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Summary of Question:What To Do Or Say When Other Ppl Stare?
Category:General Q's from Non-Sikhs
Date Posted:Thursday, 7/31/2003 3:49 PM MDT

hello i have asked many questions before, but somehow they have not been answered. they probably did not go through. but i have a question again for you that will hopefully be answered.


recently i went with a trip with my family to a city in another state. we stayed at a hotel, becuz we didn't have any family that was living in the area. i was greatly looking forward to the occasion to have fun with my family, and just relax. walking through the hotel wasn't something that i looked forward to....people ... and kids would stop and stare and laugh. my brother has a jura, and my dad has a medium sized beard. it makes me so mad when i see these people looking at us, as if we're in a zoo. i always tell myself if anyone ever gives us dirty looks that i should say something to them. but i never do. at another occasion these group of boys told me and my siblings to 'go home'...now i have never heard anyone say this to me so this was nervewrecking...please tell me what to do. should talk back to the starers or what? i hate it how ppl look at me and my fam as if we're in a zoo. much thanks..

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Prejudice is just ignorance. When people stare, this is what I do: First and foremost, I am very polite and friendly. If I am feel angry inside, I only allow myself to be kind on the outside. I assume that the people are just ignorant. I introduce myself to the people and tell them that I am a Sikh, one of the 8 major religions of the world. I then ask them if they would like to know something about me and my religion. Most people are curious and kind of "blown away" that I am so honest and forethcoming. Educate and love people, don't alienate them with your anger and hate back. Most people are grateful for your openness and information. Include in your little "blurb" that we don't believe in converting people. If they are not interested, just say something kind and friendly like, "I hope you have a lovely day," and walk away. Your anger and rudeness will only further alienate and frighten and intimidate people...and will confirm to them that you are weird. Don't fall to their level. Maintain your grace, dignity and open heart. That is what Sikhs stand for, right? This is courage in action. There is a lot of fear these day. Don't fall prey to others fear and ignorance. I hope this helps you. GTKK



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