Diwali 2017

As we live under the shadow of nuclear threat and the constant dread of terrorism,

As warring factions move their pawns of Religion, Land , Nationality, Caste, Community, Language, Power and Control, whilst they bay for blood,

As brave voices are brutally silenced and freedom movements suppressed,

As we struggle with inflation and jobs become scarce, talents wilt,

As sick people use the cyber world to release suicidal games that snatch precious young lives, millions of miles away,                                                   And the cyber bullies and toxic trolls belabour themselves seeking space and attention,

As in our own narrow worlds we jostle for importance, for one-upmanship and self aggrandisement, where opinions clash, egos restrict, colleagues envy, bosses trample and sycophants flow with the tide,

As friends betray, opportunists grab and conning abounds just as judgements get staged and deals get managed,

As wealth and positioning dictates the divides,

It is this Festival of Lights, as also the numerous beautiful Festive Seasons which dot our globe,

that give us the reason to smile, to celebrate life.

They remind us that we still hold within our firm grasp the future of humanity.

As vibrant young minds across the world exhibit sharpness of intellect and maturity beyond their years, as they innovate businesses and spearhead social responsibilities,

As leaders lead from the back, to enable others on the right track,

 As healthy competition heralds the winner,

As we learn from our follies and foster brotherhood of the human race,

 As culture and diversity are acknowledged and respected,

As technology connects the global village like never before,

And man masters machine to take a step closer to God.

As physical disabilities become a triumph of mind over matter,

As philanthropy becomes the best bloom in a thriving business,

As bonds are cemented unconditionally and friendships valued beyond riches,

As long as each one of us knows how singularly beautiful our planet earth appears from outer space and how we need to keep it that way,

And as we endeavour to defeat the divides,

This is a promise each one of us is empowered to fulfil, in our own unique way.

Let us usher in Diwali 2017, the triumph of Light over darkness,

Let us ignite Hope & Togetherness, Peace & Positivity,

Wishing all of you a Safe & Happy Deepawali!