Let's make this world a better place for all

Dec 30, 2015

SELANGOR: Several news articles in both traditional and social media caught my attention over the past week.

One was about Muslims shielding Christians from militant attacks in Nairobi, Kenya.

The other was on a Christmas party hosted by the Church of Divine Mercy in Shah Alam, attended by over 200 people of all beliefs and religions. The group photo showed Malays, Chinese, Indians, Sikhs, Eurasians united in the celebration.

Then there was a testimony by a Muslim explaining why she had a Christmas tree in her house surrounded by gifts for family and friends.

In a multiracial and multireligious country like ours, we are blessed with many festive celebrations.

Whether cultural or religious, there is so much joy if we all celebrate together and enjoy the richness in our diversity. This will, indeed, be a way forward.

I believe that a person well grounded in his faith need not fear losing his faith by joining in the celebration of others. He will, in fact, appreciate his religion better the more he seeks to understand other faiths.

These articles have renewed hope in me that we can bring about a better tomorrow within our homes, community, nation and globally.

All we need is change and that change begins with us.

Instead of sowing seeds of hate, suspicion, mistrust and segregation, let us sow seeds of love, respect, humility and unity. These are choices we have to personally make everyday.

I firmly believe that despite the dark forces in our midst, goodwill always triumph over evil.

It is futile fighting hatred with hatred.

Love for God, neighbour and self should be the driving force behind our good deeds and actions.

Not only will we consequently be better human beings, but the goodwill and positive vibes generated will radiate and envelop the world and all the negativism within.

As we begin a new year soon, let us firmly resolve to make this world a better place for us and the generations to come.

It’s our legacy for the future.--NST