The way you described Eid is interesting, gives an “out-of-body/culture” experience of a festival we’ve seen since we grew up. The cash Eidi was always the best part, I still enjoy getting some from my father even though he already pays for our essential shopping on Chaand Raat.

I found the part about Christmas and giving comparison knowledgeable. One of those things that one sort of knows, but it doesn’t “click” until one’s made aware of it. And that’s where intercultural ambassadors like yourself act as catalysts.

This year, I did share a little more, with more spiritual involvement, sweet-ironically inspired by a Canadian book: Me to We.
:)

This hugely inspirational, get-out-of-your-cacoon-and-make-a-difference book is recommended to everyone: “Me to We.“ Written by the Canadian activist brothers Craig and Marc Kielburger.

This book just makes you want to cry! To jump! To run! To take action! For us Muslims, it brings round years of education that we took for granted at times as established faith and values. Virtues, values, and common sense human wisdom are proven by example of the Kielburger brothers’ work as well as the stories of several other activists, leaders, and everyday person change agents – backed by data, research, and real-life examples.

They ask for the simplest change, for the smallest good, to begin at home, and to practice good old values of sharing, empathy, gratitude, faith…. and being there for OTHERS. COMMUNITY!

Big word, COMMUNITY. This is why, Neoka, I think it was the perfect reading for Ramadan, right before Eid. It inspired new ideas in me… and reinforced my values.

Written in a happy, conversational style that makes no one brood. HIGHLY recommended. :)

@SAW – ‘WE’ as in who? If you mean WE as in muslims – then i disagree – whats wrong with celebrating christmas? – Or maybe i’ve misundersood….

Eid Mubarak. May Allah accept our prayers and fasting and strengthen us in his Deen for the rest of the year, too.

Remember me in your Du’as.

Wa Salam
http://truelife200iv.blogspot.com/

I wanted to share a little about my experience and how in fact there are many similarities amongst our cultures.

Plus, I do not tend to see things through a negative lens. Every country has their share of problems, and none of which are bad – just somethings that are in need of improvment.

Besides how can one truly have a Ramazan or Eid experience without seeing all the great things that it brings.

I do take your words with me everywhere I go, and I do share these experiences with my friends and family back home. Thanks Karachi!

Have a wonderful Eid and as Adnan Siddiqi had mentioned that please promote all that is good that you have so far observed about our us, our country and our religion to your countrymen on your return…..thanks.