Adult Network to Support All Children
Manjit Kaur Khalsa, R.N.
Espanola NM, U.S.A.
This is a good time to consider our support systems for youth. The Siri Singh Sahib has built a school in Chheherta, near Amritsar, dedicated to Human Values. He has nurtured businesses and provided jobs for hundreds of young people, teaching modern job skills in a conscious environment with kind, supportive mentors. He has personally spent time and energy with countless youths and families. He has presided over the slow evolution of a great inspirational body, Sikh Dharma of the West, dedicated to serving humanity. Within this context, youth are finding their adult identities.
We have all been involved in the process of spreading The Teachings, especially to children and youth, whether or not we are biological parents. Some of our children have actually been raised by whole ashrams or a wider, spiritual dharmic community. We have worked hard on ourselves on many levels. Our efforts now are to be conscious, kind, and inspiring adults -- to guide the child to his highest potential, to nurture his unique inner being, to honor God's guest in our house.
This great sensitive task is accomplished in both inner and outer ways. All children need to have positive experiences of themselves and how others see them. Our activities, traditions and programs are meaningful when they impart spiritual love and joy.
A child needs safety, shelter, food, love and education and we need to find age-appropriate ways of nurturing their souls. Our personal relationship with each child is a powerful factor in their spiritual environment. By providing a godly environment, we hope they will develop a strong inner experience of God. No matter what else we may teach the child, to support their sense of inner-beingness is the greatest thing.
Parents need to feel supported in child rearing. Communities and ashrams can serve as spiritual mentors, in the way that they serve and work with all of the youth.
We hope to hear from all adults and parents interested in developing support systems for the spirit and strength of youth. Please call Manjit Kaur at 505-753-9154