K.P. Singh

The Muslim greeting, "Adaab Arz Hai," translates as "Please accept my respects" and is offered with polite deference as the greeter touches the forehead of his gently bowed head with a slightly cupped right hand.

There are countless fascinating variations with deep symbolism in each expression, hand gesture, body language and spoken word. Greetings include physical displays: warm handshake, exuberant bear hugs, affectionate kisses, and touching of the feet of parents, elders and teachers. Each expresses respect and emotion upon encounter and offers insight into culture, custom and relationship with the other person.

Indian Chief

"How strong are you today?" engaged my thoughts. I imagined the greeting as a cherished blessing: "May your spirit be strong to face all unfriendly forces and dangers that cross your path and threaten your freedom this day."

This interpretation made sense to me. I could imagine such a blessing as the cherished hope and prayer of a fiercely independent and brave people whose lives and destiny have taken such an unfortunate turn since the arrival of European settlers in the 16th and 17th centuries. The presenters at the forum shared their perspectives, experiences and heartbreaking stories. There were feelings of profound sadness, quiet dignity and visible anger in their cries for help, recognition and justice.

As I meditated upon the question of what makes us truly strong, my mind settled upon freedom, equality, justice, dignity and recognition of our spiritual and cultural identity. We also need a safe and healthy environment, opportunity and sense of community. While diverse ethnic and faith communities may differ, there is an unmistakable universality in what we desire most. Peace, prosperity and "strength" thread through all cultural variations.

History has left its mark upon our cherished prayers and pursuits. For the American Indians, at one time sole masters of North America, the tide of history has left shock, tragedy and confusion. For the Jewish people, for whom the Holocaust was a horror that has no equal, there is unshakable resolve of "never again." For the Sikhs, who faced unspeakable outrages against their faith and distinct identity, a spirit of defiance against the oppressor and kindred alliance with the oppressed have emerged as a sacred commitment.

The survival of the Jews and Sikhs may in part be due to their resolve, sense of history and destiny, but others have played an important role in their recovery. We need to extend support to American Indians in the struggle to restore their strength, culture and rightful place in our nation.

Culture, history and heritage represent our collective sacred imprints, revealing the true essence of our humanity. When we deny or intrude upon what defines us, our demoralized spirit diminishes our promise. The great challenge is not to allow ignorance, prejudice and unjust ways to trample on the strength and spirit of others who share our common universe.

How strong am I today? Moments of pleasure and pain converge. It was joyful to witness the boundless energy and excitement at the Volunteer Recognition Breakfast at Indiana Black Expo on a recent Saturday. This experience was in sharp contrast to the sadness and stark reminders of unfinished work discussed at the Native American forum earlier that week. Then, there was the death of a longtime friend. Each event adds to the complexity of life.

What about the spirit and strength of the original natives and new arrivals? We must use all human and creative resources to build the nation in each generation. We must right the past and fight all forms of discrimination that injure and deny others their sacred rights and place under their own spacious skies. Together, we are strong today -- stronger still, when we share God's love and light, while caring for one another, as we face uncertain future.

Copyright ©2003 K.P. Singh and Indianapolis Star. About The Author