Hello, readers! My name is Gurkaran, and on this special day, the [insert year here] birthday of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, I want to share my memories and the lessons I’ve learned from his teachings. Growing up as a Sikh child, Guru Nanak Jayanti was always a big day for me and my family. It wasn’t just a holiday—it was a day filled with joy, family, and faith. And it’s a celebration that people from all religions take part in, which shows the beauty of his teachings.

Childhood Memories of Guru Nanak Jayanti

As a child, every year on Guru Nanak Jayanti, my parents would take us to the Golden Temple in Amritsar. Those visits are some of my happiest memories. I still remember waking up to the sounds of beautiful kirtan (holy music) playing in our home. We would wear our best clothes, and there was always excitement in the air.

The Golden Temple itself felt magical. Walking barefoot on the cool marble, seeing the temple shining in the water, and listening to the peaceful music—all of it made me feel connected to something bigger. Sitting beside my family, listening to the kirtan, I felt warm and safe. Even though I was young, I could feel a sense of peace that I now know was a feeling of being connected to God.

Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s Teachings

Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism, taught simple but powerful lessons that are still important today. Here are three key teachings that guide Sikhs and anyone who wants to live a good life:

1. Naam Japo (Remember God): Guru Nanak Dev Ji taught that we should remember God every day. By doing this, we feel peace inside and can face life’s problems with a calm mind.
2. Kirat Karo (Work Honestly): He believed that we should work hard and earn an honest living. Our work should be honest and should help us and others. This way, we live with respect and dignity.
3. Vand Chakko (Share with Others): Guru Nanak Dev Ji said that we should share what we have with others. This could be food, money, or even kindness. Sharing makes us feel closer to each other and builds a strong community.

How These Teachings Shaped My Life

Now, at 29 years old, I live in Mohali with my wonderful wife and work as a software engineer. When I think about my life, I can see how Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teachings have guided me, especially the values of Kirat Karo and Naam Japo.

Kirat Karo (Working Honestly) in My Job

Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s advice to “work honestly” has helped me throughout my career. I try my best to work with dedication, be honest in my efforts, and treat others with respect. Even when things get hard or stressful at work, I remember that doing my job with honesty and dedication is the right path. This gives me a sense of pride and peace, knowing that my work is meaningful.

Naam Japo (Remembering God) in Daily Life

The idea of “Naam Japo,” or remembering God, helps me stay grounded. In our busy lives, we often forget to pause and think of the good things in our life. Whenever I feel worried or stressed, I take a moment to remember God, and it brings me a sense of calm. This simple practice reminds me that there is a greater purpose, and it gives me strength to face challenges with peace.

Continuing the Tradition on Guru Nanak Jayanti

Every year on Guru Nanak Jayanti, I follow my parents’ tradition and visit the gurdwara to thank God for all that I have. This small act is my way of staying connected to my roots and my faith. It reminds me to be grateful for my family, my health, my job, and all the blessings in my life. Seeing people from all backgrounds and faiths celebrating this day shows the unity and love that Guru Nanak Dev Ji wanted for all.

Living by Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s Teachings Today

Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teachings are easy to understand but hard to fully practice. Here are a few simple ways we can all try to live by his teachings in our daily lives:

1. Be Kind and Caring: Guru Nanak Dev Ji taught that we should treat everyone with respect. Whether at work, at home, or with friends, small acts of kindness can go a long way.
2. Believe in Equality: He believed that all people are equal, no matter their background or religion. We can practice this by treating everyone fairly and with respect.
3. Work with Purpose: Working hard and with honesty gives us a sense of purpose and dignity. Whatever we do, we should try to do it with our best efforts.
4. Remember God: Taking a few moments each day to pray or reflect helps us stay calm and grounded.
5. Help Others: Sharing what we have, even a little, can make a big difference to someone in need. It brings people closer and spreads happiness.

In Conclusion

As I look back on my life, I feel grateful for the values my parents taught me, which come from Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s teachings. His words, “Kirat Karo” (work honestly) and “Naam Japo” (remember God), are not just lessons—they are a way of life that brings peace and purpose.

Today, as I bow my head in gratitude at the gurdwara, I feel the importance of faith, kindness, and unity. Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s message is for everyone, not just Sikhs. His teachings of love, honesty, and equality are values that anyone can follow.

Thank you for reading, and may Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s blessings be with you all on this special day.