I was raised Sikh (my parents converted 50 years a go.) Growing up, I also explored other paths, but ultimately, the values and practices of Sikhi resonated with me most. Striving to see the divine in every living being. Gender equality, no caste or class, acceptance of and participation in other people’s faiths and traditions, focus on honest work and serving the community.

Where I live, in Punjab, being a practicing Sikh is easier than anywhere else in the world. Here, nobody thinks I might be a terrorist (or just weird) because I wear a turban. Here, every restaurant has many vegetarian options (most don’t even serve anything else). And although I obviously look different from Indians, I felt accepted from the start. I am local now, Punjab has become my home.