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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!

SYANA Communications

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