Dear Editor,
Fellows, Fellows. Time Out.
Let us not undermine our own. Time has long gone past when there was a question if folks back home wanted to remain within the Indian Union? It is quite clear that they may not know “How” or What” they really want. One thing is perfectly clear; that is, they want autonomy to set their own boundaries in social, economic, cultural and religious order. Whether it is Jathedar, Babbar Kahlsa, or Aulukh, the fact, is their goal is the same, a sovereign Punjab. Tactics may/would differ but the goal is the same. We must look at the positive acts and deeds of our fellow Sikhs.
Let us first recognize how difficult it is for Jathedar, and others back home, to speak out in occupied Punjab. So many have paid with their life in speaking out, let us not lose more. Before we ask them to do things that might jeopardize their life or limb, let us find another alternative. You know, they can’t even discuss actions those affect them, that we take for granted here. They can’t even attend a funeral just because Indians have labeled the deceased a separatist. In reviewing the conduct of our fellow Sikhs, Punjabis, Kashmiris, we should recognize where are they coming from. Nor should we criticize Aulukh, who gave up/a career and took over the task of educating American legislators of Sikh plight, or others like him. We should not get into petty bickering. instead we should honor our hero’s for their indulgence and sacrifices. We should focus our time on solutions and answers, not on belittling others.
Who is a better Sikh? Well! The Gurus have put all Sikhs on one platform of courage, sacrifice and equality. Isn’t that enough? The issue ahead is not who is doing what, the issue is “How to achieve that destined independent homeland while maintaining our nobility”. Let us not lower ourselves to the conduct of low lifers.
My recommendation: we must continue to covet and to uplift our morals to combat the evil forces of injustice, tyranny, and despondency. We must enhance our spiritual and temporal awareness, and augment our views of life, death, and culture. (Sikhism). We must contemplate the plans for freedom and liberty and implant those thoughts in our birth homeland. Every Punjabi here is an ambassador from our homeland and should act accordingly.
Every great deed is preceded by equally great sacrifice. We shall commit our self to the welfare of Sikhs and the mankind. We will be the cause and source of our success, Let us understand clearly the saying that, “if it is to be, it is up to me”.
Narjit B. Singh Anaheim, CA
Article extracted from this publication >> October 21, 1994
