About 2 weeks ago, a colleague met some residents incidentally and asked how Ramadan has been for them. A young mother said that it would it nice if there could be a breaking of fast meal where neighbours could get together. When we informed them that we could provide some funds if they could it get one going, a lively discussion ensued. They made a list of neighbours who could prepare food that would add up to a healthy nutritious spread.
We were heartened that they included fruits and vegetables in the menu as it seemed like the notion of health competence that some residents in the neighbourhood have been promoting has not landed on deaf ears. What was interesting to see during this impromptu planning session was how they knew what each was good at and the different tasks to get the event going were assigned quickly. However, it was not the efficient delegation that impressed but the readiness with which people took on the responsibility. Work was a joy, and cooperation was a given.
Older and younger mothers paired up for the food preparation responsibilities and when that was done, a member of the group independently reached out to the owner of a nearby eating place, S17 Community Kitchen, for the venue. The owner agreed on the condition that they returned his space, spick and span after use. Another member got the local town council staff to help turn the lights on to ensure the event was well-lit.
Last Saturday, more than 80 neighbours, young and old came together to create a climate of care, generosity, and mutuality. The owner of the eating place provided staples and kid-friendly food and during dinner, there were quizzes and games. The occasion also turned out to be an opportunity for 4 informal neighbourhood associations to invite neighbours to join them. Healthy You and Me as well as Hi-5 shared about their initiatives to live healthier, and the Young Mothers Group and Social Community Group invited others to join them.
The resources we provided propelled a community’s efforts to meet their own needs and cultural practices were an intangible asset that produced self-driven efforts fuelled by mutuality and respect. Our vision of a good community is one that works for the well-being of its members simply because they believe our world is a better place where there is kindness, generosity, and mutual respect.
We wish all Muslims Selamat Hari Raya Adil Fitri and may compassion, forgiveness, and respect for human dignity live in us all.
