ramadan

Ramadan is a blessed month of fasting for nearly two billion Muslims across the world. Much attention is focused on fasting from dawn to sunset, increasing attention to prayers, giving in charity, and performing good deeds.

In this first week of Shaban, the month of Ramadan is on the mind. As with any important endeavor, there is a payoff in making preparations well in advance. In fact, the exercise has been likened to the efforts that are made to prepare for the arrival of a special guest.

It’s that spiritual time of the year again.

If we reach the blessed month of Ramadan alive and healthy, we are truly blessed. The challenge at that point, insha Allah, is to make the most of this blessed month in a way that will reap us the spiritual rewards and advancement we are seeking (Quran 2:183).

We may still be in lockdown due to COVID-19 in most parts of the United States, Canada, and in other countries, but that doesn’t mean we can forget about celebrating Eid with joy and creativity; we will be celebrating Eid in quarantine.

COVID- 19 and its impact on our normal lives now and post COVID are, and will be difficult and at times overwhelming. We may experience, emotional fatigue, anxiety, financial restraints and a feeling of overwhelming dread. Please remember these are normal responses to crisis and uncertainty.

With Ramadan’s first 10 days almost over, many of us have established a routine and adjusted physically and mentally to the new schedule. Now is the time to ask if our habits and schedule are giving us the spiritual rewards we need to excel in Ramadan. Here are a few questions to ask: