It has been a whole year that we have been without the Siri Singh Sahib. And I miss him with every breath of me, every minute of my life.
For a woman, life changes so much when her husband passes away. No one can imagine how hard it is. That loss can never be filled - not ever - in my lifetime.
But on the other hand - every moment when I cry, then somehow he comes, gives me strength and that makes me more strong.
His presence is always with me, helping me to survive and Guru Ram Das is protecting me.
The Siri Singh Sahib taught all of us - don't depend on anyone. Always depend on the Guru, on Guru Ram Das. Always have faith and believe - Ang Sang Wahe Guru.
During this first year of the Siri Singh Sahib's passing, there have been many proclamations made. Many honors have been bestowed upon him. The US Congress even passed a Joint Resolution honoring his life. But even though he has received all these honors, still my heart bleeds with the loss of my love which cannot be explained in words.
The first year anniversary for the death of a loved one is always remembered at one month less than the actual anniversary date. According to Indian culture, for happy occasions you celebrate one month past the date for prosperity and happiness. And for the loss of your loved one, you say God and Guru - this is enough. We don't want any more. So you remember the anniversary at one month before the date.
According to the Guru's teachings, death and happiness come in the will of God. And we have to learn to accept His will.
For the Siri Singh Sahib, we did something rare - when on August 26th we celebrated his death anniversary and birthday together.
On the second year anniversary, the remembrance is held on the date that the person died. For saintly people, it is considered a celebration and a time to do kirtan, darbars, ransubhais, serving langar, feeding the poor, doing Akand Paths and meditations. We do as much as we can on these anniversaries, and dedicate it to the loving memory of those people.
Siri Singh Sahib has left a big responsibility to all of us, to carry the banner of the Guru's teachings forward. He taught us to share with others, take care of each other, show our compassion, love and caring for each other, and help others who are needy.
This was the principal message of the Siri Singh Sahib that he always gave to all of us.
May Guru Ram Das help us live through the times. May we follow the Siri Singh Sahib's example and carry the mission together. That will be the best tribute given to the Siri Singh Sahib from each one of us.