Ramadan Prep 1.0
When we think about Ramadan we our mind goes straight to fasting and food, taraweeh and the gatherings at Masajid. We prepare for Ramadan with decor, frozen foods etc. which is all very important and there is nothing wrong with any of that. However the very first prep should be Spiritually preparing ourselves. What does Ramadan really mean? What is the main element of Ramadan?
Empathy:
This is the most important essence of Ramadan. When we do not eat all day – it is to feel for those who are not able to have a proper meal. It is to feel the helplessness one has with hunger, the less energy one has due to hunger and then not to just plan a delicious aftar but be thankful for the blessings of Allah SWT that he has bestowed upon us.
A 100% Fast!
It is important to not just say and write but also remember that fasting is not just in regards to food but also behavior as well. The Prophet SAW said ” Fasting is a shield; so when one of you is fasting he should neither indulge in obscene language nor should he raise his voice in anger. If someone attacks him or insults him, he should say:”I am fasting!”. (Muslim). Making sure that we are treating others right is the most important part of fasting. Rude comments, passive aggressive attitude, cursing, swearing, gossip and backbiting will take away the reward of our fast. Take the example of a paper you submit to your teacher. You were expecting an A because you thought you did really good research and had good information, but you end up with a D because there were too many spelling and grammar mistakes. If we are refraining from eating all day might as well receive the full reward by not indulging in mistakes that are easy to avoid. Being mean and rude to someone is not a solution for anything and if someone decides to treat us that way let’s avoid it in Ramadan. Allah says in the Quran about his chosen people:” When they come across the ignorant they say Salam.” Try to explain and communicate, if that does not work out do not ruin your fast by behaving rudely. Allah will reward for avoiding conflict, sabr (patience) and fasting.
