On the other side of fasting emerges a stronger version of our being. While sacrifice is never easy, its presence amplifies the possibility of tapping into our most powerful breakthroughs.

Each year, the Islamic community demonstrates this maxim during the holy month of Ramadan. By collectively denying physical gratification, our Muslim brothers and sisters are able to gain more divine clarity, and forge a deeper spiritual connection.

As we continue to deal with additional public health restrictions in Trinidad and Tobago, we should all be encouraged by the immense discipline that the Islamic community displays to its faith.

In the face of a formidable crisis, we must strive as responsible citizens to do the same. We must remember that restraint cultivates reward. Greater obedience is extremely crucial to our capacity to navigate and survive our journey through the valley.

With more of our fellow countrymen experiencing economic challenges, it is also important that we show more charity to one another. This attitude remains one of the key tenets of Islam, and another area that the Islamic community has led by example. So as a nation, let us try to be more perceptive to the needs of those around us, and do our best to meet them once able.

On this Eid-ul-Fitr, we remember that our differences, religious, or otherwise, have contributed not only in shaping our identity, but also expanding our range of experiences as a people. Our religious diversity has long been a source of national pride for many of us, as well as a template for many other multicultural countries.

Although the Islamic community and those who celebrate this occasion are unable to do so once again in the traditional way; we remain connected through our love for this sacred celebration. Soon we shall return to the beloved festivities, when this pandemic is finally over.

On behalf of the Tobago House of Assembly, I extend Eid Mubarak greetings to our Muslim brothers and sisters. May you all have a joyous and peaceful celebration!