Here Comes Ramadan
As you can see from my countdown timer, it’s less than a week to Ramadan! I’m excited. No, I’m not Muslim - but I do observe along with my husband. An American who converted (”reverted”, if you prefer the term) to Islam once told me that my fast didn’t mean anything, that it wasn’t recognized by Allah - don’t you just love nutters like that? Actually, I don’t do it for God, and no one pressures me, either. I do it because it’s a great mental, physical, and spiritual exercise.
So…many of you who don’t fast might think the hardest part is giving up food. Not so - at least not for me. It’s all about controlling your nafs (basic wants and desires/your “self” or personality), so my biggest problem is usually controlling my temper. So here’s a few examples:
Anger - no yelling at Hamou when he puts the toilet paper roll on backwards for the umpteenth time
Gossip - no talking to other people about how M’s girlfriend is no good for him and he could do better
Lust - no flirting with certain clients (No more suggestions of how they’re “my favorite!”)
Pride - no feeling smug when I know more than someone else (or when I think I know!)
This is also known as “jihad bi-n-nafs” - or the struggle to tame the self.
Anyway, it seems to be a lot easier to stick to the fast in Morocco - most everyone is going through the same things you are, and there’s a wonderful communal vibe in the air every evening for l’ftour - kind of like a whole month of Christmas Eves.
Thanks dear for “Ramadan Mubarak” and enjoy your fast.
Leila
the best moment is shortly before and during sunset… Morocco becomes desert: no people, no cars, no noise… nothing!
the worst moments are when people start fights for trivial reasons… especially smokers.
LOL, Xoussef, I know what you mean - what about the guys playing card games that get into vicious fights right before sunset?
LIQUOR!!!!!!!!!!!
Yes, LGG, thanks for reminding me - no tequila for a month! ;P
Have a good fast! Personally, I don’t (or, I won’t in the US anyway), but I do miss that feeling in Morocco!
hi
This is my first year participating in Ramadan and I have been very successful thus far. I am really enjoying the moments during the fast and I think that it helps me to keep my focus in line. If anyone has any stories to share, please let me know, as I would be really interested in reading them. Ramadan Mubarak to all!