the energy of the evening. In the middle of a bustling street event, one quiet minute became a reminder that we can always return to ourselves. Even amidst the noise of the world, there is a place within us that is still, peaceful, and full of Love. Sometimes, we only need to become quiet enough to experience it.
One-Minute Pause Experience
“Take a moment for yourself.
Find a comfortable position, and if you’re comfortable, gently close your eyes.
For the next 60 seconds, let everything else be as it is. Nothing needs your attention right now. This present moment is all that matters.
Simply be here.
Notice your breath. Feel yourself breathing. Gently bring your attention back to yourself, to this breath, to your feet, to your hands, to your beating heart.
Now, take a slow breath in for four counts… 1… 2… 3… 4… Hold for two… 1… 2… And slowly breathe out for six… 1… 2… 3… 4… 5… 6… As you breathe, allow yourself to become more present. Let go, just for a moment, of what has already happened and what has yet to come.
Now, bring one thing to your heart that you are grateful for right now.
Allow that gratitude to fill your heart.
And as you sit quietly, become aware of the feeling of Love. Feel the Love surrounding you.
Feel the Love around you. And gently, feel the Love within you.
You don’t have to search for it. Simply become still and notice. Beneath the thoughts, the activity, and the noise of the outside world, there is another world within you, a quiet space that becomes easier to experience when you become still and present.
For just this moment, allow yourself to glimpse that space. Take one more gentle breath in…
And slowly breathe out.
When you’re ready, gently open your eyes.
Before you return to the world around you, pause and notice: How do you feel now compared to one minute ago?
Sometimes, it begins by becoming present to this moment and coming home to what has always been within you.”
By Gaganpreet Kaur
It Starts With A Hello...
SURREY, BC, CANADA the warm and welcoming atmosphere that made the tent feel like a place people wanted to stop and stay for a while.
India Day in Surrey was a beautiful opportunity for the HKL team to come together and connect with the community. Throughout the day, the HKL tent welcomed people of all ages, and each person brought a new conversation, a new smile, or a new connection.
One highlight at the tent was definitely the game that a lot of kids enjoyed. It brought plenty of laughter and energy to the tent, with children stopping by to play while parents and families took the opportunity to learn more about HKL. It was lovely to see how a simple activity could bring people together and create a comfortable space for conversation.
There were also some really encouraging moments with younger members of the community. Several young volunteers expressed interest in getting involved with future HKL outreach activities. Seeing their excitement to give back, meet new people, and be part of something positive was especially heartwarming. It was a reminder that the spirit of selfless service continues to grow when young people are given the opportunity to be involved.
One of the most memorable parts of the day was watching people who were simply passing by pause at the tent and ask, “What is this all about?” A short introduction often turned into a longer conversation, with many people taking a genuine interest in what HKL was about. Some shared their own thoughts and experiences, while others simply walked away with a smile. Those small interactions made the day feel that much more special.
Behind it all were more than 50 volunteers who came together to make the outreach possi ble. From welcoming visitors and speaking with families to keeping the kids entertained, every volunteer helped create
India Day was a reminder that community is built through simple moments: taking the time to talk to someone, welcoming a new face, sharing a laugh, or offering a little encouragement. The message behind HKL may be simple, but its impact can be felt in these everyday interactions.
By Hamisha Kaur