On Friday, June 18th, the Sant Nirankari Mission, Chicago
youth gathered to participate in Relay For Life, an event
constructed by the American Cancer Society in the effort to
raise awareness of cancer and to encourage the donation of
money for cancer research. Relay for Life proves to be a
heart-warming experience in which individuals from various
backgrounds come together for the purpose of fighting
against cancer, as well as to celebrate all those who have
had cancer and survived the battle.
After months of planning, the weather decided not to
agree with the night’s plans. The 12-hour event turned into
a five-hour program because the heavy rain and winds put a
damper on the evening. However, the youth refused to let the
weather bring down their morale. Instead of pouting or
complaining, they turned the negative energy into positive
thoughts as they brought smiles onto everyone’s faces. Not
only did the youth encourage their own team to enjoy the
event, they also sang and danced in the rain allowing other
teams to be reminded of their hopeful purpose.
The highlight of the event was the bonding that took place
between the members. Whether they were participating in
jazzercise or singing, “lean on me,” the youth took time to
remember the common thread of universal brotherhood that united
them. They took Babaji’s message of service and made the effort
for a human cause. During the banner lap, the team walked
together representing the mission, and with the chant
“Brotherhood!” they brought cheer into the atmosphere.
Team Universal Brotherhood reminisced about loved ones during
the Lumanaria lap, which is a time for everyone to remember
those lost in the battle of cancer. This year, the team
illuminated candles for Professor Joginder Singh Puri lovingly
known as “Dar Ji”, Mrs. Krishna Bajaj also called “Dadima Bajaj”,
Sonia Mukhi (from St. Louis), Mr. Gulshan Chowdhary (Relative of
Ruchika Bhasin), and Biji (Grandma of Raj Karan Singh and
Nimarta Singh). With hope in their hearts, the team recalled
happy memories and virtues from the enlightened saints. The
event concluded beautifully with the reciting of names and a
song highlighting the need to find hope in life regardless of
the challenges we encounter.
This year, 65 teams participated in the event at Schuamburg’s
Flyer Stadium and the money raised is $160,000 and still
counting. The money not only goes to cancer research, but it
also assists those who are less fortunate with treatment and
transportation. Team Universal Brotherhood which consisted of 43
members raised approximately $3,700 and received a bronze award
for its efforts.
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