PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad – Message from The Honourable Kamla Persad-Bissessar, SC, MP Prime Minister of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago on the Occasion of Divali 2014.
“Divali, like that of other religious observances, affords us an opportunity to stop, look within and reconnect to our divine nature which is one of love, unity and peace”
Fellow citizens of Trinidad and Tobago,
Today, our nation celebrates the joyous occasion of Divali, the festival of lights.
On behalf of the people and Government, I extend to the Hindu community “Shubh Divali”. May Mother Lakshmi shower us all with her blessings of prosperity, beauty, grace and wisdom.
Each year during the festival of Divali, several thousand deyas are lit to symbolise the triumph of light over darkness and truth over ignorance and fear.
To Hindu practitioners, the flame of the deya also reflects the flame with resides deep in one’s heart and must also be tended to with great care. The glow from that inner flame shines within and radiates outward as truth, compassion, forgiveness and love.
The celebration of Divali, like that of other religious observances, affords us an opportunity to stop, look within and reconnect to our divine nature which is one of love, unity and peace.
However for many of us today, the realities and challenges of modern living have made us self-absorbed and selfish, refusing to understand and accept the views of others.
We cannot allow ourselves and our country to be overtaken by the darkness of selfishness, injustice, pride and intolerance.
We cannot allow the darkness of crime, disease and poverty to impede the development of our remarkable country.
Therefore, my Government will continue to do all that is necessary and all that is within our power to combat any and every threat to national security and the health and well being of our citizens.
Today, the world faces the darkness of the Ebola virus, which has already left its deadly mark on several African countries and which has now become a real and imminent global threat.
Through the relevant Ministries, agencies, committees and departments, and in collaboration with our international partners, I give my assurance and that of my Government that every possibility and scenario will be considered and prepared for, to prevent the spread of the Ebola virus to Trinidad and Tobago.
Just as the lights of the deyas brighten the night sky, so too each of us as individuals and collectively in our families, our communities, within organisations, in the workplace and in our places of worship must work and shine together to dispel all forms of darkness within our country. Darkness cannot exist where there is light.
At Divali we recognize the power and noble qualities of the Goddess Lakshmi who is regarded as the embodiment of wealth, prosperity and success.
But we must always remember that Mother Lakshmi does not reside long with anyone who desires her only as wealth.
Sri Lakshmi also represents righteousness, kindness and liberation. Our focus should not merely be on the material but also on the spiritual – the attainment of abundant joy and infinite peace.
Therefore we must answer that higher call of selfless service to community and nation to ensure continued peace, prosperity and harmony in our country.
I ask that the gifts and prayers offered this Divali reflect not only personal desires but also a universal call for tolerance and unity and the positive development of our country.
To our Hindu sisters and brothers, once again I wish you Shubh Divali.
May God continue to bless all of us, and may God bless our great nation, Trinidad and Tobago.
