CNY Inspirations: Joy in Sharing

This feature is coordinated by The Post-Standard/Syracuse.com and InterFaith Works of CNY. Follow this theme and author posted Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday.

“There is no joy in eating alone.” (The Buddha)

This statement and the book Abraham’s Children: Liberty and Tolerance in an Age of Religious Conflict edited by Kelly James Clark, particularly essay “The Middle Way” by Hedieh Mirahmadi, reminded me about a beautiful and inspiring story of how Abraham never liked to eat alone because he felt that food is a divine blessing and as such, should be shared with others, particularly those in need. Therefore, he made it his constant practice that before a meal he would invite someone to eat with him. Yet, his practices and sincere devotion to God made him to be remembered thousands of years as a perfect role model to different generations. Thus, this is not just an amazing story. It could help us think about that we will leave behind… or, people will just forget we existed…

Amir Duric is Muslim Chaplain at Syracuse University and an imam at Islamic Community of North American Bosniaks. In these roles, he develops various programs supporting and serving students, faculty, staff, and wider community.