This past “Semana Santa” or “Holy Week”, millions across the world celebrated and continued to celebrate important events of their faith.
The objects of adoration are all different, of course, and there is a need to reaffirm our beliefs and how they might differ from other families of thought and belief. Focusing on people’s differences contributes to building and maintaining vibrant and healthy communities provided it does not encourage bigotry or exclusion.
But during the past week, which was recognised as holy by several of the world’s largest faiths, perhaps people should have been looking at the many things which also bind our many communities, including those in the Caribbean. Thanks to the internet and social media, which allows instant entry to the beliefs of others, you can quickly discover that similarities are just as interesting as our differences.
Regardless of faith or geography, we have unfailingly and joyfully welcomed the approach and arrival of kinder weather. At such times of togetherness, give thanks, extend hands to others, and share stories of the less hospitable months.
Wherever you are and however you are celebrating this time of year, remember as wise souls note, that you are also carrying on traditions that know no culture nor creed. These are human traditions, and they remind us that, whether we admit it or not, we are all similar in the ways that matter most.
