With Eid-ul-Azha, the second largest Muslim festival symbolising complete submission to Allah only a day away, it is time for both celebration as well as introspection. The great event associated with the day elevates us to new heights of realisation of the paramouncy of sacrifice in human life. We have to consider just how much of the spirit of sacrifice, or even harmony and unity as is expected of us is reflected in the essence of our everyday lives.
Let such an auspicious occasion not even unwittingly stray into ostentation, materialistic exhibition or gluttony. Instead, we follow the tenets of sharing without discrimination and be compassionate to our less fortunate compatriots.
However, we cannot but be concerned about what may follow the festive season. Political discontent has culminated in a threatening impasse, with various deadlines and dates looming ahead where dialogue must pre-empt disaster. Good sense drawing upon the spirit of sacrifice and accommodativeness that Eid-ul-Azha symbolises must prevail.
We fervently hope that our fears will be proved unfounded and that the the spirit of Eid -- of bonding, harmony, unity and peace -- will continue into the following months when we as a nation will need it most. Whatever difficulties may come our way, may we face them with logic, patience and the spirit of compromise.
A word for cleanliness should be embraced by everybody in practice.
Eid Mubarak to all!
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