One of our members shares a few Ramadan reflections here:
It’s Ramadan, and my tongue needs to keep moving, remembering to recite adhkar/remembrance of Allah, Qur’an or that which has benefit. The days are special, and a calmness seems to exist if I take time out to observe and embrace it. I aim to spend my time wisely and beneficially, and it is clear to see the benefits of attending sessions of knowledge as I feel my worldly worries being lifted away. A third of Ramadan has passed already, and I wish I was able to perform more acts of worship and rewardable acts. So I ask myself: what have I put forward with sincere intentions and how have I used my time?
As I drive into the dark and starry night, I notice the lack of any obvious markers to visually signify that it is Ramadan. Yet the Ramadan moon feels so special, though unusually large. It is quickly growing with each passing night, indicating that another day has gone, and with it, lost opportunities. I remind myself to do a good deed for the sake of Allah as it may be Laylut al-Qadr, a night that can fall on any night of Ramadan.
We gather as a family in the same restaurant as last year, but time feels shorter and lives busier. As we eat comfortably, my thoughts turn to our brothers and sisters around the world in terrible hardship, whilst we have stayed only a few hours without a meal or pushed ourselves a little in physical endurance. Our patience may be tested, we may easily break and make mistakes, and then one recognises the value of good manners and what strength it takes to treat others as one would like to be treated. Fasting makes us appreciate the things we take for granted; so many of the luxuries we have but don’t need. Indeed, what luxury we live in, and so we thank Allah for these endowments that we sometimes just take for granted.
It’s Ramadan and such reward exists for doing the good deeds, applying what one has learnt and fixing our hearts and bodies, freeing our souls of the weights and worries of unimportant concerns. Learn an ayah, a hadith, or a saying of the scholars; share some knowledge; be more compassionate to others; donate a penny, a pound or whatever you can, and who knows what may be facilitated for you in this honourable month.
For indeed, this Month is a mercy for those who are in need and for those who wish to succeed.
