Happy Easter!
As has been done for 2 millennia, this sacred day is celebrated very close to Passover.
And this year, Ramadan ended just a few days ago.
Christianity, Judaism and Islam — along with nearly every other religion — share certain tenets.
All honor charity, justice, compassion and respect.
Followers are called to help their fellow human beings. They are commanded to live lives of kindness, seeking truth, love, mercy and forgiveness.
Many other people, with no religious affiliation, believe in these values too.
Today, our planet is in a precarious place. Our nation faces existential threats.
Even here in Westport — a place of beauty, wonder and privilege — we find ourselves fearful and argumentative.
At this holiday time, some may find inspiration or solace in the sermons of a pastor, rabbi or imam. Some may read with renewed interest the words in the Bible, Torah or Quran.
Some may simply revel in the changing of the seasons, finding hope in the daffodils, forsythia and willows bursting with new life all around us.
(Photo/Molly Alger)
No one knows what lies ahead. But each of us has something — religious teachings, the lessons of history, and/or a personal set of values and beliefs — to guide us.
We only have one town, one country, one Earth.
Whatever our religious beliefs — or even if we have none at all — let’s treat everyone, and everything, with charity, justice, compassion and respect.
Amen.
Good Friday sunrise, Saugatuck Shores (Photo/Matt Fortuna)
