Diwali is a celebration of light - from diyas and colorful fireworks, but it is also a powerful symbol of global unity, knowledge, and the freedom of expression. ✨
As someone passionate about the power of enabling technology, universal languages and experiences, and the freedom of expression, I find the message of Diwali resonates strongly within me. 🌟
Triumph of Light over Darkness 🪔
The essence of Diwali lies in the triumph of good over evil, light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance. In many parts of India, the lighting of diyas (oil lamps) symbolizes the pursuit of knowledge and enlightenment. These tiny flames remind us that even in the darkest of times, the light of knowledge can guide us towards a brighter future. 🌠
The Light of Knowledge 💡
One powerful idea that has always resonated with me is, "A candle loses nothing by lighting another." Although its origins remain a mystery, this quote has sparked vivid imagery in my mind. The idea of one candle igniting another, without diminishing its own power, has been a source of strength for me. 💪
When I've lit both real candle and metaphorical candles in the minds of those I've mentored and coached or those I've witness dozens and dozens of leaders guide, both flames burned brightly in that initial moment of enlightenment, forging a connection that would continue to shine. And over time, I adapted the quote to a new quote of my own "your light shines brightest when lighting another's." 🕯️
I always think of this during the season of Diwali. And I am so full of gratitude for the gift of light, knowledge, technology, access to the Internet, and the freedom of expression. 🙏
Gifts of Knowledge 📚
Gift-giving is universal. Every culture has rituals, traditions, and holidays involving gift-giving, each associated with unique feelings about giving and receiving gifts. 🎁
Gift-giving is important during Diwali. For example, on Dhanteras, the first day of Diwali, it is customary to buy gold or silver jewelry, believed to bring good luck and fortune. 🪙
On Diwali itself, it is customary to give gifts to family members, friends, and colleagues. Popular gifts include sweets, snacks, clothes, and money. Additionally, gifts are exchanged with employees and business associates as tokens of gratitude and appreciation. 🙏
Gift-giving plays a large role in Diwali, expressing love, joy, goodwill, understanding, and prosperity. It also serves as a tribute to Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. 🪙
This may not feel familiar to you if you aren't familiar with Diwali, or in general, getting up close and personal with other people's cultures. But, consider for a moment, a person who grew up with the above Diwali culture coming to learn about Hannakah or Christmas for the very first time as an adult. Just think of how the traditions, stories, rituals, and belief systems could be so completely different to them? 🤔
At that moment there is a choice. 😊 👆 ☹️
A choice to accept the gift of knowledge of another way of life. To embrace curiousity of over a billion people that live life different from you. What a glorious gift of light and learning to embrace knowledge of other people that share this planet with us. 🌏
Cultural Celebrations and Understanding 🎶
Diwali is also a time for celebrations such as music, dance, and festivals, which provide a platform for sharing stories and traditions. These performances promote understanding and respect for different cultures and perspectives, fostering an environment where expression of ideas can thrive - even amongst among many diverse groups of people. 💃
It is a univeral experience that wherever we go, we find people sharing stories, music, art, and gathering to enjoy these arts together. We really are all interconnected by the shared experience of life. 🔗
Technology Bridges the Gap 📱
Technology is playing a significant role in Diwali celebrations, mirroring the digital transformation we have witnessed the last decade. Diwali-themed apps, games, websites, and social media groups have emerged, connecting people and allowing the festival's message of light and unity to reach a global audience. 🌐
Connectivity is indeed a powerful tool, enabling us to stay in touch with loved ones during important celebrations and events; breaking down barriers, and fostering mutual understanding by sharing cultures and traditions. However, there is one universal gap it doesn't necessarily bridge—the universal constant of young people driving new tech trends to keep up with! 😆
Global Perspective 🌏
With over two decades of experience in the ICT space, I've been fortunate to work all over the world, collaborating with many talented leaders and friends from India. Through travel and tech, I've shared Diwali celebrations with amazing people and gained insights into the holiday's significance from diverse perspectives. There are many Diwali stories, traditions, and experiences to learn from and be inspired by. 💻🌏
Embracing the Light Within 🪔
This Diwali, I hope you celebrate both the festival's radiant lamps and lights, but also the hope of global unity, knowledge, and freedom of expression—the cornerstones of a better world. 🌐✨
In light and unity,
Chief Moji Muser and EmojiIRL™ Creator
#emojiexpression #emojiIRL #getyourmojion #youmatter
☮️🖖❤️😊
Additional reading:
- Keep Calm and Tech On - (Linked In article by Deepa Kartha)
- Unity in Diversity - (The Indian Express)
- Diwali: The Fesival that Unites Indians (The Sunday Guardian, opinion)
- The Many Legends of Diwali - (Google Arts & Culture)
- Diwali on Wikipedia - (Wikipedia)
- Diwali: Festival of Lights - (National Geographic for Kids)
