Unity, gratitude, reflection

Eid-ul-Fitr is the much-deserved award for the faithful following a month of fasting. This year we had by and large a very peaceful Ramzan. The month began towards the end of a snow-scarce winter and ends when we are in the early spring, a fitting occasion for Eid. For sometime, we may miss the spiritual aura wrought by the holy month, the large congregations in mosques for nimaz, durood and azkars, the nightly drumbeat of sehar khawans and strict daily discipline forbidding us from not just eating but also consciously staying away from numerous other vices. As Eid ushers us back into our regular lives, Ramzan’s lessons in spirituality and purest goodness will be a guide for our conduct.   So, Eid is also a time of reflection, gratitude, and renewed commitment to kindness.

That said, Eid should make us mindful of the families in our community who need our help to not just to partake in the festivity on this day but beyond also. One of the most beautiful aspects of Eid is its emphasis on giving. Hence, the practice of Zakat al-Fitr, a mandatory charity given before the prayer, which ensures that those less fortunate can also celebrate Eid alongside us. In fact, giving is one of the core messages of Ramzan and Eid. And rightly so. True happiness is not about enjoying a surfeit of foods ourselves but about uplifting others. And not just on Eid but always.  Our collective effort should be to shape a society where no one is left behind.

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As the echoes of “Eid Mubarak” fill the air, spreading warmth, love, and goodwill among communities, we should remember our poor brethren and take them along.  May the spirit of Eid-ul-Fitr inspire us to build a more just and empathetic society, where love and generosity shine beyond the festivities.

Wishing everyone a joyous and peaceful Eid.