Unique. That word has grown up with me throughout the years… From kindergarten, high school, and finally through university, unique has always been the word that has been entrenched in the back of my mind. I was different, I was “unique,” or so everyone said. Maybe they were being polite. Maybe I was unique.
TURBAN. Does that word conjure up an image of Aladdin rubbing his magic lamp for you? Or a picture of a snake charmer playing his exotic tune? Well, I sport a turban. Actually, lots of them—red, blue, black, white, yellow, design on some, plaid on others (hey, why be boring?) Unfortunately though, I haven’t yet mastered the art of snake charming, nor do I have a magic lamp—not even one.
But what I do know is that I’ve already heard every bad turban joke this side of Kansas. Towelhead, diaperhead, I’ve heard them all (though I still haven’t figured out which part of my turban looks like a Pamper product). The best comment I heard was at work one day. I work part-time at the GAP where one day, a co-worker came up to me and told me that one of her customers had said that is was so wonderful to see that they hire people “with those funny hats.” My co-worker was so fumed that she told me how she had lectured the lady for fifteen minutes.
Like I said, I have heard EVERYTHING. I’ve been the object of stares, astonishment, and reactions from kids who can’t figure out what it is that I am wearing on my head. Having grown up with it, I’ve heard it all. But, given all that, I wouldn’t change a thing. I mean, let’s face it: I get all the attention in the world (which I love). Plus I get to teach people something about ignorance and about the significance of the turban to the Sikh religion.
Like I said, I am UNIQUE: my turban is my crown that no one can take away from me. It is a symbol of my religion and my heritage that immediately lets you know something about me. If you see me in the distance, chances are, you’ll know it’s me. And hey, it’s a fun surprise—nothing like what you will ever see on Friends.
By Hardip Manku, a participant in the Ă山ǿĽé Sikh chaplaincy
