Dear Ministers,

Are you feeling bombarded by life of late? Perhaps some of the contributing factors are: unexpected physical, emotional, mental, and/or spiritual challenges; the upheavals in the world like wars, politics or governments; natural disasters; weather; unexpected financial expenditures; stressful circumstances; work overload; family crisis or loss, to name a few. How does one navigate these challenges?

We have a rich body of teachings that come with this lifestyle. What is the difference between someone who is derailed by the challenges of life, and one who is able to navigate whatever comes their way? At least on this path, it seems to me that those who daily utilize at least some of the gifts this lifestyle offers, are likely to be able to develop more stillness and steadiness, to meet the challenges life delivers. This state of consciousness we define as Shuniya, or the “zero point”—a state of ultimate stillness and receptivity that is the compass point of Sach (ultimate Truth) and the theme of this year’s newsletters.

Being on this path and living this lifestyle can provide one with valuable tools to navigate the ups and downs of life’s journey.  This can look different ways for different people at different times: whether someone daily does our Aquarian Sadhana, reads the Banis, serves the Siri Guru Granth Sahib, practices Kundalini Yoga and meditation, listens to, plays, and/or chants Gurbani Kirtan, gives through seva, or teaches, writes, and/or shares the teachings we have been blessed with. Is it the only way? No. However, our souls have been drawn to this path, and really practicing it can give us the consciousness that is needed in these times and in this life!

Is anyone exempt from the challenges life seems to encompass? No, that is unrealistic. What matters is how one meets these experiences, rather than what they are. That’s easy to say, yet difficult to deliver. 

What I have seen is that the more someone evolves in consciousness, the more that individual is able to develop deeper neutrality. More wisdom seems to flow to that person, and that individual becomes better equipped to navigate life’s many facets. 

As a Minister, the steadier you can be, the more you will help yourself, reduce your stress, and be better able to help others. May God and Guru guide you with this endeavor and your service in this seva. Many blessings to you.

Humbly,

SS Dr. Sat-Kaur Khalsa
Secretary of Religion

THE SECRETARY OF RELIGION

SS Dr. Sat Kaur Khalsa has served as Secretary of Religion since 1991 and was ordained as a Sikh Dharma Minister in 1975. As Secretary of Religion, Dr. Sat Kaur oversees and is ultimately responsible for the delivery of the functions of this Office. Dr. Sat Kaur is a long-time member of the International Khalsa Council and the Khalsa Council Executive Committee. She maintains a full-time Telehealth Psychotherapy and counseling private practice, specializing in relationships. She predominately works with adults (individuals and couples) to support their personal and spiritual growth. She is a certified Kundalini Yoga teacher, a facilitator of White Tantric Yoga®, and a published author.