Every year for 19 days in March, Baha’is all over the world participate in a period of fasting where, from sunrise to sunset, food and liquid are not consumed.

This abstinence is a means of regaining control over physical desires and allowing instead a time for reflection and spiritual renewal.

All major religions have a period of self-denial, which may take different forms, but are a welcome period of inner self-analysis and a breathing space to take stock of where we are on the path of living a life that is spiritually fulfilling.

And it quickly becomes apparent that a spiritually fulfilled life is not one that focuses on accumulating great wealth and material comfort. That, by itself, is merely self-indulgent.

It’s not what you have in life. It’s more about what you do in life.

Actions speak louder than words and the challenge is channeling one’s spirituality into physical acts of giving to others and being of service to humanity.

I can think of no better example than that of a dear friend, and colleague on the Redbridge Faith Forum, Jacquie Grieve, whose funeral I attended last week. The church, packed with people from diverse religious and ethnic backgrounds was a testimony to how many hearts she touched. A devout Catholic, and truly remarkable woman, she translated her faith into countless ways of service to the Redbridge community, embracing members of all religions and cultures with such dedication, selflessness, warmth and generosity of spirit.