Gratitude for Guru Nanak Dev Jee’s Prakaash
Giving back to Mother Nature
On the 28th November 2015, around 40 volunteers from the Sikh-sangat of Derby UK, travelled to the National Forest in Leicestershire to plant 100 trees for Guru Nanak dev Jee’s Prakaash celebrations.
Wrapped up in scarves and snug coats and equipped with our shovels and backpacks, we ascended the steps of the coach at the same time as the Nishan Sahib was being hoisted with its beautiful new orange vestments, under the watch of the 5 piaray and mellifluous praises of Guru Nanak being sung.
It was a grey and blustery day and rain was forecast but the energy amongst the group was warm and infectious. After reaching the National Forest, we registered and walked across some muddy fields-a special delight for the youngsters as they heard the delightful squelching of their boots on the mud. We were greeted by some very kind National Forest volunteers who guided us to the reserved plot.
We all gathered in a circle to recite an ardaas and thanked Guru Nanak Dev jee for the opportunity to give back to ‘mata dharat mahat’ and for good weather! We then broke up into smaller groups and proceeded to plant 100 saplings of lime, birch and oak. Despite there being a considerable wind chill, we all felt surrounded by a very warm presence.
The joy and delight of the seva was apparent; from children to senior citizens all faces were beaming with smiles and a realisation that what had happened was truly profound. After the official group photo, we walked back to the coach across the wet fields with the warmth of Guru Nanak Dev Jee in our hearts.
As for the weather…well we arrived at the location at 12pm, completed the seva at 1.30 pm and during this time not a single drop of rain fell. As we got on the coach for the return leg of the journey-the heavens opened up and the rain watered the saplings we had just planted!
Dhan Guru Nanak Dev Jee!!
Dr Hardeep Singh
Photos: Top 2 are Group photo and During Ardaas for Blessings. Bottom two are action shots during planting.-------------------------------
Related Article:
http://www.sikhnet.com/news/tree-planting-sikhs-derby-uk