While the ban on firecrackers can be a debatable issue, it is surprising how the supposedly “educated”, “qualified” and appear-to-be-sane minds link the ban to religious celebrations of another faith. Aren’t enough negative vibes striving to create a divide among common people, already? I stopped bursting crackers more than 30 years ago after seeing a presentation in school that highlighted the deplorable plight of child labourers in the firework factories of Sivakasi. Moreover, I simply love the beauty of the humble-yet-so-powerful “diya” that Mom lights every Diwali, and that light has always led the way for me. Obviously, to each his own, though, this year has seen a fair share of unprecedented tragedies, and for a lot of Indian families, Diwali won’t be the same ever again. Goodbye Friday, I will see you next week when the festivities are here. The twain shall meet with a prayer and Hope for a safe and better world with a lot of “diyas”. And in the interim that we meet, Diwali, can you brighten up and spread some light? Please? Yes? A little more? #InRemembranceOfTheDeparted #SpreadCheerNotHateAndFear