Resonance with Divinity: Embracing Virtues and Values through Ramazan

By Anupama Vaidya with Alina Dongre & Sunita Fernandes. 

Growing up in a neighbourhood brimming with religious diversity has been an invaluable gift that I cherish lifetime. It has profoundly shaped my worldview, enriching my understanding of humanity and celebrating the very essence of coexistence. Today, I deeply appreciate the diversity within my internal team including Sunita Fernandes and Alina Dongre as well as the collaborative teams within the companies we work with. It’s truly enriching to embrace and celebrate our unique background, experiences and perspectives; fostering a deep appreciation for different cultures and instilling in me a sense of empathy and respect for people from all walks of life.  

As we commemorate Eid al-Fitr, also known as Ramazan Id, fond memories flood back of the delightful desserts – sheer korma, and aromatic biryani dishes that were generously sent across by one of our neighbours. As a kid, initially I viewed Eid as a time solely for celebrations, oblivious to the fasting period. As time passed, I came to understand the rigorous fasting period that precedes these festivities.

I recall a pivotal moment during my early career when the significance of Ramadan’s fasting period was etched into my consciousness. Offering water to a colleague who had just come from scorching heat to office, only to be met with a gentle refusal, opened my eyes to the discipline and devotion inherent in this sacred practice.

Fast forward to last evening, where the traditional Iftar Party at the residence of my dear friends, Farida and Sanjay Thakur, has become a cherished ritual – a testament to the bonds of friendship and community forged through shared experiences and meals!  A wonderful evening of bonding, loving, caring and sharing!

As we join countless friends across the globe in celebrating the festivities, I seize this moment with Alina to wish you “Eid Mubarak” while delving into the profound wisdom that this period bestows upon us year after year. This period isn’t just about fasting, faith & feasting. It transcends beyond to a journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth. It underscores the significance of reflection, rejuvenation and revitalization. Together, as we celebrate Ramazan Eid, lets embrace the wealth of these insights through our lens, recognising the transformative power they hold in shaping our perspectives, experiences and thereby our lives.

In fasting from dawn to sunset during Ramadan lies the transformative journey of self-discipline, self-control, spiritual purification, resilience, and compassion; nurturing patience and perseverance.

In Prayer and Worship lies the sacred journey of contemplation and deeper connections; serving as profound conduits for spiritual growth and enlightenment.

In Charity lies the noble journey of humility, selflessness, compassion and empathy; fostering a sense of unity and solidarity.

The fasting period transcends mere abstention from food and drink; it embodies a holistic approach to self-discipline, spiritual purification and personal growth. It also means a period to abstain from negative thoughts, behaviours and actions, fostering character development.  

This ritual serves as a crucible for building self-control, urging individuals to confront and conquer their inner desires and impulses, paving the way for a disciplined and purposeful existence.

Enduring physical discomforts cultivates virtues of patience and perseverance, teaching resilience in  facing life’s challenges and hardships with grace and fortitude.

Experiencing hunger firsthand fosters empathy and compassion, reinforcing humility and inspiring acts of charity, strengthening bonds and nurturing gratitude. 

Amidst the bustling lives, prayers offer a precious opportunity to detach from the chaos and worldly distractions, focusing on devotion to seek guidance from the divine and find peace, and purpose of one’s spiritual journey. 

Regular prayer instils consistency, discipline and a steadfast commitment to spiritual growth while quiet moments foster self-awareness, gratitude, and humility in life’s abundance while appreciating the countless blessings and seeking forgiveness as we derive the meaning of life.

Amplifying valuable lessons in form of consistency, humility, gratitude, oneness, empathy and compassion through prayers while strengthening the bonds of oneness.

Shared experiences of suhoor (pre-dawn meals), iftar (meals to break the fast), and the Taraweeh (the nightly prayers), and spiritual reflection, foster unity, solidarity and deepen the humane bonds among individuals.

 

As we celebrate Eid al-Fitr, lets take these learnings for introspection for each one of us as we wish our dear friends “Eid Mubarak”… Lets Pause and Reflect:

 

Do I truly understand the significance of nurturing my personal growth and cultivating virtues that shape my character? How deeply am I committed to my own evolution, and what steps am I taking to actively foster it? Invest in Personal Growth and Virtues.

 

Beyond physical detoxification, how am I cleansing my inner self and mental state of negativity? What practices do I engage in to foster inner peace, clarity, and purpose amidst life's chaos? Internalise Inner Detoxification.

 

In what ways am I replenishing the qualities that define my humanity, such as self-discipline, gratitude, and humility? Can I identify concrete examples of these virtues manifesting in my daily interactions and decisions? Replenish Human Qualities.

 

Am I mindful of factors that could weaken or dilute my virtues, and how do I actively safeguard against them? What intentional efforts do I make to ensure my virtues remain strong and resilient in the face of challenges? Safeguard Virtues & Integrity.

 

How do I reaffirm my commitment to living in alignment with my values and principles? Are there rituals or practices that help me stay grounded and true to myself, especially in times of uncertainty? Harmonise beliefs & attitude.  

 

Do I take regular pauses to express gratitude for life's blessings, no matter how small? How can I deepen my appreciation for life's simple pleasures and moments of joy? Express Gratitude and Appreciation.

 

How do I build and nurture resilience to face life's adversities with grace and strength? Are there specific actions or help or mindset that help me navigate through tough times and endure through these hardships? Foster Resilience and Inner Strength.

 

Do I engage in regular reflections and introspections to ensure I'm living a purposeful life? How can I align my actions more closely with my aspirations and values, leading to a deeper sense of fulfilment? Embrace Purposeful Living through reflections.

 

As we celebrate the festivities of Ramadan Eid, let's unite as humanity and embrace the profound wisdom embedded in these traditions. Beyond mere rituals, let's delve into the deeper significance they hold—a call for introspection, growth, and connection. Let's nurture our souls, cultivate virtues, and strengthen the bonds that bind us together. 

As we exchange heartfelt greetings of "Eid Mubarak" with our loved ones, let's imbibe the spirit of compassion, gratitude, and resilience into our everyday lives. Together, let's strive to build a world where understanding, acceptance, and love reign supreme, where each individual is celebrated for their unique essence, and where the radiance of Eid illuminates our hearts year-round.

Wishing you all a wonderful Eid al-Fitr, 

Yours Truly, 

Anupama, Alina and Sunita.