Ramadan Mubarak!!!...

Hopefully you'll see this in the midst of my 30 day challenge. Ramadan Mubarak! Which means Happy Ramadan. Today marks the first day of this glorious month that we Muslims celebrate once a year. Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. It is a time of fasting for the Muslim people. Each day during this month, Muslims all over the world abstain from eating, drinking, smoking, as well as participating in anything that is ill-natured or excessive; from dawn until the sun sets. Fasting is intended to educate the Muslim in spirituality, humility, and patience. It is a time to cleanse the soul, focus attention on Allah (God), and put into practice selflessness. Ramadan is a time for Muslims to fast for the sake of Allah (God) and to put forward more prayer than is customary.

In comparison to the solar calendar, the Ramadan dates differ, moving forward approximately ten days every year due to the fact that it is a moving holiday which is dependent on the moon. The lunar cycle determines the Islamic calendar, therefore the month of Ramadan, which is the ninth month commences with a mixture of the sighting of the new moon as well as astronomical calculations. The precise time of Ramadan will at times vary from place to place because some depend a great deal on moon sightings, while others rely on science.

Ramadan conveys an extraordinary sense of emotional enthusiasm and religious eagerness among Muslims of all ages. Even though fasting is compulsory for adults alone, children as young as eight readily watch fasting with their elders. As a child, I looked forward to the thrill of the moon sighting and eating unique meals with my family. As an adult, I am grateful for the chance to double my rewards from Allah (God) and ask for forgiveness for my past sins. Ramadan highlights Muslim brotherhood and customs and brings about a special feeling of closeness.

This is why each Ramadan, instead of going to the Masjid (Mosque or religious center) every evening, I try an host an iftar (breaking of the fast) at least once amongst my friends so we can receive more rewards. Fasting is going to be tough with this Lubbock weather, but InshaAllah (God willing), we'll be able to make it. I welcome any questions you may have.