Friday, October 12, 2007
When I was a little kid, I used to look forward to Hari Raya because:
1) end of fasting
2) collection money
3) go out go out go out
However, the enthusiasm has been fading over the years.
On another note...
Like any other festivals, music is instrumental in creating a joyous atmosphere. Unlike what is normally portrayed by the mass media, Aidilfitri is usually spiritually enlightening for most adults. Contrary to popular belief, it can quite sombre at times.
1) For the pious ones, they are sad that Fasting month has come to an end because Ramadhan is a spiritual month.
2) For the non-pious ones, it's a time for reflection.
3) For the non-pious and pious ones, it's a good time for family bonding.
4) For individual families, it's one of the rarest opportunities where everyone in the family can get together, and they seek forgiveness from each other.
5) For those working/studying overseas, they realize the importance of families. I realise that most Hari Raya songs revolve around the theme of being away from their families. Perhaps this is because traditionally, some of the urban popn are unable to return to their kampungs or villages. However, in Singapore's context where most of us don't have kampungs to return to, it applies to those who are studying/working overseas.
6) And then you think of loved ones who have passed on, and you remember Hari Raya and all other significant moments spent with them. And then you tell yourself that you should cherish everyone around you.
Whatever it is, I look forward to Hari Raya because it's the only time I spend some quality time with the family.
|| nobone ran out @ 10/12/2007 09:48:00 am ||