Look Back on Ramadhan 2015

With the institutionalized mysoginy I have experienced in the Muslim community this Ramadhan, it goes without saying that the 30 days of Ramadhan were more a test of faith than a test of will. Low point: the feeling of isolation when faced with a new partition in the Islamic centre’s community room. High point: the strength and kindness of true Islamic sisterhood. Besides the emotional roller coaster I’ve experienced, I had set clear goals for myself this Ramadhan, here is how I fared: New Dedication to the 5 Daily Prayers With a new alarm clock blaring the call to prayer … Continue reading Look Back on Ramadhan 2015

My Ramadhan Prep Doesn’t Include Food Training

There is no doubt that Ramadhan is physically demanding. During 30 days, believers are requested to abstain from dawn until sunset from food, water, smoke, sex, anger and cursing. However, God is Merciful and this is why the Qu’ran has special injunctions for those physically susceptible such as children, women on their menses, pregnant women, the old, the ill and the travelers. In previous years, my preparation for this holy month included meal planning, purchasing kitchen appliances (God bless the slow cooker) and reducing my daily food and water intake. My stomach, not my soul, always felt ready to take … Continue reading My Ramadhan Prep Doesn’t Include Food Training