A most unusual Eid celebration indeed

MUSLIMS OBSERVE Eid al-fitr 2020 in an unprecedented manner. With mosques closed and families separated, on Eid they will forgo the traditional practices of greeting each other with congratulatory handshakes, loving kisses and warm hugs, accompanied by saying “Eid Mubarak” (congratulations for Eid).

Nonetheless, the dominant emotion that sustains them at this celebratory period is gratitude. They are thankful that despite the challenging times we are experiencing, by the Grace of God, they were still able to complete their Ramadaan fasting and devotions in the sanctuaries of their homes.

Their Ramadaan 2020 experience was not only physically different, it was also spiritually distinctive. This unique period has allowed for an amplified religious retreat in which they were able to connect with their faith through deep reflection and consciousness, which is in fact the great purpose of Ramadaan.

Under this lockdown period they have experienced a tremendous calling to share love and care with one another virtually. All will have inspirational stories to relate about how extraordinary Ramadaan 2020 was.

On this great day of thanksgiving they acknowledge the many hard-working essential service workers in the country and around the world – the truck drivers, farm workers, supermarket staff, rubbish collectors, police services and health-care providers – unselfishly serving on the front line of the fight to help people stay healthy, keep fed and save lives.

We are grateful for their sacrifices and pray they stay safe and healthy.

While Muslims are fortunate to be able to celebrate, they pray for relief for those facing hardship due to food insecurity and loss of income. They pray God inspires medical researchers to find a vaccine and cure for the virus, and that children are enriched and inspired by this distinctive period in human history to fashion a more just and compassionate world.

At this celebratory time, Muslims must remember that although the practice of physical distancing prevents them from gathering in groups, and from exchanging sweetmeats and food, it does not mean they should keep themselves isolated from others.

They can still use the phone, send Whatsapp messages, make Zoom calls and use Facetime to reach out and say Eid Mubarak to their loved ones, friends and neighbours.

In these bleak times, it is important to remain connected and show one another care and compassion.