Why do some people bounce back from adversity better than others? The concept of resilience in physics refers to the quality of a material to regain its original shape after being bent, compressed or stretched. In psychology, it refers to one’s ability to cope and do well despite having to go through a number of difficulties in life. How do we cultivate resilience? Are we born with it, or can we actually nurture it? Research has shown many factors involved in promoting resili

Forgiveness is a giving … for yourself. In conjunction with the practice of seeking and giving forgiveness on Hari Raya, let us all learn a little about giving forgiveness. We often hear about that saying, “Forgive and Forget”. How many of you think that this is easier said than done? Why should we allow the ones who have wronged us the pleasure of forgiveness? How can I ever let that person off the hook so easily? The pain is just too strong, I can’t. - Think of one person w

The celebration of Hari Raya Aidilfitri marks the end of the Ramadan month. It is a holiday that symbolizes the completion of the fasting period, and is celebrated on the first day of the Islamic month of Syawal. Hari Raya celebration is also the time to ask for forgiveness and to forgive others. It is the time for reconciliation and renewal of relationships with others. Hence, the greeting “maaf zahir dan batin” is usually used during this celebration to mean “I seek forgive