Author: Bhai Jeevan Singh 'Tamil'
Vasanthi and I grew up on the same street. She was two years younger than me. As a child, she was very quiet and did not play much with others. While other children were out having fun, she was always busy with her books. She was very smart and focused on her studies. After forty-five years, we met again. She found my phone number through my brother because she needed help with a legal matter. At first, I did not remember her. But slowly, I realized she was the quiet girl from my childhood.
Today, Vasanthi is a Vice-Principal at a college. To many people, she looks very strict. Young people are often afraid to talk to her or look her in the eye.
But if you really know her, she is like a jackfruit. A jackfruit is rough and prickly on the outside, but inside, it is very sweet. Under her tough look, Vasanthi has a mother’s heart. She cares deeply for people who are treated unfairly or who are struggling.
Bhai Jeevan Singh 'Tamil' (after and before embracing Sikhi)
For over a year, she kept asking me one question:
"Why did you change from Christianity to Sikhi?"
I always told her, "I will tell you when the time is right."
That moment finally came. I had translated a book called “Captivating the Simple Hearted” from English into Tamil. I asked her to help me check and edit it.
As she read the book, it changed her. It made her think about justice, dignity, and how we should treat one another. She started talking to other Sikh friends in Tamil Nadu.
After thinking deeply, she decided to follow the principles of Sikhi herself. She stopped wearing the holy ash (vibhuthi) on her forehead. She didn't do this to be mean to her old ways, but because she truly believed in these new ideas. Today, she lives by the Sikh values of love and truth.
Vasanthi’s dedication was amazing. She did not just read our book once. She edited it four times! She worked very hard to make sure every word was perfect.
She did all of this as Seva—which means "selfless service." She refused to take even one rupee for her hard work. Now, she also helps as an advisor for the Tamil Sikh Sangat.
During the recent Tamilnadu elections, she did something I will never forget. She had bought a car using a bank loan. Even though it was a big responsibility, she let me use her car for my campaign so I could travel with dignity. This kind of help is rare and very special.
Her daughter, Sri, is now in her final year of medical college. She is following in her mother’s footsteps by working hard to help others.
Today, Vasanthi lives a life of humility and courage. Her story shows us that it is never too late to change. She is a true example of how reflection and a kind heart can lead someone to a beautiful new life…. in Guru’s Mission
Jeevan Singh Tamil
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