In an Islamic country like Kuwait, Ramadan is kind of difficult to ignore. With the restaurants all closed till Iftar (the meal muslims break their fasts with), a ban on eating in the streets and the work hours reduced, muslim or not Ramadan marks a significant change in our lifestyle. The days seem long, hot and dry and the nights are filled with festivities. People await Iftar with bated breaths, knowing exactly how many hours, minutes and seconds is left for it. And what a spread that is! Feasts are prepared to reward those fasting and at the sound of the Maghreb azan (call to prayer at sunset) everyone around the world tucks in, ending the starvation for the day.
For those who don’t know, Ramadan is the ninth month in the Islamic calendar. A month where all muslims partake in fasting from sunrise to sunset, as a form of spiritual cleansing, self-discipline and empathy for the less fortunate. This ritual is one of the five pillars of Islam and while to many this symbolizes the physical challenge of keeping away from food and drink, the essence of this month is much more than that. Ramadan is about reminding yourself that for many fasting is not an option, that there are many less fortunate than you who you need to empathize with. It is meant to remind you of the blessings you enjoy and take for granted. In a world where Islamophobia spreads far and wide Ramadan shows the side of muslims that the media “forget” to show, that of piety, purity and peace.
I am not going to lie, I am not a perfect muslim. Far from it really! I do pick and choose my religion and the moments of doubt are long and many. However, Ramadan is my favourite part of it. No matter how many mistakes I’ve made over the year, this is a time I can ask for forgiveness and start anew. It is a time when everyone becomes the best version of themselves and charities are overflowing with donations. I love how the Ramadan nights are always bustling and happy and that muslims unite all over the world for late night prayers, sacrificing their sleep. This is the one month where my family fights more than ever, but this is also the one month where we are the closest ever. Obviously, my views gets a little less rose-tinted towards the middle of the month when the fasting just never seems to end and the prayers get tiring but I plan to stay optimistic all month long this time around.
Oh this post is also to introduce AbdelRahman Murphy to everyone in case they don’t know him yet. It may be his easy-going demeanor, his open views on all things or his knowledge of NBA, but his lectures are easily my favourites to watch in Ramadan and is definitely someone all, may it be muslims or non- muslims, should know.
Ramadan Kareem everyone!
Smoke Rings and Cheese Strings 