Metaphysically, at its core, Diwali is the celebration of the awakening and awareness of the Inner Light. This Inner Light, though not seen outside, outshines all darkness by removing all obstacles and dispelling all ignorance.

Diwali is not just about good food and nice clothes; it is about celebrating the victory of good over evil in each and every capacity whether small or large.

"I think these holidays becomes an opportunity for people to make a stand for double inclusion -- for people to affirm simultaneously their South Asian Identity and insist on their recognition for LGBTQ."

But time, distance from family and the frenetic pace of modern life have taken their toll. In my home, my husband, two sons and I certainly celebrate Diwali, but at best, on the surface.

The Ramayana offers a stark warning of what happens when the darkness of greed threatens to extinguish the light of justice. It is a story of hope, for in the end the light prevails over the darkness.

By Lauren Markoe Religion News Service Happy Diwali! Happy Di what? It's a Hindu holiday -- and an important one -- celebrated this week by ...

Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is celebrated in the Hindu calendar months of Ashwin and Kartika, and in the western calendar on Oct. 26, 2011. D...