Comfort in uniting against tragedy

The sudden national tragedy that happened within the Sikh community at Oak Creek Sikh Temple in Wisconsin brought many of us together at the local gurdwara in Palatine. During the ceremony, many people of different faiths spoke against the brutal violence inflicted upon the peaceful and hardworking Sikhs in America. Many of those good people attended these ceremonies and gave heartfelt speeches. One of the spokesmen was a Muslim leader who showed his empathy toward this tragic killing while announcing the burning of a mosque in Missouri on the same day. It was a solemn occasion.

Where there are so many ruthless people in this world, there are also many good people in this world. It was comforting to see a gathering of followers from many faiths coming together under one roof. Rabbis, pastors, Muslim and Hindu religious leaders all joining hands in unity as Americans. Our congressman, Joe Walsh, was also present along with his opponent Tammy Duckworth. All of them came to express their sympathy in response to the mindless shooting. It felt like the world was united with all different kinds of religions and faiths — like we were all one.

I wondered why in a multi-faith, free nation like ours, we still have people with so much hatred buried in their hearts. As I looked around, it was comforting to know that we as Americans were united in opposing such senseless horror.

Prakash D. Nigam

Eighth Grade, Walter R. Sundling Jr. High School

Palatine