2023 Jun 17 th Sat Celebrating Unity and Cultural Richness

The 2023 International Traditional Chinese Culture Day

We stand in awe and gratitude as we commemorate a truly memorable day, one that brought together the celebration of Fathers' Day, the auspicious and the exceptional Traditional Chinese Cultural Carnival. It was an honor to gather at Lucky Palace Restaurant in Ayer Keroh, Melaka, surrounded by esteemed leaders, passionate volunteers, and a community united in cultural appreciation.

The day began with a burst of energy as we embarked on the preparation of 2,000 delectable "Bak Chang." Wrapping and cooking these traditional rice dumplings was not merely a culinary exercise but an act that showcased the meticulousness and dedication of our community. Led by our beloved MP of Ayer Keroh, YB Mr. Kerk, we distributed these savory delights to our neighborhood, spreading joy and cultural significance.

The opening ceremony, graced by the esteemed Chief Minister, YAB Datuk Seri Rauf Bin Yusof, set the stage for a day filled with enchantment. The Traditional Chinese Cultural Association of Melaka, the event's organizer, displayed their commitment and passion for preserving the Chinese cultural heritage. Our heartfelt appreciation extends to Lucky Palace Restaurant and all the sponsors for their invaluable support.

A sumptuous lunch awaited us, accompanied by captivating cultural performances. The mesmerizing Dragon dances enraptured our senses, their vibrant movements symbolizing strength, fortune, and unity. The "Bian Mian" or Changing Face performances dazzled the audience, leaving us in awe of the skill and artistry behind this centuries-old tradition.

As the Chief Minister delivered his inspiring speech, we were enlightened, reminded of the importance of cultural unity and the richness it brings to our society. This celebration was a testament to the profound impact that cultural events have in fostering understanding, respect, and appreciation among diverse communities.

The Traditional Chinese Cultural Carnival of 2023 concluded with heartfelt gratitude and acknowledgment. A session of photography captured the cherished memories we created together, forever immortalizing this remarkable day. Awards were presented to the leaders and organizers who dedicated their time and effort to make this event a resounding success. Their commitment and hard work have left an indelible mark on the hearts of the community.

We are deeply grateful for all the contributors and our esteemed leaders who have shown unwavering commitment and dedication. Melaka is truly fortunate to have leaders who embody the spirit and essence of the residents they serve. We raise our voices in a resounding cheer, wishing them good health and a long reign, as they continue to inspire and lead with their hearts.

Today, we express our profound gratitude for the privilege of celebrating this auspicious event together. It serves as a testament to the power of unity, cultural preservation, and the unwavering commitment of our leaders and community members. We cherish the memories and experiences shared during this celebration and hold them close to our hearts as a reminder of the strength and beauty that arises from embracing our diverse heritage.

As we reflect upon the 2023 International Chinese Culture Day, let us carry the spirit of unity, gratitude, and cultural appreciation with us. May this event inspire us to continue nurturing the rich tapestry of our diverse community, fostering understanding, and embracing the traditions that bind us.

Poem on "Bak Chang":

Wrapped in bamboo leaves, a savory surprise,

Bak Chang's aroma fills the skies.

Steamed with care, a culinary delight,

Each bite transports us to a taste bud's flight.

Glutinous rice, a tender embrace,

Enveloped by flavors, a symphony of taste.

Meat and spices, a harmonious blend,

With every morsel, memories descend.

Generations past, their hands at play,

Preserving traditions, a timeless array.

A gift of love, from ancestors old,

The tales they tell, in each fold.

From kitchen hearths to dining tables,

A treasure shared, a family fable.

With nimble fingers, the art unfurls,

Crafting parcels, their stories twirls.

Oh, Bak Chang, a culinary treasure,

A symbol of heritage, a taste to measure.

In every bite, we savor the past,

A connection to roots that forever last.

    Bak Chang's  Ingredients, Meat, Mushroom, Chestnut, White bean, and Rice with Spices.

Poem on "Bian Mian" (Changing Face):

Masks of mystery, a captivating dance,

Bian Mian, enchanting us at a glance.

Faces concealed, a secret to behold,

In rapid succession, stories unfold.

With a swift flick, colors transform,

Emotions hidden, behind each norm.

Expressions change, like the shifting tide,

A mesmerizing performance, a wondrous ride.

Bian Mian, a glimpse into the soul,

Embodying characters, each with a role.

A master's skill, an artistry profound,

Faces changing, without a sound.

Through layers and layers, emotions unveil,

The mask's allure, a tale to prevail.

In fluid motion, the masks express,

A tapestry of emotions, no words can impress.

Lions Dance and Traditional Chinese Cultural Carnival 2023:

Amidst cheers and drums, the lions prance,

In rhythmic harmony, they commence.

Their mighty roars echo far and wide,

Awakening spirits, filling us with pride.

With vibrant colors, they come alive,

Symbols of luck, blessings they derive.

Graceful movements, a spectacle to see,

Unifying hearts, a spirit wild and free.

In the Traditional Chinese Cultural Carnival's embrace,

Diverse traditions find their rightful place.

A tapestry woven, of heritage and art,

We celebrate unity, with every part.

From Bak Chang's embrace to Bian Mian's grace,

And the Lions Dance's powerful chase,

We honor the past and embrace the new,

Cultural unity, a cherished value we pursue.

In this grand celebration, together we stand,

United by culture, hand in hand.

With gratitude and joy, our hearts do swell,

For the richness of traditions, we proudly tell.

The 2023 International Chinese Culture Day,

A day of unity, where memories will stay.

We thank our leaders, contributors, and more,

For a celebration that our hearts adore.

May the spirit of cultural appreciation live on,

In the hearts of many, from dusk till dawn.

Let us continue to cherish and embrace,

The beauty of diversity, with love and grace.

As the curtains draw close on the Traditional Chinese Cultural Carnival of 2023,

We are left with memories and gratitude that will forever be a part of our story.

In the hallowed halls of Lucky Palace Restaurant, Ayer Keroh, Melaka,

We gathered to celebrate, united in the richness of our cultural tapestry.

From the early hours of the day, the aroma of "Bak Chang" filled the air,

As volunteers wrapped and cooked with utmost care.

The beloved MP of Ayer Keroh, YB Mr. Kerk, led the way,

Distributing these delectable delights, spreading joy throughout the day.

The momentous occasion truly began with the opening ceremony,

Graced by the presence of Chief Minister YAB Datuk Seri Rauf Bin Yusof, so honorary.

The Traditional Chinese Cultural Association of Melaka, our guiding force,

Together with sponsors and volunteers, set the stage for a day of cultural discourse.

A sumptuous lunch awaited, a feast fit for kings,

Accompanied by the mesmerizing Dragon dances, their movements with power it brings.

"Bian Mian" or Changing Face performances added to the spectacle,

As faces transformed, leaving us in awe and making our spirits tickle.

Honorable guests and audiences alike were captivated by the Chief Minister's speech,

Enlightening us with his words, reminding us of cultural unity within reach.

And as the carnival reached its crescendo, with photographing sessions and awards,

We acknowledged the leaders and organizers, their dedication never goes untoward.

Gratitude fills our hearts for all the contributors, sponsors, and volunteers,

Whose unwavering commitment and hard work made this event a success, so clear.

Melaka is truly blessed to have leaders with the heart of the residents,

Their unwavering support and passion show us their true essence.

We raise our voices in cheer, wishing them good health and reign,

For their contributions have brought our community together, with no refrain.

The 2023 International Chinese Culture Day, a celebration of unity and inspiration,

A testament to the power of cultural appreciation and collaboration.

In this auspicious event, we stand united, hand in hand,

Grateful for the opportunity to celebrate our heritage, across the land.

Let us carry the spirit of this day, forever in our hearts,

Embracing diversity, preserving traditions, and playing our parts.

As the echoes of the carnival fade away,

The memories we hold dear will forever stay.

We express our gratitude and honor with pride,

For the privilege to celebrate, side by side.

The Traditional Chinese Cultural Carnival of 2023,

A moment of unity, cultural enrichment, and glory.

With deep appreciation, we bid farewell,

Until we gather again, our stories to tell.

    Awarding the leaders for their contributions and efforts.

    Chief Minister enjoying every moment ....

    Volunteers working hard to meet the targets for the celebration.

    Lunch with Angie, Sherry Lim, Christine Ho.

  Volunteers with  Ayer Keroh, Melaka, MP YB Kerk

Happy Father's Day

 Celebrating Fatherhood: The History and Traditions of Father's Day

Introduction:

Happy Father's Day is an occasion dedicated to honoring and celebrating fathers, paternal bonds, and the positive influence they have on their families and society. This special day has a rich history that spans over a century and has evolved into a global celebration. Let's delve into the origins of Father's Day, how it started, and the various ways it has been celebrated throughout history.

Origins of Father's Day:

The exact origins of Father's Day are somewhat disputed, as there are multiple theories regarding its beginnings. One of the earliest records of honoring fathers dates back to ancient Babylon, where a young boy named Elmesu carved a Father's Day message on a clay tablet over 4,000 years ago. However, the modern concept of Father's Day emerged in the early 20th century in the United States.

The Birth of Father's Day in the United States:

The credit for the establishment of Father's Day as an official holiday goes to Sonora Smart Dodd. Inspired by Mother's Day, she sought to create a day dedicated to fathers as well. In 1909, Dodd's efforts bore fruit when she celebrated the first Father's Day in Spokane, Washington. This event was held on June 19th to coincide with her father's birthday, who was a Civil War veteran and had single-handedly raised six children after their mother passed away.

Recognition and Spread of Father's Day:

The initial celebration of Father's Day gained gradual popularity, with several states in the United States proclaiming it an official observance. However, it was not until 1972, during the presidency of Richard Nixon, that Father's Day became a national holiday in the United States. Beyond American borders, the idea of honoring fathers spread to various countries around the world, with each nation adopting its unique customs and dates to celebrate this occasion.

Global Celebration and Traditions:

Happy Father's Day is celebrated on different dates worldwide, often associated with historical or cultural significance. In most countries, including the United States, Happy Father's Day is celebrated on the third Sunday of June. However, some countries commemorate it on different days. For instance, in Australia, Happy Father's Day is celebrated on the first Sunday in September, while in Russia, it falls on February 23rd, known as Defender of the Fatherland Day.

The way Happy Father's Day is celebrated also varies across cultures. Common traditions include giving gifts, such as cards, tools, clothing, or gadgets, as tokens of appreciation. Special meals or outings with the family are often planned to honor fathers and spend quality time together. Additionally, community events, sports activities, and charity initiatives are organized to recognize the importance of fathers in society.

The Essence of Father's Day:

Happy Father's Day serves as an opportunity to express gratitude and appreciation for the love, support, and guidance fathers provide. It is a time to acknowledge the sacrifices made and the invaluable role fathers play in shaping the lives of their children. Beyond biological fathers, this day also celebrates father figures, stepfathers, grandfathers, and all those who fulfill the nurturing and mentoring roles in a child's life.

Conclusion:

Happy Father's Day is a heartfelt celebration that acknowledges the contributions of fathers worldwide. From its modest beginnings in the United States to becoming a global observance, Happy Father's Day has become a significant occasion for expressing love, gratitude, and respect. Regardless of the date or cultural customs, the essence of Happy Father's Day remains constant—a day to honor and cherish the paternal bonds that enrich our lives. So, this Happy Father's Day, let's celebrate and acknowledge the fathers who have made a positive impact, shaping us into the individuals we are today.

In honor of Happy Father's Day, here's a heartfelt poem celebrating the amazing fathers who have made dreams and life wonderful:

To the Fathers Who Make Dreams Come True

With steady hands and hearts so true,

You guide us through life's great unknown.

You're the rock on which we stand,

A guiding light, our very own.

On this special day, we gather near,

To honor the fathers we hold dear.

For you have shaped our lives with care,

In every moment, always there.

In childhood days, you'd lift us high,

Teaching us to reach for the sky.

With laughter, games, and joyful cheer,

You made our dreams feel oh so near.

You taught us strength and how to fight,

To never give up, to seek the light.

You showed us what it means to be strong,

And that love can right every wrong.

Through thick and thin, you lend a hand,

A constant presence, a firm demand.

Your wisdom flows in every word,

With lessons shared, our spirits stirred.

You work so hard, both day and night,

Providing for us, a shining light.

Your sacrifices, often unseen,

Have made our lives a blessed dream.

You've wiped our tears, embraced our fears,

You've cheered us on throughout the years.

You've taught us kindness, empathy too,

To live with grace, in all we do.

So, on this day, we gather 'round,

To celebrate the love we've found.

To honor you, our fathers dear,

For all the joy you bring each year.

We raise a toast, with love and cheer,

To fathers who have brought us here.

For you are cherished, tried, and true,

We're grateful for the dreams you've made come true.

Happy Father's Day to all the amazing fathers out there.!

Happy Mother's Day

Happy Mother's Day is a holiday celebrated annually on the second Sunday of May in many countries around the world, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and many European countries. The day is meant to honor mothers and mother figures for their contributions to their families and society as a whole.

The modern version of Mother's Day was first celebrated in the United States in 1908, when Anna Jarvis held a memorial for her mother, Ann Jarvis, who had worked to establish "Mother's Day Work Clubs" to improve public health. Anna Jarvis campaigned for the holiday to become official, and by 1914, President Woodrow Wilson had declared Mother's Day a national holiday.

However, the celebration of mothers and motherhood dates back much further, with ancient Greeks and Romans holding festivals in honor of their maternal goddesses, and Christians celebrating "Mothering Sunday" in the UK since the 16th century.

To all the mothers out there,

You are the sun in our sky,

The beating of our hearts,

The rock that we lean on,

When our worlds fall apart.

You give us love unconditionally,

And guide us through our days,

You teach us right from wrong,

And show us kindness in so many ways.

Your love is like a warm embrace,

That carries us through life,

You are our shelter from the storm,

And the beacon in the night.

We thank you for your boundless love,

And the mercy that you show,

For all the sacrifices you make,

And the kindness that you bestow.

So here's to all the mothers out there,

We celebrate you today,

For all the love and joy you bring,

In so many countless ways.

You are the nurturer of our dreams,

The one who sees our potential,

You believe in us when we falter,

And help us rise again, essential.

You are the one who stays up late,

To comfort us when we're ill,

You put our needs before your own,

And love us with a love that's real.

Your strength and courage inspire us,

To be the best we can be,

You have shown us what true love is,

And for that, we are so lucky.

So to all the mothers out there,

We thank you from the bottom of our hearts,

For all the sacrifices you make,

And for being there from the start.

Happy Mother's Day to all the amazing mothers out there,

We celebrate you and your unwavering love and care.

HAPPY WESAK

Happy Wesak Day is an important religious holiday celebrated by Buddhists worldwide. It is also known as Vesak or Buddha Day and marks the birth, enlightenment, and death of the Buddha, the founder of Buddhism.Wesak Day is celebrated on the full moon day of the month of Vesakha, which usually falls in May.

Wesak Day is also a time for Buddhists to come together as a community and celebrate their shared beliefs and values. In many countries, Wesak Day is celebrated with parades, cultural performances, and other public.

The origins of Happy Wesak Day can be traced back to ancient India, where the Buddha lived and taught over 2,500 years ago. According to Buddhist tradition, the Buddha was born on the full moon day of Vesakha, achieved enlightenment on the same day, and passed away on the same day as well. Therefore, Wesak Day is a celebration of these three significant events in the life of the Buddha.

The exact date of the Buddha's birth, enlightenment, and death is not known with certainty. However, based on lunar calculations, Wesak Day is celebrated on the first full moon day of May in most countries, although some countries such as Sri Lanka and Thailand may celebrate it on different dates.

The celebration of Wesak Day is believed to have started during the time of Emperor Ashoka in India, who was a follower of Buddhism and helped spread the religion throughout his empire. Wesak Day became a public holiday in India during Ashoka's reign, and it gradually spread to other countries where Buddhism was practiced.

The significance of Wesak Day for Buddhists is multifaceted. Firstly, it is a time for Buddhists to reflect on the life and teachings of the Buddha, who is considered to be the greatest teacher in Buddhism. Secondly, it is a time for Buddhists to reaffirm their commitment to the Eightfold Path, which is the path to enlightenment taught by the Buddha. Thirdly, it is a time for Buddhists to cultivate loving-kindness, compassion, and generosity towards all sentient beings.

The celebration of Happy Wesak Day varies in different countries and Buddhist communities. In some countries, such as Sri Lanka,  Wesak Day is a public holiday, and Buddhists engage in various religious activities such as attending temple services, lighting lamps, and offering food to monks. In other countries, such as Thailand, Wesak Day is celebrated with processions and street festivals, where people wear traditional costumes and carry colorful lanterns.

One of the most significant aspects of Wesak Day is the ritual of bathing the Buddha. This ritual is based on the story of the Buddha's birth, where he was said to have been born under a tree and immediately took seven steps, while lotus flowers bloomed under his feet. According to tradition, when the Buddha was born, the heavens opened, and the gods and goddesses descended to bathe him with perfumed water.

To commemorate this event, Buddhists pour water over the statue of the Buddha, symbolizing the purification of the mind and the washing away of negative thoughts and emotions. This ritual is often accompanied by chanting and meditation.

Another important aspect of Wesak Day is the practice of giving. Buddhists believe that giving is one of the most important virtues and that it helps to cultivate generosity, kindness, and compassion. Therefore, on Wesak Day, Buddhists engage in acts of charity and donate food, clothing, and other necessities to those in need.

In addition to these practices, Buddhists also engage in meditation and prayer on Wesak Day. Meditation is an essential part of Buddhism, and it is believed to help cultivate mindfulness, concentration, and wisdom. Buddhists also recite sutras and chant mantras as a way of showing devotion to the Buddha and seeking blessings and guidance.

What is the Eightfold Path?

The Eightfold Path is a central teaching in Buddhism, and it is the path to enlightenment that was taught by the Buddha. It consists of eight interconnected practices that help individuals develop wisdom, morality, and mental discipline. These practices include Right Understanding, Right Intention, Right Speech, Right Action, Right Livelihood, Right Effort, Right Mindfulness, and Right Concentration. By following the Eightfold Path, individuals can cultivate inner peace, wisdom, and compassion, and ultimately achieve the goal of enlightenment.

The eight practices in the Eightfold Path:

1. Right Understanding: This practice involves developing a deep understanding of the nature of reality, including the concept of impermanence and the causes of suffering. It also involves recognizing the Four Noble Truths and the interconnectedness of all things.

1. Right Intention: This practice involves developing wholesome intentions, such as renunciation, compassion, and goodwill, and letting go of negative intentions, such as greed, hatred, and delusion.

1. Right Speech: This practice involves speaking truthfully, kindly, and beneficially. It also involves avoiding harmful speech, such as lying, gossiping, and divisive speech.

1. Right Action: This practice involves acting in ways that are ethical and compassionate. It includes refraining from harming living beings, stealing, and engaging in sexual misconduct.

1. Right Livelihood: This practice involves earning a living in a way that is ethical and does not harm others. It involves avoiding jobs that involve harming living beings or engaging in unethical practices.

1. Right Effort: This practice involves making a diligent effort to cultivate wholesome states of mind and to let go of unwholesome states of mind. It involves developing mindfulness, concentration, and wisdom.

1. Right Mindfulness: This practice involves being present and aware in the present moment. It involves developing awareness of one's thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations, as well as developing an awareness of the impermanence of all things.

1. Right Concentration: This practice involves developing the ability to focus the mind and to attain deep states of concentration. It involves developing mental discipline through practices such as meditation.

By following these eight practices, individuals can develop inner peace, wisdom, and compassion, and ultimately achieve the goal of enlightenment. The Eightfold Path is a central teaching in Buddhism and is considered to be one of the most important paths to achieving spiritual liberation.

The Eightfold Path, The Way To Enlightenment,

A journey of the heart and mind, a spiritual ascent.

A path of wisdom, morality, and mental discipline,

To cultivate peace, compassion, and inner kin.

Right Understanding, the first step we take,

To see the nature of things, our illusions to break.

Recognizing the Four Noble Truths, the root of all strife,

And the interconnectedness of all things in life.

Right Intention, the second step on this way,

Developing wholesome thoughts, negative ones to sway.

Renunciation, compassion, and goodwill in our heart,

Letting go of greed, hatred, and delusion, a fresh start.

Right Speech, the third step we walk,

Speaking truthfully, kindly, and beneficial talk.

Avoiding harmful speech, gossiping, and lies,

Building trust and respect, removing all disguise.

Right Action, the fourth step we stride,

Acting ethically, compassion our guide.

Refraining from harming living beings, stealing, and sex,

Cultivating empathy and generosity, this is our flex.

Right Livelihood, the fifth step we take,

Earning a living that does not harm or forsake.

Avoiding jobs that involve harming or killing,

Supporting life, compassion filling.

Right Effort, the sixth step we climb,

To cultivate wholesome states, let go of unwholesome slime.

Developing mindfulness, concentration, and wisdom too,

Mental discipline through practice, to see things anew.

Right Mindfulness, the seventh step we ascend,

Being present, aware, in the moment to comprehend.

Awareness of thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensation,

And the impermanence of all things, a divine revelation.

Right Concentration, the eighth step we attain,

To focus the mind, deep states of meditation to maintain.

Developing mental discipline and tranquility,

To cultivate peace, wisdom, and spirituality.

The Eightfold Path, The Way To Enlightenment,

A journey of the heart and mind, a spiritual ascent.

A path of wisdom, morality, and mental discipline,

To cultivate peace, compassion, and inner kin.

Happy Aidilfitri, Thank you for all blessings

Happy Aidilfitri is a time of joy, celebration, and reflection. It is a time when families and friends come together to share a festive meal, exchange gifts, and seek forgiveness from one another. This is a time to put aside differences and to celebrate the unity and brotherhood of the Muslim community.

The celebration of Happy Aidilfitri begins with the sighting of the new moon on the last day of Ramadan. Once the new moon is sighted, Muslims around the world celebrate the first day of Shawwal, the month that follows Ramadan. Muslims wake up early in the morning to perform special Eid prayers, which are held in mosques, parks, and other public spaces.

After the Eid prayers, Muslims return home to celebrate with family and friends. The day is filled with delicious food, including traditional dishes such as rendang, ketupat, lemang, and satay. In many Muslim communities, it is also common to give to the poor and needy during the month of Ramadan, and this continues during the celebration of Happy Aidilfitri.

The exchange of gifts is an important part of the Happy Aidilfitri celebration. Children receive new clothes and toys, and adults exchange gifts and sweets. The giving of gifts is a symbol of love and respect, and it strengthens the bonds of friendship and family.

Happy Aidilfitri is also a time for forgiveness and reconciliation. Muslims seek forgiveness from one another and from Allah for any mistakes or wrongdoings committed during the previous year. It is a time to put aside grudges and to make amends with those who may have been hurt or wronged.

In addition to the celebrations, Happy Aidilfitri is a time for spiritual reflection and renewal. Muslims take time to reflect on the lessons learned during Ramadan and to renew their commitment to living a life of faith and righteousness. This spiritual renewal is an essential part of the Happy Aidilfitri celebration, and it helps to strengthen the faith and resolve of the Muslim community.

In conclusion, Happy Aidilfitri is a time of joy, celebration, and reflection for the Muslim community. It is a time to come together with family, friends, and the wider Muslim community to celebrate the end of Ramadan and to thank Allah for his blessings. May this festive occasion bring joy, peace, and prosperity to all Muslims around the world. Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri!

Happy Eid al-Fitr, also known as Happy Aidilfitri, is one of the most important festivals in the Muslim calendar. This festival marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, during which Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. The celebration of Happy Aidilfitri brings together family, friends, and the wider Muslim community to celebrate the end of the month-long fast and to thank Allah for his blessings.

 Happy Aidilfitri, Thank you for all blessing

Happy Aidilfitri, oh blessed day,

With gratitude, we bow our heads and pray,

Thanking Allah for all the blessings bestowed,

 And for the love and mercy that He has shown.

Thank you for the gift of faith,

For the light that guides us every day,

For the strength to overcome trials and strife,

And for the hope that we carry in life.

Thank you for the holy month of Ramadan,

For the chance to purify our souls and be a better man,

For the forgiveness and mercy that we've received,

And for the love and compassion that we believed.

Thank you for the love of family and friends,

For the bonds that never break, and the joy that never ends,

For the laughter, the memories, and the happiness we share,

And for the support and comfort that they always bear.

Thank you for the food that we eat,

For the bounty and abundance that are always so sweet,

For the nourishment that it provides to our bodies and minds,

And for the gratitude that it instills and it binds.

Thank you for the wisdom we've gained,

For the knowledge and insights that we've attained,

For the chance to learn and grow every day,

And for the blessings that show us the way.

Thank you for the blessings of life,

For the air that we breathe and the earth that we thrive,

For the beauty and wonder of nature around,

And for the opportunities that in life we've found.

Thank you for the hope of tomorrow,

For the dreams and possibilities that we can borrow,

For the faith and trust in Allah's plan,

And for the assurance that we are in His loving hand.

So let us celebrate this joyous day,

With hearts full of gratitude, and love on display,

Thanking Allah for all the blessings He's bestowed,

And for the grace and mercy that He has shown.

Happy Aidilfitri, thank you for all the blessings,

Let us continue to be grateful and cherishing,

And let us spread love and kindness everywhere,

For that's the true essence of our faith and prayer.

2023 Apr 09 Happy Easter

 

Happy Easter is a Christian holiday that celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. It is considered the most important holiday in the Christian calendar. The exact date of Easter changes each year and is determined by the ecclesiastical calendar, based on the timing of the first full moon following the vernal equinox.

The origins of Easter can be traced back to the Jewish holiday of Passover, which commemorates the Israelites' liberation from slavery in ancient Egypt. According to Christian tradition, Jesus was crucified and died during the week of Passover, and his resurrection occurred on the third day after his death, which is now celebrated as Easter Sunday.

Christians all around the world, including Catholics and Protestants, celebrate Easter in different ways, but the central message is the same: the resurrection of Jesus Christ is seen as a sign of hope, renewal, and new life.

Easter also marks the end of the season of Lent, a period of fasting, prayer, and repentance that begins on Ash Wednesday, 40 days before Easter Sunday. The Easter season lasts for 50 days and culminates with the celebration of Pentecost, which commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles.

In addition to religious observances, many cultures also celebrate Easter with secular traditions such as Easter eggs, which symbolize new life, and the Easter Bunny, which is believed to bring gifts of candy and treats to children.

The Meaning of Easter

The meaning of Easter for Christians is the celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. It is the most important holiday in the Christian calendar, as it is seen as a sign of hope, renewal, and new life. The resurrection of Jesus is central to Christian belief, as it demonstrates God's power over death and sin and offers the promise of eternal life to all who believe in him.

For Christians, the Easter story is a message of redemption and salvation. It is a reminder of God's love for humanity, and of the sacrifice that Jesus made for the forgiveness of our sins. Through his death and resurrection, Jesus conquered death and sin, and made it possible for all people to have eternal life.

Easter is also a time of joy and celebration, as Christians rejoice in the victory of life over death. It is a time to gather with family and friends, to attend church services, to share meals, and to exchange gifts.

Beyond its religious significance, Easter also has cultural and historical significance, as it is a holiday that has been celebrated for centuries and has inspired a variety of customs and traditions. In many parts of the world, Easter is celebrated with symbols of new life, such as eggs and flowers, and with the exchange of gifts and the sharing of meals.

Easter is a time of new beginnings,
Of hope and joy and grace.
It's a time to celebrate the risen Christ,
And the love that fills this place.

The Easter story is a message of hope,

A message of redemption and love.

It reminds us of the sacrifice he made,

And the gift of eternal life above.

The tomb is empty, the stone is rolled away,

Death has been conquered for all time.

The joy of Easter fills our hearts,

And our souls are lifted high.

So let us rejoice and celebrate,

This day of hope and love.

For Easter brings a message bright,

Of peace and grace from above.

Happy Easter to one and all,

May this day be filled with love.

May we remember the gift of Christ,

And the hope he brings from above.

Let's cherish the moments we spend together,

With family and friends we hold so dear.

As we share meals and exchange gifts,

Let's spread the love and joy of Easter far and near.

Let's offer a hand to those in need,

And share the blessings we have received.

Let's be kind and generous to all,

And follow the path of love that Jesus showed.

For Easter is more than just a day,

It's a message of hope that we carry each day.

May the love of Christ fill our hearts,

And guide us on our way.

So let's raise our voices in joyful praise,

And sing of the love that never fades.

For the joy of Easter is here to stay,

And the hope it brings will light our way.

Happy Easter to one and all,

May the love of Christ shine bright.

May our hearts be filled with grace and peace,

As we celebrate this holy night.