Happy Diwali!
Monday, October 31st, 2016From Monday Mom – Neetika:
As we fill our bowls with candy, get our kids dressed up and lace up our comfortable Trick-or-Treating shoes for today’s festivities, I would like to take a moment wish a Happy Diwali to those who celebrate. Over the weekend, our family enjoyed the annual festival of lights, celebrated by people of various faiths who originate from the Indian subcontinent.
We celebrate Diwali by hanging up lights and lighting candles, cooking up delicious foods, getting our house clean, exchanging small gifts and sweets, and participating in a short prayer service. Now that Haley is getting a bit older, it’s fun to explain to her what these rituals are all about. There’s even a fun app I downloaded on the iPad which explains the Diwali origin story—gotta love modern technology!
The parable of Diwali is about the triumph of good over evil—a pretty universal theme. I like to think of it as a reminder to spread positivity, love and light to the people you care about and everyone you encounter. Haley seems a bit incredulous about this ideology, saying: “I don’t love all people because I don’t like their clothes.” I’m still hoping something sticks. I like to think she’s getting something out of these annual rituals even if she doesn’t realize it.
I’m wishing all of you a year of good health and happiness. And let’s not forget the holiday that kids can universally get behind; have a safe and happy Halloween!