Ramadan is ending with the beginning of Eid al-Fitr festivities for Muslims around the world. In a turbulent age of conflict and controversy, I think it’s more important now than ever before to provide a comfortable space and understanding to all religions and beliefs In the wise words of Martin Luther King, Jr.:
“We must learn to live together as brothers, or we are going to perish together as fools.”
Eid starts with a community prayer for men and women are also encouraged to join in. Following this, there’re many rituals including decorating the house, cooking special dishes, giving money or gifts to younger family and friends, and visiting loved ones. It’s a time of realizing spiritual accomplishments and reflecting on self-improvements for the upcoming year. Though celebrated with food and family, it solidifies the cleansing of the spirit and soul.
Kolki, a poet, researcher, composer and much more, very comprehensively and appropriately for our times said:
“When religions coexist, leaders communicate, media respect neutrality, laws not blinded by immunity, and citizens’ needs take precedence over profitability – peace becomes reality, world lives in harmony.”
Eid Mubarak to all those celebrating. May it be a prosperous and peaceful one for all.