Eid Mubarik to ‘The News’ readers

Eid Mubarik to all our readers! Though Eidul Fitr is considered second in importance to the two we celebrate, there is something about this one which is special – maybe because it heralds the end of a month of fasting; because it is a time for bonhomie and fellowship or because the whole family, including children, is so involved in the process.

Eid means 'happiness' in Arabic and the festival of Eidul Fitr is one of great happiness and celebration and do remember, when your arms can’t reach people close to your heart to give them a hug, you can always show them you love them with your prayers and good wishes. The best thing about this Eid is that people are generous about helping the less fortunate of their fellow men. Besides the injunction that a percentage of yearly earnings be given for charity (zakat) many people go a step further and donate to orphanages, NGO’s which run on public donations and other organizations which help the needy and disabled. Whether they do it out of the goodness of their hearts or because they believe all their sins will be forgiven, doesn’t matter - someone who needs help is benefiting!

While celebrating spare a thought for those who cannot because of illness; a death in the family or other unfortunate incidents that call for sobriety and prayer. Also, do remember to include elderly family members in your celebrations as they need love and consideration – their thoughts and feelings do not fade away just because they are getting on in years. Eid Mubarik!