AS we now end this period of fasting for Muslims, as a non-Muslim, I am deeply humbled by what the holy month of Ramadan represents, and its universal statement of declaring a time to purify the soul, refocus attention on God, and practice humility.
We know that Ramadan is much more than just not eating and drinking. Muslims are called upon to use this month to re-evaluate their lives in light of God’s guidance.
They are to make peace with those who have wronged them, strengthen ties with family and friends – essentially to clean up their lives, thoughts, and feelings. What an incredible, holy and noble challenge for all of humanity.
All of us, Muslims and non-Muslims alike, must now try to keep listening to the better angels of our nature.
As Malaysians celebrate this Hari Raya with their family around us, whatever our differences, whatever our politics, and whatever mistakes we may have made – let us, in the true spirit of Ramadan, forgive each other and forge ahead refreshed and positive.
We are all merely human; we are all Malaysians, and we are all God’s children.
Surely within those three factors, we can find the strength and power to make Malaysia the country of all our dreams.
We took that first step five years ago on May 9. We tripped a little, and took the corrective next major step just this last November.
We must never allow fear, ignorance, and hate to ever rule our lives or our nation. We are better than that.
To all my brothers and sisters, forgive me if I have hurt you in any way, as I forgive you.
It has been an incredibly difficult few years for all. And around the world, we only see more chaos and injustice, be it in Palestine, Syria, Ukraine, Myanmar, or parts of Africa.
This is why we must count our blessings, stay strong, destroy ignorance, and create hope. Even now we can, we must, as a people, be a lighthouse, the shining bright home on the hill, a North Star, for the world to follow.
With or without our politicians, this is what we are meant to be. This is what we will be.
A very blessed, safe, and happy Hari Raya Aidilfitri to all.
May Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala bless us all, and may God bless Malaysia. – The Vibes, April 21, 2023
Datuk (Dr) Vinod Sekhar is chairman and chief executive of PETRA Group
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