Recently, I was having lunch in a restaurant and overheard someone explaining how they had given up dessert for Lent. I was reminded of how fortunate we are to live in a multicultural society where people have differing beliefs and customs.

For those not familiar with Lent, it is a period of penitence observed by Christians before Easter. In general, Lent starts on Ash Wednesday and ends on Easter Sunday, and it is customary for many Christians to give up a favourite food or activity during this time. Lent is largely a personal choice based on faith and may be observed in different ways depending on the person’s church or denomination.

It is the differences between people that make life interesting.

Whether you agree with their decision or not, it is always good manners to be respectful of others’ beliefs and customs. If someone is fasting or has decided to refrain from a food or activity, it is polite to be respectful of their choice. Do not attempt to convince them to change their mind or tease them into “having just a little”. Children may also need reminders to respect others’ beliefs and traditions and not tease anyone whose beliefs differ from their own.

It is the differences between people that make life interesting. Being open and accepting of others is not only good manners, it is an opportunity to learn more about the other people in our lives and to create a real community.

Kind regards,
Elizabeth