Thursday 27 November 2014

Celebrating Christmas in Pakistan

In every country and in every society there are special days and occasions. A number of special events are planned for the day. These days maybe social, political or religious. Countries where the population consist of one main religion and some other minor religions call for tolerance towards each other. In case people exercise intolerance and discrimination then people who follow other faiths feel insecure, helpless and suspicious, for instance, celebrating Christmas in Pakistan.
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However, in countries where such feelings are non-existent, people not only enjoy and celebrate their events but also fully participate in the events of other faith. This lends more tolerance, harmony and understanding inter faith religions. People are exposed to witness traditions and customs of others which adds variety to life. We are invited to their events and then in turn we invite on our special days. We need to celebrate Christmas in Pakistan and festivals of other religious in order to develop a feeling of mutual understanding and to move forward without inter faith conflicts, as a society. In addition, this is the time where we care for the sick and the down trodden, prisoners, widows and people behind the bars. We feel that at least for one day they may forget their misery and sorrows and enjoy life like the other people.
 There is no religion in the world that does not have religious festivals. Muslims celebrate Eid, Hindus celebrate Holi and Christians celebrate Christmas. This is the time when everyone is happy , we put on our best dresses, cook the most delicious food, give children gifts and Eidi and families get together, the day is  full of fun and laughter that is the norm in nearly all the families. Just like Muslims Christians also celebrate Christmas in Pakistan with full zeal and enthusiasm. People anxiously wait for this day, especially kids. The mid-night church bells and mass service, people going in groups. The kids with glowing faces go to the church whether they are Catholics or Protestants. This is the time where is essence is count our blessings, thank God, and live with a feeling of oneness and solidarity.

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