American woman says about fasting and Ramadan

American women says about fasting and Ramadan

My first Ramadan was one to remember. It was just shy of six months after my shahada. It was easier than I thought it would be _ although it was still a struggle. To be honest I broke my fast three times early in the day, my first Ramadan. It is something that takes total religious commitment and a sound mind.

Fasting once a year for a whole month was difficult at first, but the more I learned about why we fasted and what it did for us, the easier it became.

Fasting during the holy month of Ramadan was the hardest practice I have encountered. Before my first fast, I was worried that I would not be able to do it and that I would fail this challenge. Of course I was able to do it because fasting is easy when you are doing it for God.

A few times my throat was extremely dry or I had a headache and wanted to take medication, but I abstained. I thought about Imam Hussein (pbuh) and his followers (peace be upon them) who were martyred thirsty in the desert of Karbala.I thought about the homeless and poverty-stricken people who did not know when or if they will have another meal.

Fasting helps one gain nearness to God, spiritual awareness, kindness and generosity for others, humility, and thankfulness. Because it is such a spiritual time, I look forward to the holy month of Ramadan I feel sad that I will be over so soon.

Living as a Muslim has not been that difficult because I have unconsciously been doing that for a number of years. My husband does help make living as a Muslim easier because he is Muslim as well and it's easier to do something when you have company. The only times I find religious practices difficult is around Christmas time when everything is Christianized, and I have to explain why I don't celebrate. The other time is during Ramadan when people ask what I want for lunch and I tell hem I am fasting. It's difficult for people to understand, and I know that they judge me for it, but I will not compromise my beliefs for a sandwich from a fast-food restaurant.

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