Re: A question for Muslims who feel they need to conform to perceived expectations
What excuse? I answered your question. Truth be told I didn’t even have to do that much because, based on how you worded your query, it simply does not apply to me.
To indulge you I’ll answer without the qualifiers…
I participate in these events/holidays (to the extent that it does not infringe upon my faith) because they are the culture of the land that I live in. I prefer to be tolerant of my neighbours and seek accord in my life. I appreciate it when someone stands steadfast in their faith, be they Christian, Jewish, Hindu or whatever and I expect the same respect and tolerance to be afforded to me when I invite them to participate in those festivities that are near and dear to me. I would much prefer to be seen as an ally and one who is open to differences rather than a rigid person that makes no room in their life for someone else’s beliefs.
I simply do not fear that recognizing and respecting someone else’s way of celebrating their faith will jeopardize mine.
And yeah…cuz it’s fun too.