Choice

When we walk a spiritual path, that path guides every decision. One of my friends had to make a huge life-altering decision, and was completely on the fence. Although she was non-Sikh, she is very spiritual and asked how I make my decisions. I told her probably the same ways she did already, pros/cons, speaking to family, and ultimately my values and ethics. That moment really helped make her decision because it was really about what she valued. 

Sikhi provides a structural framework for our lives from daily structure/routine, to guiding morals and values, to general life direction. The moment we are lost, it means we aren’t grounding ourselves, we aren’t connected. That of course is really easy because Gurbani tells us that Kaal has been tasked with keeping us occupied in maya, so our mind is like a child playing with its toys, and gets too busy to think about what else is happening. In that reality, we are no longer free. The more we are awakened, the more life just flows, but initially it takes a lot of hard work and discipline to get this mind under control. Then when life gives us a fork in the road, a moment to make a decision about which direction to walk, it is time for us to ask for some advice from Guru Ji through Ardas. I was listening to a katha yesterday where they were explaining that God doesn’t create coincidences; the more spiritual you are the more you start to understand that this was all meant to be exactly as it was. Let's say you remember someone and they remember you, giving you a call in that moment. I have tons of stories of this- it's never just a coincidence. Sometimes it takes months and years to understand how this path has been leading to this very moment. At the time, it might not make any sense whatsoever. Some decisions are already made for us, and those teach us about acceptance of Hukam. In fact, when we are tired and exhausted its because we are going against and resisting what already is. Other times we need to step up and be courageous, as Sikhi has guided us to make the brave choice. 

Right now as I sit with some very important choices, I am realizing the importance of patience and letting the clear path reveal itself. Guru Ji’s guidance has been Jap! So instead of alternating between present and future, future and past, I'm trying to live in the present and focus on that path. Even though I’m probably the worst at being patient, I know that Guru Ji's advice can never be wrong. What can I do really…when God decides to make you wait you really have no choice in the matter! Over time it brings clarity and direction to what once was foggy and unclear.