This 31st August, 2013 will be Malaysia's 56th Independence Day.  All Malaysians will be celebrating this day of independence - and it's a Public Holiday.  I am sure all Malaysians aspire to live in peace and harmony with each other. There will always be some pinpricks here and there, between the various races and religions that make the nation of Malaysia - but if we are all mindful of each other's sensitivities and show tolerance, we will be able to bear these pinpricks as being part of the reality of a multi-racial and multi-religious nation.
I am of the opinion that we are that much more richer for the variety of cultures and religions.  We all must enjoy each other.  Life is to be savoured in all its variety.

Family group -photo on Hari Raya Day, August 8th, 2013.  Happiness - with all my nine grandchildren and their mothers!  Only once a year - when all will gather together - these are my moments of happiness.  Now they all have gone back to their respective houses.

Tomorrow will be the end the month of Ramadan - one month of fasting - in which I am indulging.  It's an enriching experience - to voluntarily go without food and drink from dawn till dusk - and to feel the hunger pangs.  One really has to experience this.  It can be quite uncomfortable.  One feels tired, listless and sleepy.
One also develops an extraordinary feel to the sense of smell as one salivates at the smell of food.  But miraculously, after a few days of fasting, one gets used to it - the body has accepted the new situation.
And then comes the Hari Raya Aidilfitri, a joyous occasion.  It's a family affair.  All my four sons, with their wives and children will come and visit us for a family do.  These are moments of happiness for me and my wife.