How should we observe the festival of Deepavali?

Do not get elated at the riches, status, authority, intelligence, etc., which you may have. Consider that they have been given to you on trust, so that you may benefit others. They are all signs of His grace, opportunities for service, and symbols of responsibility. Never seek to exult over others’ faults; deal empathetically with the errors and mistakes of others. Seek the good in others; hear only good tidings about them; do not give ear to scandal. On this Deepavali Day, resolve to light the lamp of Namasmarana and place it at your doorstep, the lips. Feed it with the oil of devotion, and have steadiness as the wick. Let the lamp illumine every minute of your life. The splendour of the Name will drive away darkness from outside you as well as from inside you. You will spread joy and peace among all who come near you!

– Divine Discourse, Oct 24, 1965.