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How Will You Ride This Life?

February 4, 2025

Vahiguru ji ka Khalsa, Vahiguru ji ki Fatih!

The Ghoria composition, set in the rag of Vadahans, carries an emotional depth that reflects life’s most profound transitions: weddings and funerals. Rooted in folk traditions, Ghoria are celebratory songs sung by women from the groom’s family during the wedding procession. Yet, beneath the surface of these joyous melodies lies a deeper invitation that transcends earthly unions' fleeting joy.

Vadahans, meaning “the great swan,” evokes the swan’s symbolism in Sikhi. The swan is often associated with the self, the inner spirit, and our potential to rise above pretension and restlessness. In the Guru Granth Sahib, the swan and the crane serve as metaphors: the swan is calm and discerning, while the crane is restless and superficial. The question before us is clear—will we embody the clarity of the swan or remain caught in the pretensions of the crane?

Guru Ramdas Sahib elevates the groom’s wedding procession, a simple and familiar tradition, into a profound metaphor for life’s ultimate journey: the union of the being with the Creator, the One. The Guru invites us to pause and reflect on our existence through this imagery. This “mare-like body” we inhabit, this precious gift of life, is more than a mere vessel—it is an opportunity. How will we ride this life? How will we prepare for the union with the 1-Light? What wisdom will guide us, and what devotion will color our journey?

The Guru begins: This mare-like body has become of a new color through the remembrance of the Hari—the 1-Light—the IkOankar. This remembrance transforms us, infusing our being with a devotion so vibrant and ever-renewing that it cannot fade. Our bodies are not simply physical forms; they are sacred gifts—tools through which we align with IkOankar, the One. When we remember IkOankar, when we practice Nam—Identification with the One, something profound awakens within. A transformation takes root—a love and devotion that remains fresh, alive, and unchanging.

We pause.
We reflect.

In our worldly relationships, love often feels fleeting. The initial thrill of connection fades, and the glow of passion can diminish over time. However, the love for IkOankar is different. It defies time. It doesn’t wither; it blossoms, it deepens, and renews itself every single day. This devotion fills life with radiant vitality, keeping us alive in love. How do we nurture this love? How do we immerse ourselves in devotion that is ever-new?

The Guru offers the way: seek the supreme narrative of IkOankar’s realization. This understanding comes through living in a relationship with the Wisdom-Guru. As we align ourselves with the One through remembrance, we begin to grasp life’s rhythm. We discern what to embrace, what to release, and how to navigate the conditions of our existence.

This practice transforms us. It connects us to a higher purpose, freeing us from life's fleeting distractions. Through it, we praise the IkOankar, the One, live in remembrance, and experience fulfillment. Nam reshapes us, guiding us toward what truly matters: devotion.

The Guru reminds us: the devotion to IkOankar is greater than all other practices and deeds. This devotion, this ever-renewing love, becomes the only thing we desire. Everything else fades into insignificance.

So, will we pause to listen? Will we open ourselves to this relationship with the One? Will we live in remembrance and experience a love that is eternally fresh and alive?

May the Wisdom-Guru guide us.

Watch, Listen, Read

Symbolism in the Guru Granth Sahib: The Swan

The contrast of a Wisdom-oriented individual with a self-centered person is brought forth with the analogy of a swan and a crane.

The Sidak Impact: Jasleen Kaur & Kabir Singh

Sidaker, Kabir Singh, speaks with Sidak Facilitator, Jasleen Kaur about the realizations that came about as a result of attending Sidak. A lot of his fears around questioning his faith and comparing himself to his peers were alleviated.

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