By Narjit B, Singh, Anahelm, CA For many Sikhs destined homelands are far from their roots. It used to be that one would work outside the homeland and ‘Would return home to enjoy the Last years of their life in Punjab, but things change, Many Punjabis are notable to return home; if they do, occupiers would not welcome them, Without interaction from a person what can an expatriate envision? Is this what we want; if not, then why we be doing?
One must return to history lot answers. In order to protect one’s religion, socioeconomic culture, and identity, one must. have a homeland, Without a homeland ‘one is destined to remain a minority and infinitely looks for an identification like an adopted child, Saying, Lam from India, does not identify a language, values, virtues, or culture, Northwest India, Punjab, is very different from thereto the Indian, culture, If we were to say that, well [ am no longer part of that land and need not worry, then] would suggest; ask the Jews, ‘Armenians, Kurds, African Americans to find out what it is Tike not to be able to identify with one’s own culture, language
and homeland.
The issue of our identity began in the seventies when our folks found themselves in the economically segregated culture of India. The need grew after an Indian Army invasion of The Sikh Temple in 1984.
Freedom and Liberty go hand in hand. One cannot have something while denying the same to others, neither one wins freedom being arrogant and antagonistic toward the silent majority who supports them, nor without envisioning the dream and a plan, Revolutions are won by the brave, idealists, and persons of commitment.
The Sikh freedom movement is called the “Silent Revolution.” It is so because the entire community of Sikhs is silently debating the issue of freedom, liberty, and a homeland for the Sikhs. I hope and pray: the aims of the community are pure, and the goal for their homeland is uncompromising. Those who are wearing the arms ‘make a promise that those arms would be set aside after the independence. There will be neither revenge nor tyranny under any pretext. I further recommend community should adopt a Liberation Flag for every freedom lover to rally around. The Liberators must be unselfish, obedient to rules of fair play, and work independently to achieve freedom. The life, property, and individual dignity must be foremost on the Liberator’s mind, They must consider themselves humble servants for mankind and mentor for the future generations. No conduct shall label them in a bad light. The movement is not theirs, it is for the community. Everyone should participate whether one wants to or not. Thoughts of freedom inspire idealism; if nothing else, it would make one a better human being. Idealism, conduct, and deeds shall be the beacon of freedom for minorities subjugated by Government orchestrated tyranny. The goal for Sikhs should be, to demonstrate to the world, the need for a free homeland and set ‘an example to establish an idealistic democracy for the new millennium. Allman: kind has a quest. Everyone struggles to eliminate the bad society in their own minds. Just as “all” who have claimed they represent the Almighty and addressed the entire mankind, so shall this movement appeal to mankind. Let it be an example for mankind. The Sikh movement should define the problem, present goals, then set an example to show how noble people wrestle the elements, May we practice the following to enhance our image:
Envision, dream, and memorialize our thoughts so that others could judge which COUFB (0 take to attain freedom. Democjes and open societies float their ideas freely in the marketplace so their citizens could make an informed consent, Draw no boundaries or contemplate thoughts that would frighten others. If you have a good idea which is not presented, it is worth nothing. Let us all hear what you have to say.
Identify and recognize our community. We are sons and daughters of the land called Punjab, Be proud (0 say, “It is a Jand where men are noble, brave, and in love with God, Women are equal, beautiful, and sovereign in their homes. Children me innocent, sincere, and thoughtful.” In our destined homelands, let us remain loyal to where we earn our living and maintain the practice of our Sikh teachings in our living style; let us maintain a certain amount of aristocracy. Be generous, kind, and gentler in our conduct.
Never put our self-down, Let us acquire the MIDAS touch. Instill positive thoughts in others about us and our vision of the world, Always think positive, remain and benevolent, Do not conics yourself & victim of and attend ions with the elite, “adopt your village of 8 village back in our home! ‘Send some donation to Millage punchiat” to improve village life, looks for the school kids a ideas which is fives of the village folks raise our little tykes to grow up to be tycoons of tomorrow. Do not apologize pod fortunes or the wealth you create, However, Use Your wealth to the kind to secure your hen the end comes, .en and children are Ensure that our women and children educated. Educated women creates an educated society.
Lent lets create a Sikh National Fund to help our community throughout the world. Charity begins at home. We help everyone else, let us help our own.
Article extracted from this publication >> June 30, 1995
