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Good morning Ramadan has just passed which means Muslims all around the world are celebrating Eid today. The onus throughout Ramadan has been on the giving of oneself. Many Muslims will have worked hard in giving their time, money, energy and resources to those who need them. Inspired by the Qur’an, people are encouraged to donate their money and time to domestic causes and communities in order to help relieve poverty and support those in difficulty right here at home, and abroad. The notion of giving also implies a responsibility to seek out those who need your support; those living nearby are considered to be a priority. People living on the streets, suffering abuse, unable to pay the bills or the next mortgage installment are all indicators of a local need we can invest in. The spiritual dimension can be a struggle when people are busy with work, family, holidays and other pressures, how do we find solace and peace in this fast paced and troubled world? At times likes these it's easy to focus on the bad news, but I also consciously try to seek out things that give me hope. Food and eating together is an important part of Ramadan and a Muslim charity has created a scheme to connect people who want to get to know each other. Colleagues, neighbours and even strangers sign up to a meal and a chat with Muslims across the country. I remember going to one meal with a group of women from all backgrounds and many faiths. There was a Hindu friend who was fasting that day as part of her own faith, which meant she couldn’t eat. She stayed the whole evening chatting with us, for me this was a powerful experience as she valued coming together in the spirit of getting to know one another, despite not being able to share in the food and drink that night. Reaching out to strangers to build bridges where relationships are new and fragile is an act of strength and courage, especially when communities are suffering from discord around the world. A Hadith tells us “Let him who believes in God and the Last Day be generous to his neighbour, and let him who believes in God and the Last Day be generous to his guest.” Some might say that these things tend to attract the open minded and open hearted, the challenge for us all is to reach out to those who’s minds are closed and hearts are hardened.