I am convinced that one of the biggest contributors to hate, racism, war, labels, contention and a general lack of progress and peace is a lack understanding. Either we don't care to understand each other or we don't try to understand each other. Ignorance is not always bliss. I think sometimes we avoid people that are not like us...it takes a little more effort to reach outside our comfort zone. Yes, I am getting a little deep here...stay with me. And, I bet you are wondering why there is an orange flag next to a picture of the Oquirrh Mountain Temple. I will tell you!
The street we currently live on has very diverse neighbors... ethnically and religiously. Sometimes it is a challenge but mostly, I think it is wonderful to be surrounded by so many that are different from me. There is one family in particular that I've gotten to know fairly well. They are a Sikh Indian family. We have had the opportunity to talk on a number of occasions. Several of our conversations have centered on their beliefs and my beliefs. I've learned a lot about the Sikh religion. Did you know it's only about 500yrs old? Did you know they don't remove any hair from their body? (yes, the girls are sad to not wax their eyebrows once they fully convert) Did you know they are vegetarian?
This last month, I invited them to the temple open house and they excitedly accepted. About two weeks ago, Boneeta came to my door with her sister Jasmine to tell me they were having a 3 day prayer and that there would be lots of cars on the street. They also invited me down for some food. I politely declined (why would I put myself in a slightly uncomfortable situation??lol). While they were at my door, I asked Boneeta what she thought of the temple. She said she loved it. I thought it was interesting that she specifically commented on the baptistry. Her sister, Jasmine (who lives out of state) expressed that she'd love to see the temple, too. That could be arranged easily enough! I told her that I would get the tickets and bring them over that night. I ran down the street to get some tickets from our mission leader. As I came to Jasmine's house, the garage door was opened and the garage was filled with beautifully dressed people from their group. As I gave them the tickets, I was asked if I'd like to stay for some food. Once again, I politely declined. After talking for a few more minutes, I was asked again if I'd like to stay. Feeling the sweat building, I thought to myself, "This is exactly the thing I need to do. What the heck, I will join them!" And join them I did! Yep, little miss whitey, feeling a little under dressed (and immodest) in my shorts, surrounded by a group of beautiful Indians, gorgeously dressed in their traditional Indian clothing. They were so gracious and even looked a little pleased to have an outsider join them. Yes, I felt sweaty, anxious and out of place but I loved that I took this step outside of my comfort zone. So there I sat with a plate full of delicious Indian food, listening to them speak Punjabi and learning more about their religion and culture. Boneeta then asked me if I'd like to see the prayer. "Sure!" I said, feeling a little more adventurous. I would have to take my shoes off and cover my head with an orange scarf. I entered the house to see a beautiful canopy in the living room with an older lady reading from their scriptures. You see, with this 3 day prayer, they are not allowed to stop. That is why there are so many people coming and going...they all take turns.
I can't tell you how invigorating this was for me. I like to think of myself as a nice person. However, even a nice person's mind needs a little expanding now and then. Growing up in Utah didn't offer me many mind-opening experiences and this was just the kind of thing to help counter that. I left feeling like I had gained a new confidence and ability to show my love for those that are different than me and to not be afraid to ask about or surround myself with those that are outside my normal circle. What a wonderful, wonderful experience!!
9 comments:
Wow, Julie, that's awesome! What a great learning experience for all of us, thanks for sharing. I love the idea of a 3 day prayer!!
That is so cool! And... I did not know those things about the Sikh religion - very interesting. I often think that's it's ok for me to invite people to my church functions, but forget that I would need to return the favor if asked. So good for you! Do they do the 3 day prayer often? Or at certain times of the year?
Julie, I loved your post. I love when you get "deep". :) What a great experience to have an opportunity to learn about what someone else truly believes. I am sure your neighbors felt honored to you there and glad that you honestly were interested in what they believed. Well done!
Sikhism is a way interesting religion! I have some materials if you're interested in learning more (you know what I mean, to understand them better, not to religiously investigate!). I took a class at BYU on far eastern religions that was fascinating. In Jainism, similar to Sikhism, they actually don't believe in clothing so if you go to India don't be surprised to see naked people walking around.
I liked Tera's comment about remembering about being open to other people's religions as well, it certainly builds respect, understanding, and trust. Some people are surprised when I tell them that my class at BYU actually required us to attend other religious services, as if it was a sin or something! Geez!
Great post Julie. It sounds like it was an awesome experience. I took that same class as Jeff at BYU. Did you enjoy the food?
One of the many reasons I love Jules. Always good at not only expressing herself but not afraid to try something new.
Julie, I have always thought of you as a girl who's not afraid to reach out and try something new.
Thanks for sharing. I didn't know there was a 3-day prayer. What would MY 3-day prayer be like?
I loved listening to you talk about this over our sodas...I find religions fascinating...and I always say, the best missionary thing Laurie did when she met me was to learn what I believed already so she could add to it with what I was missing and she couldn't have done that if she didn't take the time to learn about where I was at to begin with!
Very Cool! Good for you!
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