Sikh for a Month Looking for Tips and Resources
Hello everyone.

My name is Michael and I am part of a project called the Year of Faith.  The about page can be found here for an extensive introduction and explanation.  But in a nutshell, two of my friends and I have picked twelve religions and are studying and practicing each one , every month, for the entire year.  We aren't doing this for university or some kind weird reality TV show, but for our own interest and education.  This month we are studying Sikhism and I had a few questions about the faith that I hoped you could all help me with.

First off, every month (or almost every month, I should say) we post an introduction about the religion of the month, outlining the basic history, practices, and beliefs.  The intro. to Sikhism is here, and I would appreciate some feedback, such as key aspects that I may have missed or would do well to extrapolate on.

One of the more central aspects of Sikhism seems to be the Khalsa and the Kakars.  I understand that while most Sikhs do not get baptised, many still carry some of the five Ks.  I'm interested in what you think are the most important Kakars, or perhaps which are the ones that would be carried by most Sikhs?

I am also looking for a copy or two of the English translation of the Guru Granth Sahib.  I have yet to find a copy locally (I live in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada) and I was wondering if anyone could recommend a translation or version?  Our local library is on strike right now, though I would prefer to buy it anyway.  I have found a few copies online, but I would rather have a physical copy of my own.

Any other information you feel would be important for me to know or to look into would be very much appreciated.  Please comment either here or at the Year of Faith website, or even send us an e-mail!

Thank you!