Seva is like a tree where the outside branches and leaves protect and give to humanity and the bounded roots make us strong and humble.
Seva, meaning selfless service, is fundamental in Sikhism. “One who performs selfless service without thought of reward shall attain his Lord and Master.” (SGGS Ang 286). A Sikh is a student of Guru Granth Sahib ji who has made a vow to serve those around them no matter the cost.
The distinct attire of Bana is like that of a policeman, in which the outside identifies us to be approachable if anyone is in need. We are to see the light of God in all creation and serve selflessly and always protect those in need without any personal benefit. Seva is like a tree where the outside branches and leaves protect and give to humanity and the bounded roots make us strong and humble. Not only does seva bring one moral uplifting, but it also binds a community together.
As a collective community, this year members of Chardi Kala Sikh Sangat (CKSS), a non- profit organization embarked upon doing seva in the community, volunteered their time at the Surrey Urban Mission and made dinner to serve those in need. We collected donations and made bags to hand out essential items as well. We will continue this service throughout the year. Another seva we strive to continue is community garbage pick-up. We have been working with the City of Surrey, and with the help of a few volunteers we select locations to remove garbage to help the environment and mother earth. CKSS also has been working with a woman’s shelter, both in giving donations and taking out time to help the shelter where needed.
As quoted from Guru Granth Sahib, “You shall find peace, doing seva” (SGGS Ang 25). When providing help to those in need, our mind discovers other facets of spiritual, mental and universal awareness. In turn, one can attain serenity and peace of mind. If one find’s peace of mind in doing seva for others, the heart is opened to receive Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji’s message of Naam Japo (meditation on God and reciting and chanting of God’s Name), Kirat Karo (to honestly earn, with hard work, by one’s physical and mental effort, while accepting God’s gifts and blessing), and Vand Chakko (to share and consume together, may it be time in congregation with Sadh Sangat, monetary donations, or giving one’s time to improve community). With these values one can live the word of Guru Granth Sahib Ji.
The members of CKSS agree that seva has helped the sangat strengthen their bound and bring love and light within them and to those they have served. In addition, they continuously have meditation and yoga classes that are open to the community so that those that in need of spiritual and/or physical activity can join in.
