From Sadness to Hope.

The Sikh Temple of Wisconsin. A place that, almost a year ago, was filled with two families coming together to celebrate the joyous occasion of my sister's wedding to her husband. I can still very vividly picture walking into the gurdwara, seeing the colors and happy faces, smelling the food. It was a place that, for me and everyone there, was the ultimate in peace and love. A place where two cultures came together as one in understanding and friendship, appreciation and hope. The marriage ceremony was so beautiful. Seeing my sister and brother-in-law, sitting next to one another as equals, so hopeful and full of love, still makes my eyes tear.

Getting a phone call letting you know that a mass shooting had just happened at the very place that had brought not only my family and friends so much happiness, but also the Sikh community of Oak Creek, was like taking an iron punch to the gut. Seeing the images on television of panicked people, sadness, tragedy, tears and knowing it hits close to home, crushed me to pieces. I still can't put into words how I feel. How could something like this happen in Wisconsin? What kind of message is this, about the society we live in? And most importantly, how do we counteract it and make it disappear?

I'm hoping that not only us Wisconsinites, but everyone around the world, will finally realize that we need a serious call for peace, tolerance, and understanding. This is the year 2012, yet society acts like we just left the stone age. The worst part is that we think that things like this happen in other cities, other states, so we pretend like it will never happen here. Now we know that hatred and bigotry has nested itself in towns across America we never thought it would, and if we don't act, it will only grow bigger. We need to counter act. We need to show that our side, of compassion and love, will always outshine the side of violence, fear and confusion. We can change. We can and will show that when we follow the light, the darkness grows smaller and smaller until it's gone.

So, here's what I propose. Do some research. See what other faiths are practiced in your area. Visit your local gurdwara, mandir (Hindu temple), Buddhist temple, synagogue, mosque or church. Meet with the followers, ask questions, open up dialogue, see their way of life. Talk to your neighbors. Speak out against bigotry with a loud voice. There's nothing more toxic to society than a closed mind. We should not allow our minds to be led astray, bended and molded by those who are hostile, and have an agenda. Open yourself up to new cultures and new people. Make new friends. There is an end to this terrible, violent cycle. We will see the silver lining. We will all shine in the sun as one.

The outpouring of support for the Oak Creek Sikh community has been amazing. Seeing people come together, regardless of who they are, is what we need to begin this healing process. It brings us all hope. Please visit http://www.neverendinglight.com/index.php/we-are-sikhs to donate to the fund for the victims families. There will be a wake on Friday, August 10th, 9am-11pm at the Oak Creek High gym, 340 East Puetz Road.