In this present atmosphere of hostility and hatred, we need to safeguard our children both from becoming objects of hate and fear and from becoming bigots and fearful themselves. We can draw two lessons from the life and teachings of the ninth Sikh guru- Guru Tegh Bahadur.
First and foremost, if we are truly people of conscience, we must be prepared to risk our lives for equity, fight against injustice and uphold the law. As the Sikhs of the Guru, we cannot watch helplessly as those close to us are victimized. Chapters of history illustrate although the Sikh community enjoyed a secure political position at the time, other local communities were being repressed. Guru Tegh Bahadur confronted the emperor about these atrocities, was imprisoned, and eventually executed by the brutal enemy as punishment for being a faithful supporter, We should learn this from our Guru and educate our future generations that they should always take a strong stand against injustices.
We should educate them we should be courageous enough to protect the weak from being oppressed and at the same time, we should educate them to never practice maltreatment against the weak. Let's all pledge to act with such moral conviction and stand tall for our community.
Secondly, our customs tell us that Guru Tegh Bahadur wrote a composition while in jail that is now revered in the Sikh scripture. This work known as, Salok Mahala 9, is a wonderful reflection on commitment, equality, and carrying on life with a purpose.
bhai kāhū kaü det nahi nahi bhai mānat ān.
kahu nānak suni re manā giānī tāhi bakhāni.16.
-Guru Granth Sahib 1427
The given lines are one of the most striking couplets in this composition offering a profound lesson for navigating the difficulties of today's world. They mean "Nanak says, listen to this, my heart and mind. A truly wise person is one who doesn't fear anyone or frightens anyone."
Let us teach our children that the Sikh perspective is one that promotes affection and respect for all. In that kind of world, there is no space for disdain or adversaries, or dread. Finding love within our own lives is both the end and the means; realizing divine love is the ultimate goal and practicing love with intention and spirit is the process of achieving that goal. Let the Guru’s teachings be our shelter and strength, our haven and hope.