Today, here at home and across the globe, Hindus, Jains, Sikhs and some
Buddhists will celebrate the holiday of Diwali – the festival of
lights. Diwali is a time for gathering with family and friends, often
marked with good food and dancing. It is also a time for prayer and
reflection about those less fortunate. It is a testament to the
compassion of these communities that so many of them have helped those
that have been devastated by Hurricane Sandy.
Many who observe this holiday will light the Diya, or lamp, which
symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness and knowledge over
ignorance. As that lamp is lit, we should all recommit ourselves to
bring light to any place still facing darkness. Earlier this year, we
were reminded of the evil that exists in the world when a gunman walked
into the Sikh gurdwara in Oak Creek, Wisconsin and opened fire. In the
wake of that horrible tragedy, we saw the resilience of a community that
drew strength from their faith and a sense of solidarity with their
neighbors, Sikh and non-Sikh alike. We also saw compassion and love, in
the heroic actions of the first responders and the outpouring of
support from people across the country. Out of a day of sadness, we
were reminded that the beauty of America remains our diversity, and our
right to religious freedom.
First Lady Michelle Obama during Diwali 2010 |
President Barack Obama during Diwali 2010 |