As we gathered as colleagues to recognize and celebrate Diwali, I look around the room and considered the multiple cultures, backgrounds, citizenships, ages, and ways of thinking that were represented across the team. On one hand it is amazing to see how easily the conversations unfolded, curiosities expressed, and tje seamless way we spoke with and to each other. I saw a universal affirmation of how important “victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance” was to everyone. It was as if the Canadian and American traditions of Thanksgiving were being elevated to a higher plane with the result of a new celebration which transcends cultures, faith systems, and even the idea of limit it to one day.
As I consider the different threads to Diwali’s universal appeal, several lessons emerge.
When a period of hard work is complete, and the results are in, harvest in this case, taking time to celebrate is good for everyone. I know the team is tired. I understand the strain, mentally and physically. As one celebrates with others, there is a collective healing and restoration of the energy and courage within each. While other pressures remain, unless one understands and cares for the soul each is accountable for, nothing one might achieve will have meaning.
Celebrations can come in many forms. As two individuals shared stories of their families and what Diwali meant to them, I found myself reconnecting with memories of Diwali celebrations as a child and Thanksgiving celebrations in the years since then. As unique as each was, I found myself filled with hope, a sense of belonging, and of accomplishment. The form, setting, and even participants came together in harmony, each to be seen, experienced, and remembered on its own and as part of a larger story.
As today dawns and the opportunity to celebrate continues (the holiday is for five days after all!), I find myself holding an invitation open to everyone, “Hallelujah! Sing to God a brand-new song, praise him in the company of all who love him.” (Psalm 149.1).
