Day 8. ReligiousTolerance in Singapore.

I was telling mom about the gathering held at the Multi-Purpose hall to commemorate the Hungry Ghost Festival. Okay, maybe its held not to commemorate, but rather, it looks like it has something to do with prayers that comes along with the festival. Some may say that it is a nuisance, with all the chantings, burning of hell paper, etc etc. To me, its just a simple practice of religious tolerance.

First and foremost, the ability for each and every one of us to practice our own beliefs without being harassed. It is a need to please the spirits and whatever you do to stop them, it is a need, and it can't be stopped. Personally, I'd be very pissed if someone out there says something negative about my religious practices, or worse, tell the authorities to stop me.

Second, as long as it makes everyone happy, I am happy. You can see children playing at the basketball court while their parents are praying, adults chatting happily over kopi and teenagers busy keeping the place tidy. There is the community spirit going on, and the sight of them working together and knowing each other, gives enough reason for the prayers to continue.

All this clashing of cymbals and beating of the drums makes me want to pick up lion dance. heh!