I'm new here, I seems I may post replys I believe but may not start threads yet. I am an observant Jew who, just prior to becoming observant, was diswayed from Sikhism by a (at the time), convincing person and a lack of responses to attempts at contacting area Sikhs. Ever since, every few years, Sikhism somehow re-presents itself in oft times bizarre ways...a year *almost to the day* after having sent an email to a similar list as this inquiring about area gurudwaras (and a year into observance), I received a reply - the same day I had been thinking about what things would be like if I had become sikh. that same few days period, I had 'said' to God to give me some sort of sign if he was serious, that after making such big decisions as a total change of life I was somehow to do it again - and at that point a Sikh man ascended the stairs to my workplace (we had ONE turbaned, non-amritdhari sikh law student at the time and one occasional medical student visiting the building, and it was the med student). I laughed, almost outloud (a library). I went outside a bit latter, and a sporty car overzealously personalized with the khanda drove by the front door. I was spooked at this point and dropped it. It happened again several times recently, but I again have washed my hands of it. One thing living a life inclined to the Divine has taught me is NOT to heed "signs"...as ironic as it sounds. Having adopted one path in life that has made marriage and lifeways difficult, I can't imagine at this point adopting Sikhism and ever getting married and settled in life. Honestly, a convert to any faith that is also a way of life not at all a simple thing...how receptive is ANY community, really, to a person who leaves another community to join theirs? I do not mean in the sense of accepting converts, i'm sure there are a few communities other than 3HO that are welcoming - (and I mean no offense by mentioning them, but they are very much an independent missionary effort with aspects particular to them). But the sort of person who leaves one path for another is - someone who can leave one path for another AND another! It may very well be true that Sikhism had an early history of adopting converts who had no ties to Punjab, etc, etc - but that was a long time ago. I can understand why such people are often lonely *wherever* they find themselves. I should really like to hear what has been going on with Aryeh Leib, and earlier poster, if he is still 'around'. be well!
me
We need that every now and then. 
