The Wisconsin Sikh Gurdwara shooting has left me completely shaken.
What more devastating news can there be to hear about a horrific shooting in a peaceful place of worship, leaving six people dead?
As a Sikh myself, I follow the teachings and understand the moral values taught by the Sikh religion. I think it is important for the Sikh community to establish a solid identity – not be mistaken for another religion and to educate others around us about who we are and what we believe in.
One of the prime moral values of Sikhism if forgiveness. Sikhism teaches others to forgive their enemies. This was effectively portrayed last Tuesday night at the Lakshmi Narayan Mandir when, even after such a devastating tragedy, people are still expressing a willingness to forgive the gunman.
It is truly unfortunate that racism still exists to such an extent even today in such a modern, civilized, united and mature world. I agree this tragedy has raised religious intolerance worldwide but it has also created awareness.
We live in a multicultural, multi-ethnic society where all races, people of all different cultural backgrounds live united and peacefully. One of the teachings I greatly believe in is “Nirbhau Nirvair,” without fear without hate.
Navi Dosanjh, 15
Surrey