Wishing you an illuminating, auspicious, prosperous and joyous Diwali.
As we approach the climax of the five-day celebration of Diwali, I would like to send warmest wishes to all readers!
Diwali, the “Festival of Lights”, is a five day celebration observed worldwide by Hindus, Jains, Sikhs and some Buddhists, this year climaxing around Wednesday 7th November.
Different faiths attach different religious meaning, stories and beliefs to the Festival, but at its heart Diwali is a celebration signifying the victory of
- light over darkness
- knowledge over ignorance
- good over evil.
Regardless of religious affiliation, these are universal values which we can surely all affirm and celebrate as one.
And, beyond the traditional cultural festivities (which include cleansing and then illuminating properties and public spaces with lamps and candles, dressing in the best clothes and eating sweet food) there are simple lessons we can take away from this Festival which will make our lives and our world better.
Let’s ask ourselves this Diwali:
- How can I shine as a positive example that brightens my world?
- How can I promote knowledge in a way that is genuinely helpful and accessible to those who lack it?
- How can I overcome evil I see around me, and make a true difference?
Diwali is, perhaps above all, a time to focus on the positive.
And with the challenges, disharmony and uncertainty of today’s fast-changing world, celebrating the positive is surely good for our mental health, heart and spirit.
