Selamat Hari Raya

I just came from a week-long holiday in Perak, the state next to Penang to celebrate Hari Raya with a friend's family. Hari Raya is a Moslem celebration and is climaxed with a month-long celebration of syawal. Syawal means victory. Kevin, my friend is a Moslem and I am a Catholic. As the days passed by during that week, I learned many things about his religion, culture and tradition. And I am glad I did accept his invitation. One of my most memorable moments during my stay in Malaysia, that week is a blessing and a gift. A blessing because I found a family with my brothers of different faith, and I believe that our differences serve as the bridge to each other. A gift because I have learned to respect more their perspectives on life and beliefs and reflecting deeper into my own. As if soul searching,I am attracted to the way Kevin's family bond and the manner by which each member honors elders, and it made me see how I have been with my own family. As I went through the entire week, I missed my family more, longing that they were with me.

I met Along, the eldest brother with his wife and three daughters; a sister with three sons; a sister who gave me a Raya gift; another pregnant sister with her husband and son, with whom we stayed for two days in her place. Moreover, I met some of his friends, one of which is Wan.

The celebration was all about family. They would happily eat together enjoying the meals with their bare hands while seated on the floor. At first, I was offered a pair of spoon and fork but I refused. I know how to eat using my hand though I found myself awkward in doing it. I wanted to experience this with a typical Malaysian family and that was the moment. There were so much food before me and I did not quite know which one to get first. As I am not familiar with the custom, I observed them first before doing my part. Well, nothing difficult though. Apparently, I was enjoying it.

Inside the house, nobody wears slippers. So I did just the same. I am not used to it but what the heck, it was just fine. Now I am trying not to wear sandals at home. I slept using the sarong. Kevin let me use one of his and later gave it to me as a gift.

They did everything to make my first Hari Raya memorable. They showed me around and brought me to different places of interest. Unfortunately, there was downpour every afternoon.

The family loved to eat. One night after a heavy dinner, Along invited me along with Pa and Kevin to go out. I asked where and he said to eat. I laughed my heart out and said you're kidding. He said he was not. So we went out and ate. Really, we ate. But I only managed to drink some tea since I was really stuffed during dinner. They packed some for the others left at home. Believe me, when we arrived we were eating again!

I was teary eyed when I said goodbye. I greeted them the way they do and Ma hugged me. My tears almost fell and I could feel the sadness inside me. I thanked my friend Kevin for giving me one of the best moments of my Malaysian stint. The experience will linger in my heart and mind for a long time. For thisI would forever be indebted.