On the 17th of June, 2024, the air was filled with the joyous spirit of Eid. The festive day was marked by family gatherings, delicious meals, and the generous sharing of meat with neighbors, and the relatives. My son, Moomin, sat behind me on a motorcycle, observing everything with the curiosity and innocence only a child possesses. As we approached a busy market area, Moomin’s attention was suddenly captured by a sight that seemed starkly out of place amidst the festive cheer. Near a small shop, we saw a homeless man, his clothes tattered and his eyes reflecting a deep sense of desolation. Moomin asked me to stop. His young mind was racing with questions, and his heart was filled with empathy. “Everyone is celebrating Eid, relishing dishes, and distributing meat to each other,” he began. “But he is left unnoticed. Had his mother been around, what would she feel seeing the pitiable condition of her son? Why is he neglected by his relatives?”
His questions struck me deeply. They were the kind of questions that are simple yet profound, reflecting the pure perspective of a child untainted by the complexities of adult life. Moomin’s words made me pause and reflect on the deeper meaning of Eid. The festival is not just about feasting and joy within our own circles but also about extending our compassion and generosity to those who are less fortunate. Moved by my son’s compassion, we decided to do something small yet significant. We bought some bananas from a nearby vendor and handed them over to the homeless man. Moomin, with his tiny hands, offered the fruit to the man, who accepted it with a smile that spoke volumes. He relished the bananas, perhaps the only food he had tasted all day.
This small act of kindness was a powerful reminder of the true spirit of Eid. It underscored the importance of noticing and helping those who are often invisible in our daily lives, especially during times of celebration. The incident with the homeless man highlighted a stark reality: despite the widespread generosity and sharing that Eid encourages, there are still many who slip through the cracks of our societal nets.
Moomin’s questions also prompted me to think about the broader implications on our society. Why do some individuals end up neglected and forgotten? How can we foster a more inclusive community where no one is left behind, especially during times of celebration? This experience taught us that the essence of Eid lies not only in the rituals but in the values of empathy, compassion, and generosity. It reminded us that every individual, regardless of their circumstances, deserves to feel the joy and warmth of the festival.
In sharing this story, I hope to inspire others to look beyond their immediate surroundings and reach out to those in need. It is a call to action for all of us to embody the true spirit of Eid by spreading kindness and compassion in every possible way. After all, it is in giving and caring for others that we truly honor the essence of this beautiful festival.
How Can We Foster a More Inclusive Community?
To create a more inclusive community where no one is left behind, especially during times of celebration like Eid, the following steps can be taken:
Cultivate Empathy and Awareness: Encouraging empathy and awareness from a young age, as seen with Moomin’s reaction, can help. Schools, families, and communities can educate children and adults about the importance of caring for everyone in society, not just those within their immediate circle.
Community Involvement and Volunteering: Organizing community events that include volunteering at shelters, distributing food to the homeless, or engaging in community service can help bridge the gap. Such activities can become a regular part of celebrations to ensure inclusivity.
Strengthening Social Safety Nets: Communities can work towards establishing stronger support systems for that in need. This can include better access to shelters, food banks, and healthcare services for the homeless and impoverished.
Encouraging Personal Acts of Kindness: As illustrated in the story, individual acts of kindness can have a significant impact. Encouraging people to take small actions, like sharing a meal or spending time with someone less fortunate, can collectively foster a more inclusive environment.
Highlighting Stories and Experiences: Sharing stories like that of the homeless man and Moomin can raise awareness and inspire others to act. When people see the impact of kindness and empathy, they are more likely to emulate these behaviors.
Promoting Inclusive Celebrations: Festivals and celebrations can be reimagined to include everyone. Community leaders and organizers can ensure that events have provisions for those who might otherwise be excluded, such as setting up public feasts where anyone is welcome.
Equitable Distribution of Resources: Ensure that the distribution of meat and other charitable acts during Eid ul-Adha include those who are weak, unnoticed, and even those with whom there may be personal grievances, embodying the true spirit of compassion and forgiveness.
By embracing these practices, individuals can align their actions with the teachings of Surah Al-Ma’un, ensuring that their acts of charity during Eid ul-Adha and beyond are sincere, inclusive, and truly for the sake of Allah.
Dr Showkat Rashid Wani,
Senior Coordinator, Directorate of Distance Education, University of Kashmir