Having Barbeque With My Neighbour

A moment after Idul Adha, I gathered with my neighbors for a joyful barbeque. The air was filled with the aroma of grilled beef and lamb. Laughter, stories, and shared meals made the evening warm, festive, and deeply meaningful.

A friend offered me a fragrant cigarette—I liked its scent. We shared experiences and talked about politics. Though our views were different, we listened and respected each other. The evening stayed warm and friendly, filled with laughter, smoke, and understanding.

None of us were real cooks, but grilling the meat became a story of its own. It’s common for us to gather in the evening, even late at night, during holidays—sharing food, laughter, and simple moments that turn into lasting memories.

We came from different ethnic groups, as urban life brings diverse people together. However, we left behind ethnic-centered egos. Instead, we focused on unity and togetherness. We respected each other’s cultures, embracing our differences in principles and mindsets as a strength, not a barrier.

I come from Central Java, the heartland of the Javanese. Our neighbors are from Palembang, Betawi, Batak, and Nias. Despite our different roots, we live in harmony and respect each other’s culture and traditions.

Harmony is the goal of our community. Our neighbors are Christian, yet we all enjoy the barbecue from the Islamic tradition of Idul Adha. Living in harmony is the true key to the peace.