I BELIEVE I am enjoying this month more than every other month so far. Most of the time it is the little things that contribute to an awesome month. From sharing a chocolate “fudge-sickle” with my granddaughter Peyton or listening to the latest book by my grandson Jaidyn. I love my daughters and love when they visit, but when my grandkids are around they have my attention.  A day at Isika with family and great friends and having the courage to go for a thrilling Jet Ski ride in the rough Essequibo River. My jasmine tree is blossoming and I am enjoying the scent when the breeze blows every day. I encourage you not to be too consumed by the destination that you miss enjoying the small but precious moments along the way. Growing up in Bartica made me appreciate the things that people may view as insignificant. Appreciating other religions is another positive from my hometown Bartica.

Phagwah and Diwali or Eid etc were part of our celebration. I recognised the power of diversity from an early age and realised as I grew older that is even more powerful than my little mind could have comprehended back then. I have a lot of Muslim acquaintances and a few Muslim friends. I was invited to celebrate Eid by a friend and it was wonderful having lunch with his family and close friends. Because of COVID, the gathering was small. I experienced my first Muslim wedding with the same family. Eid takes place at the end of Ramadan – a month of prayer and fasting. The name “Eid al-Fitr” translates as “the festival of the breaking of the fast.” Like the beginning of Ramadan, Eid begins with the first sighting of the new moon. I believe it is important to make an effort to learn about other people’s religions and cultures. I have been trying to control my sweet intake, but that day I allowed myself to indulge in the delicious variety of sweets.

What made it worse in a good way is that the guests received additional sweet stuff to take home. I decided to share with two people because I love sharing and  I would have had it all lol.
When we understand more about other people, religion and culture make us understand why and how to do what they do. During this period Muslims are required to share a percentage of their wealth with the poor and that is commendable. We have different contracts which contribute to our belief system and I make an effort to chat with people about them. I ask some people to share their perspectives with me .

“As a Guyanese Muslim, I enjoy our cultural diversity. My favourite thing about Hindu holidays is the warmth I feel when visiting friends and admiring their outfits and decor.
Generally, all religious holidays are enjoyed by me and my family. There are many similarities between the Quran and the Bible. I can recall going to a funeral service in a church and I was wearing my headscarf. I glanced at a picture of Mary, mother of Jesus and the Image reminded me of myself with the headscarf. It was refreshing to realise how much we have in common.” Sarah (in the photo of this article)

I met the charismatic and beautiful  Roshini Boodhoo Persaud a few years ago when she auditioned for the Guyana Fashion Week. I have learnt a lot about the Hindu religion and more about her culture from our close association. It was an honour to celebrate with her on her wedding day. I enjoyed watching the proceedings and eating ‘seven curry’ in the traditional leaf. She shared her thoughts with me regarding other religions.

“Christianity: love the stories and the legends. Every Easter, for example, they would show those films that teach about the life of Christ and his disciples, I learned a lot from those, especially whilst growing up.

Muslim: I admire those way of prayers, and it’s amazing how they do prayers at certain times of day and no matter where they would drop what they are doing and pray. Putting aside pride and what others may think, they stick to their beliefs.

Bahai Faith: I’ve been to camp and summer classes. Learning about the Covenant and the relationship with God through this messenger ( Bahu’lah ) has opened my eyes more to appreciating all religions because this faith teaches more beliefs than religion, in my view.
My Hindu practices have nurtured respect and appreciation [for] these religion and cultural beliefs, but being a Guyanese taught me something more: love and respect for humanity is bigger than religion.”

There is so much to share on this subject and one column will not do it, so we will continue next week. I invite you to share your views by emailing beyondtherunway1@gmil.com as we continue to celebrate this beautiful journey called life BEYOND THE RUNWAY.