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#syana2017 Gurmat Camp Update

Vaaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Vaaheguru Ji Ki Fateh!

We’re already two days into SYANA Gurmat Camp 2017. Our campers have been learning about the notion of Kurbaani (sacrifice) and how it has been exemplified throughout our history.

Through their history classes, students have been learning about the martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji and the sacrifices of Guru Gobind Singh Ji. They heard about the rule of Maharaja Ranjit Singh and thought about the requirements for building a Sikh Raj (kingdom).

In Keertan class, they have been learning how to recite Gurbaani and also reflect on the meaning with help from our Sevadaars. In Gatka class, they have learned skills for defense to carry forth the essential Sikh practice of tyaar bar tyaar (always at the ready). Through these lessons, we hope to instill in the campers a notion of Miri and Piri—spiritual and worldly intellect and understanding.

Our theme Shabad this year was from Guru Nanak Dev Ji: ਬਿਨੁ ਤੇਲ ਦੀਵਾ ਕਿਉ ਜਲੈ॥ਰਹਾਉ॥ Through this shabad, the campers are reflecting on how a life of focus, commitment, and love is required in order to find peace and free ourselves from attachments.

While GuruJi asks how we can “light the lamp” of our life in this first rahaao pankthee, he answers the question in a second: ਇਹ ਤੇਲੁ ਦੀਵਾ ਇਉ ਜਲੈ॥ ਕਰਿ ਚਾਨਣੁ ਸਾਹਿਬ ਤਉ ਮਿਲੈ॥੧॥ਰਹਾਉ॥ It is only through an understanding of the temporary nature of our world, and a focus on Gurbaani and seva, that we can peace in this world and a place for ourselves in Guru’s darbaar.

Finally, perhaps the most important part of camp is the bonds and friendships that the children will build and carry into the future. Within two days, the campers have already become close with their group members and their counselors. They are having intimate conversations about how to practice their lives as Sikhs within their communities and are drawing inspiration from their counselors and teachers. With Guru’s blessing, we hope to continue to grow and learn for the rest of the week.

Vaaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Vaaheguru Ji Ki Fateh!

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2017 Gurmat Retreat Update #4

Vaaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaaheguru Ji Ki Fateh!

The SYANA annual Gurmat Retreat is upon us and we are so excited to meet up with familiar faces and make new friends!

Just a few reminders:

1. Don’t forget to post your travel pictures on our Facebook page #syana2017.

2. Weather throughout the weekend is supposed to be in the mid 70s – The campsite is on a lake so the morning and evening tend to be cool. Please pack appropriately.

3. If you have computers/cameras/books that would be helpful for workshops – bring them along

4. Don’t forget your towels and bedding.

5. For the most accurate directions please use the map on our site: Retreat Directions.

6. We will have access to email during the day but for emergencies please call Inderpal Singh (847) 226.0690 or Mandeep Singh (314) 537.5669.

Chardhi Kala!

Vaaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaaheguru Ji Ki Fateh!

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2017 Gurmat Retreat Update #3

Vaaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaaheguru Ji Ki Fateh!

The SYANA annual Gurmat Retreat is upon us and we are so excited to meet up with familiar faces and make new friends!

Just a few reminders:

1. Weather throughout the weekend is supposed to be in the mid to high 70’s – The campsite is on a lake so the morning and evening tend to be cooler. Please pack appropriately.

2. Don’t forget to post your travel pictures on our Facebook wall #syana2017

3. Don’t forget your towels and bedding

4. For the most accurate directions please use the map on our site: Retreat Directions

5. We will have access to email during the day but for emergencies please call Inderpal Singh (847) 226.0690 or Mandeep Singh (314) 537.5669.

We are very much looking forward to this weekend – it will be a weekend of remembrance, reflection and analysis and we cannot wait to share this with all your Sangat.

Chardhi Kala!

Vaaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaaheguru Ji Ki Fateh!

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2017 Gurmat Retreat Update #2

Vaaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaaheguru Ji K i Fateh!

We are looking forward to seeing you this Friday! Just a few reminders:

1. We are having a poetry/open mic night on Sunday evening. Please think about sharing a favorite poem, essay, song, or instrument.  We would love to hear your voice!

2. If travelling by air/train/bus, please email us complete info at: info@sikhyouthalliance.org.

3. If you have dietary allergies/food sensitivities – please let us know so we can make accommodations accordingly

4. Don’t forget your bedding and towels, and please come prepared for outdoor activities!

4. Gurmat Retreat begins with registration at 4:00pm on Friday, May 26th and concludes with lunch on Monday, May 29th at 1:00 pm.

5. The address for the campsite is: YMCA Camp Storer 6941 Stony Lake Road, Jackson, MI 49021.

Please let us know if you have any questions. We will see you soon!

Charhdi Kala!

Vaaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaaheguru Ji K i Fateh!

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2017 Gurmat Retreat: Panel Discussion

Learn from your contemporaries at the retreat, each one of who has started their own micro revolution, whether it be in terms of politics, law, environment, service and activism. Ask questions and get insight into how you can ensure your project sees the light of day, or how you can be a part of existing ones and help them grow. #syan2017 #syanagurmatretreat #seeyounextweek!!!

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2017 Gurmat Retreat Update

2017 SYANA Gurmat Retreat is just around the corner and we are excited to see familiar faces and especially excited to meet new people!

If you have already registered, a few things we wanted to let you know before your arrival:

1. If you are traveling in by plane, train or bus please email us at info@sikhyouthalliance.org with your information so appropriate transfers can be arranged.
2. Please don’t forget to bring bath slippers for the bathroom, bedding for a twin size bed, and towels.  Note: If you are flying into Detroit, we will do our best to provide bedding for you. We will be in contact once we receive your flight information.
3. You will need tennis shoes for some of the weekend activities.
4. Please try and bring a water bottle.
5. Visit the FAQ section on the website for common questions, but please feel free to email us with any questions you may have.
7. If you have any allergies or dietary restrictions – please let us know.
8. You can find info on our workshops and speakers via our blog.
9. If you have any concerns or special requests, please email us, and we will do our best to accommodate your needs.

Again, we are excited about the opportunity to spend time with all of you. We’ll see you on Friday May 26th!

Charhdi Kala

Vaaheguru Ji Ka Khalsa Vaaheguru Ji Ki Fateh!

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2017 Gurmat Retreat: Where do you stand?

Be a part of this challenging team exercise at SYANA Gurmat Retreat to figure out how to answer our own questions about the moral, social, political, religious, environmental and economics problems that plague the world today. Learn how to research gurbani, sikh practices, and history to respond to the ethical and real world crises of the current day. #syana2017 #onemoreweek #seeyousoon!

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