by SS Dr. Haridass Kaur Khalsa, Los Angeles, California
2023 (Fourth Quarter)

In this time and space, what do you value most in your Dharmic life?

It has been a long three years with the pandemic and the upheaval in our community. I miss gathering with my Dharmic brothers and sisters, and I miss the joy of service. But what I value in this time and space is the opportunity to grow, learn, and heal, each on our own terms. Letting out all the emotions and taking time to acknowledge the hurts meant that we have had to talk about the past, no matter how painful. Many of us sat in listening circles to provide a much-needed neutral presence. To listen without offering any guidance or advice was often the hardest thing—especially when we had our own strong opinions. Who are we to judge another?  

I firmly believe that anyone who is practicing Kundalini Yoga as taught by Yogi Bhajan has found value in the technology of Kundalini Yoga and how it can help others.

 Do you see these values reflected in the lives of those in your community? 

Yes, indeed. Showing up; coming in person as a member of the sangat is very important to the growth and sustenance of our community. I was at both the Raj Festival and the 3HO Summer Solstice in Espanola, NM. I found happy faces of those who missed each other and who felt a need to belong. Coming together to cook, to greet each other and to bow at the Guru’s feet, we found peace and fulfillment.

Do you see a pathway forward in your community where some think differently from you?

Yes I do. Accepting each other’s gifts and challenges makes us real and flexible. As we allow each other to fully express without the fear of being rejected, we can start the healing process.

Please share your thoughts and ideas about the potential for community dialogue to bring your sangat together in meaningful relationship. 

I am one of the local organizers for White Tantric Yoga. At a recent WTY course in Los Angeles, it was truly a gift to be with those I have not seen in almost three years. The room was filled with music, laughter, deep concentration, and loud chanting. As I sat and monitored the event, I could feel my heart sing when I saw participants meditate and find their victory. We are all here finding our way to our own inner light and freedom. 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

SS Dr. Haridass Kaur Khalsa is a Sikh Dharma Minister, author, and international Kundalini Yoga Teacher Trainer. She has a PhD in Natural Health and wrote her dissertation on relieving chronic pain through diaphragmatic breathing and gentle movements. For over 15 years, Dr. Haridass has traveled the globe, teaching people how to rebuild themselves from the inside out, towards a life of loving their more authentic selves and making decisions that support their vision and destiny.  Her recent book, Creating Happiness, will be available by Winter Solstice, 2023.