It’s 5 am and I’m awake. I just finished my early breakfast before sunrise. I’ve been having slow-cooked oatmeal to sustain me on these long fasts. With some brown sugar, raisins and walnuts for protein. As Ramadan creeps into the summer months (the Muslim calendar goes back 10 days each year), the fasts are now close to 16 hours. Keeping the fast is very challenging.
It’s already the middle of the month, and our bodies have somewhat adjusted to the new regime. My favourite time of day is Iftaar, when we break the fast. Not because we get to eat, but because, during this month, we make a point of sitting together as a family.
As the sun sets, we pray together, eat together, be together. As our kids get older, they participate more and more. Not in fasting – they are still too young – but in the other aspects. The prayer, the focus on charity, peace, away from consumption and consumerism. These quiet times trigger questions from the kids about our faith and Ramadan, which in turn, leads us to learning more and understanding.
Epicurious, the go-to foodie site, has a great section on Ramadan traditions around the world. I’m looking to this site for inspiration this year as we plan our evening meals and holiday dishes.
A friend posted this great blog: 2 guys go on a road trip during Ramadan where they visit 30 mosques in 30 days. Check it out at 30 Mosques.
Thanks Sara! I’m always hoping to carry some of the Ramadan “peace” into the rest of the year – maybe someday I’ll be successful! Hope you and Will are enjoying the summer in your new home!
Thanks Jen! I’m hoping to write some more about this experience. Hope you and your gang are well and enjoying these glorious August days!
Thanks Sara! I always make the intention to carry forward some of our Ramadan traditions into the rest of the year. I’m hoping one of these years, it actually happens! hope your summer is going well in the new house!
I love learning about other traditions, Amreen, and what you value about this time! Thanks for sharing.
I love the sound of the peace and quiet times – and time spent together!