View Previous Page
View Next PageCOUNSELLOR, SUPPORT & INSPIRATION
A minister functions as counselor, support, listener and an inspiration in order to help members of the Sadh Sangat go through their growing pains gracefully and successfully. New students who come into the Dharma lack not only knowledge, but sometimes a basic understanding of what questions to ask. A minister can reach out and help in areas before they become too big to handle, while respecting the individual's right to privacy and power over his or her own life.
The technology of communication techniques and counseling may be found all through the Siri Singh Sahib's teachings; these may be studied on an on-going basis. Read and re-read his Ph.D. thesis on Communication (See Bibliography). Know that the Yoga of Charhdi Kala, Kundalini Yoga, can solve problems. Learn to listen. Be attentive and receptive. Many times, people simply need a receptive ear, and will be able to answer their own questions as they talk and listen to their own minds.
Recognize yourself as a minister of Sikh Dharma. Dharma is the acknowledged path of spirituality where you must test yourself and judge yourself so you can liberate yourself to experience Infinity. Dharma is an experienced path of virtuous living. Remember that you represent a set of principles of life, a history, a spiritual path, thousands of people, and a future.
As a minister, you must be strong in your commitment to your own Dharma, and understand every aspect of your lifestyle, so that you do not feel insecure about yourself. You shall meet with opposition, negativity, misunderstanding and, perhaps, even ridicule and abuse. But, remember that a person's negativity is his own pain, his own ignorance and cry for help. When negativity is directed towards you, it is your opportunity to serve, to radiate love, to stand for what you believe in. It is an opportunity for you to build bridges. Be alert and active, not reactive. Turn curiosity, fear, anger and animosity into understanding, love and tolerance.
The virtue of all virtues is to uplift a person who is falling on the spiritual path.
Your physical strength, your mental clarity and perception, and your spiritual awareness will carry you through. Always call on God and Guru to guide you.
