As we conclude our celebration of this Eid holiday, let us all take time to recount the many blessings we enjoy. Although it is certainly true that there are many places in our Ummah that face persistent strife, and we have a responsibility to do all that we can to help alleviate the suffering of those afflicted in those areas, we must acknowledge that the overwhelming majority of Muslims are living in peace and tranquility.

Among the foremost blessing we enjoy is the blessing of security. We are reminded in the Qur’an of this in the context of our Lord mentioning the ways He blessed the Quraysh. He mentions, “The One who has fed them, driving away hunger, and granted them security from fear (106:4).” May this blessing be extended to everyone.

During this season let us rejoice, but let us never allow our celebration to move us away from the remembrance of our Lord. The Noble Messenger (Blessings and peace upon him) reminded us of the essence of these festive days we find ourselves in when he said, “They are days of eating, drinking and remembering Allah. So eat, drink and remember Allah. Visit your parents, friends and relatives; restore relations with those you may have fallen out with. Be the one to initiate that restoration.

What better advise can we receive in this regard than that offered by our Prophet (blessings and peace of Allah upon him), “Join relations with those who break them with you; give to those who deny you; and pardon those who oppress you.” What better time for all of us to begin the process of healing our social wounds than during this blessed season.

None of the conflicts we see in those parts of the Umma that are currently being tested by strife would exist were it not for the open animosity and treachery some Muslims are visiting on others. Let us join strained or possibly shattered relations, let us give freely and let us be people of magnanimity, quick and easy to pardon and forgive. Eid Mubarak!