guru moved to another body. After ten human bodies the living voice of the Amazing Power came to live in the Holy Scripture of the Sikhs, called 'Guru Granth Sahib Ji'. Can all say 'Guru Granth Sahib Ji' for me. [Then I said well done to the children.]

So now, when we want to talk to the Amazing One, get advice or guidance, we read and sing the holy words in Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. So, Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, is the Living Guru of the Sikhs, because it speaks. Does that make sense to everyone? [The children responded, "Yes".]

6. The Sikh way of life (4 Kurehats)

Now, to connect with 'Naam', the Amazing Vibration, the Guru has taught us to live a natural way of life which helps us to stay connected with the One who created us. So everything a Sikh should help him or her feel the presence of God and remember the Amazing One.

1. We love ourselves and accept that we have been born beautiful. So we don't cut our hair. This helps us to connect and feel the Amazing Vibration--Naam. Put your hands up if you have long hair!... [Some girls put their hands up.] Now is it odd for someone to choose to not cut their hair because they feel their hair is lovely and they look beautiful? [The children answered "No."]... Some people have their hair tied in a pony tail, others loose, but Sikh boys and girls tie their hair on the top of their head. This helps keep the hair out of their face, and makes you feel awake and alert. Is it strange if someone decides to tie their up hair on the head, and keep it covered? [The children responded, "No".] [The objective was to normalise keeping Kesh and wearing a Patka or Dastaar, because there was one Sikh child in the assembly who used to have cut hair but has now recently kept his Kesh and wears a Patka.]

2. As you can see in these pictures, these lovely animals are being treated horribly. There is a photo of dogs in cage ready to be eaten, a cow crying, pigs squeezed in bars, and two chickens cuddling one another looking scared. Well, Sikhs are against animal cruelty. Put your hands up if you are against being cruel to animals? [All the children put their hands up, even the teachers]. 

Now, what is the worst thing you could do to be cruel to someone? [A child replied, "Kill them."]. Yes, to kill an animal just because you want to eat it and find it tasty, is the cruelest thing you could do to animal. For this reason Sikhs don't kill animals to eat. Kindness and compassion helps us to connect with Naam. Does that sound strange or odd? [All the children responded "No."]

3. As Sikhs we are instructed by the Guru to treat every other woman and man as your sister or brother. We are to live like one big family. So we are nasty to one another, and instead we should stick up for one another, and treat others with the same respect of an elder brother or sister. It is our duty to protect and defend our brothers or sisters. Does that make sense and sound a good idea? [All the children responded "Yes."] Keeping pure thoughts helps us to connect with Naam.

4. We don't eat, drink or do anything which makes (1) our mind sleepy and sluggish so that we forget the Amazing One; (2) make the mind crazy so it does silly things and behaves like a monkey; or (3) which harms or destroys this beautiful body. Does that sound a good idea? [Everyone responded "Yes."]. So do you think it is a good idea to smoke? [The children said, "No."] To drink alcohol? [The children said, "No."] To take drugs? [The children said, "No."] 

So, Sikhs don't drink alcohol, smoke or take drugs. We treat this body like a church, mosque or Gurdwara.

 7. The Sikh dress code

To end with...

Why do I Iook like this?

To help us to connect and feel the Amazing Power, we wear this amazing uniform!

So let's start from the top and work down.

1. So, I have already talked about the hair being special. But I am also wearing a turban on my head. What does a king or queen wear on their head? [The children responded "A crown."] Now, someone who wears a crown sits on a special seat. What is that the special seat called? [The children said "A throne."] Well, my turban is a crown! It reminds me that just like someone who sits on a throne has duties and responsibilities, I have a duty and responsibilty as well. My duty and responsibility is to behave in a beautiful way, and help make the world around me a beautiful place. It also protects my head and keeps my hair nice and tidy.

2. Now, inside my special turban, I have a very special comb. [I showed them a Kangha]. This special comb is made of wood and it is kept nicely tucked in my hair. Why do you think I keep this on me? [The children responded, "To comb your hair."] To keep myself nice and tidy I have been given this special comb. A Sikh should always be clean and ready to represent the Guru.

3. On my arm I am wearing this lovely iron bangle. Christians wear a bracelet which has "WWJD" written on it. Put your hand up if you have seen one of these, or you have worn one of these? [None of the children had]. "WWJD" stands for "What Would Jesus Do?" Similarly, wearing the Kara is a constant reminder to a Sikh of "What would the Guru do?" We do silly things or good things with our hands, so its a lovely reminder to help me stay connected with the Amazing One.

4. Underneath, I am wearing some special shorts. These shorts are really wide [I stretched my arms out]. But I am not that fat. So why are they so big! Well, they have a special cord. When you pull the cord, the shorts become smaller and you get loads of folds. These shorts are really great because you can run, walk, or jump and you are always covered and never need to feel embarrassed because you are naked. They are practical and reminds a Sikh to behave like a saint.

5. Lastly, we wear a small special sword. Police Officers carry a baton-- should we be scared of a Police Officer? [The children said, "No."] Why? Because the Police Officers carry it to protect the community and keep everyone safe. Soldiers in the army carry a gun-- should we be scared of a soldier? [The children said, "No."] Why? Because the soldiers carry a gun to protect us. A doctor in hospital has a knife when doing surgery. Would we be scared of him? [The children said, "No."]. Similarly, a Sikh wears their small special sword to defend and protect others, not to harm others, and therefore there is nothing to feel scared of when you see a Kirpan. It should only be used as a last resort.

8. Any questions

9. Ending

Thank you so much for listening today and behaving so well. You have done your teachers proud! If you ever see a Sikh now, you can always say "hello" now that you know about them. The Sikh place of worship is called a Gurdwara, where the Guru lives and Sikhs get together to pray, learn and eat together. Every Gurdwara has free vegetarian meal served called Langar, which is offered to all visitors. So, next time you see a Gurdwara, you are welcome to come in and have a look around. Bless you all.