People
Where Grown-ups Get To Play:
Camp Bibek Budh
LAKHPREET KAUR
A cool morning breeze greeted the Sikh retreaters as they walked through the tress to sit in the Guru’s court. The sound of bird songs and peacock calls joined the melody of their kirtan. The smell of a hearty breakfast welcomed them as they entered the langar hall. Laughter filled their meal time.
Such was the daily scene of Camp Bibek Budh.
Camp Bibek Budh was a Sikh camp for those over the age of 50, held in the hill country of Texas over the weekend of less than three weeks ago, hosted by the Sikh Dharamsal of San Antonio.
For many adults, their kids, grandkids, work, and chores fill up their daily schedule and they do not have much time to sit in sangat and discuss Sikh affairs. Camp Bibek Budh was the rare opportunity for them to temporarily get away from the daily grind of life and spend time reflecting on their Sikhi.
“A lot of people had been looking forward to this camp, especially since it had never been done,” said co-organizer Dr. Satpal Singh.
Just like any younger camper would be, these adult campers were joyful and energetic. They were eager to learn and excited to meet Sikhs from across the country.
“I thought the camp was great. It was very inspiring,” said Komal Kaur Dang of Baltimore, Maryland. “I was motivated by all those who attended.”
The aim of this camp was to gather spirited Sikhs to reflect on their lives in America and to discuss how they could leave a legacy for generations.
“Building a Family Legacy” seemed to be the session that resonated most with participants. "I wish I had known about creating family values before I got married or had kids!" said Tejinder Singh Glamor of Florida.
Manohar Singh Grewal said he too liked the idea of creating family values by involving all family members.
Komal Kaur said the most useful thing for her was learning from others’ experiences.
“Hearing people’s personal stories and learning how to accept life changes can help one become a better Sikh.”
To implement learning, each participant wrote down a personal action plan to better connect with Sikhi and was encouraged to share his/her goals with family and friends so that each could be held accountable.
“We tackled some serious issues and asked difficult life questions,” said co-organizer Dr. G P Singh. “Since finding solutions and answering questions is a process and not an event, I hope retreaters found the camp to be a first step.”
Tejinder Singh echoed the sentiment: “This was excellent exposure to a lot of questions we have in our minds but never discuss.”
“We built good momentum in discussion topics like ‘The Next 100 Years: Issues and Solutions,’ and ‘Effective philanthropy,’ ” added Dr. Satpal Singh. “I think the camp laid a strong foundation for innovative thinking and, in the coming years, this momentum will lead to much greater progress.”
The 28 participants, ranging from ages 50 to 78, came together to gain new insight and ended up leaving refreshed and invigorated.
"We enjoyed the camp, met lots of wonderful people and made many new friends," said Daljeet Singh. "We are looking forward to meeting and seeing each other soon."
Majority of participants said they will return for future camps. "The people were so friendly and open!" said Manohar Singh Grewal.
“We need to keep doing things like this camp,” Komal Kaur reflected, “We need to stimulate each other and the best way to do this is through meeting new people.”
The Sikh Dharamsal of San Antonio plans to host future events, hoping to will people together to build sangat, celebrate milestones, and develop community projects.
For more information, please CLICK here.
March 20, 2014