Today is The March Equinox — the first day of spring in the northern hemisphere and the first day of autumn in the southern hemisphere. Even though I live in Australia, I love celebrating SPRING in March.
The equinox happens at the same moment worldwide, although our clock times reflect a different time zone. Thus, this beautiful occasion unites people all over the world.
Celebration of Nowruz
On this day, March 21, more than 300 million people all around the world celebrate Nowruz (Novruz, Navruz, Nooruz, Nevruz, Nauryz) in the Balkans, the Black Sea Basin, the Caucasus, Central Asia, the Middle East and other regions. It has been observed for more 3000 years.
A Nowruz New Year tradition is growing Semeni -sprouts made from lentils or wheat seeds, which create an edible centerpiece symbolizing rejuvenation and new life.
Nowruz (New year, New day) symbolises renewal, forgiveness, happiness, love and patience. It is celebrated by people from diverse ethnic communities and religious backgrounds.
The world would be a boring place if we were all the same or like the same things, wouldn’t it?
For me, Azerbaijani Australian, who is proud to call both countries home, Nowruz is a holiday of the equality of the people. Cultural diversity and tolerance represent the most important factors of my culture and both home countries.
During Nowruz we have an unwritten rule that people who have fallen out with one another should be reconciled without mediation. It is considered a sin not to forgive those who admit their guilt.
The moment the new day arrives, we go out of the house or stand at an open window and make a wish.
I Have A Wish
To build more cultural diversity, inclusion, compassion and love whenever we live.
Let’s give value to every human being, no matter our differences.
Let’s celebrate diversity, practice, acceptance and may we all choose peaceful options to conflict.
Nowruz is also a celebration of the possibility of new life
It is less about a single day than a general celebration of being able to wipe away the dust, grime and sadness of the old in order to start a new. We are all about to close the door on one chapter and turn the page to the next one with excitement instead of trepidation. The endless possibilities will come with a blank slate.
Celebrating Harmony
Today in Australia we also observe Harmony Day. It’s all about celebrating the amazing cultures that make up our country. The designated colour representing Harmony Day is orange, a colour symbolic of peace and diversity in society.
Australia is one of the most multicultural countries in the world. We all have something interesting and authentic to bring to the table. And thanks to this, our society is becoming stronger, richer and more remarkable.
End Racism
21 March is also an International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination today.
Racism, xenophobia and intolerance are problems prevalent in all societies. But every day, each and every one of us can stand up against racial prejudice and intolerant attitudes. We must all pause and reflect on ourselves, our organisations and our actions.
Racism and racial discrimination against anyone of us hurts all of us.
As Nelson Mandela said:
“No one is born hating another person because of the colour of his skin, or his background, or his religion. People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love, for love comes more naturally to the human heart than its opposite.” — Long Walk to Freedom (1994)
Let’s celebrate the diversity not just on 21 March, but all year along.
Only through each other's diversity, we become more aware of our own. Not only do we become more aware, we gain a sense of pride for the diversity of our own culture. That’s why I respect and celebrate the rich and ancient cultures of our first nation indigenous peoples.
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