Ramadan is the time where Muslims fast from dawn until dusk as a way to appreciate all that they are given while remembering those who are less fortunate. As one of the five pillars of Islam, fasting in the month of Ramadan is obligatory to all Muslims as stated in the Quran:
“O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may attain Taqwa [Good-consciousness]”. — The Qur’an, Al-Baqarah: 183
To me, Ramadan is a the time to increase my closeness to the Almighty, and also the time to reflect on my priorities and working on all aspects of self preservation. I use the holy month of Ramadan as a reset for the year to come.
During Ramadan, one of my main focuses is to complete the Quran for which I dedicate one hour after starting my fast in the morning to read. The feeling of accomplishment when I reach the last page of the Quran brings me immense joy and peace.
Being away from my homeland and my immediate family this month is also quite overwhelming for me as it brings back memories of waking up before dusk with my parents and siblings to start our fast, and also breaking our fast with a lavish spread prepared by my mum.
With lockdown restrictions last year, socialising during Ramadan and Eid was not possible. This year is definitely looking more hopeful. The plan is to host brunch at mine on Eid day, after Eid pray for the extended family, and the rest of the day is pretty much about eating delicious food.
