Holi 2014
The Holi Festival at Johns Hopkins University was a little late this year, rescheduled due to last week’s heavy rain. I wasn’t sure I would be able to attend, but I made it and, as always, it was a joyful celebration.
For those unfamiliar with Holi, it’s typically observed by Hindus, mostly in India, Bangladesh, Pakistan and Nepal, announcing the passing of winter and arrival of spring. It celebrates the new energy of the season and the unity of brotherhood. It’s a time for people to bury their hatchets with a warm embrace, throwing all worries to the wind. It promotes friendship, giving all the opportunity to forgive and forget. (I wish it were that simple – and it is, if love is in your heart.)
Just like in years’ past, I met many warm, funny, friendly, engaging people – Hindus and non-Hindus who came together, uniting to honor spring and goodness over evil. I love the simple gesture of brushing colored powders on the skin (arms, face, etc.) or tossing them in the air as a noble gesture of peace, love and harmony.
What really melted my heart was a young Indian woman who was eager to place color on the skin of others, especially those on the sidelines somewhat hesitant to join in or people like me waiting for the right moment to engage. With her, there was no watching, but participation was mandatory. Her friendliness and beautiful eyes were a light, and unity was at her core – a message she was intent on sharing and did, with great enthusiasm. Her sweet expression made me smile big, and it was a reminder: When kindness is staring me in the face to attach myself to it at all costs, because it is healing and something I can call upon in the future when I have doubts or reservations.
I implore all who read my words to not sit on the sidelines for too long. Don’t spend too much time thinking about the past because you might just miss out on your future. Allow my experience at the Holi Festival to be your guide for looking inward to see what changes you need to make in your own life. Stop and appreciate the many "colors" of life in trees, flowers and especially, in people.
I look forward to this festival year-after-year because the attitudes of everyone participating are genuine, and together we were/are a force, improving the energy in the world. I appreciate the Indian Hindu community, encouraging outsiders to partake in such a benevolent ritual. Thank you!
Have a wonderful week, everyone! Find your joy and don’t forget to share it with others. Cheers! – paerki
For those unfamiliar with Holi, it’s typically observed by Hindus, mostly in India, Bangladesh, Pakistan and Nepal, announcing the passing of winter and arrival of spring. It celebrates the new energy of the season and the unity of brotherhood. It’s a time for people to bury their hatchets with a warm embrace, throwing all worries to the wind. It promotes friendship, giving all the opportunity to forgive and forget. (I wish it were that simple – and it is, if love is in your heart.)
Just like in years’ past, I met many warm, funny, friendly, engaging people – Hindus and non-Hindus who came together, uniting to honor spring and goodness over evil. I love the simple gesture of brushing colored powders on the skin (arms, face, etc.) or tossing them in the air as a noble gesture of peace, love and harmony.
What really melted my heart was a young Indian woman who was eager to place color on the skin of others, especially those on the sidelines somewhat hesitant to join in or people like me waiting for the right moment to engage. With her, there was no watching, but participation was mandatory. Her friendliness and beautiful eyes were a light, and unity was at her core – a message she was intent on sharing and did, with great enthusiasm. Her sweet expression made me smile big, and it was a reminder: When kindness is staring me in the face to attach myself to it at all costs, because it is healing and something I can call upon in the future when I have doubts or reservations.
I implore all who read my words to not sit on the sidelines for too long. Don’t spend too much time thinking about the past because you might just miss out on your future. Allow my experience at the Holi Festival to be your guide for looking inward to see what changes you need to make in your own life. Stop and appreciate the many "colors" of life in trees, flowers and especially, in people.
I look forward to this festival year-after-year because the attitudes of everyone participating are genuine, and together we were/are a force, improving the energy in the world. I appreciate the Indian Hindu community, encouraging outsiders to partake in such a benevolent ritual. Thank you!
Have a wonderful week, everyone! Find your joy and don’t forget to share it with others. Cheers! – paerki
